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.
- June 19, 1914 Lester Raymond Flatt was born in Duncan’s Chapel, Overton County, Tennessee. *
- June 19, 1948 Sweetheart, You Done Me Wrong (Columbia 38172) peaked at 11 in the Billboard country singles music chart.
- June 19, 1988 This day was designated ‘Bill Monroe, Father Of Bluegrass Day’ by the state of Louisiana in a proclamation issued by Buddy Roemer, Governor of Louisiana.
- June 19, 1989 Shanachie video recording – Bill Monroe recorded a solo version of Going Across the Sea for Rachel Liebling’s video High Lonesome (SHA 604), which was released in VHS format on September 25, 1994.
* Lester Flatt showed an early talent for singing and later became an accomplished guitarist.
He joined the Blue Grass Boys in March 1945 and stayed until February 1948. He was an important part of what has been described as the ‘classic’ version of the Blue Grass Boys. Flatt participated in four recordings sessions during that time and helped to create the sound that set the template for bluegrass music for years to come.
Among the great recordings to which he contributed were those of Why Did You Wander? Toy Heart, Mansions for Me, Will You Be Loving Another Man, How will I Explain About You? Shining Path, Wicked Path of Sin, I’m Going Back to Old Kentucky, It’s Mighty Dark To Travel, Little Community Church, That Home Above, Remember the Cross, The Old Cross Road, Just A Little Talk with Jesus and I’m Travelin’ On and On.
Bill Monroe once said of Lester Flatt: “He was a powerful man in bluegrass music.”
