CHARLIE MONROE

• From Rosine, Kentucky.
• The older brother of Bill Monroe. (According to Sam Bush, that makes him the “uncle” of bluegrass.)
• 1934-1938, Bill and Charlie recorded and performed as the Monroe Brothers. Their biggest hit for was “What Would You Give In Exchange for Your Soul?” (RCA Victor).
• 1938, after Bill left to form The Blue Grass Boys, Charlie formed The Kentucky Partners and remained very popular, performing on radio stations all over the south. Made over 120 recordings on RCA Victor and Decca Records. Lester Flatt and his wife Gladys (aka Bobbie Jean) were members of The Kentucky Partners before Lester teamed up with Bill Monroe and Earl Scruggs in 1945.
• 1960, retired from music.
• Died in 1975.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

• What Would You Give in Exchange for Your Soul (Rounder) A good collection of their biggest hits.