One of the things I really like about The Listening Sessions is the sense of traveling through an artist’s personal and artistic evolution. This post on Jerry Reed is a perfect example of a curated list that deepens one’s knowledge and appreciation of the man and his art. A delightful journey throughout, Robert!
I’ve said this in other comments but I’ll repeat it: the best music writing does no more than make you want to listen to the music being described. So I’ve just added three of the albums in your post to my Spotify library and will be listening later . . .
A fantastic overview of the man who headlined the very first concert I ever saw, eight years old at the Dorton Arena in Raleigh, NC. A truly singular talent that somehow still doesn't get the reverence he deserves. Thanks for this!
He really was one of a kind. So many guitar players to refer to that, "Jerry Reed thing." I would put "The Claw," in the same category as "Freight Train" as tune that also serves as a technique primer-a portal to a style of playing. Lenny Breau and Chet Atkins are the only other players I can think of who could play nylon with a thumb pick with real touch an sensitivity.
Oh yes - 'Sugarfoot Rag' by way of Hank Garland (for me, the greatest of the Nashville pickers) is another example. What strikes me about Reed is the cleanliness of his often very intricate lines - such a tasty player.
Thank you, Trevor, for sharing. There was a big stink about 'Suspicious Minds' that, as I recall, was initiated by Chips Moman. Reed was a character, for sure.
One of the things I really like about The Listening Sessions is the sense of traveling through an artist’s personal and artistic evolution. This post on Jerry Reed is a perfect example of a curated list that deepens one’s knowledge and appreciation of the man and his art. A delightful journey throughout, Robert!
Thank you, Andrew, for this very generous and kind comment. As always, I appreciate your encouragement and kindness.
I’ve said this in other comments but I’ll repeat it: the best music writing does no more than make you want to listen to the music being described. So I’ve just added three of the albums in your post to my Spotify library and will be listening later . . .
Thank you, Sherman. For my part, your comment is about the highest compliment that can be paid to a writer. I appreciate it and happy listening!
A fantastic overview of the man who headlined the very first concert I ever saw, eight years old at the Dorton Arena in Raleigh, NC. A truly singular talent that somehow still doesn't get the reverence he deserves. Thanks for this!
Oh, you're welcome, Michael - thank you for the kind words.
He really was one of a kind. So many guitar players to refer to that, "Jerry Reed thing." I would put "The Claw," in the same category as "Freight Train" as tune that also serves as a technique primer-a portal to a style of playing. Lenny Breau and Chet Atkins are the only other players I can think of who could play nylon with a thumb pick with real touch an sensitivity.
Oh yes - 'Sugarfoot Rag' by way of Hank Garland (for me, the greatest of the Nashville pickers) is another example. What strikes me about Reed is the cleanliness of his often very intricate lines - such a tasty player.
He was one of the most unique musicians and songwriters in country music history.
No one was quite like Jerry Reed - not even Roger Miller went to the extremes of Reed.
Thank you, Trevor, for sharing. There was a big stink about 'Suspicious Minds' that, as I recall, was initiated by Chips Moman. Reed was a character, for sure.