Biography

Country performer. Born June 17, 1916. Died November 10, 1973. Real name: David Akeman. Comedian and banjo player. Recognized for his clawhammer banjo style. Bill Monroe’s first banjo player. Formed a duet with Lew Childre during the mid-1940s. Grand Ole Opry performer and protégé of Uncle Dave Macon. Recorded for Starday Records during the early 1960s. Original cast member of the Hee Haw television show.

Interview Summary

1972 August 12
Printed transcript only. Audio recording not available.
Country performer David “Stringbean” Akeman comments on his career. Discussion includes his early history; an overview of his early radio career; his role as the first bluegrass banjo player; recording with Mac Wiseman; experiences touring with Bill Monroe; changes in country music; the popularity of the old-time style of country music; and comments on being a cast member of the Hee Haw television show.