MARTIN, BENNY
(1928–2001)
MARTIN, BENNY (b. Benjamin Edward M., Sparta, Tenn., May 8, 1928–March 13, 2001) Legendary country and BLUEGRASS fiddler and a genuine country-music character, Martin was a well-loved and talented multiple instrumentalist. Benny was already enamored of country music as a youngster, religiously listening to Knoxville's Midday Merry-Go-Round radioprogram, which featured stars like CHARLIE MONROE and MOLLY O'DAY . At age thirteen he traveled to Nashville, and began his professional career as a…