In addition to the artistic success of this remarkable album, there were social high points as well.

“Will The Circle Be Unbroken” stood as evidence that the generation could be tamed if it was approached with respect and an open mind. As a rock and roll band that played traditional instruments, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band members already stood in awe of these artists who influenced them in so many ways, but they needed to prove themselves in order to make the reverse true.

By all accounts they succeeded handily, and the evidence is in these recordings. On a more personal level, perhaps the most remarkable social matchup occurred when Merle Travis met Doc Watson for the first time during these sessions, when Watson had the opportunity that he named his own son Merle in his honor. That moment was caught on tape and is part of the recording that we hear as we play the finale of “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.”

Featured tracks include:

Lost Highway

Doc Watson and Merle Travis First Meeting

Way Downtown

Down Yonder

Pins and Needles

Honky Tonk Blues

Sailin’ on to Hawaii

I’m Thinking Tonight of My Blue Eyes

I am a Pilgrim

Wildwood Flower

Soldier’s Joy

Will the Circle Be Unbroken

Both Sides Now