Bill Monroe & the Bluegrass Boys
07/04/61
Oak Leaf Park
Luray, VA
Download FLAC: Google Drive
Watermelon On The Vine
Panhandle Country
I Gotta Travel On
Blue Moon Of Kentucky
Put My Rubber Doll Away
Rawhide
Linda Lou
Sugar Coated Love (1)
What Would You Give (1)
Can’t You Hear Me Callin (2)
Travel That Lonesome Road (2)
Whitehouse Blues
Y’all Come
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Bill Monroe
Beth Lee
Billy Baker
Bobby Smith
Tony Ellis
1 w/ Carter Stanley
2 w/ Mac Wiseman
The first event that used the words, “Bluegrass Festival,” was promoted by the legendary singer and recording artist, Bill Clifton. The location was Oak Leaf Park in Luray, Virginia, and the date was July 4, 1961. This was also the first time that more than two well-known Bluegrass acts were booked on the same show. Prior to that occasion, one or two Bluegrass bands would be booked on a country show of that period. The festival was a one day event that featured Bill Monroe, The Stanley Brothers, The Country Gentlemen, Jim and Jesse, Mac Wiseman and Bill Clifton. This was also the first time that Bill Monroe called former members of The Blue Grass Boys to the stage to play and sing. When 2,200 people attended the show, it opened up a new venue for Bluegrass music.
themidnightcafe.org 
Thanks Mat;
A true showman, he always made a point of introducing his players. A country gentleman for sure. Luray Va and Galax are still picking away with their annual festivals. Imagine Jer, Steve Martin and John McEuen strumming together in the parking lot of festivals such as this. Blue Moon of Kentucky was Elvis’s first recorded songs, wow such a history lesson listening to Old Timey Music.A pioneer of Bluegrass….. a sweet recording here!
Yes I always love how Ricky Skaggs refers to him as Mr. Monroe. Shows how much he respected him as a player and human being.
I’ve got a number of nice bluegrass shows I’ll put up sometime.
would love it if this could be reupped! Was also looking for bill monroe 6/20/1966 if you happen to have it
These Monroe shows are absolutely classic! Audio is A-1. Thanx…………..