[dcab-l] Some Words for Ray Davis

Bluegrassers:

 

I emailed (and snail mailed) the following message to Ray shortly after

he retired from bluegrasscountry.org.

 

I spoke with him once or twice about his staying on the air, but it felt

to me that he wasn't quite sure.

 

I was tuned in to his show on his last DJ day, but, oddly enough, he was

NOT on the air.  (?)  They mostly played Ray's "Basement Band" music

and previous shows.  I wondered what might have happened.  I didn't

feel he had received enough recognition from the bluegrass community.

 

I thought to send him a letter, expressing my appreciation for his life long

work in bluegrass.  It appears below.  Just something about Ray.  Written

on 8/14/12:

 

 

Ray:

 

I can’t tell you how much I’m enjoying your programs!  I always turn on your program, in my car, as I return home from work in downtown DC.  There’s Ray Davis, spinning his favorite tunes from the Basement, as well as music from newer groups.  Makes me feel right at home!

 

I really enjoy how you include us all in on your ramblings, and always have a story to tell about an artist, or an old friend, or maybe some incident on stage.  Very satisfying, and fun to hear.  It reflects your lifelong devotion to bluegrass: real quality!

 

As you, I’m getting up in age, and it pains me a bit when you remember older artists who have ‘gone on”.  I remember them, too, and I’m sure those old friends and artists appreciate it!  The older we get, the fewer of the old friends exist, and the more we become the last leaf on the bough.

 

I appreciate your recounting that those artists are “gone”; well, that’s life’s design, and something we must just accept.  Still, there's a longing for their presence.

 

I especially enjoy any music or stories of Charlie Moore; for example, you almost NEVER hear Charlie’s stuff on XM, but I’ll find him (and others) on the Ray Davis show.  You keep them in your heart and also on the radio.  That’s being a loyal friend, and keeping alive the older stuff.  Thanks so much for being true to old friends, just like I was taught as a boy.

 

Maybe I’ll last another 20 years, and I hope I always hear your voice on the radio.

 

I appreciate your legacy, and thank you for making the sacrifices you made to keep this wonderful music alive.  You did something worthwhile with your life.

 

Ed Schaeffer

Rattlesnake Hill