As a fan, I want to thank Mr. Halsey, for printing the interview in Gritz,, which reassures Dr. Ralph's fans that he is well. I think that is the chief concern of those who have posted. I, like so many of his fans, have waited for years to see Dr. Ralph given the widespread recognition he deserves, and to see the music industry stop pursuing every shoddy passing fad in music long enough to pay homage to a master. Still, none of us would like to think he might push himself beyond beyond prudent limits to fulfill obligations and, thereby, perhaps, damage his health. He is, as has been said so often, a national treasure, and we all wish him the best of good health and good fortune.
While it is true that Earl Scruggs is a great banjo picker, to my ear there is no sound quite like the banjo of Ralph Stanley. Steve Sparkman is a wonderful musician, and I enjoy his playing very much. But Dr. Ralph's banjo has a something so special there is hardly any way to describe it, for it includes, but goes beyond, mere technique. There is an uprush of joy in his playing, like liquid sunshine. Whether singing or playing banjo, in my opinion Ralph Stanley has a unique, special genius, an artistry unsurpassed in Bluegrass music. I run on too long. I only wanted to wish Dr. Ralph the best of health. Kathleen Bluegrass Bulletin Board brought to you by the fan club of Dr Ralph Stanley & His Clinch Mountain Boys subscribe or unsubscribe at http://drralphstanley.com/
