Guitarist Richard Bennett Named To CMHoF’s Nashville Cats Series

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum will salute guitarist Richard Bennett as part of the museum’s special program series Nashville Cats. The program will take place July 30 at 1:30 p.m. in the museum’s Ford Theater.

Hosted by Bill Lloyd, the in-depth interview will be illustrated with vintage photos, film footage and recordings, and Bennett will perform briefly.

Discovered in Phoenix and mentored by Wrecking Crew guitar great Al Casey, Bennett played his first L.A. recording sessions during summer vacation while still in high school. He started his stellar studio career by contributing to Neil Diamond’s 1971 album, Stones, and he continued recording and touring as a member of Diamond’s band until 1987. Since 1994, Bennett has worked with British guitar ace Mark Knopfler in the studio and on the road.

Since moving to Nashville, Bennett has done distinguished work as a guitarist and/or a producer for Rosanne Cash, Rodney Crowell, Emmylou Harris, Steve Earle, Waylon Jennings, Ray Price, Marty Stuart, Phil Lee, and many more.

After the program, Bennett will sign commemorative Hatch Show Print posters. The event will be streamed live on the museum’s website. It is included with museum admission and free to museum members.

The Nashville Cats series honors musicians who have played an integral role in Nashville and country music. Recent honorees include Pete Wade, Duane Eddy, Paul Franklin, Mac Gayden, Steve Gibson, Michael Rhodes, Billy Sanford, Bill Walker, and Bergen White.