In 1938, William Smith Monroe named his band the Blue Grass Boys in honor of his home state (Kentucky) and their distinctive brand of music came to identify a style, of which Bill Monroe is the father.

Although he played several string instruments, the mandolin became his primary vehicle and basic sound of Bluegrass.

The Blue Grass Boys made their first appearance in October 1939 on WSM’s Grand Ole Opry after Bill had attained prominence as part of the Monroe Brothers.

He and brother Charlie (1903 - 1975) recorded 60 songs for Bluebird Records between 1936 and 1938, including “Kentucky Waltz,” which he wrote.  Monroe has inspired countless pickers and will forever be remembered for that High and Lonesome Sound.