Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Eddie Bayers

Eddie Bayers (born January 28, 1949) is an session renowned for his prolific contributions to , having played on approximately 300 gold and platinum albums over a career spanning more than four decades. Born Edward H. Bayers Jr. in , , he grew up in a nomadic family due to his father's military service before settling in , where he transitioned from classical studies to drums under the mentorship of renowned musician . Bayers established himself as a first-call studio in Nashville during the 1980s and 1990s, collaborating with leading artists such as , , , , and on landmark recordings including ' early albums, George Jones's My Very Special Guests, and 's 9 to 5 and Odd Jobs. His versatility extended beyond country to pop, rock, and film soundtracks, with credits on projects like Elton John's recordings, the album, and scores for films including , , and . Among his numerous accolades, Bayers received the Drummer of the Year award 14 times between 1991 and 2010, including 11 consecutive wins from 1991 to 2001, and the Nashville Music Awards Drummer of the Year three times. He was inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame in 2019 and became the first enshrined in the Hall of Fame in 2022, recognizing his pivotal role in shaping modern . Additionally, he joined the Grand Ole Opry house band in 2003 and co-founded influential studio groups like in 2002 and was a member of . Bayers continues to endorse brands such as , Zildjian cymbals, , and , while advocating for genre-spanning performance in education.

Early life

Childhood and family

Eddie Bayers was born Edward Howard Bayers Jr. on January 28, 1949, in , , as the youngest of three children. His father, a decorated Navy fighter pilot who earned the for his actions in the during and later served in the , had a 30-year career that profoundly shaped the family's life. Bayers' mother hailed from , and the family included a sister named Vicky. Due to his father's assignments, the Bayers family experienced a nomadic lifestyle during his early childhood, relocating frequently across the United States and abroad, including time in Maryland, Oakland, California, and four years in North Africa. The family eventually settled in Nashville, Tennessee, following his father's retirement from the military. However, Bayers' childhood was marked by tragedies: his parents divorced when he was 14, and his mother and sister Vicky died in a car accident when he was 16, leaving him orphaned. Following these events, Bayers relocated individually to Philadelphia (where he briefly lived on the boardwalk), Las Vegas, and Oakland, California, fostering his adaptability amid personal challenges. The family's commitment to music played a key role in Bayers' early development, as they always maintained a in the home regardless of their location, which sparked his initial curiosity and interest in playing melodies by ear. This familial emphasis on music provided a stable creative outlet during the upheavals of their frequent relocations.

Musical training

Bayers received formal training as a classical during his years in , where he developed a strong foundation in interpreting and performing complex compositions. His early exposure to music included playing melodies from memory as a and studying under Professor Conus, a Russian instructor, while the family lived in , fostering an innate interest in . Although primarily focused on piano, Bayers began experimenting with in high school, teaching himself the basics through casual play without formal instruction. He continued this self-directed exploration into early adulthood, "messing around on drums for years" in various settings, including jamming sessions with local musicians during his time in . This informal approach allowed him to build rhythmic intuition alongside his pianistic skills, though he had not yet committed to drums professionally. In 1973, upon returning to Nashville, Bayers auditioned as a at the Carousel Club in Printer's Alley and joined a led by renowned session drummer , who quickly became a pivotal influence. Londin, often called "the greatest drummer in the world" by , mentored Bayers informally through their collaboration, inspiring him to fully switch from to after about a year in the group. Bayers honed his drumming proficiency through rigorous practice routines and live performances in top 40 bands, absorbing Londin's techniques and session-oriented precision to prepare for professional work.

Career beginnings

Entry into Nashville scene

Bayers relocated to Nashville in 1974, motivated by the city's thriving industry and greater prospects for session work compared to the diminishing opportunities on the . Upon arrival, he faced immediate hardships, living out of his car at a rest stop while hustling for gigs in the competitive local scene. His breakthrough came through an audition as a player at the Carousel Club in Printer's Alley, a key venue in Nashville's nightlife district. There, he joined a house quartet fronted by esteemed session drummer , who recognized Bayers' potential and hired him on the spot. Londin became a crucial mentor, inspiring Bayers to transition from to and providing guidance on the nuances of professional session playing. This connection opened doors in Nashville's tight-knit music community, where personal recommendations often determined opportunities. Bayers' initial gigs centered on bar performances at the Carousel Club, where he played keyboards and began incorporating drums, honing his skills amid the demands of live country and rock sets from 1974 onward. To infiltrate the studio world, he volunteered unpaid time at Audio Media Recorders, assisting engineers and musicians to forge relationships and demonstrate his reliability in small recording sessions. Breaking into Nashville's session market proved challenging in the early 1970s, as the scene was dominated by veteran players like the "Nashville A-Team," requiring newcomers to navigate intense competition through persistence, free labor, and strategic networking. Bayers' modest beginnings in bars and informal studios underscored the grit needed to transition from transient performer to established professional in this ecosystem.

Initial session work

Eddie Bayers began his session drumming in Nashville shortly after arriving in the city in 1974, initially contributing to demo recordings and minor country tracks as he transitioned from keyboard work to drums under the mentorship of . His debut sessions included percussion on emerging artist Tanya Tucker's 1977 recordings, marking his entry into the competitive Nashville studio scene. These early efforts focused on building reliability through quick setups and precise execution, often in high-pressure environments where tracks were cut in single takes. Throughout the late 1970s, Bayers worked with a range of emerging and established artists, honing his versatility across country and crossover genres. Notable initial collaborations included sessions for Anne Murray's pop-infused country hits, Mickey Gilley's standards, and Charlie Rich's blend of country and soul, allowing him to adapt to diverse stylistic demands like shuffle rhythms and ballad grooves. By 1979, he contributed to George Jones's album My Very Special Guests, a collection of duets that showcased his ability to support veteran performers while maintaining a subtle, supportive pocket. Bayers developed key techniques for studio adaptability during this period, emphasizing an open-minded approach to each session by listening broadly to genres beyond country and improvising intros or fills on the spot to fit producers' visions. Londin's guidance was instrumental, teaching him to prioritize feel and consistency over flashy playing, which enabled rapid adjustments to varying band dynamics and song structures in time-constrained recordings. His foundational work yielded early gold record credits, including percussion on Parton's 1980 album 9 to 5 and Odd Jobs, which certified and featured the , solidifying Bayers's reputation as a go-to session player for high-stakes projects.

Session drumming

Peak years contributions

During the 1980s through the 2000s, Eddie Bayers established himself as one of Nashville's premier session drummers, contributing to an extraordinary volume of recordings that underscored his technical mastery and reliability in the studio. He played on approximately 300 and albums, a testament to his status as a first-call for major productions during this prolific period. His work ethic and adaptability allowed him to handle a demanding schedule, often recording multiple tracks daily while maintaining high precision under tight deadlines. Bayers' signature drumming style was characterized by precise, open-handed rhythms that blended R&B influences—rooted in his early admiration for artists like and —with the polished, song-serving essence of . This genre-blending approach emphasized feel and dynamics, ensuring his beats supported vocal performances without overpowering them, which became a hallmark of his contributions to mainstream country hits. After a 1985 motorcycle accident, he refined this technique to focus even more on serving the singer and arrangement, enhancing the emotional drive of tracks across diverse sessions. His studio routines exemplified efficiency in Nashville's fast-paced environment, frequently involving click-track playback for 90% of recordings to synchronize with programmed elements and ensure tight ensemble playing. Bayers worked at key facilities like the Sound Emporium, where he laid down drums for notable projects, and co-owned studio from 1984 to 2004, allowing him to optimize setups for rapid production. Among his standout contributions were the rhythmic foundations on George Strait's early albums, including the driving beats for the hit single "Ace in the Hole" from the 1989 release , which helped define Strait's neotraditional sound and topped the charts. This era solidified Bayers' role in shaping the backbone of country music's commercial successes.

Notable artists and albums

Eddie Bayers has been a pivotal on several multi-platinum albums by , including the project In... the Life of (1999), where he provided drums on tracks such as "Driftin' Away," contributing to the album's 2× platinum certification by the RIAA. His rhythmic foundation helped support Brooks' shift toward pop-rock elements, enhancing the album's commercial success despite its unconventional concept. Bayers' involvement with Brooks extended to later releases like Man Against Machine (2014) and Gunslinger (2016), where he handled drums and percussion across multiple tracks, solidifying his role in Brooks' enduring catalog. Bayers' collaborations with Elton John highlight his versatility beyond country, particularly on the 1993 album Duets, where he played drums on several tracks featuring high-profile guest vocalists, adding a Nashville-infused groove to the pop icon's collaborative effort. This work underscored Bayers' ability to adapt to diverse genres, bridging country session expertise with mainstream rock and adult contemporary sounds. In sessions with Dolly Parton, Bayers contributed drums to the platinum-certified 9 to 5 and Odd Jobs (1980), including tracks like "9 to 5" and "The House of the Rising Sun," providing a solid backbeat that propelled the album to #1 on the Billboard Country Albums chart and supported its crossover appeal tied to the hit film. His precise, energetic playing complemented Parton's narrative-driven songs about working-class life, marking an early highlight in his extensive Nashville career. Bayers delivered essential drumming on Trisha Yearwood's self-titled debut album (1991), appearing on key tracks such as "She's in Love with the Boy," which became her first #1 country single; the album itself achieved 2× platinum status, making it the first debut by a female country artist to reach that milestone in over two decades. His contributions helped establish Yearwood's powerful vocal style against a backdrop of dynamic, rootsy rhythms. On Rosanne Cash's Interiors (1990), Bayers focused on drumming duties across the introspective tracks, delivering subtle yet driving percussion that supported the album's themes of personal turmoil and recovery, while he also served as co-producer to shape its intimate sound. This collaboration exemplified Bayers' skill in enhancing emotionally resonant country records during his peak session years.

Band memberships

The Players

In 2002, Eddie Bayers formed the instrumental group The Players with fellow Nashville session musicians Brent Mason on guitar, Paul Franklin on , John Hobbs on keyboards, and on , creating a showcase ensemble to highlight the city's elite studio talent. The band performed live shows that emphasized instrumental prowess, with a key event recorded for the 2004 DVD release Live in Nashville, which featured collaborations with guest artists including , , , and . These performances underscored the group's role in demonstrating the versatility and precision of Nashville's top session players, drawing from their collective experience on thousands of recordings. The Players maintained activity for eleven years, concluding around 2013 following Hobbs's retirement, after which the ensemble became inactive.

The Notorious Cherry Bombs

Eddie Bayers joined in 2003 as the group's drummer, stepping in after the death of original member in 1992. The supergroup, originally formed by in the early 1980s as his backing band, reunited for this project with a lineup that included Crowell on vocals and guitar, on vocals and guitar, Richard Bennett on guitar, Tony Brown on keyboards, on , Michael on bass, and John Hobbs on keyboards. Many of these musicians had previously collaborated in Emmylou Harris's Hot Band during the 1970s, bringing a shared history of country-rock influences to the reunion. The band released their self-titled debut album, , in July 2004 on Universal South Records, featuring original songs that showcased their collaborative songwriting and tight ensemble playing. Bayers' drumming provided a driving, roots-oriented foundation that complemented the group's blend of , and elements, evident in tracks like the "It's Hard to Kiss the Lips at Night That Chews Your Ass Out All Day Long." The album earned a Grammy nomination in 2005 for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals, highlighting the band's vocal harmonies and instrumental synergy. Following the album's release, performed live to promote their music, including a notable appearance at the in Nashville in September 2004, where they delivered high-energy sets that captured their longstanding chemistry. Bayers contributed to the live sound by maintaining a steady, groove-heavy percussion style that supported the band's improvisational flair and crowd engagement during these shows. The group's reunion and album played a key role in reviving interest in 1970s-style , drawing on the raw, eclectic energy of Harris's Hot Band era while introducing it to a new generation of listeners through their polished yet authentic performances. This effort underscored the enduring appeal of Nashville's collaborative spirit and helped bridge classic country-rock traditions with contemporary audiences.

The Medallion Band

The Medallion All-Star Band was formed in – specifically to provide backing music for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum's annual Medallion Ceremony, where new inductees are honored through tribute performances. Led by musical Biff Watson on , the ensemble draws from Nashville's elite session musicians to deliver a versatile, high-fidelity sound tailored to the event's celebratory format. Eddie Bayers contributes as the , leveraging his precision and adaptability honed over decades of studio work to support the ceremony's diverse musical segments. The band's performances center on accompanying artists who pay tribute to the inductees, ensuring seamless integration with varying styles from traditional country to more contemporary arrangements. For instance, during Alan Jackson's 2017 induction ceremony, the Medallion All-Star Band backed tributes featuring performances of his hits like "Gone Country" by fellow artists. Similarly, at Patty Loveless's 2023 induction, the group supported renditions of her signature songs, such as those honoring her bluegrass-influenced catalog, maintaining a tight rhythmic foundation throughout. Typical composition includes Paul Franklin on , Brent Mason on , Jen Gunderman on keyboards, Alison Prestwood on bass, and harmony vocalists like Tania Hancheroff and Mica Roberts, though the lineup may adjust slightly each year to suit the ceremony's needs. Rehearsals occur intensively in the days leading up to the event, focusing on the curated of inductee tributes to achieve polished execution under the pressure of a live, invite-only audience of industry luminaries. The band's activity remains confined to this single annual event, distinguishing it as a ceremonial ensemble without recordings, tours, or other engagements. Bayers's role in the All-Star Band underscores his stature among Nashville's top players, contributing to the Hall of Fame's recognition of his career impact.

Other roles

Production credits

Bayers transitioned from his primary role as a session to co-producing select projects in the , drawing on his deep studio expertise to shape arrangements and overall sound. He played drums on Rosanne Cash's 1990 album , contributing to its intimate, introspective tone that marked a pivotal shift in her career toward more personal songwriting and . In 1998, Bayers co-produced Glen Campbell's holiday album A Glen Campbell Christmas alongside Barry Beckett, overseeing sessions that blended traditional carols with Campbell's signature style and earning a Dove Award for the release. This project highlighted his ability to guide veteran artists through modern Nashville production techniques while preserving their artistic essence. Throughout the decade, Bayers extended his production involvement to other country recordings.

Industry involvement

Bayers endorsed Drums from 2004 to the early 2010s, utilizing their equipment in studio and live settings while contributing to the brand's promotion within the drumming community. As of 2025, he endorses . As a member of the Nashville Musicians Association (AFM Local 257), Bayers has participated in key industry events and union activities supporting session musicians in Nashville. His involvement in the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS) includes serving multiple terms on the Board of Governors from 1992 to 1994 and 1997 to 2001, as well as ongoing membership on the NARAS Educational Committee, where he has contributed to initiatives advancing and . Bayers has also served on the board of MusiCares, a NARAS foundation providing essential support to music professionals facing health, financial, and addiction challenges amid evolving industry dynamics, including the digital era's impact on session work and royalties. Following decades of intensive session drumming, Bayers has taken on advisory roles through these organizations, offering guidance on educational programs and musician welfare to navigate modern recording and streaming landscapes as of 2025.

Accolades and honors

Awards

Eddie Bayers has received numerous accolades recognizing his exceptional drumming in country music, particularly through peer-voted honors that highlight his technical skill, consistency, and influence on recordings and live performances. These awards, often based on nominations from industry professionals and voting by fellow musicians, underscore the high regard in which Bayers is held within Nashville's session musician community. The Academy of Country Music (ACM) has honored Bayers with 14 Drummer of the Year awards, the most of any recipient in the category's history, reflecting his pivotal role in shaping the sound of major country hits during the 1980s and 1990s. Notably, he secured 11 consecutive wins from 1991 to 2001, a streak that coincided with his peak session work on albums by artists like Garth Brooks and Dolly Parton, where his precise rhythms and innovative fills elevated tracks to commercial success. This run of victories, determined by votes from ACM members including producers and performers, signifies not only technical mastery but also Bayers' reliability in high-stakes studio environments during country music's pop crossover era. He received a total of 14 wins from 1991 through 2010. Bayers also earned three Drummer of the Year awards from the , a peer-driven recognition established to celebrate local talent in Music City. These honors were voted on by Nashville's musician community, emphasizing his versatility across genres while rooted in country, and aligned with career milestones such as his work on landmark albums that defined . The NMA's criteria, focusing on artistic impact and innovation in performance, further validate Bayers' status as a foundational figure in session drumming.

Hall of Fame inductions

In 2019, Eddie Bayers was inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame as a member of The Players, a renowned Nashville studio collective that also included Paul Franklin, John Hobbs, Brent Mason, and . The induction ceremony took place on October 22, 2019, at Nashville's , featuring performances by artists such as , , and the , who celebrated the contributions of session musicians like Bayers to the music industry. This honor recognized Bayers' decades of behind-the-scenes work shaping and crossover hits. Bayers achieved a landmark milestone in 2022 as the first drummer inducted into the , part of the class of 2021 alongside , , and . The formal Medallion Ceremony occurred on May 1, 2022, at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum's CMA Theater in Nashville, where tributes from fellow musicians underscored Bayers' pivotal role in over 40 years of studio drumming that defined modern . The event highlighted the often-overlooked impact of instrumentalists, with speeches and performances honoring session contributors who propelled the genre's evolution without seeking the spotlight.

Recent activities

Post-2022 projects

Following his 2022 induction into the Hall of Fame, Eddie Bayers continued his extensive session work, contributing drums to Alan Jackson's Where Have You Gone, released on May 14, 2021, marking Jackson's first full-length project in six years. Bayers reunited with longtime collaborators including Brent and fiddler Stuart for the recording, which features 21 tracks emphasizing traditional elements. In 2024, Bayers joined the Nashville-based band Cycamore alongside guitarist Jeff King, guitarist Pat McGrath, keyboardist Dane Bryant, and bassist Mike Brignardello, all veteran session musicians with collective credits exceeding 1,300 gold and platinum albums. The group released their debut single "The Heart of America" on September 23, 2024, from the upcoming album The New Old School, blending influences with contemporary production. This project reflects Bayers' shift toward collaborative band efforts while maintaining his roots in Nashville's studio scene. Bayers remained active in studio sessions throughout 2024 and 2025, including drums contributions to ' AI-assisted single "Horses in Heaven," released on January 31, 2025, produced by Kyle Lehning and featuring special guest vocalist James Dupré. He also appeared in promotional studio footage demonstrating his custom Pearl Music City Custom Solid Shell in June 2024 and March 2025, underscoring his ongoing role in high-profile Nashville recordings amid evolving digital production techniques.

New recognitions

In October 2025, during the Hall of Fame and Museum's annual the Hall of Fame series, Eddie Bayers received special recognition through the Rite of Remembrance and Salute ceremony. This daily event, held in the museum's Hall of Fame Rotunda, paid tribute to inductees from the classes of 2021 through 2024, explicitly honoring Bayers alongside , , and for their contributions to . Bayers also participated in the 2025 Medallion Ceremony on October 19, joining fellow Hall of Fame members such as and in a group photo that highlighted the institution's ongoing celebration of its legacy artists. These tributes affirm Bayers' lasting impact as a pioneering studio , building on his 2022 induction by emphasizing his role in shaping modern music's sound and his continued influence on subsequent generations of musicians.

Selected discography

Band and group releases

Bayers co-founded The Players around , a collective of top Nashville session musicians including Paul Franklin on , John Hobbs on keyboards, Brent Mason on guitar, and on bass. The group released their self-titled debut in 1999 on Medallion Records, featuring original instrumental compositions that demonstrated their versatile fusion of , , and elements, with Bayers' precise and energetic drumming anchoring the rhythmic foundation. In 2004, The Players followed up with the live DVD Live in Nashville, recorded in Nashville and showcasing high-energy performances of their material alongside collaborations with guest artists such as , , , and . Bayers' contributions on the DVD highlighted his ability to drive the band's dynamic shifts during live improvisations and ensemble grooves. Bayers joined , a supergroup comprising , , and other Nashville stalwarts, for their only studio album, the self-titled The Notorious Cherry Bombs, released in 2004 on . On the album, Bayers played drums and percussion while providing background vocals, contributing to its blend of traditional storytelling and harmonious textures on tracks like the lead single "It's Hard to Kiss the Lips at Night That Chew Your Ass Out All Day Long" and the reflective "."

Key session recordings

Eddie Bayers has been a prominent session in Nashville since the late 1970s, contributing to numerous landmark country albums with his versatile and precise playing style. His work on high-profile recordings helped define the sound of mainstream country during the 1980s and 1990s, often providing the rhythmic foundation for artists transitioning from regional fame to national stardom. One of Bayers' early breakthrough sessions was on Dolly Parton's 1980 album 9 to 5 and Odd Jobs, where he played drums on several tracks. Released amid Parton's rising pop-crossover appeal, the album captured a blend of upbeat anthems and heartfelt ballads, with Bayers' solid grooves supporting the record's energetic production. It achieved certification from the RIAA for sales of 500,000 units. In 1991, Bayers provided drums for most tracks on Trisha Yearwood's self-titled debut album, marking a pivotal moment for the emerging artist and helping establish her as a powerhouse vocalist in country music. His contributions, spanning songs like the hit single "She's in Love with the Boy," added a contemporary edge to the album's mix of traditional and modern country elements under producer Garth Fundis. The record reached No. 2 on the chart and was certified double platinum by the RIAA for over two million units sold. Bayers also lent his talents to select country movie soundtracks during the 1980s through 2000s, enhancing the cinematic feel of films rooted in Southern and Western narratives. A notable example is the 1992 soundtrack for , starring , where Bayers drummed on tracks such as "" and others, delivering authentic country rhythms that complemented the film's storytelling. This project underscored his role in bridging studio sessions with visual media, contributing to the album's multi-platinum success. In more recent years, Bayers continued his session work, including contributions to Carrie Underwood's 2018 album , where he played drums on tracks emphasizing her powerful vocals and contemporary country sound. The album debuted at No. 1 on the and was certified gold by the RIAA.

References

  1. [1]
    Eddie Bayers - Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
    After more than forty years as a first-call Nashville studio musician, Eddie Bayers was the first drummer to be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
  2. [2]
    Eddie Bayers
    ### Eddie Bayers Summary
  3. [3]
    Eddie Bayers
    Sep 20, 2023 · Eddie is an American session drummer who has played on 300 gold and platinum albums. He received the Academy of Country Music 'Drummer of the Year Award' for ...Video · Biography · News · Film Credits
  4. [4]
    Eddie Bayers | NAMM.org
    ### Summary of Eddie Bayers' Oral History
  5. [5]
    Eddie Bayers | Zildjian Artist
    ### Summary of Eddie Bayers' Bio and Achievements
  6. [6]
    Eddie Bayers | Opry
    Eddie Bayers, hometown Patuxent River, MD, artist information The Opry Band: Drums, percussion, member since 2003.
  7. [7]
    CMA Announces Eddie Bayers, Ray Charles, Pete Drake And The ...
    Aug 16, 2021 · Born January 28, 1949, in Patuxent River, MD, Bayers was the youngest of three children. Bayers fell in love with music at an early age, though ...Missing: childhood background
  8. [8]
    BIOGRAPHY - Eddie Bayers
    Being the son of a military man, Eddie grew up in various parts of the US, and spent 4 years of his life in North Africa. Trained as a classical pianist, it ...Missing: family childhood nomadic
  9. [9]
    Eddie Bayers - Yamaha All Access Magazine
    ... piano for a quartet featuring legendary session drummer Larry Londin. He recalls, "I'd been messing around on drums for years, but I'd never owned my own ...Missing: Larrie | Show results with:Larrie
  10. [10]
    EP Unlimited May 2000 Issue - Eddie Bayers Interview - Angelfire
    Eddie, your early musical training was classical piano. It's quite a shift ... It so happened that the drummer for the group was the legendary Larrie Londin.
  11. [11]
    Eddie Bayers | Modern Drummer Magazine
    May 12, 2004 · ... Larrie Londin. I played keyboards with Larrie when I first came to Nashville in 1973. He and I played together at the Carousel Club in ...
  12. [12]
    Oral History Spotlight: Eddie Bayers - NAMM.org
    He was inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame in 2019, earned the Academy of Country Music “Drummer of the Year” award 14 times, won the Nashville Music ...
  13. [13]
    Tanya Tucker - Praguefrank's Country Discography
    Dec 30, 2014 · October 2006 unknown - Tanya Tucker 305 I AIN'T GEORGE JONES unissued + more unknown tracks for unissued album Lonesome Town this album was ...Missing: early | Show results with:early
  14. [14]
    Eddie Bayers — Overcoming The Obstacles
    Sep 24, 2018 · While growing up, Eddie Bayers dug R&B and the likes of Wilson Pickett, James Brown, and Aretha Franklin. It seems like a far cry from his ...
  15. [15]
    1991 Mark O'Connor – The New Nashville Cats | Sessiondays
    Eddie Bayers. Guitar (solo), Vince Gill. Guitar (solo), Ricky Skaggs. Guitar ... Sound Emporium, Nashville, TN Mastered At Georgetown Masters, Nashville, TN<|control11|><|separator|>
  16. [16]
    Country Hall of Fame Places Spotlight on Pete Drake, Eddie Bayers
    Apr 29, 2022 · It made Bayers highly adaptable, and he appeared on hundreds of hits, including Alan Jackson's “Chattahoochee,” George Strait's “Ace in the Hole ...
  17. [17]
    Garth Brooks in...the Life of Chris Gaines - Wikipedia
    Dan Needham – drums (1); Chris McHugh – drums, percussion, drum programming; Eddie Bayers – drums (4); Kenny Aronoff – drums (9); Lenny Castro – percussion (3) ...
  18. [18]
    https://www.discogs.com/release/2570884-Elton-John-Duets
  19. [19]
    https://www.discogs.com/release/6390772-Dolly-Parton-9-To-5-And-Odd-Jobs
  20. [20]
    https://www.discogs.com/release/5411068-Trisha-Yearwood-Trisha-Yearwood
  21. [21]
    https://www.discogs.com/release/4617648-Rosanne-Cash-Interiors
  22. [22]
    https://thinkcountrymusic.com/whats-new/musicians-hall-of-fame-induction-awards-show-2019/
  23. [23]
    https://dianediekman.com/dianes-country-music-newsletter-6-august-2025/
  24. [24]
    Musicians Hall of Fame Induction Awards Show 2019 - Think Country
    Oct 25, 2019 · “The Players” were formed in 2002 by drummer Eddie Bayers, and it might be easier just to say who Bayers hasn't worked with, but to settle ...
  25. [25]
    Diane's Country Music Newsletter - 6 August 2025 - Diane Diekman
    Drummer Eddie Bayers formed the band The Players in 2002, with four fellow session musicians. They have played on thousands of sessions and are a newer ...
  26. [26]
    Players: Live in Nashville [DVD] : Eddie Bayers - Amazon.com
    30-day returnsShawn Colvin, Peter Frampton, Vince Gill, Travis Tritt and legendary session man Jim Horn perform on this thrilling DVD, which includes five songs written and ...
  27. [27]
    https://www.allmusic.com/artist/the-notorious-cherry-bombs-mn0002319623
  28. [28]
    Cherry Bombs Burst Back on Country Scene - Richard Bennett
    Aug 6, 2004 · ... Cherry Bombs took the core of Emmylou Harris' Hot Band. Crowell ... The Notorious Cherry Bombs is dedicated to him. Jerry McGee: One of ...
  29. [29]
    The Notorious Cherry Bombs Songs, Albums, Revi... - AllMusic
    A Nashville supergroup led by singers/songwriters Vince Gill and Rodney Crowell, the Notorious Cherry Bombs trace their origins to Emmylou Harris' fabled ...
  30. [30]
    https://www.dailyfreeman.com/2004/08/14/cherry-bombs-musicians-revive-legendary-alternative-country-band/
  31. [31]
    https://www.worldradiohistory.com/Archive-All-Music/CMA-Close-Up/10s/CMA-Close-Up-2011-06-07.pdf
  32. [32]
    Cherry Bombs: Musicians revive legendary alternative country band
    Aug 14, 2004 · Cherry Bombs: Musicians revive legendary alternative country band ... They had to change the name to The Notorious Cherry Bombs for ...
  33. [33]
    [PDF] rc ,1 1 S411/TING mini FROM THE TOP - World Radio History
    Jun 7, 2011 · backed by the Medallion All-Star Band: John Hobbs ( musical continued on page 26 ... cma close up. 25. Page 26 ... continued tram page 25.
  34. [34]
    Class of 2021 - Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
    He moved to Nashville in 1973, and renowned drummer Larrie Londin encouraged Bayers to seek work as a drummer in recording sessions. By the 1980s, Bayers ...
  35. [35]
    2017 Country Music Hall of Fame Ceremony: 10 Best Moments
    Oct 23, 2017 · The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum inducted its Class of 2017 – Alan Jackson, Don Schlitz and Jerry Reed – at its annual Medallion Ceremony.
  36. [36]
    Tanya Tucker, Patty Loveless, Bob McDill Officially Inducted into ...
    Oct 23, 2023 · ... Medallion All-Star Band backed each of the performers during the evening. ... Alan Jackson's “Gone Country.” Bobby Bare recorded an entire ...
  37. [37]
    Induction: Medallion Ceremony - Country Music Hall of Fame and ...
    The annual Medallion Ceremony honors the newest members of the Country Music Hall of Fame as they are formally inducted.
  38. [38]
    Bayers, Eddie (28 January 1949-Present) - Feenotes
    Drummer from Pautaxant, Maryland, a navy brat who moved around a lot as a child, including four years in North Africa. In the states, he lived in Nashville, ...Missing: childhood | Show results with:childhood
  39. [39]
    https://www.facebook.com/PearlDrumsUS/videos/pearl-artist-eddie-bayers-in-the-studio-with-his-14x5-music-city-custom-cherry-s/1317410282886198/
  40. [40]
    New Additions to the Family Tree - Yamaha - United States
    Yamaha Drums recently bolstered its varied artist roster with the signings of a number of new endorsees, including legends Freddie Gruber and Eddie Bayers.
  41. [41]
    Member Profile Pages (Public) | Nashville Musicians Association
    Member Profile Pages (Public) ; Bayers, Edward, Drums ; Beard, Adam, Bass Guitar, Engineer, Trumpet ; Beaver, Stan, Bass Guitar, Guitar ; Beckett, Mark, Conga Drums ...
  42. [42]
    Eddie Bayers - Yamaha - Malaysia
    Recent recordings, Alan Jackson, George Strait, Rebecca Lynn Howard, Kenny Chesney and Uncle Cracker. He is finishing up a George Jones 50 years of Hits Special ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  43. [43]
    Inductees - Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum
    The Players (Eddie Bayers, Paul Franklin, John Hobbs, Brent Mason, Michael Rhodes). Nashville is now the undisputed center of the music business, but since ...
  44. [44]
    Musicians Hall of Fame honors Class of 2019 - Nashville Music Line
    Oct 28, 2019 · The Class of 2019 were honored with medallion presentations followed by a gala concert at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Downtown Nashville.<|control11|><|separator|>
  45. [45]
    Alan Jackson Talks 'Where Have You Gone' Album - Billboard
    May 13, 2021 · ... Jackson reunited with many of Nashville's legendary studio musicians, including guitarist Brent Mason, drummer Eddie Bayers, steel guitarist ...
  46. [46]
    Alan Jackson - MCA
    Guitarist Brent Mason, drummer Eddie Bayers, bluegrass icon Stuart Duncan ... ALAN JACKSON TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM WHERE HAVE YOU GONE. ALAN JACKSON TO ...
  47. [47]
    CYCAMORE UNVEILS FIRST SINGLE "THE HEART OF AMERICA ...
    Sep 23, 2024 · About the band members: Eddie Bayers: Renowned as one of Nashville's top studio drummers, Eddie Bayers has collaborated with legends like Vince ...
  48. [48]
    They've played for music icons. Now, they're releasing an album ...
    Oct 25, 2024 · "Eddie Bayers!" Just listen to their collaborators. "Dolly Parton ... "A sycamore is a very deeply rooted, very strong tree," Dane explained.Missing: band | Show results with:band
  49. [49]
    Horses In Heaven - YouTube
    Jan 30, 2025 · ... Eddie Bayers Percussion: Eric Darken Hammond B3 Organ: Gordon Mote ... Randy Travis - He Walked On Water (Official Music Video). Randy ...Missing: 2024 | Show results with:2024
  50. [50]
    Eddie Bayers MUSIC CITY CUSTOM Solid Shell Snare Drums
    Jun 25, 2024 · Legendary session drummer Eddie Bayers takes our Music City Custom Solid Shell Snare Drums into the studio with multi-award-winning engineer ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  51. [51]
    Road to the Hall of Fame: Rite of Remembrance and Salute - Oct. 17 ...
    Day fourteen of the Rite of Remembrance and Salute will honor members of the Hall of Fame classes of 2021 through 2024: Eddie Bayers, Ray Charles, Pete ...
  52. [52]
    Three musicians inducted into Country Music Hall of Fame in 2025 ...
    Oct 20, 2025 · ... NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – OCTOBER 19: (Back Row) Eddie Bayers, Don Schlitz, Jimmy Fortune, John Anderson, Dean Dillon ...
  53. [53]
    https://www.discogs.com/release/10937553-The-Notorious-Cherry-Bombs-The-Notorious-Cherry-Bombs
  54. [54]
    https://www.sessiondays.com/2021/01/1980-dolly-parton-9-to-5-and-odd-jobs/
  55. [55]
    1980 Dolly Parton – 9 To 5 And Odd Jobs – Sessiondays
    1980 Dolly Parton – 9 To 5 And Odd Jobs · Abraham ... Drums, Eddie Bayers. Guitar, Reggie Young. Steel ... 1 9 To 5. Bass, Abraham Laboriel Sr. Drums, Rick Shlosser.<|separator|>
  56. [56]
    Certifications - The Dolly Parton Discography
    RIAA (United States) - 28,550,000. Albums - 13,000,000. 9 to 5 and Odd Jobs / Gold / 500,000 / March 6, 1981; Eagle When She Flies / Platinum ...
  57. [57]
    Trisha Yearwood Every Girl - Country Music News International
    Trisha Yearwood Every Girl. Story by Snehashree Mandal for Country Music News International. MTM Records granted Yearwood an internship, and she was later ...
  58. [58]
    1992 George Strait – Pure Country Soundtrack - Sessiondays
    Pure Country is the thirteenth studio album and the first soundtrack album ... Eddie Bayers. Guitar (solo), Dean Parks. Guitar, Brent Rowan. Acoustic Guitar ...
  59. [59]
    https://www.allmusic.com/album/cry-pretty-mw0003246910/credits