[Western Music] Bluegrass masterpieces: recommended popular and signature songs
Bluegrass music is an acoustic genre that developed in the United States based on the traditional music of Scotland and Ireland.
Because the pioneering figure Bill Monroe was from Kentucky, the term “bluegrass,” which is both the name of a pasture grass and the state’s nickname, came into use.
It features ensembles centered on acoustic instruments, with the bright, lively sounds of banjo and fiddle being especially characteristic.
In this article, we present a lineup focused on classic songs in the traditional bluegrass style.
It’s a recommended selection even for beginners, so please take this opportunity to check it out.
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[Western Music] Bluegrass Masterpieces: Recommended Popular and Signature Songs (21–30)
Mr. BojanglesThe Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Originally written by 1960s singer-songwriter Jerry Jeff Walker and recorded in 1968.
The title “Mr.
Bojangles” is the nickname of Bill Robinson, a Black tap dancer who appeared in many films in the 1930s.
This version by The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band was released in 1970.
JoleneDolly Parton
A song released by American country music artist Dolly Parton.
It was inspired by an encounter with a 10-year-old fan.
Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2014, it has been covered by bluegrass singer Rhonda Vincent.
[Western Music] Bluegrass Masterpieces: Recommended Popular and Signature Songs (31–40)
The Wayfaring StrangerHayde
“The Wayfaring Stranger” is an American folk and gospel song that originated in the early 19th century and has been selected for The Top 100 Western Songs.
It has been covered by many artists, including Johnny Cash, and there are various versions of the lyrics.
Footprints in the SnowMac Wiseman
Mac Wiseman, affectionately known as “The Voice with a Heart,” was an American bluegrass singer.
His music career began as a bass player in the band formed by Molly O’Day, and after launching his solo career, he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Darlin’ CoreyThe Seldom Scene
The Seldom Scene is an American bluegrass band formed in 1971.
The members also held jobs such as instrument repairer, mathematician, doctor, and graphic artist.
This “Darlin’ Corey” is a folk song written about love and its loss.
Little Glass of WineThe Stanley Brothers
The Stanley Brothers were an American bluegrass duo formed in Virginia by two brothers.
After Carter Stanley died in 1966, Ralph Stanley continued performing as a solo artist until his own death in 2016.
Swing Low Sweet ChariotWestwood Bluegrass Band
The African American spiritual “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” was written before 1862.
It has become the anthem of the England national rugby team.
Eric Clapton’s reggae version, released in 1975, is also well known.