Ralph Stanley & Friends "Man Of Constant Sorrow" Album Review

     Dr. Ralph Stanley is simply an American Treasure.  His work with the Cinch Mountain Boys resulted in some of the most timeless bluegrass music of all time.  He has helped inspire countless country music legends, such as Ricky Skaggs and Keith Whitley.  When the O Brother, Where Art Thou? Soundtrack became a national phenomenon, his song "O Death" was one of the big reasons why.  Ralph has a new album out now through Cracker Barrel.  While it doesn't pave new ground, it doesn't have to.  This is modern artists paying respect to one of the giants of country music.  Man of Constant Sorrow is a lot of fun from start to finish.

The 10 Best Albums of 2014

     Writing a great song is no minor feat.  It takes skill, determination, and talent to write a country song that moves people.  It is an even greater feat to write an entire album worth of great songs.  That's what these 10 artists did.  These 10 albums represent the best of country music in 2014.  From throwback records to "metamodern sounds", all facets of country music are covered here. Keep It Country Kids proudly presents the 10 Best Albums of 2014.

The 10 Best Songs of 2014

     2014 saw a noted increase of quality from the country music mainstream.  Country music is nothing without great songs; songs that touch our hearts, make us laugh and cry, make us feel something.  It is very refreshing to be able to turn on country radio and actually hear some decent, heartfelt music.  We still have a long way to go, but baby steps are important.  These 10 songs come from mainstream country, independent artists, bluegrass artists, and everything in between.  Here are the 10 Best Songs of 2014.

Old Crow Medicine Show "Remedy" Album Review

     Old Crow Medicine Show had quite a year in 2013.  They had a song they co-wrote hit number one on the country charts, embarked on a tour that saw them play shows across the United States and Europe, and became members of The Grand Ole Opry.  They are the epitome of the American Dream, going from literally playing for tips in front of the Opry to stars on the show.  And throughout that journey, they have stayed true to their style and sound, creating an iconic and memorable presentation that is inspiring and riveting.  Their latest output is titled Remedy, and as the title suggests, it is a perfect remedy for the often ailing world of country music.

The 100 Greatest Country Songs of All Time Part 2: 90-81

    The 100 Greatest Country Songs of All Time continues along with Part 2: 90-81.  As we continue to countdown towards the greatest song of all time, I hope you learn a little about country music history, and possibly hear some of these amazing songs for the first time.  Now, on with the countdown!

5 Artists You Need To Be Listening To Part 2

     Earlier this year, I posted 5 artists you need to be listening to, even if they are outside of the mainstream and public eye.  There are tons of artists that you may not have heard of that are producing great music and keeping country strong.  For this list, I'm touching on some artists with a little bit bigger of a following.  You very well may have heard of these artists already, but this is an opportunity to dig deeper and see what they have to offer. If you are burned out by the same old same old on the radio, check some of these artists out!

Old Crow Medicine Show Invited To Join The Grand Ole Opry

      Old Crow Medicine Show played a concert in Cleveland, Ohio at the State Theater on Friday, August 16, 2013.  Yours truly was in attendance in the front row dead center.  The boy put on a rip-roaring bluegrass, country, and folk spectacle that was well worth the price of admission.  Near the end of the show, however, we learned that this night would be a very special one for the Old Crow boys and everyone in the audience.