Eddy Merle Watson (February 8, 1949 – October 23, 1985) was an American folk and bluegrass guitarist. He was best known for his performances with his father, Doc Watson. Merle played and recorded albums together with his father from age 15 until his death in a tractor accident 21 years later.Eddy Merle Watson, Bluegrass Guitarist, Accidentally Killed at 36, Los Angeles Times, October 24, 1985 Merle was widely recognized as one of the best flat-picking and slide guitarists of his generation.Merlefest at 21, Doc Watson at 85: Festival Notes, Swampland.com MerleFest, one of the world's largest and most-prestigious folk music festivals, is held annually in Wilkesboro, NC and is named in his honor.1988 , MerleFest
Merle and his father released a version of "Bottle of Wine" that reached No. 71 on the U.S. country chart.Doc & Merle Watson, "Bottle of Wine" Chart Position Retrieved January 27, 2014
Death
Watson died in a farm accident in 1985 at age 36. He was driving a tractor to a nearby house when it slipped down an embankment and pinned him beneath it.
Discography All albums were in collaboration with his father, Doc Watson. 1965 – Doc Watson & Son 1967 – Ballads from Deep Gap 1971 – Doc Watson on Stage 1972 – The Elementary Doctor Watson! 1973 – Then and Now 1974 – Two Days in November 1976 – Doc and the Boys 1977 – Lonesome Road 1978 – Look Away! 1979 – Live and Pickin' (live) 1981 – Red Rocking Chair 1983 – Doc and Merle Watson's Guitar Album 1984 – Down South 1985 – Pickin' the Blues 1992 – Remembering Merle (Songs all recorded live between 1970 and 1976)
Awards and honors 1974 Grammy for Best Ethnic Or Traditional Recording: Merle Watson & Doc Watson for Two Days In November 1979 Grammy for Best Country Instrumental Performance: Doc Watson & Merle Watson for Big Sandy/Leather Britches "Best Finger Picking Guitarist-Folk/Blues or Country" Award from Frets Magazine
References