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Grand Ole Opry Legend Billy Grammer Passes

 
 
 
On Wednesday, August 10, 2011, the Grand Ole Opry lost one of its most beloved members, Billy Grammar. The 85 year old died of natural causes in Illinois, where he grew up.
 
Billy had been a member of the Opry since 1959 and was considered one of the greatest guitar players in country music. Billy grew up on a farm but was always surrounded by music. After high school and serving in the Army, Billy auditioned and jot a job working with Connie B. Gay, a disc jockey and promoter in Washington, D.C.
 
"Musicians I have talked to through the years have told me that I have a little extra punch, a little extra push," said Billy.
 
Billy played with many artists throughout his career, including Hawkshaw Hawkins and Grandpa Jones. He even had a small part on Jimmy Dean's TV show. Billy recorded "Gotta Travel On" in 1959, which led to an Opry membership later that year. In 2009, Billy celebrated his 50th Opry anniversary.