From October 1, 2010 through to the end of September 2011, we will, each day, celebrate the life of Bill Monroe by sharing information about him and those people who are associated with his life and music career. This information will include births and deaths; recording sessions; single, LP and CD release dates; and other interesting tidbits. Richard F. Thompson is responsible for the research and compilation of this information. We invite readers to share any tidbits, photos or memories you would like us to include.
- March 9, 1919 J. C. ‘Cleo’ Davis born in Antioch in the hills of north-west Georgia. (see July 17) *
- March 9, 1964 Single released – Darling Corey / Salt Creek (Decca 31596, 45rpm)
- March 9, 1970 Single released – McKinley’s March / Walk Softly on My Heart (Decca 32654, 45rpm)
- March 9, 1981 Bill Monroe underwent surgery for colon cancer at the Nashville Memorial Hospital. **
- March 9, 1990 Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys made a personal appearance at the Zephyrhills Bluegrass Festival, Zephyrhills Festival Park, near Tampa, Florida.
* The guitarist was hired by Bill Monroe late in 1938 when Monroe moved to Ashville, North Carolina, from Little Rock, Arkansas, and was with Monroe when they made their debut on the Grand Ole Opry in October 1939.
He left the Blue Grass Boys in late 1940, before the first recording session by the Blue Grass Boys.
** At about this time, Bill Monroe was heavily involved in the recording of My Last Days on Earth, with sessions taking place either side of the surgery.
