The Steel Guitar Forum

Ron Elliott is one of my favorites.

Larry Baker wrote:Ron Elliott is one of my favorites.

He has the best harmonics in the business. They make me collapse in ecstasy (there's a picture for y'all).

Sarah Jory...

Even creating categories doesn’t create a fair “who is best.” Like Ricky, I don’t think it’s possible. There are some great players out there that don’t make the list too. Based on sheer talent alone, my opinion would be a toss up between Lloyd Green, Buddy Emmons, and Paul Franklin. But as soon as I say that, I think of John Hughey, Ralph Mooney, Red Rhodes, and Tom Brumley.

I like what Lavon said, that Paul inspired him the most. We all have that person who inspired us to learn to play and like me, I'm sure they will always be our favorite. I will place my first teacher on that list, not because he was a famous player but because of his desire to share his knowledge and ability in a life lesson way. I still listen to my recorded cassette lessons from the late 80's just to hear his voice and nibbets of knowledge and experiences.

To me it seems like a silly argument. Someone as prolific as Paul obviously has more or ALL of the qualities and prerequisites that producers and artists need and desire.
A understanding and experience of recording studio techniques, creative under pressure, the right sounding gear, stellar chops, plays in tune, personality, work ethic, attitude, understanding of the business and business politics, etc etc etc ..
There are plenty of great players out there and there is no BEST.

Bo Borland wrote: ...There are plenty of great players out there and there is no BEST.

Wrong ! I am the BEST !

Paul who? Oh, He's been out Line Dancing with Lloyd.

He and all the steelers that made him better have made you and I better. Thanks Paul for the never ending lessons and inspiration.

If this is a thread where we can say nice things about Paul, count me in. He's a legend on so many levels...

Paul is super, nobody denies that. But Buddy, Lloyd, Tommy, Mike, and etc, are all super as well, they all have their own thing. But, it’s a personal preference, but I’m not sure one’s personal preference, necessarily deems that their favorite player, is better than anyone else. Maybe to you, Paul is the best and that is okay, but better than anyone else, is not really a fair assumption to make, I think Paul would even tell you that. But hey, definitely nothing for anyone to get offended over.

He must be pretty cool too if he is out line dancing with Lloyd………… : ]

I will tell you, Paul Franklin influenced so many in an era discovering pedal steel guitar, including Buddy Emmons , Weldon Myrick, Hal Rugg , myself, and too many to list. Paul Franklin will be a legacy just as significant as Buddy Emmons, Ralph Mooney, Tom Brumley , Lloyd Green and so many more.
Definitely one of a kind!😊

What Tommy said, plus he is a great human being just like his Dad and Mom. oh ... and Tommy.

Allan Thompson wrote:No best just different.

Well said Allan

Cant put it any better myself..

Davie