Though he has been touring with the band for several months now, The Kody Norris Show has officially welcomed Hayden ‘Jim’ Hensley as a member of the group on banjo.
Just 14 years old, Hensley has demonstrated that he has what it takes to be a professional bluegrass musician, filling the demanding spot with Norris since Josiah Tyree left last summer.
Then on stage at the SPBGMA convention last month in Nashville, the following conversation took place.
Kody said, “I’ve been thinking on something serious I want to ask you. If I was to offer you a job in the band tonight, would you take it?”
“Yeah,” Jim replied before the two exchanged a handshake.
Kody tells us that he is very proud of the work his young banjo player has put in.
“What started off being a summer gig before returning to school, ended up turning into a full time position playing banjo and singing tenor. Jim has worked so hard over the last six months to prove that he wanted the job and could cut the gig!
We are so excited to have young blood in the band, and for each and every one of you to meet him. You’re gonna love him!”
For his part, Jim says he has to pinch himself to make sure it’s real.
“I’ve wanted to play bluegrass professionally as long as I can remember. And I’ve looked up to Kody and Mary Rachel since the first time I met them. So… for me to be able to play bluegrass with The Kody Norris Show, I feel so honored.
So when Kody asked me to be a member of the band, I thought to myself…is this really happening? I get to be the banjo player for The Kody Norris Show?!”
It’s official, Jim Hensley is a member of The Kody Norris Show. You can see why in this video from SPBGMA, with Jim singing Mountain Rosalie in duet with Kody.
Well done, young man!
