Allen Shelton diagnosed with leukemia

Allen Shelton in happier times: Louisana Bluegrass 1969 - photo © Fred RobbinsBanjo legend Allen Shelton has been hospitalized, diagnosed with leukemia. He is at the Centennial Medical Center in Nashville undergoing treatment, but this sort of leukemia is not curable. It is hoped that he can be stabilized and perhaps return home.

Visitation and phone calls are limited to immediate family at this time.

Allen is remembered for his brilliant banjo work with Jim Eanes and Jim & Jesse. I last heard him play about five years ago, and the joy he expressed in his music was as strong as ever. He is a man who loves people and music, and he has given a great deal to all banjo lovers – and lovers of fine music.

Words of encouragement and good cheer can be sent to:

Allen Shelton
Centennial Medical Center
Room 3306
2410 Patterson St.
Nashville, TN 37023

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John Lawless

John had served as primary author and editor for The Bluegrass Blog from its launch in 2006 until being folded into Bluegrass Today in September of 2011. He continues in that capacity here, managing a strong team of columnists and correspondents.