Tunesmith, the pedal steel can and should be the most effective sound in country music. Many acts use it improperly. When it is done right, it is awesome. Listen to some of Lyle Lovetts's stuff over the years, especially on his last album "My Baby Don't Tolerate." Paul Franklin plays pedal steel.

Waylon Jennings' sound was accentuated by the genius of steel player Ralph Mooney.