Ralph Stanley

Ralph created a unique style of banjo playing, often called "Stanley Style."

In early January 2007 Ralph was hospitalized with pneumonia, but by mid January he was on tour once again.

Ralph Stanley opened up a museum in Clintwood, Virginia.

He first formed the popular bluegrass band, The Stanley Brothers, with his brother Carter.

He was inducted into the Grand Old Opry in January 2000.

Ralph's wife's name is Jimmi.

He has three children; Lisa, Tonya, and Ralph Stanley II.

In 2001 Ralph won the Grammy for "Best Male Country Vocal Performance" for his a capella rendition of the traditional song "O Death", from the soundtrack to O Brother, Where Art Thou?.

In 1985 Ralph Stanley received the United States National Endowment for the Humanities' "Traditional American Music Award". He was the first person to ever receive this award.

He was named a "Living Legend" by the United States Library of Congress in April 2000.

Ralph Stanley first began singing at local events in the early 1940s.

Ralph Stanley sings "O Death" in the 2000 film Oh Brother Where Art Thou?.

In 1976 he was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Music from Lincoln Memorial University, in Harrogate Tennessee.

On November 10, 2007 Ralph Stanley performed at a rally for presidential candidate, John Edwards.

In 2006 Ralph Stanley was awarded the National Medal of Arts.

In 2006 Ralph Stanley recorded the song Me and God with modern country singer Josh Turner.

Ralph Stanley can play the banjo, clawhammer, and guitar.

Ralph Stanley is a Democrat.