Fiddlin’ Arthur Smith

Fiddlin’ Arthur Smith was an American old-time fiddler born on April 10, 1898, and significantly impacted the music world. He discovered his passion for the fiddle early, influenced by fellow fiddlers Grady Stringer and Walter Warden, while being raised on a farm near Bold Springs, Tennessee. Let’s take a closer look at the life of this musical legend:

Early Years and Influences:
Arthur Smith, a man of humble beginnings, married at sixteen and began his musical journey. He started performing at local dances and fiddlers’ conventions, honing his skills alongside his cousin Homer Smith and fiddler Floyd Ethredge. Despite working as a logger and a linesman for a railroad company in Dickson, Tennessee, he never let go of his passion for the fiddle. His talent was undeniable, which led him to make his solo debut on the Grand Ole Opry on December 23, 1927, a moment that marked the beginning of his rise to fame.

The Dixieliners and Signature Songs:
In the 1930s, Arthur formed The Dixieliners with the McGee Brothers and his daughter Lavonne (who played the piano). Their performances on the Opry included popular songs like “Walking in My Sleep,” “Pig in the Pen,” and “Blackberry Blossom.” Arthur Smith’s musical journey extended beyond fiddling. He began singing on his recordings, delivering memorable tunes such as “Chittlin’ Cookin’ Time in Cheatham County,” “There’s More Pretty Girls Than One,” and his signature song, “Beautiful Brown Eyes.”

One of the most significant moments in Fiddlin’ Arthur Smith’s career was the success of his signature song, ‘Beautiful Brown Eyes.’ This iconic tune brought him fame and led to a legal battle, a testament to its popularity and influence. Despite the challenges, Fiddlin’ Arthur Smith emerged victorious, asserting his rights to the song and solidifying his place in music history, a feat that deserves our utmost appreciation and recognition.

Challenges and Triumphs:
The life of Fiddlin’ Arthur Smith was not without its share of challenges. Juggling two full-time jobs – one on the railroad and the other as a professional musician – was daunting. The pressure led to excessive drinking, and in February 1938, he faced a temporary three-month suspension from the Opry. However, with the support of Roy Acuff, he was able to make a comeback. Recordings as Arthur Smith & The Dixieliners released on the Bluebird label, a band name he continued using in the 1960s. In 1939, he joined the Tennessee Valley Boys, and the following year, he played with the Shelton Brothers in Shreveport, Louisiana.