[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 25 (Thursday, February 11, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E215]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING THE LIFE OF LEON ``PAPPY'' SELPH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. GENE GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 11, 1999

  Mr. GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I ask all of my colleagues in 
Congress to join me in paying tribute to an outstanding individual, 
Leon ``Pappy'' Selph. Pappy passed away earlier this month after 
leading a long and distinguished musical career.
  Pappy, one of Western swing's first generation, carved out a unique, 
important niche in country music while maintaining close ties with his 
hometown of Houston, Texas. In 1933 Pappy formed the Blue Ridge 
Playboys in a cooperative effort with other local musicians. By the 
band's second recording session in June 1937, Pappy's innovative fiddle 
playing had emerged as the driving force of the band. Soon they 
recorded such smash hits as ``It Makes No Difference Now.''
  In 1940, Pappy was signed by Columbia's Vocalion-Okeh subsidiary and 
built a tight, inventive lineup of new musicians. Their acclaimed 1940 
session truly showcased Pappy's talent in such swinging instrumentals 
as ``Texas Take-Off'' and ``Polecat Stomp.'' The band's 1941 recording 
showcased Pappy's innovative fiddling as he truly came into his own.
  The band was stalled in 1942 by World War II when Pappy entered the 
Navy. He bravely served his country during the war and returned home to 
work for the Houston Fire Department. Despite this break, Pappy never 
stopped playing, and when he returned to Houston he continued to play 
and teach music throughout the community.
  With Pappy's passing, we have truly lost a legend of first generation 
Western swing. Pappy had a profound musical influence on his peers, and 
his Blue Ridge Players served as a training ground for such important 
musicians as Floyd Tillman, Moon Mullican, and Ted Daffan. His music 
will remain a legacy for years to come. Pappy's kind soul and 
innovative music will be sorely missed.
  Mr. Speaker, once again, please join me in paying tribute to the life 
of Leon ``Pappy'' Selph. Those of us who were fortunate enough to have 
known him are truly blessed.

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