Bob Powell - great supporter of steel guitar in the UK.

[Ken Byng]

I am saddened to discover today whilst trawling the internet that long time editor of Country Music People magazine died in 2014. I have been trying for a while to make contact with Bob to discuss copyright matters, and found this sad news via an obscure page on the internet today. Bob went out on a limb in the early 70's, and devoted 2 publications purely dedicated to steel guitar and its players. These editions were hated by so-called country music fans, but Bob felt that the instrument was so fundamentally linked to the music that it deserved to have its profile raised. I used to regularly discuss country music with him when I would see him at the Boars Head (Ponderosa) in Hampshire back in the 70's. He was a walking encyclopaedia on country music, and forgot more than most people will ever know.

The photo below shows Bob on the left, with Buddy Emmons and journalist Tony Byworth. Bob was a good man and I am sorry that he never fully received the recognition that he deserved.

[Donny Johnston]

Sorry to hear this, I spoke to him a couple of times back in 79 when I did Wembley. Seemed a very nice man and dedicated to CMP.

[zbplayer]

If my memory is right (not often enough these days!) didn,t Bob Powell have a Saturday afternoon Country Show on BBC Radio London in the 70,s. Maybe 2pm to 6pm?? It was my excuse to spend the afternoon in the man-cave (shed) listening to him on the radio. One of the few places to hear country on the radio, other than the 1 hour of Country Club on Radio 2 on Thursday nights with Wally Whyton. Good old days! Regards Graham

[Ken Byng]

Yes - the above photo was taken in the BBC Radio London studio.

The interview with Buddy Emmons that Bob Powell published in Country Music People was controversial to say the least.

[mick hearn]

I have never met Bob but I do remember him and Country Music People. In fact I still have a photograph of Lloyd Green that I purchased from the magazine. I also remember the letters of complaint when he devoted an issue to the steel guitar. I did not see any complaints however when he devoted an issue to Bluegrass. Oh well thats water under the bridge now.

R.I.P Bob Powell.