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Bill Monroe

Bill Monroe

William Smith Monroe was an American mandolinist, singer, and songwriter, who created the bluegrass music genre. Because of this, he is often called the "Father of Bluegrass". The genre takes its name from his band, the Blue Grass Boys, who named their group for the bluegrass of Monroe's home state of Kentucky.

Known for

Newport and the Great Folk Dream
Newport and the Great Folk Dream
2025 • Self (archive footage)
Big Family: The Story of Bluegrass Music
Big Family: The Story of Bluegrass Music
2019 • Self (archive footage)
The Porchlight Sessions
The Porchlight Sessions
2017 • Self
Opry Video Classics: Pioneers
Opry Video Classics: Pioneers
2007 • Self (archive footage)
Bill Monroe: Father of Bluegrass Music
Bill Monroe: Father of Bluegrass Music
1993 • Self
High Lonesome: The Story of Bluegrass Music
High Lonesome: The Story of Bluegrass Music
1991 • Self
Scruggs: A Festival of Music
1972 • Self

Full filmography

Newport and the Great Folk Dream
Newport and the Great Folk Dream
2025 • Self (archive footage)
View movie
Opry Video Classics: Pioneers
Opry Video Classics: Pioneers
2007 • Self (archive footage)
View movie
Bill Monroe – Biography, Known For & Filmography