The Crooked Road

Southwest Virginia is a very special place because it’s a crucible of American music. Bluegrass music was born here, and some even say that country music itself originated here. The Carter Family and the Stanley Brothers came from these parts, to name a few. It’s not surprising that an identified “music trail” has been established to help tourists like us find our way around.

We visited the Ralph Stanley Museum in Clintwood, Virginia on a rainy day and enjoyed it very much. It told the story of the bluegrass legend who started playing with his brother Carter and continued for many decades as the leader of the Clinch Mountain Boys after his brother’s death in 1966. Ralph played banjo in the “clawhammer” style and was a great vocalist, achieving the “high lonesome” sound of traditional mountain music. He was greatly respected by musicians of all types.

This is just one of the stops on The Crooked Road. Check it out: https://thecrookedroadva.com/