Jesse was a great musician and a really nice guy. He was always very proud to be a member of the Grand Ole Opry, and made sure he talked about it on his shows. RIP
In the same way Bill Keith and Bobby Thompson revolutionized banjo Jesse did the impossible act of picking between the double sets of mandolin strings and conjuring an eight note roll that did actually keep up with banjo tempos... what a freaking genius...
Jim and Jesse were always one of my bluegrass favorites, probably because they weren't afraid to throw some pedal steel in the mix. I saw them many times at Sunset Park, and Jim was down-home humble, always congenial with his fans, and always had smile for his audience.
This is sad news indeed for the world of Country music. When one looks at the age of 93 it tells us all who loved the old-time country sounds that we ourselves are getting old too.
I Have been a fan of Jim and Jessie for many long years and after Jim died Jessie still gave tremendous shows. All the recordings had great sparkle and I loved all they and then Jessie produced.
Another great entertainer has gone but he leaves a wonderful legacy of endearing music that will inspire the younger generations.
God Bless him and all country fans across the world.
SLANGE - good health, James Taylor