I've mentioned the RFD Network, which dubs itself "Rural America's Most Important Network," in this space before, but somehow one of my favorite cable networks keeps getting better and better. (Even though it's still simulcasting Don Imus for some reason.)

As if adding reruns of Hee Haw wasn't quite exciting enough, RFD is adding some original programming to its Sunday night lineup with The Marty Stuart Show, hosted by the Nashvile music fixture, who's been in the business since he was 12.

Marty Stuart thinks there's room on TV for the style of country music he remembers from The Porter Wagoner Show, Flatt & Scruggs and, of course, Hee Haw.

So Stuart decided to create his own TV show. The Marty Stuart Show will begin airing this November on Sunday nights on the RFD-TV cable network.

Each episode will feature music by Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives, as well as his wife, Grand Ole Opry star Connie Smith, and special guests.

"This show is about authenticity, from the artists who visit us in the studio every week to the people watching at home," said Stuart, a sideman with Lester Flatt and Johnny Cash before embarking on a successful solo career in the '80s. "I want to establish a show that gives a voice and stage to traditional country music."
I can't help but think this show is going to be great. Sure, I'd be inclined to watch Marty Stuart and Connie Smith just hanging out in a studio for thirty minutes a week, but the guests are likely to be a who's who of classic country, and having Grand Ole Opry announcer Eddie Stubbs as a sidekick brings a smile to my face already.

Plus, Hee Haw reruns! If you're not excited for Buck and Roy's return to TV, well, I'm not sure we can be friends any longer.

Oh, RFD, you keep giving and giving while buried in obscurity in my cable lineup. Thanks for everything.

By Dan Gibson