James Alan Shelton, long-time guitarist with Ralph Stanley & the Clinch Mountain Boys, passed away earlier this evening. He was in the hospital near his home in East Tennessee being treated for cancer, and died peacefully with his wife, Greta, at his side.
There were few people in bluegrass more consistently beloved than James, and his loss will be felt deeply throughout the community.
We have been in touch with the family, and will have more information and a statement from them in the morning.
Rest In Peace, James Alan Shelton.
Update: We have additional information in this article, and a more detailed look at James’ bluegrass career in this story.
