Arthur Smith (April 1, 1921 – April 3, 2014) was an American musician and songwriter.
In 1955, Smith composed a banjo instrumental he called “Feudin’ Banjos” and recorded the song with five-string banjo player Don Reno. Later the composition appeared in the popular 1972 film Deliverance as “Dueling Banjos” played by Eric Weissberg and Steve Mandel. Not given credit, Smith had to proceed with legal action that eventually gave him songwriting credit and back royalties. It was a landmark copyright infringement suit.
Arthur Smith won a Grammy Award in 1973 for Dueling Banjos (original writer)
Arthur Smith cause of death
Arthur Smith died at his home on April 3, 2014. A family member confirmed the death but did not specify a cause. Arthur Smith was 93 years old at the time of his death.
Dueling Banjos – Deliverance