The Early Days of Bluegrass sets are currently sold out. We apologize for any inconvenience, and expect to have CDs and books available in January.
THE EARLY DAYS OF BLUEGRASS was originally a series of ten albums compiled and released by Rounder Records beginning in 1975. The albums were produced by the founders of Rounder Records – Ken Irwin, Marian Leighton Levy and Bill Nowlin.
This is truly music from another time, music largely from the southeastern United States created as America experienced rapid social change in the aftermath of World War II. The 153 songs, almost all originally released on 45 and 78 rpm singles, evoke rawness, excitement, nostalgia, wistfulness, reverence for gospel, and exuberance. Click here for list of song titles and artists.
There are dozens of artists represented, including full albums by Jim Eanes, the Bailey Brothers, the Saucemen Brothers, Bill Clifton, the Church Brothers and Connie and Babe. Most of the musical selections were made by Dick Spottswood, who originated bluegrass programming on WAMU-FM and whose weekly show continues on Bluegrass Country radio.
These ten albums have now been released on a newly remastered, six-CD boxed set, with extensive liner notes. Net proceeds from the sale of these CDs will go to the Bluegrass Country Foundation, to continue to provide programming for Bluegrass Country radio.
There’s also an accompanying 200-page book by Bill Nowlin, rich in detail about the musicians and the recordings, with many never-before published photos.
“You need this set.” Gary Reid, Bluegrass Unlimited
“Anyone with an interest in the history of bluegrass music will want both the box set and the book in their personal library.” John Lawlesss, Bluegrass Today
The Early Days of Bluegrass sets are currently backordered. Please check back in January for ordering information.