Bill Monroe Delivers a Mesmerizing “The Wayfaring Stranger”

 By Arden Lambert

October 17, 2018
Last Edited November 6, 2019 2:08 pm


One of the pillars of country music, Bill Monroe was definitely a force to reckon with as he was one of those who revolutionized the music industry. Throughout his career that spanned for almost seven decades, Monroe is credited as the creator of the entire genre of Bluegrass music. Hence, this is the reason why he is commonly dubbed as the “Father of Bluegrass,” and he deserved it very much.

A master of the mandolin and a fantastic songwriter, he was popularly known for crafting iconic tunes such as “Kentucky Waltz.”

Appearing on the variety television series American Music Shop in the 1990s, Monroe performed alongside fellow country artists Marty Stuart. Both the singers rendered a variety of songs together, which includes Monroe’s iconic hit, “Southern Flavor.”

The collaboration was undoubtedly incredible. However, the standout performance of the night went to Monroe playing a hypnotizing “The Wayfaring Stranger.”

Before Monroe’s solo performance, Stuart complemented the former and said:

“Bill, I understand, I’ve heard you say this is your favorite song, ‘The Wayfaring Stranger.’”

He then continued his story by saying:

“We were in Japan a couple of years ago and he stood out by the river where we were and sang this by himself. And I know this song was touched by heaven when you do it.”

“The Wayfaring Stranger” as Performed by Bill Monroe

An American folk and gospel song, “The Wayfaring Stranger” traces back its roots in the early 19th century. It narrates the tale of a weary soul and their journey in life. It is a melancholy soul on the journey through life. Like most folk songs, it has many variations on its lyrics.

Moreover, the tune is also known as “Poor Wayfaring Stranger” or “I Am a Poor Wayfaring Stranger.” Interestingly, members of the Western Writers of America included it on the Top 100 Western Songs of All Time.

Check out Bill Monroe’s performance of this folk and gospel tune below:

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Tags

bill monroe, bluegrass, The Wayfaring Stranger


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