We just heard from Fred Bartenstein about a special Osborne Brothers radio special he has been working on for nearly two years. It was produced by WNKU (Northern KY University) and Bgrass Inc., a nonprofit which Bartenstein chairs, dedicated to preserving and celebrating the bluegrass music heritage of southern Ohio.

The two hour program, hosted by WNKU program director Grady Kirkpatrick, is entitled The Osborne Brothers: From Hyden to the Ryman, and follows Sonny and Bobby Osborne from their youth in OH to their status as bluegrass and country music icons.

The show is briefly described by WNKU as follows:

You’ll hear stories of their musical roots in Hyden, Kentucky; their childhood move to Dayton, Ohio; their early career, culminating in their induction into the cast of the Grand Ole Opry; and the 30-plus years they’ve spent in the top ranks of bluegrass and country artists. The program includes a generous helping of the Osborne Brothers’ music, including "Ruby," "Once More," "Kentucky," and "Rocky Top," along with commentary and conversation from Bob and Sonny Osborne.

It debuted in early September on WNKU, and Bartenstein wrote to let us know that it is now being offered to radio stations all over the world. It is available to both commercial and public stations alike, who can choose to either download the show in MP3 format at no charge, or have it delivred on two CDs for a $5 duplication/shipping fee.

Stations can print and mail/fax a request for the show, or fill out a request form online. After a request is approved, instructions for downloading the show will be sent by return email, or the CDs will be sent by postal mail, depending on your request. Supporting materials (timing and cue sheet, playlist, script) can be found on the Bgrass Inc. site.

Copies of the show on CD can also be obtained at the International Bluegrass Music Museum booth during IBMA’s World Of Bluegrass next week. The cost for the CDs will be $3 on site.