The capital of twang once had its own instrument: The Mosrite, which, for a time looked like a world-beater. Joe Maphis was getting plenty of attention for his distinctive triple-neck Mosrite. The Ventures had signed an exclusive agreement to use the guitar, and to promote it on their album jackets. Companies in Japan and Korea were seeking overseas manufacturing agreements with Mosrite magnate Semie Moseley. But then something went wrong, and Mosrite ceased to be.

SUITCASE SIMPSON AND THE BALLAD OF THE WRONG BOOT POLISH:

Red Simpson knew he wanted to write and sing songs from the time he was old enough to hold a guitar without falling down. He hung around outside Bakersfield's lively honky tonks, offering to sing or shine shoes, whatever the customer preferred. Singing eventually won out, but not before Simpson had a memorable encounter with a pair of celebrity cowboy boots.

PROFILES:

Farmer Boys, Ronnie Sessions