bluegrass Archives - Appalachian History

The Coon Creek Girls play the White House

“Coon Creek Girls was a very happy time. As far as I know, we were the first all-girl string band,” recalled band leader Lily May Ledford.

Mac Wiseman, nicknamed “The Voice with a Heart,” grew up influenced by traditional and religious music and such radio stars as Montana Slim Carter.

Historical recordings, featuring 5-string banjo master Carroll Best, document that Best was a pioneer of the melodic, 3-finger banjo style.

A popular recording and radio personality, Wade Mainer influenced Bill Monroe, Ralph Stanley and Doc Watson.