Rich & Taylor Banjos: The Legendary Partnership That Created Modern Classics

Rich & Taylor banjos represent one of the most celebrated chapters in American banjo history—a brief but brilliant partnership between two master craftsmen that produced instruments many consider equal to the finest pre-war Gibsons. From 1993 to 1999, Greg Rich and Mark Taylor built banjos that set new standards for quality, tone, and craftsmanship, creating highly collectible instruments that professional players still treasure today.

The Rich & Taylor story is one of perfect timing, exceptional skill, and a shared vision to build the best pre-war Gibson-inspired bluegrass banjos the world had seen since before World War II.

The Partnership:

Greg Rich came to the partnership with impeccable credentials. After being hired by Gibson in 1987 to salvage the company’s deteriorating banjo reputation, Greg transformed Gibson’s banjo line so dramatically that the period from 1987-1993 is now known as the “Greg Rich era”—instruments from this period are especially prized and considered some of the finest Gibsons made since the pre-war golden age. Greg’s mechanical aptitude, design expertise, and deep understanding of what made vintage Gibsons special allowed him to recreate the craftsmanship and specifications that had been lost during Gibson’s dark years under Norlin Industries ownership.

Mark Taylor was the son of legendary resonator guitarist and instrument builder Tut Taylor. Growing up in a lutherie environment, Mark developed exceptional skills building high-end acoustic and resonator guitars. Since 1976, he had been producing quality instruments under the Crafters of Tennessee brand, earning respect for his craftsmanship and attention to detail. Mark brought not only building expertise but also a family legacy of instrument making to the partnership.

When these two master craftsmen joined forces in 1993, the result was Rich & Taylor—a company dedicated to building the finest American bluegrass banjos possible, with no compromises on quality or craftsmanship.

The Rich & Taylor Philosophy:

Rich & Taylor banjos were, in every sense, spiritual successors to pre-war Gibson Mastertones. Since Greg Rich had literally redesigned the Gibson banjo line during his tenure there, Rich & Taylor instruments could accurately be called “Greg Rich era Gibson designs” built under his own name. The company focused on:

• Pre-war Gibson specifications refined through Greg’s years of research and experience
• Premium components including Kulesh and Tennessee tone rings
• Meticulous craftsmanship with no detail overlooked
• Professional-grade playability suitable for the most demanding players
• Limited production focusing on quality over quantity

These weren’t mass-produced instruments—they were handcrafted banjos built to the exacting standards of two masters at the top of their game.

Rich & Taylor Models and Signature Series:

Rich & Taylor produced several models during their brief existence, including highly sought-after signature models developed with legendary bluegrass artists:

J.D. Crowe Signature Model: The J.D. Crowe model has an interesting origin story. The prototype was actually a custom build Greg Rich had promised to professional player Dennis Caplinger, telling him “I’ll build you a real banjo.” Before presenting it to Dennis, Greg and Mark took it to a show in Texas to demonstrate their work—it was their only finished banjo at the time. J.D. Crowe played it, loved it, and immediately ordered one just like it. What had been Dennis Caplinger’s custom build instantly became the J.D. Crowe signature model prototype, after which all others were modeled. (Dennis Caplinger’s original doesn’t bear the signature block inlay since it became a J.D. model after it was made.)

The Crowe model featured mahogany construction and often included the resuscitated inlay pattern that Gibson later used for their Blackjack model. Players consistently praise the Crowe model for its rich, powerful tone and exceptional craftsmanship.

Sonny Osborne Signature Model: Developed with bluegrass legend Sonny Osborne, these banjos featured premium appointments including gold-plated hardware with engraved tension hoops and armrests, beautifully figured maple necks with bound rosewood fingerboards, and bound figured maple resonators with hand-stained sunburst finishes. Greg Rich personally did all the engraving for Sonny Osborne’s Chief banjos and later the Krako banjos (Krako being Sonny’s mythical character responsible for all banjo mishaps). The Osborne models often featured TN-20 tone rings for a bassy, warm Scruggs-Crowe sound.

Don Reno Signature Model: Another legendary artist collaboration, the Don Reno model honored one of bluegrass’s founding fathers with specifications suited to his distinctive playing style.

Terry Baucom Signature Model: The Baucom model, often featuring walnut construction with Kulesh 10-hole rings, earned particular praise from players. Many Baucom model owners consider them among the best banjos they’ve ever owned, with outstanding craftsmanship throughout.

Standard Models: Beyond signature models, Rich & Taylor produced standard professional banjos in both mahogany and maple, with various hardware finishes and inlay options.

The Kulesh vs. Tennessee Tone Ring Evolution:

Rich & Taylor’s tone ring choices significantly impacted their sound and collectibility:

Early R&T (Kulesh 10-Hole): The original Rich & Taylor banjos featured Kulesh 10-hole centrifugally spun-cast tone rings fitted to Cox wood rims. Greg Rich himself notes that this combination had “great depth and bass response with super clear note separation up the neck,” and that these tone rings set the early R&T banjos apart from everything else being produced at that time. These early Kulesh-equipped models are particularly sought after by collectors and players, with many considering them superior to the later Tennessee ring models.

Later R&T (Tennessee 20-Hole): Later in the company’s brief run, Rich & Taylor switched to TN-20 tone rings (20-hole Tennessee rings). While still excellent banjos producing bassy, warm Scruggs-Crowe sound, players and collectors generally agree that the early Kulesh models were somewhat superior, though the TN-20 models are still highly regarded professional instruments.

Rich & Taylor Sound Characteristics:

What made Rich & Taylor banjos special? Players and collectors consistently describe these qualities:

• Exceptional depth and bass response – Rich, full low end that adds power and complexity
• Crystal-clear note separation – Each note rings distinctly, especially up the neck
• Powerful projection – Volume and presence that commands attention
• Pre-war Gibson character – That elusive vintage tone refined and perfected
• Outstanding playability – Comfortable necks, perfect setup, professional feel
• Consistency – Unlike some brands with hit-or-miss quality, R&T banjos were uniformly excellent
• Professional-grade tone – Suitable for recording and performance at the highest levels

Players often note that Rich & Taylor banjos hold their own against any Gibson, including vintage pre-war instruments. Joe Mullins, the respected bluegrass professional, played a Rich & Taylor for years, testament to their professional-grade quality.

Why Rich & Taylor Banjos Are Highly Collectible:

Several factors make Rich & Taylor banjos increasingly valuable and sought-after:

Limited Production (1993-1999): Only six years of production means relatively few instruments exist compared to major manufacturers. Scarcity drives collectibility.

Greg Rich’s Golden Touch: These represent Greg Rich’s vision unbounded by corporate constraints—his designs built exactly as he intended with no compromises.

Exceptional Build Quality: The craftsmanship in Rich & Taylor banjos is outstanding. These weren’t production-line instruments but handcrafted banjos built by masters.

Professional Endorsements: Signature models from J.D. Crowe, Sonny Osborne, Don Reno, and Terry Baucom add historical significance and desirability.

Tone That Rivals Vintage Gibsons: Players consistently report that Rich & Taylor banjos sound as good as or better than many vintage Gibsons, at a fraction of the cost.

Historical Significance: These instruments represent a specific moment when two master craftsmen created something exceptional. They’re part of bluegrass banjo history.

The “Other” Pre-War Gibsons: Since Greg Rich designed the late-1980s/early-1990s Gibsons and then built R&T banjos to his own specifications, Rich & Taylor instruments are essentially “Greg Rich era Gibson” designs—but often built even better since he had complete control.

Investment Value: Rich & Taylor banjos have steadily appreciated in value and command premium prices in the used market. Well-maintained examples often sell for $4,000-$8,000 or more, depending on model, condition, and tone ring type. Early Kulesh-equipped models, particularly signature models in excellent condition, can command even higher prices.

Why Rich & Taylor Ended:

The partnership between Greg Rich and Mark Taylor lasted only until approximately 1996-1999 (sources vary slightly on the exact end date). After Rich & Taylor dissolved:

• Mark Taylor resumed production under the Crafters of Tennessee brand, continuing until around 2012
• Greg Rich began dedicating himself to making professional-quality banjos more accessible, working first with Saga Musical Instruments to relaunch Gold Star banjos, then with The Music Link on Recording King banjos

While the Rich & Taylor partnership was brief, its impact on bluegrass banjo building continues to resonate. The instruments they created set standards that builders still aspire to, and Greg Rich’s subsequent work with Recording King brought his design philosophy to a broader audience.

Finding Rich & Taylor Banjos:

Rich & Taylor banjos rarely come up for sale. When they do:

• Early Kulesh models command premium prices
• Signature models (especially Crowe and Osborne) are highly sought
• Condition matters significantly—these are collectible instruments
• Original cases and documentation add value
• Mahogany vs. maple is preference-dependent
• Provenance and history can affect value

Players looking for Rich & Taylor banjos should be prepared to wait for the right instrument and pay premium prices. However, many consider them among the best investments in bluegrass banjos—exceptional tone, increasing collectibility, and historical significance.

Who Should Consider Rich & Taylor:

Collectors: Historical significance, limited production, and Greg Rich’s involvement make these highly collectible investments.

Professional Players: Tone, playability, and reliability make R&T suitable for the most demanding professional use.

Serious Bluegrass Enthusiasts: Players seeking authentic pre-war tone without vintage Gibson prices or condition concerns.

Greg Rich Devotees: Those who appreciate Greg’s design philosophy and want his work in its purest form.

Investment-Minded Musicians: Quality American instruments with proven appreciation potential.

Rich & Taylor at Banjo Warehouse:

At Banjo Warehouse, we recognize Rich & Taylor banjos as among the finest American instruments ever made. When these rare instruments come through our inventory, we provide:

Expert Authentication: Verification of authenticity, date, and original specifications

Detailed Documentation: Complete history when available, including any provenance or previous owners

Professional Evaluation: Assessment by Geoff Hohwald, who understands what makes these instruments exceptional

Honest Condition Reports: Transparent description of any wear, modifications, or repairs

Proper Setup: Professional setup ensuring optimal playability

Secure Shipping: Expert packing with full insurance for these valuable instruments

Our Expertise:

Founder Geoff Hohwald has over 50 years of experience in bluegrass music and recognizes Rich & Taylor banjos as representing a pinnacle of American banjo craftsmanship. The brief partnership between Greg Rich and Mark Taylor produced instruments that stand alongside the finest pre-war Gibsons—and in many cases surpass modern alternatives.

The Rich & Taylor Legacy:

Though the partnership lasted only six years, Rich & Taylor’s impact on bluegrass banjo building is permanent. These instruments prove that master craftsmen, unbounded by corporate constraints, can create something truly exceptional. They represent:

• Greg Rich’s design genius at its peak
• Mark Taylor’s craftsman skill and family legacy
• American lutherie at its finest
• The bridge between vintage Gibson excellence and modern craftsmanship
• Instruments that will be treasured for generations

Ready to Own a Piece of History:

Rich & Taylor banjos rarely become available. If you’re interested in these exceptional instruments, contact Geoff Hohwald at 404-218-8580 or thebanjowarehouse@gmail.com to be notified when one comes available. We can also discuss comparable alternatives if you’re seeking Greg Rich-designed banjos or similar quality American instruments.

Visit our showrooms by appointment:

• Atlanta, GA
• Yellow Springs, OH (serving Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, and beyond)

Banjo Warehouse – Where Legendary Craftsmanship Meets Bluegrass Heritage in Every Rich & Taylor Banjo