Biography

Bluegrass musician. Died May 18, 2005. Banjo and guitar player. Credited with being one of the inventors of the melodic style of banjo playing. Member of Jim & Jesse’s Virginia Boys band and cast member of the Hee Haw television show. As a session musician he appeared on numerous recordings, including work for Johnny Cash, Marty Robbins, Elvis Presley, Tammy Wynette, Perry Como, and the Monkees.

Interview Summary

1974 November 11
Printed transcript only. Audio recording not available.
Bluegrass musician Bobby Thompson comments on his work with the banjo. Discussion includes his start on the banjo; development of his playing style; working with Jim & Jesse; his session work; comments on the resurgence of the banjo’s popularity; and his creative approach to the banjo and the chromatic banjo style.