Role

:

Composer

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

November 3, 1960 in Kingsport, TN

Death

:

June 3, 2014

 

James Alan Shelton was an American bluegrass guitarist and composer, born on June 3, 1960, in Kingsport, Tennessee. He grew up in a musical family, with his father playing the guitar and his mother singing in the church choir. Shelton started playing the guitar at the age of eight and was soon performing at local events and festivals. Shelton's interest in bluegrass music was sparked by listening to the recordings of Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs. He was particularly drawn to the sound of the guitar in bluegrass music and began to study the playing styles of guitarists such as Doc Watson and Tony Rice. In 1984, Shelton joined the band of bluegrass legend Ralph Stanley, playing lead guitar and singing harmony vocals. He remained with Stanley's band for over twenty years, during which time he became known for his virtuosic guitar playing and his ability to blend traditional bluegrass with contemporary influences. Shelton's compositions were heavily influenced by his experiences on the road with Stanley's band. He wrote many songs about life on the road, the struggles of being a musician, and the joys of playing bluegrass music. His most famous composition, "Goin' Up Dry Branch," was a tribute to the small town in West Virginia where Stanley's band had played many times. Shelton's guitar playing was characterized by his use of flatpicking, a technique that involves using a flat pick to play the strings of the guitar. He was known for his fast and precise playing, as well as his ability to improvise and create new melodies on the spot. In addition to his work with Ralph Stanley, Shelton also recorded several solo albums, including "Song for Greta," "Half Moon Bay," and "Where I'm Bound." These albums showcased his skills as a composer and performer, and featured collaborations with other bluegrass musicians such as Ricky Skaggs and Alison Krauss. Shelton's contributions to the world of bluegrass music were recognized with several awards and honors. In 1999, he was named Guitar Player of the Year by the International Bluegrass Music Association. He also received the IBMA's Distinguished Achievement Award in 2011, in recognition of his contributions to the genre. Tragically, Shelton passed away on June 3, 2018, at the age of 58. His death was a great loss to the bluegrass community, but his music and legacy continue to inspire and influence musicians around the world. In conclusion, James Alan Shelton was a talented and influential bluegrass guitarist and composer. His love for the guitar and bluegrass music was evident in his virtuosic playing and his heartfelt compositions. His contributions to the genre will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.

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