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 11, 1975 Recording session – During an evening session at Bradley’s Barn Bill Monroe recorded Mary Jane, Won’t You Be Mine, Farther On, Old, Old House and Watson Blues. Assisting were James Monroe and Ralph Lewis [guitar], Bob Black [banjo], Randy Davis [bass] and Kenny Baker and Joe Stuart [fiddle]. The producer was Walter Haynes. *
- March 11, 1979 Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys played at The World’s Largest Indoor Bluegrass Concert at the Capital Centre, Landover, Maryland.
- March 11, 1995 Pete Pyle died, aged 74, at the Tennessee Christian Medical Center, Madison, Tennessee. (see April 18) **
* Mary Jane, Won’t You Be Mine, Old, Old House and Watson Blues were included on the LP Weary Traveler (MCA-2173), released on January 5, 1976.
** Pete Pyle already had a record contract with Bluebird and was a member of the Grand Ole Opry prior to joining Bill Monroe.
After a stint in the Army, Pyle returned to the entertainment business, playing on the Grand Ole Opry with the Golden West Cowboys.
Later he formed his own group, the Mississippi Valley Boys with whom he recorded some traditional country music. These and earlier recordings are included on the LP Pete Pyle & the Mississippi Valley Boys (Cattle 106).
He worked for a time as the leader of the house band at Monroe’s Brown County Jamboree in Bean Blossom.
