A local gal with a love of bluegrass music is bringing the life of a country music legend to the big screen. Scioto County native (and SCDN correspondent) MJ Brickey is writing a movie about a bluegrass pioneer and is also in talks to produce and direct the story.
The movie aims to put the spotlight on the lasting legacy of Dr. Ralph Stanley, whose innovative style of banjo playing and singing influenced artists like Ricky Skaggs and Keith Whitley.
Stanley’s son, Ralph Stanley II, announced the project in Nashville this morning. Ralph Stanley’s unique Clawhammer style of banjo playing, which he adopted from his mother, Lucy, and his powerful, raw vocal ability have made him a pivotal figure in American music.
Brickey says, “As someone whose roots are deeply embedded in the rich soil of Appalachian music, I feel profoundly connected to the story of Ralph Stanley. Growing up in Scioto County with a gospel singer-songwriter grandmother, Hazel Jenkins, and a family steeped in the bluegrass traditions across the river in Kentucky, this film is more than a project; it’s a celebration of my heritage. Ralph Stanley’s music resonates with the essence of the Appalachians, echoing the melodies that have been the soundtrack of my life since childhood.”
The project is currently in the pre-production stage, but Ralph Stanley 11, himself a successful musician and current leader of the Clinch Mountain Boys, said, “While details are still being finalized, we are excited about the possibilities this collaboration holds.”
