The Delmore Brothers, consisting of Alton and Rabon Delmore, were a pioneering American country music duo that left an indelible mark on the genre from the late 1920s through the 1950s. Known for their harmonious singing and skillful guitar playing, the brothers were one of the first acts to blend traditional Appalachian folk with gospel and blues, creating a unique sound that would influence countless musicians. Born in Elkmont, Alabama, Alton (December 25, 1908 – June 8, 1964) and Rabon (December 3, 1916 – December 4, 1952), rose to fame in the 1930s and became members of the Grand Ole Opry, where they expanded their audience and helped shape the burgeoning country music scene.
Throughout their career, the Delmore Brothers composed and recorded numerous hits, including classics like "Blues Stay Away from Me," "Southern Moon," and "I Let the Freight Train Carry Me On." They were known for their innovative guitar work, infusing their country repertoire with a bluesy feel that would later evolve into the "boogie" style that influenced early rock 'n' roll. Although Rabon passed away in 1952, Alton continued to perform and pay tribute to their duo's legacy until his own passing in 1964. The brothers' contribution to music was formally recognized when they were posthumously inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2001, cementing their status as pillars of American roots music.
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