Mayor Declares "Foggy Mountain Breakdown Day" in Cincinnati

That's right - on this day 70 years ago today, one of the most groundbreaking and earth-shaking Bluegrass cuts was made at the historic E.T. Herzog studio in Cincinnati.

On Saturday, December 14 the Historic E.T. Herzog Studio will open its doors for a celebration of Flatt & Scruggs' earliest recording sessions, held in Cincinnati at Herzog Studio during 1948 and 1949 for the Mercury label. All of the 16 numbers recorded in Cincinnati have become classics, but “Foggy Mountain Breakdown” was the biggest hit. This event is particularly timely as "Foggy Mountain Breakdown" turns 70 this year.

One of the greatest instrumentals ever recorded. The 1949 recording was used in the movie Bonnie and Clyde and then re-recorded after the film. The original version, in my opinion, was far superior to the more familier version that most people know and play today.

Limited seating will be available, first come-first served. Coffee and beverages will be available for suggested donation to the nonprofit.

Leading up to the event, contemporary musicians are encouraged to record their own version of "Foggy Mountain Breakdown," shared online with the hashtag #foggymountainbreakdown70.  Other artists who recorded at Herzog from 1945-55 include Hank Williams, Patti Page, Bullmoose Jackson, Grandpa Jones and the Delmore Brothers.