Big Daddy of the Fiddle and Bow (CMH Records CMH 9019) is a studio album from Benny Martin, the Sparta, Tennessee fiddler known as "Big Daddy" whose technique — combining the rhythmic drive of the bluegrass fiddle tradition with a melodic boldness he developed through his years with Flatt & Scruggs and Bill Monroe — made him one of the most imitated and discussed fiddlers of the classic era, joined here by Bobby Osborne and additional ensemble members for a CMH Records showcase. Martin plays fiddle and sings; Bobby Osborne plays mandolin and sings; Joe Stuart plays guitar and sings; Jimmy Brock holds the bass; and Wynn Osborne contributes additional work. CMH Records, which documented multiple veteran performers during the 1970s and 1980s, gave Martin an extended platform for the fiddle virtuosity that had defined his career across four decades of studio work and live performance.
Tracklist
- 1 The star spangled banner 2:58
- 2 I'll go steppin' too 2:23
- 3 Nobody's darlin' but mine 4:30
- 4 Benny's waltz 2:45
- 5 Feelin' good 2:20
- 6 East Nashville robbery 3:00
- 7 Will the Circle be Unbroken alt version 5:38
- 8 Beneath the old rugged cross 4:00
- 9 1814 3:38
- 10 Twinkle, twinkle little star 2:08
- 11 Cruisin' on the blue Danube 6:06
- 12 Dim Lights, Thick Smoke alt version 2:02
- 13 When I grow too old to dream 3:28
- 14 Fiddler's birthday party 3:02
- 15 Golden Slippers alt version 2:44
- 16 Whispering hope 4:22
- 17 Payday in the army 2:08
- 18 Canaan land (I'm on my way) 2:58
- 19 God bless America 2:51
