The music scene in Big Stone Gap, a small town nestled in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains of Virginia, is a vibrant and eclectic mix of genres and styles. Despite its size, Big Stone Gap has a rich history of musical talent and a thriving community of musicians. From bluegrass and old-time country music to rock and roll and indie folk, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this small town.

One of the most popular events in Big Stone Gap is the annual Mountain Music Festival, which showcases local musicians and attracts visitors from all over the region. This festival celebrates the rich musical heritage of the Appalachian region and features a variety of artists performing traditional mountain music as well as more contemporary styles. With live music, food vendors, and arts and crafts booths, the Mountain Music Festival is a must-see event for any music lover in Big Stone Gap. As of things couldn’t get any better, now it’s home to the Blue Highway bluegrass festival, an event that features the very top acts in the bluegrass music world.

In addition to the Mountain Music Festival and The Blue Highway Festival, Big Stone Gap is home to several music venues and local bands that regularly perform in the area. Whether you’re looking for a night of bluegrass at the historic Union Theatre or a rock concert at the local bar, there is always live music to be enjoyed in Big Stone Gap. The music scene in this small town may be lesser-known compared to larger cities, but it is no less vibrant or diverse, providing a unique and enjoyable experience for music enthusiasts of all ages.

~ Silas Barker, Music4theMountains

Writer/Journalist/Music Lover

music4themountains@gmail.com

“Life is better in the mountains.”

The Trail of the Lonesome Pine holds a special place in Virginia history and music. The trail, located in the Appalachian Mountains of southwestern Virginia, is known for its scenic beauty and unique geological formations, including the signature lonesome pine tree that stands tall along the ridge. The trail has been a popular destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs alike, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Trail of the Lonesome Pine has also been immortalized in music. The popular song “The Trail of the Lonesome Pine” was written in 1913 by Ballard MacDonald and Harry Carroll, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. The song’s lyrics describe the allure and mystique of the trail, evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing for the mountains of Virginia. The haunting melody and poetic lyrics have made the song a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.

Overall, the Trail of the Lonesome Pine serves as a symbol of Virginia’s rugged beauty and rich cultural history. Its significance in both history and music highlights the deep connection between the people of Virginia and their natural surroundings. Whether exploring the trail on foot or listening to the song that bears its name, one cannot help but be captivated by the enchanting beauty and timeless appeal of the Trail of the Lonesome Pine.

~ Silas Barker, Music4theMountains

Writer/Journalist/Music Lover

music4themountains@gmail.com

“Life is better in the mountains.”

From the rolling eastern Kentucky hills to the glitz and glamour of the Hollywood hills, the name Adalyn Ramey is one that is spreading far and wide, and quickly making waves in the music industry. At just 13 years old, this award-winning singer/songwriter/musician hails from Paintsville, KY, and is known as The Young Appalachian Storyteller. Her original songs beautifully capture the essence of the people and culture of Appalachia, with themes of home, life, and faith woven throughout her music.

Adalyn is very proud to be a native of east Kentucky and she knows what a privilege it is to grow up along the famous US23 Country Music Highway. The highway is a pipeline for legendary artists like Loretta Lynn, Dwight Yoakam and Chris Stapleton, just to name a few. With an “old soul” and original songs with quality and content beyond her years, this young Appalachian Storyteller is well on her way to carving out her very own unique spot on the Country Music Highway. 

At the beginning of last year, her name was at the top of Kentucky Country Music page’s list of “Kentucky Music Acts to Watch For in 2024.” Adalyn’s talent certainly did not go unnoticed, with her original songs (just demos recorded mainly on a laptop in her bedroom) receiving airplay on radio stations worldwide and consistently appearing on various Top 20 bluegrass and gospel music radio charts. In 2024 alone, she received nominations for multiple awards at prestigious events such as the Appalachian Arts and Entertainment Awards, the Hollywood Independent Music Awards in Los Angeles, and the Josie Music Awards at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. 

One of Adalyn’s standout achievements was winning Best Bluegrass Christmas Song of 2024 at the Holiday Music & Film Awards in Jacksonville, Florida for her original song “Another Kentucky Christmas.” Her dedication to her craft is evident in her busy schedule, performing at renowned music venues and festivals alongside Grammy Award-winning artists like Ricky Skaggs and Rhonda Vincent. She even recently had the honor of sitting in with Ricky and his band Kentucky Thunder to offer her own rendition of Skaggs’ first #1 hit Crying My Heart Out Over You.

After signing her first record deal this past summer with Dreamland Entertainment Group in Nashville, Adalyn is gearing up to release her debut album in early 2025. The album was recorded at the world famous Dark Horse Studios in Nashville, and will feature mainly her own original works. She will be accompanied by multiple Grammy nominated and award-winning artists on this much anticipated debut project.

If you haven’t heard of Adalyn Ramey yet, you soon will. Her name is one of those Kentucky names you REALLY need to know! Do yourself a favor and follow her on Facebook, I do. Keep an eye out for this talented young artist as she continues to make a HUGE mark on the music scene from Paintsville to Nashville and everywhere in between!

For more updates and information, be sure to check out Adalyn’s Facebook page: https://m.facebook.com/tunesbyadalyn/

~ Silas Barker, Music4theMountains

Writer/Journalist/Music Lover

music4themountains@gmail.com

“Life is better in the mountains.”

Hidden in the small East Tennessee of Church Hill, TN is a little shop that produces a huge quality instrument. Ratliff mandolins are known as high-quality mandolins that are popular among musicians and collectors. The craftsmanship and attention to detail put into each mandolin is what sets Ratliff Mandolins apart from other mandolin makers.

The mandolins produced by luthier Audey Ratliff are considered to be high-end instruments, meaning they are of superior quality and are often sought after by professional musicians. The sound quality of these mandolins is exceptional, with a rich and resonant tone that is perfect for playing bluegrass, folk, country, and other genres of music. Many musicians who play Ratliff Mandolins rave about the playability and feel of the instruments, making them a top choice among mandolin enthusiasts.

In addition to their superior sound quality, Ratliff Mandolins are also known for their beautiful craftsmanship. Each mandolin is handcrafted by the master luthier who takes great pride in his work. The attention to detail put into each mandolin is evident in the intricate inlays, fine woodwork, and overall design of the instrument. Overall, Ratliff Mandolins are a top choice for musicians who are looking for a high-quality, professional-grade mandolin.

Visit the Ratliff Mandolin website:

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~ Silas Barker, Music4theMountains

Writer/Journalist/Music Lover

music4themountains@gmail.com

“Life is better in the mountains.”

Dr. Ralph Stanley was a legendary bluegrass musician who left an indelible mark on the genre with his distinctive banjo picking and hauntingly beautiful vocals. With his brother Carter, he formed the Stanley Brothers in the 1940s and quickly rose to fame with their classic songs such as “Rank Stranger” and “Man of Constant Sorrow.” After Carter’s untimely death in 1966, Ralph continued to perform and record music, eventually becoming a solo artist and earning a Grammy Award for his album “Lost in the Lonesome Pines.”

Even though Dr. Ralph Stanley passed away in 2016 at the age of 89, his music continues to resonate with fans all over the world. His influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who were inspired by his raw, emotional style and dedication to preserving traditional Appalachian music. His contributions to bluegrass and country music have ensured that his legacy will endure for generations to come, with his songs being covered by artists from various genres and featured in movies and TV shows.

In addition to his musical talents, Dr. Ralph Stanley was also known for his humble and kind demeanor, earning him the respect and admiration of his peers in the music industry. He was a true ambassador for bluegrass music, spreading its influence and reaching new audiences even in his later years. While he may no longer be with us, his spirit lives on through his timeless music, serving as a reminder of the power and beauty of traditional American music. Dr. Ralph Stanley may be gone, but his legacy and impact on the music world will never be forgotten.

~ Silas Barker, Music4theMountains

Writer/Journalist/Music Lover

music4themountains@gmail.com

“Life is better in the mountains.”

Larry Sparks is a renowned bluegrass musician who has made a lasting impact on the genre with his distinctive voice and expert guitar playing. With a career spanning over six decades, Sparks has built a legacy as one of the pioneers of bluegrass music. His contributions to the genre have helped shape its sound and influence countless musicians who have followed in his footsteps.

Despite his long and successful career, Sparks shows no signs of slowing down. At 74 years old, he continues to tour and perform regularly, showcasing his immense talent and passion for music. Sparks’ longevity in the music industry is a testament to his talent and his ability to connect with audiences of all ages. His timeless songs and masterful performances have earned him a loyal fanbase that spans generations. His music continues to resonate with listeners, proving that good music transcends time and trends.

In a world where music trends come and go, Larry Sparks remains a constant figure in the bluegrass community. His influence on the genre is undeniable, and his dedication to his craft is unwavering. As he continues to perform and inspire audiences with his music, Sparks proves that true talent and passion for music can withstand the test of time.

~ Silas Barker, Music4theMountains

Writer/Journalist/Music Lover

music4themountains@gmail.com

“Life is better in the mountains.”