Jesse McReynolds
Jesse McReynolds (1929–2023) was an American bluegrass mandolinist, singer, and songwriter who pioneered the complex "crosspicking" and "split-string" mandolin techniques. Born in Coeburn, Virginia, he partnered with his brother Jim in 1947 to form the influential, 55-year brother duet Jim & Jesse and the Virginia Boys. The duo joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1964, recorded over 50 albums across major labels like Columbia and Epic, and was inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Honor in 1993. Following his brother's death in 2002, McReynolds maintained a solo career and continued performing on the Opry stage as its oldest active cast member until shortly before his passing.
In the newsletter
- No. 21 Fall 1999