Merle Watson | |
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Merle Watson c. 1979
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Background information | |
Birth name | Eddy Merle Watson |
Also known as | Merle Watson |
Born |
Deep Gap, North Carolina |
February 8, 1949
Died | October 23, 1985 Lenoir, North Carolina |
(aged 36)
Genres | Blues, bluegrass, country, folk |
Occupation(s) | Musician |
Instruments | Vocals, guitar, banjo |
Associated acts | Doc Watson |
Eddy Merle Watson (February 8, 1949 – October 23, 1985) was an American guitarist and folk singer. He was best known for his performances with his father, Doc Watson. Merle played and recorded albums together with his father from age 15 until his death in a tractor accident 21 years later. Merle was widely recognized as one of the best flat-picking and slide guitarists of his generation.MerleFest, one of the world's largest and most-prestigious folk music festivals, is held annually in Wilkesboro, NC and is named in his honor.
Merle and his father released a version of "Bottle of Wine" that reached #71 on the U.S. country chart.
All albums were in collaboration with his father, Doc Watson.
1974 Grammy for Best Ethnic Or Traditional Recording: Merle Watson & Doc Watson for Two Days In November
1979 Grammy for Best Country Instrumental Performance: Doc Watson & Merle Watson for Big Sandy/Leather Britches
1985 "Best Finger Picking Guitarist-Folk/Blues or Country" Award from Frets Magazine