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Clarence Edward “Eddie” Gabbard

Born: July 11, 1930
Died: October 8, 1979

Eddie was born in Dardanelle AR. He started playing a Fender Pedal Steel in his early teens. He grew up in San Joaquin Valley during the hey days of California Western Swing scene. He played with Jack Thornhill and The Royal Texans and sat in with Spade Cooley, Billy Jack and Bob Wills’ bands. In 1951 Eddie chose a career in the Army as a helicopter pilot over his music.

He was stationed in Germany twice and served two tours in Vietnam but never gave up the love and dedication for the Pedal Steel Guitar. During this time he played with several bands, Benny Kubiak and The Blue River Playboys, Jim Brisco and The Rainbow Valley Boys. He also entertained his service buddies though out his years in active service. He retired from the Army in 1976 with rank of CW4.

After the death of Paul Bigsby, Eddie was in search of a builder that could build him a second Pedal Steel with the expert workmanship that he had found in his Bigsby. He contacted Leonard Stadler in the early 70's and together they designed this 1971 Marlen Speedy West with the custom tunings and pedal changes that Eddie used. Although Eddie, Leonard and Paul are no longer with us, their Custom Pedal Steel tones and craftsmanship will live on forever.
Thanks

The Gabbard’s

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