There are certain performers whose artistry is so great and whose presence is so masterful that one doesn't need to be a fan of their chosen art form to recognize their mastery. Baryshnikov, in his prime, was such a dancer. Michael Jordan in basketball, Perlman's violin, Bill Monroe in bluegrass, B.B. King in blues—all are or were masters of the first order. One doesn't need to be a fan of country music to see that George Jones, in his field, is one of these rare and great masters.

      - Mark