Bill Carson

Billy Carson was listed in the Guinness book of world records for growing the largest watermelon ever weighed. And if you think that is something, consider the fact that Billy also worked with Leo Fender in streamlining the Stratocaster electric guitar in the early 1950s. As a country player in Southern California in the late 1940s, Billy became close friends with Leo. At the time, Leo was a radio repair man who helped musicians on the side fixing their amplifiers. Over the years, Billy related his frustration over the way the sharp edge of his guitar would cut into his ribs.

Susan Carson opened her first music store, Taylor Guitar Shop, at just 18 years old in Johnson, Tennessee. Taylor Guitar Shop became the local hangout spot for bluegrass pickers and those looking to jam every Saturday. Susan sold the store when she married her husband, Bill Carson, and he took a job in California with Fender. In 1985, Susan became a district sales manager with Fender and then was instrumental during the process of working with Fender to develop the Leo Banjo. Susan currently chairs a council on Bluegrass and Country at East Tennessee State University in her hometo

Sam Tritico spent over five decades as a respected and well-loved music retailer, dedicated to helping musicians find their perfect sound. His love for music began as a child when his sister introduced him to Elvis records, but it was The Beatles’ legendary 1964 performance on The Ed Sullivan Show that changed everything for young Sam. He was gifted a Telecaster in eighth grade, attended Stamps Music School summer camps, and by 11th grade, he had also picked up the bass. Like many musicians, Sam balanced working in music stores by day and gigging at night, gaining invaluable exper