Marvin “Smokey” Montgomery was a member of one of country music’s top history-making bands since the 1930’s and the man known for introducing Dixieland-style jazz banjo to western swing. Since joining The Light Crust Doughboys band in 1935 and continuing through concert appearances as late as May 2001, the influence of “Smokey” as a musician, arranger, writer and producer can be heard on numerous recordings that span an eight-decade career. Bob Wills called Smokey, “a genius on that banjo”!

With the help of fellow “Doughboy”, Art Greenhaw, (pictured above) Marvin was honored with a Grammy nomination for his work in the gospel music field with legendary gospel singer, James Blackwood. Their work also includes several highly successful collaborations with Amarillo’s Lone Star Ballet, The Texas Wind Symphony, The Abilene Philharmonic and Southern Methodist University’s Mustang Band. One of Marvin’s major contributions to the legacy of American banjo music is found in his guidance and direction of the Dallas Banjo Band, (over 100 members) one of the premier educational and performing banjo ensembles in the country.

The 74th Texas Legislature in 1995 called Marvin “Smokey” Montgomery a “national treasure” along with his fellow Light Crust Doughboys – they were designated Official Music Ambassadors for The State of Texas.