An Idea

[Bill H.]

This year's Nashville Star contestants are judged on stage presence, voice, choice of song(s) and overall singing talent. It's no surprise that all three finalists play an acoustic guitar when they perform.

A strong, powerful voice and song-writing skills not withstanding, I'd like to see this show break up into a category for musical instruments. A singer is only as good as the band behind him/her, and in some cases, it highlights the singer.

Growing up with the likes of Ernest Tubb and Buck Owens, I looked forward to when ol' Ernie would stop singing and say: "Ah, Buddy...and Leon". And how many people here remember the extremely talented Don Rich? That guy could play that fiddle! And Tom Brummley wasn't too shabby on the pedal steel either.

Vince Gill has a tremendous tenor voice. But he can also play the heck out of that guitar of his.

The Nashville Star house band is great, but I'd like to see/hear some novice country musicians play their instruments for those of us who really appreciate them.

There is NOTHING like a pedal steel guitar.

[Google]