Founded in 1946 in Johnson City, Rich-R-Tone was a pioneering bluegrass and country label. The first record company based in East Tennessee, it released the earliest recordings by the Stanley Brothers and documented many other pioneering bluegrass acts. Through Bear Family Records, the complete output of Rich-R-Tone and its subsidiary label Folk Star Records has now been remastered for the digital age as a 12-CD, 317-track deluxe box set.

ETSU's Dr. Ted Olson, who with Matteo Ringressi wrote the box set's 148-page hardcover book that is filled with rare photographs, artist biographies, full discographies, and essays, will discuss the label's significance and provide a guided listening experience for select songs.

Join us as we celebrate the release of what is certain to become a definitive tribute to the pioneering work of Johnson City's James Hobart Stanton, Rich-R-Tone Records, and the artists who helped shape postwar American country and bluegrass music.

Light refreshments will be available.