Masters
Hall of Honor Inductees
Reno & Smiley
Don Reno - Born February 21, 1927
Arthur Lee (Red) Smiley - Born May 17, 1925
South Carolinian Don Reno and North Carolina native Red Smiley began a partnership in 1949 that was to be extended until Smiley's death in 1972, except for two interruptions totaling about seven years. With their "Tennessee Cutups" the duo recorded a large and priceless catalog of classic music that is a rich legacy for present and future generations. Smiley's rich baritone lead voice and splendid rhythm guitar work were ideally complemented by Reno's tenor vocals and complex eclectic five string banjo style that became his trademark. A showman, versatile multi-instrumentalist and prolific songwriter, Reno co-wrote the unit's signature songs, "I'm Using My Bible For A Road Map" and "I Know You're Married." After Red Smiley's passing, Don Reno continued with the Tennessee Cutups until shortly before his own death in 1984.
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