Little Jimmy Dickens is 90 Years Old!

Rippy's Barbecue, my favorite BBQ joint in Music City, recently honored Grand Ole Opry star Little Jimmy Dickens in Nashville Wednesday (January 19). Several hundred friends and family were on hand to celebrate the singer's 90th birthday.

Jimmy, had hits with such songs as May The Bird of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose' and 'Out Behind the Barn,' received many birthday surprises and wishes of good health. Several big names in the music business were present; some of which were, Bill Anderson, David Frizzell, Bryan White, Jan Howard, Dana Williams of Diamond Rio, Nancy comic strip artist Guy Gilchrist, and Riders in the Sky members Ranger Doug, Too Slim and Joey the Cowpolka King. Nashville Mayor Karl Dean was there to present a proclamation to Jimmy, and the entire room of people sang "Happy Birthday" to the gentle man whom everyone loves.

Every time the Grand Ole Opry invites me to do my show backstage, Dickens is one of my favorites to spend time with. He once told me that he spent lots of time with Hank Williams Sr and never once saw him take a drink - not one time. Jimmy explained to me that Hank would drink alone. If anyone has "been there and done that," it's Little Jimmy Dickens! We love you, Jimmy!

- Catfish