Sonic spotlight

Dick (Flash) McCracken

PLAYS: Marlen Custom pedal steel guitar

PLAYS WITH: The Escorts (2001-present)

DREAM GIG: Playing with James Brown: "I think he's just the greatest."

CELEBRITY ENCOUNTERS: Has played with George Jones, Charley Pride, Loretta Lynn, Connie Smith, Ray Price and Kris Kristofferson

BEST GIG: "One of the best gigs I've had around Augusta was playing with my son (Rich McCracken). He plays, too, just like Hendrix."

MUSIC THEORY: "A great musician is a person, female or male, that develops their own style. Don't copy anybody. Then just hang in there. Also, no drinking or drugs."

SELF-ASSESSMENT: "I'm the best steel player anywhere. I can play with anybody. I honestly think I'm the greatest steel player on the planet."

- Steven Uhles