Bluegrass Autobiography

Ralph Stanley, the godfather of bluegrass music, is, as all mountain musicians are, full of stories. His new memoir, Man of Constant Sorrow: My Life and Times, offers readers a chance to wander along beside him as he details his hard-knock upbringing and the perils of his rise to fame.

The book, which not only covers Stanley’s musical journey, but also speaks to the dangers of a minstrel’s life on the road, is resonant with Stanley’s distinctive country-boy dialect and has been praised for its honesty and its insights into country music, then and now.

If you’re not familiar with Stanley’s work – he won a Grammy for the highly acclaimed O Brother Where Art Thou? soundtrack – this is a great entry point into his career; if you’re already a Stanley fan, his accounts in Man of Constant Sorrow will only enrich your experience with his music.

$18.15.

Categories: Culture, Music

Bluegrass Live & Recorded

For live music with an Appalachian flair, head to the Redlight Cafe any Thursday night for bluegrass performances by regional bands. Attire is relaxed, the beer selection plentiful and bar snacks are available. The live show starts at 9pm, but get there an hour or so early to hear – or participate in – the sidewalk jam session. Redlight is located at 553 Amsterdam Ave, 404-874-7828, and there is typically a cover fee of $5-$10.

For BG enthusiasts, check out these acts recently recognized at the 2008 World of Bluegrass in Nashville, TN. Dailey and Vincent, Dale Ann Bradley, Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper, Andy Hall, The SteelDrivers, and Everett Lilly

Categories: Culture, Events & Activities, Music