There’s a good reason why Bill Monroe came to be known as the “Father of Bluegrass.” He is single-handedly credited with creating the bluegrass genre, which is why his name will forever be engraved in history.
A singer, songwriter, and mandolin player, Monroe’s career lasted for 69 years before his death in 1996. His passing left a huge void not only in bluegrass, but in its sister genre of country. Many country artists had grown up listening to Monroe, so his death had a great effect on them.
Not longer after Monroe’s passing, two artists came together to honor him through song. Those artists were Vince Gill and Alison Krauss, who had just finished a bluegrass recording of Gill’s single “High Lonesome Sound.”
“High Lonesome Sound” was written by Gill and originally released in April 1996. The song only managed to take the 12th spot on the U.S. country chart, but was a number one hit in Canada. Later, Gill gave the song more of a bluegrass style by inviting Krauss and her band Union Station to record an alternate version of the track.
Everyone reunited to honor Monroe on one occasion, with Gill expressing that their performance was “a song for old Bill.” Gill took the lead on the song, while Krauss sweetly sang harmony. Their voices blended together perfectly as they sang, creating a heavenly sound.
In addition to the pleasing vocals, the group of performers also displayed some impressive instrumental skills. Gill played guitar while Krauss played fiddle, and some of the other instruments in the group included a mandolin, dobro, and a banjo.
Overall, the performance was one outstanding bluegrass showcase. We’re sure that Monroe would have been proud of every person on stage that day.
Tune in below to see Gill, Krauss, and Union Station pay tribute to Monroe with their bluegrass tune. It’s so good, you’ll probably end up watching it more than once.
