Born 79 Years Ago Today in South Carolina, the Vietnam Veteran, Guitar Hero, and Southern Rock Pioneer Who Recorded With Willie Nelson and Charlie Daniels

Toy Caldwell, born in South Carolina on 13 November 1947, became the guitarist, co-founder and principal songwriter of the Marshall Tucker Band. His distinctive fingerpicking and mix of musical influences helped shape Southern rock, while his Vietnam service and Purple Heart were an important part of his life story.

Caldwell learned to play with his thumb, drawing on folk, country, jazz, blues and rock. After serving in the Marines from 1966 to 1969, he reunited with hometown musicians; the Marshall Tucker Band released its debut album in 1973, featuring his songs “Can’t You See” and “Take the Highway”. His only solo album appeared in 1992, with guests including Charlie Daniels, Gregg Allman and Willie Nelson; Caldwell died in his sleep in 1993.