We use cookies in the following ways: (1) for system administration, (2) to assess the performance of the website, (3) to personalize your experience, content and ads, (4) to provide social media features, and (5) to analyze our traffic. You consent to our cookies if you continue to use our website. Please consult instructions for your web browser to disable or block cookies, or to receive a warning before a cookie is stored on your computer or mobile device. Read our Privacy Policy.

Country Music Hall of Fame logo.
Museum View Cart
Country Music Hall of Fame logo.
Back to Oral History
  • Oral History

Jimmy Byrd

August 15, 1986 OHC49 112 min.
Share

Biography


Guitarist. Began work as a professional musician in 1941 at age thirteen. Member of Paul Howard’s band, the Arkansas Cotton Pickers. As a member of Howard’s band he was a regular Grand Ole Opry performer during the early 1940s.

Interview Summary

1986 August 15
(1 hour, 52 minutes)
Guitarist Jimmy Byrd talks about his career as a teenager working in country music during the 1940s. Discussion includes the start of his musical training; his move to Nashville; working for Paul Howard; bringing Rod Brasfield to the Grand Ole Opry; early session work for Zeke Clements and Paul Howard; the positive influence of Paul Howard, Judge Hay (George D. Hay), and others. Paul Howard’s band; his musical education; playing on the Opry; country audiences of the 1940s; and comments on the Opry and Opry performers during the 1940s.