Can't say I'm much of a performer, 'cause the only ones to hear me play are my cats (at least for now), but a couple of names have been mentioned and they influenced me as well.

The very young Waylon Jennings influenced me from the time I could turn on the stereo. His "Love of the Common People" and "I Tremble For You" have been imprinted on my musical memory. I grew up dreaming I could have his rich voice and deep, soulful way of singing a song.

John Denver would be a later influence, as much for his guitar accompaniment as his lyrics. I have found very few JD songs that are not extremely well written from every viewpoint - lyrics (technical), melody, message (poetry, impact), etc.

In terms of albums owned, however, the deepest influence on me has been the Statler Brothers. As someone mentioned in regard to Frank Sinatra, the lyrics of the Statler Bros. songs are incredibly well crafted.   They demonstrated to me what harmony was all about. Their work was amazingly consistent as well. They just never put out a bad album.

Many thanks, however, to everyone else here at Mudcat who has brought other performes/singers to my attention. I hope my circle of influence gets bigger.

Freightdawg