Biography

Buddy Spicher: Fiddle player. Born July 28, 1938. Real name: Norman Keith Spicher. Successful session fiddler, his work is most prominent during the 1960s and 1970s. His work can be heard on numerous recordings from the era, including Charley Pride’s “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone,” and Dolly Parton’s “Coat of Many Colors.” Appeared on the Wilburn Brothers Show, and worked as a sideman for numerous country artists, including Bill Monroe, Ray Price, Hank Snow, Patsy Cline, Kitty Wells, and Loretta Lynn.

Bobby Thompson: 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

1973 December 4
Printed transcript only. Audio recording not available.
Fiddle player Buddy Spicher talks about his career, focusing on his work with Bill Monroe. Discussion includes Spicher’s start in the music business and his move to Nashville; the talent of fiddle player Dale Potter; his childhood and early musical interests; experiences working on the WWVA Wheeling Jamboree; working with Johnnie & Jack and Kitty Wells; experiences as a traveling musician and a description of a typical road show; working with Audrey Williams; his work with Bill Monroe; experiences working in the recording studio with Monroe; appearing with Monroe at Carnegie hall; the fiddle style of Kenny Baker and his impact on the Monroe sound; working with Bobby Hicks; and comments on the importance of rhythm in establishing the sound of a band and artist.