Roland "Sonny" Osborne

(banjo - 7/1952-9/1952, 5/1953-8/8/1953)

Born: 10/29/1937

As a Blue Grass Boy: Sonny Osborne first joined the Blue Grass Boys in the summer of 1952. At age 14, he became the youngest musician ever to record with the band. He left at the end of the summer to return to school but returned for the summer of 1953.

Recording Sessions: 7/18/1952, 7/26/1952

Before and After: Sonny and his brother Bobby began performing as the Osborne Brothers in late 1953. They continue to this day, one of the most successful and longest lived groups in bluegrass. Their rendition of "Rocky Top" is among the best known songs in bluegrass history. In 2005, Sonny retired from performing, but continues to build his "The Chief" banjos.

Honors: Grand Ole Opry (1964); Bill Monroe's Bluegrass Hall of Fame (1984); SPBGMA Preservation Hall of Greats (1986); IBMA Hall of Fame (1994); Kentucky Music Hall of Fame (2002)

Links: Sonny Osborne's official website
Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum profile
Opry Member Profile
Wikipedia entry