I can't express the fullness of my sorrow. I only met him once, a long time ago at The Freight and Salvage in Berkeley, but he was in my life as completely as if he was family and friend. His music and his mastery of the banjo was a constant inspiration as was his dedication to presenting the music and thereby the culture of rural America in as authentic manner as possible. there have been some truly gifted musicians that have come from that culture. When I remember his playing and his virtuosity on the banjo I will still find inspiration. At the risk of upsetting some others of us mudcatters, I feel that he was the best banjo player this world has ever known. He mastered an incredible variety of techniques, tunings, and music. I'd like to think that he and the Dixie Dewdrop are tuning up right now.

CB