When a loved one dies

Papaw Jerry & Jessica back in time

During the month of April, I took a break from some things and focused on family.  In between my full time job and doing my music stuff, I sat in the hospital room and then nursing home room as my grandpa was sick.  The sound of the machines beeping, nurses and doctors shuffling in and out to check this and that became a new routine.  Relatives would come to visit and spend time sharing stories of our youth growing up in southeast Kentucky, with some moving on to Ohio and Tennessee.  Then on the morning of April 26th, time stood still as my grandpa passed away.

In the coming days, we sat together as a family at the funeral home making arrangements, going to the flower shop to pick out the perfect arrangement, shop for the outfit to wear, and preparing for the visitors.  My grandma asked me to speak at his funeral and for several days, I wrote, rewrote, and wrote some more trying to figure out the perfect words to say.  Needless to say it was the hardest and easiest thing I have ever written in my life.  It was an honor to be asked to tell others about my grandpa.

During all of the hustle and bustle, east Kentucky native, Angaleena Presley's new album "Wrangled" was released.  I have been meaning to write a full on review of the masterpiece of an album.  It has been hard to find the time to dedicate my full attention to it.  However, there was one song that has stuck in my head throughout April and now May.  "Cheer Up Little Darling" was written by Angaleena Presley and Guy Clark.  It would be his last song he wrote before passing away.  Musician Shawn Camp plays Guy Clark's No. 10 guitar, which was used to write the song, and Clark's mandola.  I personally want to thank them for this song that kept me rolling these last few weeks.  If you would like to listen to it, be sure to download it from I-tunes here.

"Cheer Up Little Darling" by Angaleena Presley & Guy Clark

Yeah, it's gonna be real pretty, man

Cheer up little darlin', don't be so sad

There's a time and place for the blues that you've had

Just hold what you've got, babe, and never give in

Seems like a tight spot, but it's just a loose end

Cheer up little darlin', don't be so sad

There's a time and place for the blues you have had

Hold what you've got, babe, never give in

It feels like a tight spot, but it's just a loose end

You can't fix the world, girl, it's so badly bent

But you can help it along if you save your own skin

The first thing you do, honey, is make you a list

Of the things that you've done and the things that you've missed

Do the best that you can, doll, there's no one to blame

It's just the turn that it took in this crazy old game

Hold what you've got, babe, never give in

It feels like a tight spot, but it's just a loose end

I will miss walking up to Mammy and Papaw's house and seeing him sitting in the rocking chair on the front porch. I will miss him saying "how are you doing?" as he sat there smoking a cigarette, drinking his coffee. I will miss his creamed style corn made in the cast iron skillet, complete with chocolate gravy and biscuits. Don't tell Mammy, but Papaw is the only one that could make the best gravy!  And most of all, I will miss hearing those words, "Now don't you run off – what’s your hurry?” and "I love you" as I had to leave to head home.

In the Bible, we learned that the Lord created the universe and all its beauty in 7 days. I always said that on the 8th day, God made a farmer. On the 9th day, he made a truck driver to haul the farm goods. While he may have parked his truck here on earth, I know that the engine is a roaring as Papaw Jerry drives the streets of Heaven. 

Honoring Their Memory - Country musicians we lost in 2016

Merle Haggard, Ralph Stanley, Jean Shepard, and Melvin Goins were just some of the many legends that passed in 2016.

In the year 2016, music lost some major patriarchs and pioneers in the country music genre.  Several of those that had passed away performed up until the Lord called them up to play in the Angel Band.  Here are some of the most notable passings of 2016 in country music:

Merle Haggard

If there was one performer that led the ways of the working man, it would be Merle Haggard.  He would see time in prison, but later took to the stage to perform at the same place he was a prisoner before.  He was a fighter in standing up for what he believed in.  He also helped with the innovations of the Bakersfield sound alongside Buck Owens and many more.  Merle Haggard passed away on his birthday, April 6th, after battling double pneumonia.  He was well loved among the country music community, being a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame.  One of the songs that Merle Haggard said was his favorite was "Sing Me Back Home" and continues to be the song that many remember him by.

Dr. Ralph Stanley

If there was a true pioneer into the Appalachian Bluegrass Folk sound, it would be Dr. Ralph Stanley.  He received the "doctor" title after receiving an honorary doctorate from Lincoln Memorial University.  Ralph's haunting voice performing songs such as "O Death," "Pretty Polly," and "Angel Band," were among fan favorites.  He would receive a Grammy award for his performance of "O Death," which was used in the movie "O Brother Where Art Thou?"  Ralph Stanley would perform, even after retiring, up until his death on June 23rd after a bout of skin cancer.  Performing at his funeral included Vince Gill, Ricky Skaggs, and Patty Loveless with "Go Rest High On That Mountain."  Read our tribute to Ralph Stanley by clicking here.

Jean Shepard

Having performed on the Grand Ole Opry for 60 years in 2015, Jean Shepard hung up the reins and retired from music.  She was best known for her strong vocals in "Second Fiddle to an Old Guitar."  Jean was one to stand up for country music by responding to Blake Shelton's remarks on country music.  Sadly, she passed away on September 25th at the age of 82 years.

Melvin Goins

Kentucky Music Hall of Fame member, Melvin Goins, passed away on July 29th while on the road touring in Canada.  The bluegrass and country music legend formed a duo with his brother, Ray Goins. The duo would perform on the radio, as well as at numerous bluegrass festivals alongside Ralph Stanley.  Since 1969, the Goins Brothers Band recorded over 30 albums and had a hit tv show on WKYH out of Hazard, Kentucky, as well as their radio shows on WSIP in Paintsville and WSKV in Stanton.   In 2009, Melvin Goins was inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Association Hall of Fame as a member of the Lonesome Pine Fiddlers.  In April 2011, The Goins Brothers were inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame. In 2013, The Goins Brothers were inducted into the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame.  On US-23 in eastern Kentucky, deemed the Country Music Highway, you can see the sign in Catlettsburg that proudly states it is the home of Melvin Goins.  Read our tribute to Melvin Goins by clicking here.

Red Simpson

Joseph Cecil "Red" Simpson was well known for his truck driving theme songs, as well as his Bakersfield sound along with Merle Haggard.  He released hit songs such as "Truck Driver's Heaven," "Highway Patrol," "I'm A Truck," "Truck Driver Man and Wife," before appearing for the last time on the charts with "The Flying Saucer Man and the Truck Driver."  Merle Haggard recorded "Lucky Old Colorado" that Red had written.  Red passed away due to a heart attack on January 8th.

Bonnie Brown

Bonnie Brown performed alongside her brother, Jim Ed, and sister, Maxine, to form The Browns.  Their song, "The Tree Bells" was the number one single on the pop charts for 4 weeks and for ten weeks, on the country charts. They were members of the Grand Ole Opry from 1965 until 1967, when Bonnie decided to retire from music.  In 2015, they were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.  Bonnie passed away due to lung cancer on September 28th, shortly prior to her 78th birthday.

Holly Dunn

Another fellow Grand Ole Opry member who later retired, Holly Dunn, was known for her song, "Daddy's Hands" that pulled the heartstrings of many.  She also climbed to the charts with "Are You Ever Gonna Love Me" and "You Really Had Me Going."  After she retired from music, she moved back to New Mexico where she continued her passion for painting.  She passed away on November 14th after battling ovarian cancer.

Joey Feek

Joey Feek was half of the duo, Joey+Rory, that won the hearts of many through their tv shows, music, and blog written by Rory Feek.  The duo performed on the CMT's television show, "Can You Duet," before setting out on their own with duet projects.  Joey+Rory released 8 albums, as well as multiple dvd specials, including one with the Gaither Family.  Joey took time away from music due to her pregnancy and soon after the cancer diagnosis.  One of the last performances the duo performed was at Renfro Valley Entertainment Center in Kentucky.  Sadly, Joey passed away on March 4th due to cervical cancer.

Mark Gray

Mark Gray was a former member of the band Exile and co-writer of the hits “Take Me Down,” “The Closer You Get,” and “It Ain’t Easy Being Easy.” He had a successful solo career with three albums and eight Top 40 country hit songs, one of which was a duet with Tammy Wynette called "Sometimes When We Touch."  Mark passed away on December 2nd.

Guy Clark

Guy Clark was a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and writer of “L. A. Freeway,” “Desperadoes Waiting for a Train," "Heartbroke," and “Rita Ballou.” Many in country music, including Ricky Skaggs, Steve Wariner, and Rodney Crowell would cut his songs. Kentucky native, Darrell Scott, co-wrote "Out in the Parking Lot" with Guy Clark, which was later cut by Brad Paisley and Alan Jackson.  Guy won the 2014 Grammy Award for Best Folk Album: My Favorite Picture of You.  He passed away on May 17 in Nashville due to lymphoma.

Gordie Tapp

Canadian native and Hee Haw star, Gordie Tapp passed away on December 18th at the age of 94.  He was originally a jazz dj at CHML radio station before switching to do work on "Main Street Jamboree." He later was casted as a member of "Hee Haw," in which he also helped write scripts and songs for. He would play the part of the husband opposite of Roni Stoneman, as well as perform in the "Where Oh Where Are You Tonight" singalong skit throughout the years.  In 1990, he was inducted into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame.

Freddie Powers

Freddy Powers was a co-producer of Willie Nelson’s Somewhere Over the Rainbow album and co-writer of the Merle Haggard hits “Natural High,” “Let’s Chase Each Around the Room” and “Looking for a Place to Fall Apart,” as well as George Jones’ “I Always Get Lucky With You."  Freddie passed away on June 21st at the age of 84.

Songwriting Heroes

Several songwriters passed away in 2016 that left their mark in country music in the songs that they wrote.  Curly Putman wrote "He Stopped Loving Her Today," "Green, Green Gras of Home," and "D-I-V-O-R-C-E." He died of congestive heart failure on October 30th. Steve Young wrote "Seven Bridges Road" as well as Waylon Jennings "Lonesome, On'ry, and Mean." Steve passed away on March 17th.  "Young Love" songwriter, Sonny James, passed away on February 22nd due to natural causes.  He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2006.  John D. Loudermilk, 82, was a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame whose hits included “Abilene,” “Waterloo,” “Indian Reservation” and “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye."  John passed away on September 21 in Christiana, Tennessee.  Ned Miller, recording artist and writer of “From a Jack to a King,” “Dark Moon,” “Behind the Tear” and “Do What You Do Do Well,” passed away at the age of 90 on March 18 in Medford, Oregon.  Chips Moman was a co-writer of Waylon Jennings' hit songs “Luckenbach, Texas" and “The Wurlitzer Prize."  He also wrote the Grammy-winning “(Hey Won’t You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song."  Chips passed away on June 13th in LaGrange, Georgia.  Kim Williams, was a songwriter whose hit compositions included “Three Wooden Crosses,” “If the Devil Danced in Empty Pockets,’ “Ain’t Going Down (Til the Sun Comes Up)” and “It’s Midnight Cinderella.” Kim passed away on February 11th in Florida.  Mentor Williams, was writer of the crossover hit, “Drift Away,” as well as “When We Make Love,” “She’s Gonna Win Your Heart” and “A Few Ole Country Boys.”  Mentor passed away on November 16 at the age of 70.

Funeral services announced for bluegrass musician Melvin Goins

Melvin Goins at the KY Music Hall of Fame Ceremony - photo by Jessica Bray

Below is the official obituary of bluegrass musician, Melvin Goins, who passed away a week ago.  WYMT-TV will be airing the funeral services on Monday afternoon at www.wymt.com. 

Melvin Goins, 82, of Catlettsburg, passed away Friday, July 29, 2016 at the West Nipissing General Hospital in Sturgeon Falls, Ontario Canada He was there, in North Bay, to play at the River Valley Bluegrass Jamboree. One of ten children born to the late Glen and Pearl Dillion Goins, Melvin was born and raised in the Bluefield, WV area. In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by his brothers Ray, Conley and Roger Goins.

Melvin was a lifelong Bluegrass Musician and Entertainer. He and his late brother Ray were self-taught musicians and in their earlier years played a lot of school shows in the area and introduced people to traditional music. He was very humble, talented and generous. He always had a big smile and loved to make people laugh and loved to tell stories. He was a member of the Stinson Church of Christ. Melvin was the first bluegrass artist to appear on the cover of the Smithsonian Magazine and was presented with the Appalachian Treasure Award. The Goins Brothers were also inducted into the Music Hall of Fame in both Kentucky and West Virginia and are included in the International Bluegrass Music Museum’s oral history project. He was inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Association Hall of Fame with The Lonesome Pine Fiddlers. He recorded with his brother Ray as the Goins Brothers and with various other artists on numerous labels over the years. 

Survivors include his loving wife Willia Woods Goins of Catlettsburg, son Gregory Goins and wife Pamela of Elkhorn City, KY, daughters Barbara Trojack and husband Kevin of Columbus, OH, Billie Jo Huffman and husband Roger of Catlettsburg, grandchildren, Michael Huffman, Kenneth Diamond, Monty (Teresa) Derefield, Shana (Bryan Lee) Derefield, Seth Goins, Zachary Goins, brothers, James Goins and wife Arlene of Bluefield, WV, Walter Goins of Bluefield, WV, Harold Goins and wife Elsie of Princeton, WV, Kelly Goins and wife Vickie of Bramwell, WV, Donnie Goins and wife Betty of Bramwell, WV, sister Judy Bragg and husband Harry of Beckley, WV, many great and great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and a host of extended family and friends.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 pm Monday, August 8, 2016 at the Steen Funeral Home, 13th St. Chapel by Pastor Tim Ratliff. Entombment will be in the East Carter Memory Gardens in Grayson. Visitation will be from 2-9 pm Sunday at the Funeral Home.

Read Kentucky Country Music's tribute to Melvin Goins by clicking here.

KY Music Hall of Famer, Melvin Goins, passes away at age 83

Melvin Goins giving his speech at the KY Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in 2011 - photo by Jessica Bray

Yesterday, the bluegrass music world was shaken again by the loss of one of their own.  Melvin Goins, legendary bluegrass musician and part of The Goins Brothers, passed away while on the road in Canada.  He was 83.

Watch the funeral for Dr. Ralph Stanley

Special thanks to WYMT of Hazard, Kentucky, for airing the funeral for Dr. Ralph Stanley.  They have graciously uploaded the service on Youtube.  Below is that video.  

Dr. Ralph Edmond Stanley, age 89 passed away Thursday, June 23, 2016 at his residence. He was a lifelong resident of Dickenson County and was of the Primitive Baptist Faith. He was a 1945 graduate of Ervinton High School and a World War II Veteran of the United States Army. Dr. Stanley was a member of the Clintwood Masonic Lodge #66 and a member of the Kazim Shrine in Roanoke, Virginia . He was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Lucy Jane Stanley; four brothers, Carter Stanley, Morgan Stanley, Lansing Stanley, and Doc Stanley; four sisters, Ruby Rakes Eubank, Buford Tate, Georgia Armes, and Hattie Stanley; several nieces and nephews, and many loyal Clinch Mountain Boys.

Survivors Include:
His Wife: Jimmi Stanley

Two Daughters: Lisa Joy Stanley Marshall and her husband, Bryan, and Tonya Carletta Stanley Armes and husband Jason.

One Son: Ralph Edmond Stanley II and wife, Kristi

One Step Son: Michael Ray Cheek and wife Tonya
One Brother: Freddie Stanley and wife, Joan of Abingdon, Virginia

Seven Grandchildren: Amber Dawn Stanley, Nathan Edmond Stanley, Evan Matthew Stout, Alexis Faith Marshall, Ashley Hope Marshall, Taylor Brooke Stanley, and Ralph Edmond Stanley III

One Great Granddaughter: Makenzie Paige Stanley

The family will receive friends Tuesday, June 28, 2016 at the Hills of Home Park, Smith Ridge Section, McClure, Virginia at 5:00 p.m with a Masonic Service to begin at 6:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow with Frank Newsome and Eva Murphy officiating. VFW Post 8979 will conduct a VFW graveside service with entombment to follow.  Fans are asked to bring a lawn chair if they plan on attending the services.

Pallbearers will be Nathan Stanley, Bryan Marshall, Walter Carlton, Evan Stout, Jason Armes, Ralph Stanley II, and Ralph Stanley III.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Ricky Skaggs, Josh Turner, Jim Lauderdale, Dewey Brown, Ralph Murphy, Bobby Hammons, and any Clinch Mountain Boy present.


In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Shriner’s Childrens’ Hospital or St. Judes.

Appalachian music and heritage has always been strong through Ralph Stanley.  He embraced the mountains, the people, and the music.  For 70 years, he stood on stage performing, with most of those years accompanied by his clawhammer banjo picking.  The skies are weeping in the mountains of Virginia as we say goodbye to the legend that passed away on June 23, 2016 at the age of 89.

The Angel Band has called up Ralph Stanley

Dr. Ralph Stanley

Back in 1998, I was fortunate to go to Poppy Mountain Bluegrass Festival with some college friends.  My main mission - to meet Ralph Stanley.  I got to see the frail looking man in a suit, a roll of money nestled in his front pocket, sitting at a merchandise table.  He would talk to anyone that wanted to talk and sign anything that he had for sale.  I was able to purchase a cd, shake his hand, and tell my friends that I got to meet Ralph Stanley.  Later on, he would stand up on the stage with his band, the Clinch Mountain Boys, to sing pure Appalachian gospel and bluegrass tunes that resonated among the crowd.

A couple of years later, I continued to travel to bluegrass festivals in the summer and write more for the college newspaper on music.  I became friends with guitarist, James Alan Shelton, who allowed me to do an interview with Ralph Stanley.  In the summer of 2001, it was blazing hot at the Shriners Bluegrass Festival in Olive Hill, Kentucky.  It would be the first interview that I would conduct with someone in music and it was with Ralph Stanley.  I was doing quite a bit of research on bluegrass music for papers and presentations in college.  The movie "O Brother, Where Art Thou" was a hit on the silverscreen and bluegrass saw a resurgence of listeners and fans.  We spoke about the connection of bluegrass and movies.  Needless to say, I learned quite a bit from Mr. Stanley that day.  Ralph, along with the Clinch Mountain Boys, all signed the coversheet of one of my research papers, much to my surprise.  I did get an A+ on that particular paper.

Later on, Ralph Stanley would perform at Renfro Valley Entertainment Center over the years.  James Alan Shelton said I always had a standing invitation to come out and see them.  I took him up on that offer one cold December evening when they played in the Old Barn.  Afterwards, Ralph Stanley would sit at the merchandise table shaking hands, signing autographs, and greeting fans.  He would sign my mandolin that is now hanging on the wall at my house.

Many fans can tell you that seeing Ralph Stanley sing put a haunted eerie feeling over the crowd.  Everyone would be silenced by the reverend vocal style of Ralph Stanley booming through the speakers.  It didn't matter what music style you liked, but you would easily turn your heard and listen to what he would sing.  It is rare to see someone on stage take command with performing the traditional Baptist hymns.  

Appalachian music and heritage has always been strong through Ralph Stanley.  He embraced the mountains, the people, and the music.  For 70 years, he stood on stage performing, with most of those years accompanied by his clawhammer banjo picking.  The skies are weeping in the mountains of Virginia as we say goodbye to the legend that passed away on June 23, 2016 at the age of 89.

A little note of thanks from a friend

Back when I was a senior in college, I did an independent study on Bluegrass Music in music and movies, as well as the hillbilly influence. I was fortunate to interview several folks who went on to win many IBMA awards, Grammys, and more. One of those was Ralph Stanley, with many thanks to James Alan Shelton for setting up that interview 14 years ago. It was right during the success of the movie "O Brother Where Art Thou?" and bluegrass music was gaining popularity more than ever.  

That interview with Ralph Stanley led to multiple papers and presentations.  I sent James a copy of the paper and he sent back a signed cover sheet signed by everyone in the band. He also sent this post it note. I came across it today while going through some things. It made me smile because he was always friendly to everyone he met. He would also send me a Christmas card each year. We lost James Alan Shelton a couple of years ago, but I know many of us remember his kindness.

Today, spread a little bit of kindness towards someone, whether it be the cashier, a coworker, or a family member.  We could all use a little bit of sunshine in this world that we live in today.  You can make a difference in someone's life.

A look back on country music in 2015

Today, as we look back on the year that was 2015, we share some good times, as well as shed some tears of some country music legends that we lost. Overall, there was a surge in new acts onto the country music scene, as well as a sense of urgency for country music to get back to its traditional roots.

Several new acts made a huge splash upon their arrival into country music, while others took a few years before they had the song that broadened their exposure to more fans. Chris Janson made a name for himself for the summer time hit, “Buy Me a Boat.” Thomas Rhett ended the year with his fifth consecutive number one hit. Going by just one name, Cam really turned heads with her slow ballad, “Burning House.” Other acts that made their way onto the country music stage were Maddie & Tae, Rissi Palmer, Brothers Osborne, Kelsea Ballerini, and Dylan Carmichael.

One act to move on beyond country music was Taylor Swift, who went on to gain more popularity in the pop rock field of music. With a world tour, new album, and other deals, she soared above quite a few notable acts in 2015. She didn’t forget her Nashville songwriting roots as she invited several country music acts to sing on stage with her, including Miranda Lambert. The Oak Ridge Boys were invited to come over to one of her shows after they performed at a nearby theatre.

Speaking of Miranda Lambert, this was a year of heartache and moving on for the young singer. Miranda and Blake Shelton filed for divorce and she moved to Nashville to start over. While she kept several of her animals, one cannot help but wonder whatever happened to her llama? By the end of the year, both Miranda and Blake were constant streams of revenue for tabloids wondering who are they dating and what really happened in their own relationship. Needless to say, we are all looking forward to seeing what kind of songwriting comes out of this.

Quite a few country music singers decided that 2015 would be the year to hang up their hat. George Strait rode off into the sunset with his Cowboy Rides Away tour, but later announcing a few Las Vegas dates. Shania Twain did her own farewell tour throughout the United States and Canada. It is amazing how Shania made a huge impact on the sound of modern country music, only to slowly fade away with her farewell tour. Kenny Rogers also announced his retirement and that 2016 will be his final tour so that he can spend more time with family.

Two legends that will probably never give up are Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard. Despite both having brief hospital stays, they continued to record and play out on the road. Their “Django and Jimmie” album hit number one on the country music charts, much to the surprise of many. Their sons, Lukas Nelson and Ben Haggard, also share a few guitar licks up on stage next to their dads. The next generation of legends looks bright seeing those two on stage.

There was a lot of change along Music Row, with the demolition of quite a few historic buildings. Historic Nashville, Inc. Facebook page has kept up to date on the latest. Even lower Broadway was not spared the wrecking ball as a few buildings were torn down to make room for progress. One building that was not torn down was Historic Studio A after the fight led by Ben Folds to preserve this historic building.

Down the road, the Ernest Tubb Record Shop, both downtown and out by Opryland, were hit hard with the digital music download craze. Fans are not buying as many physical cds as before, even though they are purchasing more vinyl records. The Ernest Tubb Midnite Jamboree was once threatened of being shut down due to financial costs of production. By the end of the year, it was back up and running thanks to fan support to help save our musical heritage.

Around the corner from the Ernest Tubb Record Shop, the new George Jones Museum opened up in the spring of 2015. The first floor contains a merchandise area, alongside a café. The second floor holds a mass collection of memorabilia showcasing the life of George Jones. Upstairs on the third floor is a bar where one can take a swig of White Lightning Moonshine, made just for the museum.

Down the road from the museum is the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. This year’s induction class included the Oak Ridge Boys, the Browns, and Grady Martin. When the inductees were announced, the Hall of Fame went ahead and presented Jim Ed Brown his medallion while he was in the hospital. He would pass away soon after that presentation.

With the Oak Ridge Boys inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, you would think they would start slowing down. That isn’t the case and Joe Bonsall has mentioned several times that as long as they are all healthy, they will continue singing and performing for the fans. Needless to say, the fans listen and provide sold out crowds, including 40 consecutive years at the Kentucky State Fair.

As 2015 comes to a close, we must remember those that have passed away. Early in 2015, the Grand Ole Opry lost one of its longest living legends when Little Jimmy Dickens passed away. A proper farewell party was held there at the Grand Ole Opry with a multitude of guests that shared their stories of the funniest man on stage. His steel guitar player, Buddy Emmons, passed away later in the year. The country music community lost the beautiful Lynn Anderson, who blessed us with her tune, “Rose Garden,” over the years. Ramona Jones, the wife of Grandpa Jones, was an accomplished fiddle player and songwriter. Colonel Jon Hensley was a close friend and manager to Shooter Jennings, as well as Wanda Jackson. He was Vice-President of Black Country Rock Records and helped influenced others to support their local musicians, especially in his home state of Kentucky. Another Kentucky native, Jean Ritchie, would make an impact in the Appalachian folk music world with her songs and dulcimer playing. We also lost Dixie Hall, the wife of Tom T. Hall, who made a name for herself by writing many bluegrass and country music tunes over the years.

Another influence into the scene of Nashville was Billy Block, who greeted new country music acts with open arms to appear on his weekly “Billy Block Show.” Quite a few music careers got their start into stardom thanks to Billy Block. Sadly, the Nashville music community lost Billy Block in March of 2015.

Several hit songwriters passed away in 2015, including Don Pfrimmer (George Jones’ “You and Me and Time,” Tammy Wynette’s “Let’s Call It a Day Today,” Ronnie Milsap’s “She Keeps the Home Fires Burning” and “My Heart,” and Diamond Rio’s “Meet in the Middle”), Don Chapel (“When the Grass Grows Over Me” sung by George Jones), Billy Sherrill (Tammy Wynette’s “Stand By Your Man”), Red Lane (Tammy Wynette “Til I Get it Right”), and Bobby Emmons (Waylon Jennings “Wurlitzer Prize” and Tanya Tucker “Love Me Like You Use To”).

One artist that could claim 2015 as the year of triumph and achievement, it would be eastern Kentucky native, Chris Stapleton. Critics and fans raved over his long awaited album, “Traveller.” His peers nominated and later awarded him with multiple CMA trophies for song of the year, album of the year, and male vocalist of the year. Chris Stapleton's performance with Justin Timberlake escalated into being named one of the best award show performances for quite some time. Stapleton saw a surge of tour dates and more sold out shows, including 3 at the famed Ryman Auditorium. With his wife, Morgane, by his side, they easily could be named one of the best love stories intertwined with musical chords and lyrics.

It will be interesting to see what 2016 holds in the field of country music. Who will be the next big star of tomorrow?

Country music legend Lynn Anderson passes away

Lynn Anderson - photo by Jessica Blankenship

Country singer Lynn Anderson, best known for her 1970 Grammy-winning crossover hit "Rose Garden," died of a heart attack Thursday night at Nashville's Vanderbilt University Medical Center. She was 67 and had been hospitalized for pneumonia following a trip to Italy.

One of my favorite memories was last year at the Ryman Auditorium.  It was my first time seeing the Opry at the Ryman and I was sitting on the front row.  Lynn came over and ended up waving as I was taking photos.  She also made a comment on my bright red shirt.  That photo is what you see here to the left.  Here is some more information on the life of the wonderful Lynn Anderson:

Lynn Anderson was born September 26, 1947 in Grand Forks, North Dakota and raised in California. Her parents were songwriters Casey and Liz Anderson, and Liz wrote the Merle Haggard hits "(My Friends Are Gonna Be) Strangers" and "I'm a Lonesome Fugitive."

In 1966, Lynn Anderson released her debut single, a duet with Jerry Lane called "For Better or for Worse." It failed to chart, but she went on to score her first top-5 hit, "If I Kiss You (Will You Go Away)" in 1967. Anderson went on to appear on ABC's The Lawrence Welk Show as a regular in 1967 and 1968.

With the release of her first #1 country hit, "Rose Garden," Anderson became a crossover star as the song hit #3 on the pop chart. She also won a Grammy Award for the song in addition to being named the Female Vocalist of the Year at the 1971 CMA Awards.  Lynn also took the Female Vocalist of the Year honors at the ACM Awards in 1967 and 1970.

Anderson went on to chart nearly 60 more country hits and had her own CBS television special in 1977. Her career began to fade by the early '80s, and Anderson scored her final top 10 hit in 1983 with the Gary Morris duet, "You're Welcome to Tonight." She released albums sporadically in recent years with her most recent project, Bridges, coming out just last month.

Several stars have shared their thoughts on Lynn Anderson's contribution to country music:

Reba: "I am a huge fan of Lynn’s.  She was always so nice to me. She did so much for the females in country music.  Always continuing to pave the road for those to follow. I loved her music and her love for horses. 'Rose Garden' was a song I sang in high school in our Kiowa Cowboys High School band. She will be missed."

Duane Allen of The Oak Ridge Boys: "It was a pleasure to record with Lynn.  I remember the first time we saw her at the Utah State Fair.  We were playing the small stage and we finished early enough to see her on the main stage.  She owned Utah that night.  She didn't stop until she won everybody's hearts including mine. She sang her way to heaven."

Remembering Kentucky native Jon Hensley

Colonel Johnathan Lee Hensley

Many in the music industry that have ever meet Jon Hensley have been saddened by his recent passing.  Jon was the manager of Shooter Jennings and Wanda Jackson, but also Vice-President of his record label, Black Country Rock.  He was also a proud Kentuckian and an official Kentucky Colonel.  In fact, many would know him as Col. Hensley.

I was fortunate to meet Jon a few times over the years.  Every time he was genuinely nice to those that were around him.  I hate that I never got a photo taken with him.  To this day, I always joked that any photo that he is in, he takes you back a generation or two with his style.  If there is one thing anyone could learn - be nice to everyone no matter what.

He was very into the music scene.  Wanda Jackson has seen a resurgence in her career with folks wanting to learn and hear more of her music, whether it be recorded or live.  Black Country Rock record label also has released never before heard recordings, as well as tracks from Mr. Belding of Save by the Bell, Billy Ray Cyrus, and more.  Recently they teamed up with Cracker Barrel to release a Waylon Jennings live concert onto cd.  CDs were not the only thing they would release on music formats - they included vinyl, digital, and even cassette tapes.

Please keep his family and friends in your prayers.  Below is his official obituary from Tucker Funeral Home in Central City, Kentucky.

Jonathan Lee Hensley, "The Last Mogul", age 31, of Greenville, died Monday, June 1, 2015, at his home. Mr. Hensley was born August 19, 1983, in Muhlenberg County. He was a member of Dogwood Christian Church in Christian County. He was the Official Manager of Shooter Jennings and Wanda Jackson, and he was Vice-President of his own record label, Black Country Rock at BCR Media. He was also a Kentucky Colonel.

He is survived by his parents, Tony and Dawn Hensley of Greenville; sister Whitney (Ronnie Jr.) Hensley-Young of Hopkinsville; grandparents Charles "Shack" and Gwyn Joines of Central City and Johnny and Glenda Hensley of Hopkinsville; nephew Nolan Young, his little cowboy; niece Habary Young, his little monster; aunts Kellie Joines, Jill Joines, Kecia (Timmy) Shelton, and Teresa "T.T." Hensley; uncle Darrin (Barbara) Joines; first cousins Paige Sheldon Harrell, Adam Joines, and Dylan Joines; and the most important companion, soul mate, and love of his life, Mary Sparr of Bowling Green.

Funeral services will be Friday, June 5, 2015, at 1:00PM at Tucker Funeral Home in Central City, with Rev. Justin Latham officiating. Burial will be in Eades Cemetery in Greenville. Visitation will be Thursday, from 5:30-8PM at the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at www.tuckerfuneralhomes.com.  A memorial fund has been set up by Jon Hensley's family to help offset the cost of the funeral and burial.  To donate, be sure to visit here.

Appalachian folk singer Jean Ritchie passes away

American folk singer and Appalachian, Jean Ritchie, passed away on June 1, 2015 in Berea, Ky. She was an author, performer, folk music collector, and loved by many for her historical preservation of the Appalachian culture.

Jean Ritchie was born in December 8, 1922 in Viper, Kentucky.  Ritchie was the youngest of 12 children to Abigail and Balis Ritchie.  She attended Cumberland Junior College in Williamsburg, before graduating from the University of Kentucky.

Ritchie was well known for her folk singing, as well as playing the dulcimer. Her musical style led her to performances on radio and television, as well as playing at major folk festivals.  She was a regular at Woodsongs Ole Time Radio Hour, based out of Lexington, Kentucky.

In 1977, Rolling Stone presented her with a Critics' Award for her album, None But One.  Alan Lomax recorded her for the Library of Congress.  In 1955, she wrote a book about her family called, Singing Family of the Cumberlands.  Ritchie’s composition, My Dear Companion was recorded by Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris and Dolly Parton in 1987.  In 2002, Ritchie received the National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Fellowship.

Jean Ritchie is a member of the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame and Long Island Music Hall of Fame.  The Smithsonian Insitute considered her, "a national treasure, one of America's finest and best known traditional singers."

In her personal life, she married George Pickow and they had two sons, Peter and Jonathan.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that memorial donations be sent to Appalachian Voices. Appalachian Voices is an award-winning, environmental non-profit committed to protecting the land, air and water of the central and southern Appalachian region, focusing on reducing coal’s impact on the region and advancing our vision for a cleaner energy future. 

Jean Ritchie Albums

• Traditional Songs of Her Kentucky Mountain Family (1952)
• Kentucky Mountains Songs (1954)
• Field Trip (1954)
• Courting Songs (1954)
• Shivaree (1955)
• The Singing Family of the Cumberlands (1955)
• Children's Songs & Games from the Southern Mountains (1956)
• Songs from Kentucky (1956)
• American Folk Tales and Songs (1956)
• Saturday Night and Sunday Too (1956)
• The Ritchie Family of Kentucky (1958)
• Riddle Me This (1959) (with Oscar Brand)
• Carols for All Seasons (1959)
• British Traditional Ballads, Vol 1 (1961)
• British Traditional Ballads, Vol 2 (1961)
• Ballads (2003; vol 1 and 2 above, issued on a single CD)
• Ballads from Her Appalachian Family Tradition (1961)
• Precious Memories (1962)
• The Appalachian Dulcimer: An Instructional Record (1963)
• Jean Ritchie and Doc Watson Live at Folk City (1963)
• Time For Singing (1966)
• Marching Across the Green Grass & Other American Children's Game Songs (1968)
• Clear Waters Remembered (1974)
• Jean Ritchie At Home (1974)
• None But One (1977)
• Christmas Revels. Wassail! Wassail! (1982)
• O Love Is Teasin' (1985)
• Kentucky Christmas, Old and New (1987)
• The Most Dulcimer (1992)
• Mountain Born (1995)
• High Hills and Mountains (1996)
• Childhood Songs (1997)
• Legends of Old time Music (2002, DVD)

Story behind the Keith Whitley and Patty Loveless 1989 Hazard concert

WSGS Radio station in Hazard, Kentucky, always has some neat tidbits and stories from eastern Kentucky.  This one posted on their Facebook page is one to definitely read.

Original Ticket Stub from Keith Whitley and Patty Loveless concert in 1989

On This Day in History: May 27th 1989: Keith Whitley was scheduled to perform in concert in Hazard, Kentucky, however he died 18 days earlier of alcohol poisoning. WSGS began playing the East Kentucky native's music long before he was a star and he was a frequent caller to the station in Hazard. He once landed a spot on Channel 57's Jamboree in Hazard when he was a struggling musician. He later charted 19 singles on Billboard's charts with five straight number one songs. His May 27th 1989 concert in Hazard, Kentucky was much anticipated and heavily promoted by WSGS, but the show was not to be with his untimely death at the age of 33. Patty Loveless, who was also scheduled to perform, went on with the show in Hazard without Keith. A sadness swept over Patty and the entire audience but she carried on for the appreciative crowd. Click on the audio link to listen to one of Keith's conversations with WSGS: http://www.wsgs.com/keith.wax

Dixie Hall, wife of Tom T. Hall, leaves a lasting legacy in music

This past Friday, Dixie Hall, the wife of Kentucky native, Tom T. Hall, passed away at the age of 80 years.  She will be remembered for her historic bluegrass and country music songs that she has written - over 500; as well as her laughter and love for her husband.

Back in 2011, I had the opportunity to meet Miss Dixie at the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame induction ceremony.  She and Tom were there to induct Melvin Goins.  She was full of laughter and smiles that night, even up at the podium.

Below are a few photos of that night that I thought I would share.  Be sure to check out The Tennessean's feature on Dixie Hall by clicking here.  It is amazing how much history and stories she could tell over the years.

Tom T. Hall and Dixie Hall at KY Music Hall of Fame Ceremony - photo by Jessica Blankenship

Tom T. Hall and Dixie Hall at KY Music Hall of Fame Ceremony - photo by Jessica Blankenship

Tom T. Hall and Dixie Hall at KY Music Hall of Fame Ceremony - photo by Jessica Blankenship

Nashville News Roundup - Week Ending 1-9-2015

Little Jimmy Dickens - Grand Ole Opry Archives

You can hear me live on two radio stations here in Kentucky for the Nashville News Roundup on Friday mornings.  I try to give you a little piece of news, some history, and a download of the week to check out.  Tune in at 8:15 am on WKFC and 9:20 AM on WFKY.

If you are a station that would like to broadcast this segment, feel free to contact me.

Remembering Little Jimmy Dickens

Yesterday, friends and family paid their respects to honor Little Jimmy Dickens, who passed away on January 2nd due to cardiac arrest from having a stroke on Christmas Day.  He will be remembered for his kindness towards others, as well as his comical wit.  He had a #1 hit song that also hit the pop charts with May the Bird of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose.

"He was exactly the size we needed him to be," Brad Paisley said. "I, for one, don't want to live in a world of Big Jim Dickens. Let's celebrate the most remarkable life that anyone in this format has ever lived."

Check out The Tennessean newspaper's exclusive coverage of the celebration of life of Little Jimmy Dickens by clicking here.  

Charlie Daniels Shooting the Breeze

Charlie Daniels takes to The National Rifle Association's third season of NRA All Access on The Outdoor Channel to shed light on his die hard passion for guns and rifles, and why he's so committed to protecting America's right to bear arms. Highly noted for his multiple chart-topping hits and stand-out instrumental talent that has catapulted him into international stardom, it's no secret Daniels is also an enthusiastic outdoorsman and longtime friend of the NRA. Tune in this Friday, January 9 at 8:30 p.m. ET to watch

Awesome Possum Fact of the Week: On this date in 1960, Patsy Cline becomes a member of the Grand Ole Opry.

Handpicked Download of the Week: Craig Wayne Boyd - My Baby's Got a Smile On Her Face

Remembering Little Jimmy Dickens

My Grand Ole Opry Memory - Meeting Little Jimmy Dickens

Yesterday, not just country music, but the music community as a whole lost a legend.  It is without a doubt that a lot of folks can share their own story or two of Little Jimmy Dickens.  The Grand Ole Opry star passed away at the age of 94 years old.  I have been a fan of his for many years and was fortunate to have met him.

The first time I saw Little Jimmy Dickens, I was on the front row and center of the Grand Ole Opry House for an Opry performance in 2005.  I remember him looking down and waving at me.  Yep, I had to giggle because I'm sure he was waving at someone else, but for that moment I said "Little Jimmy just waved at me!"

Little Jimmy Dickens in 2005 at the Grand Ole Opry - By Jessica Blankenship

On down the years, while visiting Nashville, I always took time to do a tour of the Opry House and take a photo of his dressing room door.  In 2011, my pal, Sunny Sweeney, invited me to be her guest for one of her performances.  I told her I would come, but only if I got to meet Little Jimmy Dickens.  Needless to say, she made it happen.  Right after her performance, we walked the halls backstage and she knocked on his door politely.  Little Jimmy Dickens gave her a hug and she said that she wanted to introduce him to a friend of hers.  I stood there absolutely speechless and for once in my life (besides meeting Dolly Parton), I had no words.  I was like a kid standing there in amazement.

Meeting Little Jimmy Dickens backstage at the Grand Ole Opry

I finally blubbered, "In all my 30 years, my only new years resolution was to meet you.  And now that dream has come true and I don't know what to do!"  He cracked up and said "well bless your heart darlin'."  Yes, Little Jimmy Dickens called me darlin'. He gave me a hug and here I was trying to compose myself and not sound like an idiot.  He asked where I was from, how did I know Sunny, and a few other things.  I let him know that I was just so thrilled to meet him. Thankfully one of my buddies had my camera and took a few photos.

We said our goodbyes and I was still on cloud 9.  At another performance of Sunny Sweeney at the Opry, we thought we would catch him, but he was heading down the hallway leaving.  I remember standing there telling her that it looked like Little Jimmy Dickens took off his country music super hero outfit of rhinestones and is now off to face the world in his plain jacket, dress shirt, and jeans.

Little Jimmy Dickens - by Jessica Blankenship

I will never forget the time my mom told me about meeting Little Jimmy Dickens.  A while back, we had an "amusement park" type deal called Tombstone Junction, just past Cumberland Falls in Corbin, KY.  A lot of entertainers would perform, from Conway Twitty to Loretta Lynn and Johnny Cash.  My mom was helping out a relative sell fruit and veggies at a roadside stand on the way to Tombstone Junction.  She said that a bus pulled up one afternoon and here comes Little Jimmy Dickens off the bus.  He ends up buying a watermelon off of her.  I still crack up thinking that my momma sold a watermelon to Little Jimmy Dickens.

We will all remember his jokes, his laughter, his stories, his music, but most of all, his kindness.  Little Jimmy Dickens outlived so many in the country music world - from Hank Williams to Patsy Cline to Waylon Jennings to Johnny Cash to George Jones.  In fact, Hank Williams, Sr. was the one that gave him the nickname of "Tater."  Little Jimmy's impact on the music community will be felt for a long time and will be dearly missed on the Grand Ole Opry.

Rest in peace Little Jimmy Dickens.