The Judds' Glens Falls Connection

When you listen to a classic Judds' record, you'll notice a prominent acoustic guitar.  The talented hands on that guitar actually belong to Don Potter, from Glens Falls, NY.  Potter's influence on the unique sound of the Judds created a soundtrack for 80s Country Music Fans that dominated the radio and awards shows.  Potter launched his career as a member of the Showstoppers band, followed by a duet act, Don Potter & Bat McGrath.  The early days also saw Don playing on records for Chuck Mangione and Dan Hill (Sometimes When We Touch).  A great start for the Upstate New York musician with his talents about to explode on the Nashville scene.

In the 70s, Potter moved to Nashville and met Wynonna and Naomi Judd, many years before they became famous.  Potter became the Judds' Bandleader, Producer and Guitar Player (on the road and in the studio).  His signature acoustic sound became a part of the Judds' catalog of Country Classics.  Furthermore, Potter went on to play on hit albums for Reba McEntire (What Am I Gonna Do About You), Ricky Van Shelton (Wild-Eyed Dream), Lorrie Morgan (Leave The Night On), Clint Black (Hard Way), Trisha Yearwood (Hearts In Armour), Kathy Mattea (Lonesome Standard Time), Toby Keith (Toby Keith), Faith Hill (Take Me As I Am), Dolly Parton (Something Special), Neal McCoy (You Gotta Love That), Kenny Chesney (Greatest Hits) and many more.

Although the former Glens Falls, NY resident was a regular in Nashville, playing on some of the biggest albums of the 80s and 90s, he remained a consistent member of The Judds' team.  Don Potter even followed Wynonna into her solo career, playing the same role on her projects and serving as her tour bandleader.

The next time you hear the acoustic twang on 'Why Not Me', 'Girls Night Out', 'Mama, He's Crazy', or 'Grandpa (Tell Me 'Bout The Good Old Days)'- remember that the hands strumming those notes are from our little 'Hometown USA' - Glens Falls, NY.