Paul Franklin

Paul V. Franklin (1954) is an American multi-instrumentalist, known mainly for his work as a pedal steel guitarist. He began his career in the 1970s as a member of Barbara Mandrell’s road band, in addition he toured with Vince Gill, Mel Tillis, Jerry Reed and Dire Straits.

But first, do you even know what a pedal steel guitar is?

What Is a Pedal Steel Guitar?:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9iMSmRLI9c

Now we all know what is a pedal steel guitar, but what Paul Franklin did with it?

Let’s find out!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYc9ksybBKI

“All Aboard”:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBHDw5d9Vj0

Paul became a session musician in Nashville, playing on more than 500 albums!

He has been named by the Academy of Country Music as Best Steel Guitarist on several occasions and was inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in 2019!

Paul grew up in a musical home while his father was a pedal steel manufacturer.

Until this day, paul plays his father’s old instruments!

Franklin has worked with many well known acts during his career, including Mark Knopfler and Dire Straits, Barbara Mandrell, Rodney Crowell, Notting Hillbillies, Sting, Peter Frampton, George Strait, Alan Jackson, Faith Hill, Shania Twain, Barbra Streisand, Reba McEntire, Patty Loveless, Kathy Mattea and Vince Gill.

Let’s focus on two of those collaborations:

Dire Straits and Vince Gill.

Dire Straits and Paul:

In their album “Brothers In Arms” from 1985 Paul got to play one of his legendary solos of all time!

“Walk Of Life” :

The solo takes part on 4:05 but I’d advise to enjoy the whole song!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeNUq-rf2fw

Another great collaboration, more on the country side was with Vince Gill.

Vince is a well known singer and guitar player from Nashville that made a big impact on country music and it’s position in america and the world.

Here you can hear Vince and Paul play some good old Nashville style country, Enjoy.

“Together Again”:

Another legendary solo by Paul at 1:50, again I’d advise to enjoy the whole tune!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8uu-MjooSeQ

I hope you enjoyed my ebook about Paul Franklin!

The man behind all these great artists who deserves the spotlight and the acknowledgment for his work in the music indusry.

I’ll finish off with another live performance,

Thank you for reading 🙂

“The Nightlife”:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBBMn40fe2I