George Shuffler

George Shuffler was the country and bluegrass guitar player who is credited for a three figure cross-picking playing style (down two strings, up one) that he created out of necessity. While playing for a small country band on the radio in the 1940s, George needed to add fills to several slow paced songs and began alternating his picking, a similar strum to what Earl Scruggs was doing on the banjo.  His style was not only inspiring for other players but requested on many of his performances.  George was proud to have played a role in helping other musicians find their sound, "We are all in this together and I am pleased that some players feel I helped them along."  He sang and played in church with his family well into his 80s.  He passed away in April 2014 just four days before his 89th birthday.