Fred died in a fire at his home in Wolfsburg, MD. He was a darn good 5-string picker and a great side man. He is probably best known for his instrumental version of "Lady Of Spain". It was pretty innovative stuff back in the 70's. Fred was 82.
Tommy Neal died from heart complications. I think he was 73. The great Walter Hensley said Tommy was an "unsung hero of the five string". Players like Tommy don't get the recognition the "Road" guys do because they play mostly locally and regionally, having day-jobs and families. Tommy was with the Pennsylvania band "BLUESTONE" forever and gigged around with other bands when needed. A heavy equipment operator for many years, Tommy had serious hearing issues but it didn't affect his dead-on intonation. He was as solid as a rock and a compliment to any band he was with. A darn good mandolin and guitar player too!
It was my privilege to know and share the stage with both of these men.
There's a nice article on Tommy on the BLUEGRASS TODAY site.
R.I.P. Boys.
Lord! What a rough year in the music world!
J.O'.
J.O'.