Herman Barrett - Herman is a vital part of the Smyth County Jam, Larry gives him much credit for his faithfulness and his invaluable help. He began to play guitar at about age sixteen. Merle Travis and Chet Atkins have been his main influences. Herman's music /singing style is a very laid-back, easy listening type. He was born and raised in the Allison's Gap community, near Saltville, VA. Herman retired from Chesapeake Products, Chesapeake, VA in 2002.