Biography

Bluegrass musician. Born December 15, 1929. Died May 31, 1990. Mandolin player. Real name: William Eugene Rector. Worked with several bluegrass bands, including Charlie Monroe and the Kentucky Pardners, Flatt & Scruggs, and Carl Story. Recognized for his fast playing style. Appeared on numerous recordings, primarily during the 1950s-1960s.

Interview Summary

1971 August
Printed transcript only. Audio recording not available.
Mandolin player Red Rector gives an overview of his career. Discussion includes his childhood and early musical influences; his start with the mandolin; appearing on the radio show The Chisholm Trail with Wade Mainer and Fred Smith; his early experiences as a local performer in and around Asheville, North Carolina; the development of his career during the late 1940s, including working for Johnnie & Jack and Charlie Monroe; comments on the popularity of Charlie Monroe; joining Carl Story; teaming again with Fred Smith in 1955; his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry; working as Red & Fred; and memories of Bill Monroe’s critique of his playing style.