Paul V. Franklin (born May 31, 1954[1] in Detroit, Michigan[2]) is an American multi-instrumentalist, known mainly for his work as a steel guitarist. He began his career in the 1970s as a member of Barbara Mandrell's road band; in addition he toured with Mel Tillis and Jerry Reed. He has since become a prolific session musician in Nashville, Tennessee, playing on more than 500 albums.[3][4] He has been named by the Academy of Country Music as Best Steel Guitarist on several occasions.[3] In addition to the pedal steel guitar and lap steel guitar, Franklin plays Dobro, fiddle, and drums,[3] as well as three custom-built instruments called the Pedabro, The Box, and the baritone steel guitar.