Old-time fiddler and banjo player Benton Flippen, of Surry County, North Carolina, died on 28 June 2011. Flippen was best known for his work with the Smokey Valley Boys. Like many old-time fiddlers, Benton held his instrument low on his chest rather than under his chin, but what made his style unique were the many slides and bends in his playing. He won many fiddling contests and released several albums that are still available, including: Old Times, New Times (Rounder); Fiddler’s Dream (Music Maker); and 270 Haystack Road (Music Maker).

More information on Flippen can be found in the Mount Airy News.