Cumberland Gap by Uncle “Am” Stuart (1924)
CD 5, track 15
Today’s reveal is a violin and banjo reading of the classic “Cumberland Gap” from 1924. “Old Time Fiddler” Uncle “Am” Stuart is joined by “Banjo Picker” Gene Austin—yes, the ever versatile future pop crooner. Opinion over the years seems divided on the quality of Mr. Austin’s playing, but there’s never been any question about the love in country circles for Tennessean Ambrose Gaines Stuart (1853-1926), who was 71 at the time of this recording.
