Gene Parsons

Best known as the drummer who helped shape the Byrds' groundbreaking country-rock era, Gene Parsons continues to carve out an identity with solo projects and collaborations. Emerging with the group Nashville West in 1968, Parsons joined the Byrds with bandmate Clarence White, recording three of their country-influenced LPs into the 1970s. His solo albums like 1973's Kindling and 1979's Melodies showcased his skill as a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter. He was also a member of the influential group the Flying Burrito Brothers, went on to form the duo Parsons Green with singer/guitarist Meridian Green and launch his own StringBender label. Along with performing, he is co-credited with White as inventors of the Parsons-White B-Bender, a device which allows an electric guitar to sound like a pedal steel. Parsons has stayed active, collaborating with longtime associates Gib Guilbeau and David Hayes, as well as with his group New Nashville West.