Paying Tribute to a Stanley Brothers Classic: Think of What You’ve Done

There’s something about Think of What You’ve Done that just gets under your skin. It sounds sweet—like sitting on a front-porch swing on a summer night with someone you love—but listen to the lyrics, and it’s a whole different story. It’s not a love song. It’s a reckoning.

The tune was written by Carter Stanley and originally recorded by The Stanley Brothers in 1957. Released on the Mercury label, that original cut is pure Stanley magic: Carter’s heart-worn lead vocal paired with Ralph’s high lonesome harmony and his signature three-finger banjo style. Ralph’s playing was crisp, driving, and melodic—an unmistakable sound that helped define bluegrass banjo for generations. And Carter? He had a real gift for writing songs that were raw and honest. Think of What You’ve Done is no exception—a classic in every sense, with a beautiful melody, gut-punch lyrics, and that timeless combination of harmony and heartbreak that defines so much of bluegrass music.

Our version honors the original, but with a few personal twists. Singing this with Dede Wyland—whose voice helped shape the sound of modern bluegrass—was a pinch-me moment I won’t forget. She brought both warmth and steel to the track, just like Carter might’ve imagined it. 

And Murphy Henry’s banjo? It echoed that Stanley-style clarity with a tone that was bold, clean, and full of intent. Her playing doesn’t copy Ralph’s—it carries the tradition forward in her own voice, grounded in the same deep respect for the song.

There’s a reason I wanted this one to be the first single. It sets the tone for the whole EP: gorgeous melodies hiding emotional devastation. A musical oxymoron. A bluegrass love song where no one dies… but it still hurts like hell.

If you haven’t already, go give it a listen. And while you’re at it, maybe take a moment to think of what you’ve done. (Or not. I’m not here to judge.) 😉

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