Doris,
I am responding to your suggestion that fans such as I let Dr. Ralph
(and the rest of the gang) know how much they mean to us.
I absolutely fell in love with the Stanley Brothers when I heard "Dream
of a Miner's Child" on WBGO here in NYC about 7 years ago.
I was awestruck.
It is amazing to me that I was oblivious to the Stanley Brothers before
that!
I immediately became an enormous fan, and I have been collecting CDs and
records ever since.
I think I have more Stanley Brothers music than anything else, except
perhaps classical.
Yes, I like Stanley music better than anything--'cept maybe Handel's
"Messiah" and Beethoven's Ninth Symphony.
Now that's saying something, right?
I have been privileged to see Dr. Ralph, Ralph II, and the little one,
plus the Clinch Mountain Boys, performing at BB King's twice here in NYC.
It was an incredible thrill, even more so because last time they took my
request for "Angel Band!" (Someone else had already requested "Stone
Walls and Steel Bars," another Stanley song I would not want to live
without.
And I got to be at the second row of tables center both times because I
got there so early! I think the second row is actually better than the
first, which is right up against the stage, and means you have to crane
your neck to look up at the faces of the musicians.
Guess what? I already have my Town Hall tickets to hear Dr. Stanley and
CMB at Town Hall on April 14th! I'll be in the 4th row center. I can't
wait!
And you know what? If I were free as a bird and rich as Bill Gates, I
would follow Dr. Stanley and the band around and hear every gig they do!
I wish, wish, wish I could have heard Ralph and Carter sing together,
but I'll just have to make do with the records. They are so great.
BTW, my favorite collection is Ralph's "I'll Answer the Call" on Rebel
Records. It is fantastic. But I also love the live collection, "Together
for the Last Time," which of course includes Carter.
It is also a privilege to be on this list, and hear a little of the
"backstage" talk from members of the Stanley family and friends, and to
learn a little more about the music.
You all be well and have a beautiful holiday season!
Nona
ps
I hope this doesn't post twice! I first sent it from my new e-addy,
forgetting that I was subscribed under the old one (from which your
posts have been forwarded to me)
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