Del Wood

Born Polly Adelaide Hendricks in Nashville, Tennessee, Del Wood often referred to as the “Queen of the Ivories” was a pioneering country and honky-tonk pianist who made history in 1951 when her instrumental recording of “Down Yonder” sold more than one million copies. The achievement made her the first country artist to reach that milestone with an instrumental song and helped bring piano-driven honky tonk music into the mainstream of country music.

Del was a frequent performer on the Grand Ole Opry beginning around 1949 and became an official member on November 12, 1953, remaining closely associated with the show until her death in 1989. Celebrated for her energetic style and technical skill, she was best known for recordings such as “Down Yonder,” “Waiting for the Robert E. Lee,” “Are You From Dixie?,” and “12th Street Rag,” leaving a lasting influence on country and roots music.