The Stanley Brothers, comprising Carter and Ralph Stanley, were born in Dickenson County, Virginia. They began their musical journey at an early age, forming a band and performing on local radio. Their career was briefly interrupted by World War II but resumed in 1946 with the formation of The Stanley Brothers and the Clinch Mountain Boys. Carter played guitar and sang lead, while Ralph played banjo and provided high tenor vocals. They made their recording debut in September 1947 for Rich-R-Tone Records and later signed with Columbia Records. Notable songs include "I'm a Man of Constant Sorrow" and "Rank Stranger". The brothers faced financial hardships in the early 1950s, leading to a brief hiatus from music. They returned to performing and toured Europe in 1966. Carter Stanley passed away on December 1, 1966. Ralph continued as a solo artist until his death on June 23, 2016. The Stanley Brothers were inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Honor in 1992 and received significant recognition through their role in the soundtrack of the 2000 film O Brother, Where Art Thou?
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