Just had lunch with my long-time friend J.D. Crowe. Last week-end, there was a mini Bluegrass festival featuring guys like Doyle Lawson and others from the Bluegrass community. It was held at the former Holiday Inn North, where J.D. and the New South got their start. J.D., who doesn't play any more, was the man of the hour.

I HATE Bluegrass music and banjo music (5 string) in general, but feel honored to be lifetime friends with a guy who is universally recognized as the best in the business; respected by good friends like Vince Gill and many others and who is as kind and socially conscious as he can be.

He, Vince, Lee Ritenaour and others at the top of their field, regardless of the venue, have nothing threatening them, and can concentrate on their craft and other significant lifetime events.

I'm proud to call J.D. my very good friend.


Russ