Who was the steel player with Porter on the Opry last Saturd

Tom Quinn · Post by **Tom Quinn** » 13 Aug 2001 1:58 pm

We only get a 30-minute Opry program here in Sacramento, but I am intrigued by who was playing steel last Saturday behind Porter Wagoner. Seems like he had his E9th setup on the lower neck. He played really good.

I cannot understand why they can have rolling credits for everyone and their hairdresser, but nary a plug for the most important folks of all -- the musicians...

Donny Hinson · Post by **Donny Hinson** » 13 Aug 2001 2:20 pm

Tom, I noticed that long ago, and commented on it here several times. The general view is that backup musicians should remain unknown. (The viewers hardly notice them)

On the other hand, MILLIONS of people watch the Opry just to see the latest hairstyles. So, the hairstylists get a rolling credit.

VERNON PRIDDY · Post by **VERNON PRIDDY** » 13 Aug 2001 2:27 pm

It Was Fred Newell. Last Name May Not Be Spelled Right. SONNY.

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SONNYPRIDDY

Harold Dye · Post by **Harold Dye** » 13 Aug 2001 3:01 pm

It was Fred Newell. You may remember him from Nashville Now. He was the staff guitar player and Wimpy was the steel man.

Pete Burak · Post by **Pete Burak** » 13 Aug 2001 3:16 pm

GFI makes a line of steels that have the E9th setup in the neck closest to the steeler, and a guitar style neck on the outer neck so you can play guitar licks ala Thumbs Carlisle(sp?).
I think that is what he was playing, but I could be wrong.