Bill Monroe Founds the Bluegrass Tradition

1. Monroe Brothers: Sinner You better get ready
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HGO3EG8NMY

Any discussion of bluegrass music must begin with Bill Monroe, widely known as the father of this musical tradition. This track actually predates bluegrass music, as it was produced in 1937, and it can be seen as a perfect example of the elements of bluegrass. As a native of Kentucky Bill Monroe grew up listening to folk and country music that inspired his creation of a new style. In this selection Bill plays the mandolin and brother Charlie accompanies him on guitar. Although the song involves only two artists, it foreshadows bluegrass tradition because of its driving string melodies and simple harmonic duets. The evolution of bluegrass music began at this time in the late 1930’s, but it continued to change in definition based on Bill Monroe’s style and his accompaniments. At this time there were many different brother acts in the Southern music scene and the Monroe Brothers actually ended up parting ways instead of continuing to compete in the diverse market.



2. Bill Monroe and the Bluegrass Boys: Bluegrass Breakdown
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVpD0JfetZU&feature=related

This selection demonstrates the fantastic driving string instrumentals that define bluegrass music. In this early piece we find that Monroe has discovered the formula for a bluegrass band, which consists of mandolin, bass, guitar, and violin. Another essential bluegrass element of this song is that different instruments control the melody at various points in the song. Monroe’s excellent mandolin picking in this selection explain why he became a legend of this genre. The upbeat and exciting feel of this song demonstrates why bluegrass began to claim popularity throughout the country.

3. Bill Monroe: I’ve Found A Hiding Place
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xAHBuO7xIVs

This track exemplifies that beginning of the bluegrass tradition. In this selection Bill Monroe on the mandolin is accompanied by a violin, banjo, and guitar. However, the most distinct aspect of this song is clearly the harmonizing of the quartet. Although Monroe cuts in with quick vocal solos, the selection is full of trios and quartets where all of the voices come together to harmonize. As one of Monroe’s first bluegrass songs, this selection demonstrates his experimentation with different instruments and vocal sounds to produce an original sound. As bluegrass began to evolve countless artists attempted to mimic the exceptional mandolin picking of Monroe and his melodious voice.

4. Blue Grass Boys: Roanoke
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXkwthWiMFk

This selection is important in its representation of the music and the place of bluegrass in popular culture. In this song Bill Monroe is accompanied by his famous band The Blue Grass Boys. The group is performing on the Grand Ole Opry, a hallmark of country music culture. The Grand Ole Opry began in 1925 and was broadcasted weekly throughout America as a showcase of country music and culture. Giving the opportunity to perform on this program was a catalyst for a career. The ability of Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys to become regulars on this program demonstrates how bluegrass music became incorporated into popular culture. Similar to bluegrass breakdown, this track is purely instrumental, which showcased the fast driving string composition of bluegrass music.