Woody Paul, King of the Cowboy Fiddlers, was honored Sunday at the GMFC Grand Master Fiddler Championship, an annual competition of the best young fiddlers from around the world, held at Nashville's Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
Woodrow received the prestigious Dr. Perry Harris Award, presented to “honor individuals who have had a lasting impact on the fiddling art form.”
“I’m moving into a new house in Donelson,” said the King in his emotional acceptance, “and I believe I’ll hang this on the front door.”
The award has special personal meaning to Mr. Paul, thanks to his long relationship with mentor and fiddle fan, the late Dr. Perry Harris, known far and wide as simply “Doc Harris.”
“I think Doc probably loved the fiddle even more than I do,” said Woodrow. “This means a lot to me.”
Woody’s bandmates Riders In The Sky gathered around the King and his plaque for photos with Doc Harris’ son Howard Harris, keeper of the fiddling flame.
“I love seeing Woody celebrated for his devotion to fiddling,” reflected Too Slim as he packed up his bass following the Riders performance. “He’s a direct link to Roy Acuff, Howdy Forrester, Sam and Kirk, and that whole generation of country musicians. His unique tone, feel, and musicianship set him apart, and I’m glad he’s recognized. There truly is only one Woody Paul.”
As that thought hung in the air, Ranger Doug, Joey, and TSlim agreed, “Perhaps that’s for the best."
