About the song

Bill Monroe’s “Blue Moon of Kentucky”: A Bluegrass Standard

“Blue Moon of Kentucky” is a bluegrass song written by Bill Monroe and recorded by his band, the Blue Grass Boys. It was released as a single in 1947 and became a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. The song is considered one of the most important bluegrass songs ever written, and it has been covered by many artists over the years, including Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton,and Willie Nelson.

The song is a classic example of Monroe’s songwriting style. It is a fast-paced, energetic song with a catchy melody. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is pining for his lost love. The song is full of vivid imagery and colorful metaphors, and it captures the essence of bluegrass music.

“Blue Moon of Kentucky” was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The song was praised for its innovative sound and its Monroe’s virtuosic fiddle playing. The song helped to popularize bluegrass music and it is considered one of the most influential songs in the genre.

Here are some of the key elements of the song:

  • The song is written in the first person from the perspective of a man who is pining for his lost love.
  • The song is set in Kentucky.
  • The song is written in a fast-paced, energetic style.
  • The song features Monroe’s virtuosic fiddle playing.
  • The song is full of vivid imagery and colorful metaphors.

“Blue Moon of Kentucky” is a significant song in the history of bluegrass music. It is a classic example of Monroe’s songwriting style and it helped to popularize the genre. The song is considered one of the most influential bluegrass songs ever written, and it continues to be performed by bluegrass artists today.

In addition to its significance in bluegrass music, “Blue Moon of Kentucky” has also had a wider impact on popular culture. The song has been covered by many artists in different genres, and it has been featured in several films and television shows. The song is a classic example of American music, and it continues to be enjoyed by audiences around the world.

Video

Lyrics

Blue moon of Kentucky, keep on shinin’Shine on the one that’s gone and proved untrueBlue moon of Kentucky, keep on shinin’Shine on the one that’s gone and left me blue
It was on a moonlit nightThe stars were shinin’ brightAnd they whispered from on highYour love has said goodbye
Blue moon of Kentucky, keep on shinin’Shine on the one that’s gone and said, “Goodbye”
Blue moon of Kentucky, keep on shinin’Shine on the one that’s gone and proved untrueBlue moon of Kentucky, keep on shinin’Shine on the one that’s gone and left me blue
It was on a moonlit nightThe stars were shinin’ brightAnd they whispered from on highYour love has said goodbye
Blue moon of Kentucky, keep on shinin’Shine on the one that’s gone and said, “Goodbye”