Keith Whitley & The New Tradition - Paradise (1978)

[@CAROLUSPRIMA]

This may be the correct year of release but Keith was in Ralph Stanleys band from May 1974 through November 1977 - and with JD thereafter. This was recorded around 1972-73 after Keith’s first stint with Ralph as lead guitar player.

[@RareGrassPlug]

You’re indeed correct. That is year of release. Keith split for California in 72 and started the New tradition band and later was in Country Store.

[@CAROLUSPRIMA]

@@RareGrassPlug Keith came to Roy Lee Center’s funeral in May 1974 in Jackson KY. Elmer, Keith’s dad, told Ralph that he knew of a good lead singer if Ralph was interested. I’ve sat at the very table where this conversation took place, but I can’t remember the name of the restaurant. The first time I saw Ralph with Keith was later that month at Ralph’s festival. My dad and Moon Mullins got drunk so we had to stay the night and I slept in my dad’s Volkswagen. That’s also the first time I heard Larry Sparks sing “I’ve Just Seen the Rock of Ages.” (Ralph didn’t record that until 1977.) My cousin wrote that song and I remember being really excited to see Larry sing it. I was 13 years old and just immersed in music. When Keith left Ralph in Nov 1977 he stayed in DC and left his Grand Prix at a house for weeks in Pike County KY where he met Curly Ray. Elmer finally came and picked it up sometime toward the beginning of December. Great memories. Thanks.

[@RareGrassPlug]

Great stories! Enjoyed reading them. Also if I’m not misunderstood his last day with Ralph was his first day with Crowe, leaving on his bus.