Not only was the show that Ralph Stanley & The Clinch Mountain Boys played in Cincinnati last weekend fantastic, it was downright historic. The 85 year old Stanley and his group of singers and pickers took The Emery Theatre, MidPoint Music Festival, and Cincinnati by storm and those in attendance could feel the history that was being made.

Stanley, who was once a prominent member of the Cincinnati record label King Records, was in fine form Saturday night. Flanked by his grandson and several other amazing musicians and preceded by Cincinnati City Council members, (who officially declared it Ralph Stanley Day in Cincinnati) did at 85, what I could not even attempt to do at 35. His charm was strong, the music crisp and clean and the venue the perfect backdrop for a brilliant night.

See Ralph and the boys open the set with “Man Of Constant Sorrow” below.

About Joe Long

Joe started ENS in 2003 after most people he wanted to talk to about music were worn thin by his ramblings. The outlet this site provided helped out, and somehow is still going 9 years later. After a four year stint as a WOXY DJ, Joe returned to Cincinnati and continues to pioneer ENS. In addition to the overall look and feel of the site, Joe provides regular reviews, and kinda makes sure this whole thing stays afloat.