Introduction
Before his passing in 2020, Jimmy Capps was widely known not just for his legendary guitar work but for the quiet admiration he carried for the artists who shaped Grand Ole Opry. Capps spent more than six decades as part of the Opry band, making him one of the longest-serving musicians in its history.
In interviews and public reflections during his later years, Capps often spoke about the voices and personalities that inspired him early in Nashville. Friends close to the guitarist said he never focused on fame, but he deeply respected those who built country music before him.
Among the five legends he reportedly admired most, the first was Roy Acuff. Capps often described Acuff as the embodiment of the Opry’s spirit — a performer whose presence represented country music’s roots. He once said watching Acuff perform taught him that humility could carry as much power as talent.
Another name he often mentioned was Johnny Cash. Though Cash’s style was very different from traditional Opry performers, Capps admired his honesty and the way he never tried to fit into anyone else’s expectations. Their paths crossed many times over the years, and Capps was known to speak warmly of Cash’s kindness backstage.
George Jones also held a special place in Capps’s memories. Having played on many of Jones’s most iconic recordings, including “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” Capps said Jones had one of the most emotionally powerful voices he had ever heard. He believed Jones could make any lyric feel deeply personal.
The fourth legend was Tammy Wynette. Capps played on her signature hit “Stand by Your Man” and often recalled her professionalism in the studio. He admired how she could sing heartbreak with a calm strength that moved everyone in the room.
Finally, he often spoke with respect about George Strait. Capps appreciated Strait’s commitment to classic country during a time when the genre was rapidly changing. He once noted that Strait carried the same sincerity that defined the older Opry generation.
Those who knew Jimmy say he never spoke about these artists as distant stars. He spoke of them as mentors, examples, and reminders of why he stayed devoted to country music for so many years.
For fans, those final reflections revealed something touching: behind one of Nashville’s greatest guitarists was a lifelong admirer of the very legends whose music he helped bring to life.