A Major Drawback; Placing Many Eggs In one Basket

Bill Hankey · From: Pittsfield, MA, USA

How quickly we move on to things that seem proper, for simple reasons that a few influential leaders probing for opportunities, succeed in making major changes throughout the system. That would be, the system of where to take the steel guitar in the immediate future. Griping and sniping that apparently proves beyond doubt, that good or bad, threads become short-lived. I'm a believer in tracing factual information, which I tried to do in a previous thread. The clumping together of major talents into major events by others, which excludes mediocrities, is extremely distasteful. That system of preferential treatments can be resolved by individuals who possess foresights, and move forward in a predetermined manner to resist accordingly. Facilitating the rebirths of past local steel guitar shows, if done properly, could lessen the demeriting of a sustained musical interest in the pedal steel guitar.

Duane Reese · Posted 6 Sep 2010 6:17 am

Bill, I am perplexed by your opinion that clumping together of major talents into major events is distasteful, when mediocrity or mediocrities are excluded. For you see, those few influential leaders have metamorphosed into such figures via success in making major changes throughout the system. As it would seem proper for you to agree, it was in fact the egg that came before the chicken, assuming one defines a chicken as an innovator of influence and prestige, and those suffering from mediocrity or mediocrities as you say, being honking and squeaking geese. Furthermore, threads being enhanced by submissions from such "chickens" do not seem to be short lived — quite the opposite in fact. For example, information provided by such individuals as Buddy Emmons, Maurice Anderson (to name only two) have provided the most factual and non-hearsay information; the tracing of factual information need be traced no further than the source, the individuals themselves...the chickens, hatched from an egg of their own initial rise to prominence, and the source of many more eggs that mere amateur geese can only honk in speculation about. To resist such submissions of first-hand knowledge, based on the belief that it is preferential treatment, bears no resemblance to a quality we have come to know as "foresight". Furthermore, to exclude or "resist" the influence and participation of such "chickens" of prominence in favor of mediocre "geese" in local steel guitar shows especially would serve to do nothing but demerit the show itself.

Bill, I cannot understand how you could possibly feel this way...favoring not only mediocrity, but multiple "mediocrities" [sic] over major talents and influential leaders, in the interest of tracing factual information. You'd do well NOT to resist eggs of wisdom from knowledgeable chickens in lieu of iron pyrite eggs from speculative geese. There is no risk of damage to iron pyrite eggs placed all in once basket, because they will not break, and are not golden at all...and therefore there is not use in placing them in a basket at all. You might use one for a paper weight and that's about it.

To summarize, I recommend that you exclude mediocrity or mediocrities with the rest of us, lest you find yourself carrying a basket never having been laden of any eggs at all...eggs that can be eaten, anyhow.

Bill Hankey · From: Pittsfield, MA, USA

Duane,

Thanks for the response. In lieu of miscomprehension that seems unavoidable when the thrower casts the first stone at matters connected to the healthy growth of mediocre players, who require mingling with "greats" of the upper class performances. This separation of players originated in the promotion of a few dozen phenoms of the steel guitar, which consequently led to the establishment of famous quotations. This country was based on equal rights for all citizens. Attempting to defy what the founders believed to be the course to follow, has been looked upon as an example, out of necessity, and more recently, by officials who are making it very clear that there will be no more bullying in our schools.You may read from those changes, whatever comes to mind. Everything is interrelated. Growth depends more on the opportunity to perform.

Zane King · From: Nashville, TN

Bill,

I'm intrigued by your articulation but admittedly I'm not sure I fully understand the meaning of what you are communicating with your thread. I believe your idea here is close to something I'm advocating privately for the most part but I'm very curious if we are talking about a similar process of the development of the instrument. If possible, I ask you to restate your original post with a bit more directness and clarity.

Thanks so much,

Zane
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Duane Reese · Posted 6 Sep 2010 8:02 am

Bill, I cannot help but scoff at the idea that the opinions presented by those with experience and prominence is in any way connected to civil rights, the intent of the founding fathers or bullying. I have never heard of any quotation from the founders suggesting that mediocrity or mediocrities should or have been given equal protection under the Constitution. Without the conversation turning political, but being limited to the practicalities of steel guitar development and influence, in no way, shape or form is it the equal right of steel players to be recognized by others with equal recognition and consideration as those who have achieved major developments. They may indeed have the same right to express opinions, but in order to "level" the amount of recognition they receive from others, you would have to mandate the general steel playing population to consider no contrast between prominence and mediocrity (which is laughable and wrong), or you would have to squelch the opinions of prominent players by mandating anonymity or instituting a "gag policy". Such actions have nothing to do with civil rights, and pedal steel innovators offering well-respected opinions is not bullying.

To further sharpen the point, one must also consider what the founders have said regarding the difference between "leveling" the spoils of peoples of varying achievement ("spoils" coming in the form of recognition in this case) and civil rights. Speaking of famous quotations...

"The utopian schemes of leveling, and a community of goods, are as visionary and impracticable as those that vest all property in the Crown. [These ideas] are arbitrary, despotic, and, in our government, unconstitutional." — Samuel Adams

I bring this quotation not for the sake of politics, but for the fact that this relates to the steel guitar community in the sense that, while all opinions can be expressed, some are more respected than others. "A community of goods" could be considered the societal counterpart of a steel guitar forum where all opinions are equaled in recognition by mandate, and contraband is the counterpart for credentials. In no way could such and expectation be likened to the intent of the founders.

Furthermore, to say that growth depends on the opportunity to perform is truly among that which is interrelated to preceding matters...unless you are suggesting a "performance" in the form of pontificating with a mediocre opinion...in which case, I would have to disagree.

Barry Blackwood · Posted 6 Sep 2010 8:27 am

Bill McCloskey · From: Nanuet, NY

Well, I think it is pretty clear that our founding fathers did not intend equal rights for all citizens. The founding fathers originally conceived equal rights for protestant white male land owners, period. the history of this country was the struggle of all other people to claim their rights as well.

As for lumping in mediocre players in a steel show to increase the interest in steel guitar, I can only think that a showcase the featured mediocre players has having the opposite effect. There is a place for mediocre players: jams, workshops, teach-in's, etc. this is the proper place to introduce the mediocre to the world of steel.

Bo Legg · Posted 6 Sep 2010 8:53 am

I fail to see how just hobnobbing around with a clump of the elite is in anyway going to bring a person out of mediocrity.
Smart practice and a lot of it will pull a person out of mediocrity, not clumping with the elite with hopes that some of it will rub off on you.
Clump for the enjoyment of it then go home and woodshed.

Bill Hankey · From: Pittsfield, MA, USA

Zane,

I feel very rewarded to learn that you have pondered after reading through the new thread that points to the dissatisfaction in naming that all is not well across the board. It is very exciting to confer with a high ranking gifted steel guitarist in your level of expertise. I can assure you that all things among the players who receive invitations to appear, are unchanged. It is my hope that the performers will never be involved in becoming as a clique, which would ultimately amount to one more stumbling block to overcome after arriving at the main gate of performing centres. My golden egg consists of many comments made over the years by individuals sharing in the interest of the pedal steel guitar. (Including promoters)

Duane Reese · Posted 6 Sep 2010 9:08 am

Bill McCloskey · From: Nanuet, NY

I brought up neither religion nor politics, Duane.

Duane Reese · Posted 6 Sep 2010 9:27 am

Yeah, Sure. It's right there for all to read.

Zane King · From: Nashville, TN

Bill, I do think I now have handle on what you are bringing to light this beautiful Labor Day. Or at least it is here in Nashville!

I closely compare other parts of my career to this subject. Mediocrity has reigned in the sub-genre of Christian music I have served as long as I can remember. The label of mediocrity is really subjective in most cases. Point in case, is take Bob Dylan for example or even the Beatles. From my musical point of view I find it difficult to class them amongst the elite and genius status that many say they are deserving of. Yet, Oscar Peterson and Pat Martino are those musical elites to me but I'm sure there are many that just can't agree.

Here's what I know and I believe most can agree upon. I sit with amazement while watching Doug Jernigan riff on Anthropology, but I have just as much respect for a John Hughey moment on a tune like "Look At Us". They are equally genius and musical to me. Now on to the issue of promoting those that might be classified as mediocre. I learn something from every level of player if I keep my ears and eyes open. Folks would be amazed at just by my listening in St. Louis this weekend, I was inspired from many sources. That's what I find so compelling about steel guitar anyway. It's one of those rare instruments where personality and soul comes pouring the electrical pickup. I think it's a phenomenon that honestly makes steelers unique amongst all musicians.
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Mike Perlowin · From: Los Angeles CA

I have 3 comments.

1- The convention is a SHOW. It is put on by an entrepreneur (Scotty,) as a business venture. And like any business venture, it must have the best, most highly qualified employees it can get. Scotty HIRES the great players from Nashville to come and play. They are literally his employees for that weekend.

2- By Contrast, organizations like the Texas Steel Guitar Association or the South West Steel Guitar Assn are CLUBS. The shows they put on, while designed to raise money for the organizations, are also places where the club members can play for each other. And while it's true that these organizations hire some heavyweight pros to insure that there are some great performances, the idea of a show where friends (who often live so far from each other that these shows are the only places where they can see each other) can play for each other is also a very important part of the event. Perhaps even the most important.

Who cares if so and so isn't as good as Buddy or Lloyd or Paul or Reece. He/she is somebody I care about personally, and I want to hear him/her play and support his/her efforts.

My 3rd comment is about steel shows in general. Scotty has provided the model for all shows. Many players, one after another, playing short sets.

But in my very subjective personal opinion and on a purely emotional level, I feel the 2 best steel shows I ever attended were one that Tom Bradshaw produced in the early 80s with just Buddy Emmons and a backup band, playing all afternoon, and no other act, and the similar one produced by the late Jack Lox of Curly Chalker, again, just him and a backup band, with no other performers. (This was the concert that comprises 2/3s of the DVD I put out.)

I feel that rather than seeing a lot of different performers doing short sets, I'd rather see a single performer, playing all day, and really getting a chance to stretch out.
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b0b · From: Cloverdale, CA, USA

Once again, if I understand Bill Hankey correctly, I disagree with him.
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Zane King · From: Nashville, TN

Amen, Mike! In my newly energized thoughts about the "industry of steel guitar" I was thinking just yesterday about these steel shows and how they are organized. It also occurred to me that on the local and regional level we have these associations that put on a show in order to raise just enough money to exist each year. In essence these are fundraisers. It's too bad that there are not more "for profit" shows promoted at the local and regional level. The ones you mention about Buddy and Curly are perfect examples. I encourage those that love steel guitar music to organize these type shows in there area. This combined with a teaching seminar component could absolutely be profitable for all involved.

As for that "stretching out" I can tell you that I've yet to ever do that in a steel show environment. That's partly why I walked away from it years ago. I also believe that's why many great players shy away from it as well. Jeff Newman once had some interesting shows in Watertown, TN. It was more of a jam but it really worked. Simply put on all of this I want to reiterate that many of you reading this SHOULD try doing a "for-profit" steel guitar concert. My career is fully wrapped up in concepts like this so here's you all one to do and I except no compensation for this.... Very Happy

Book Joe Wright and Doug Jernigan. Make it on Saturday. Have Doug and Joe each do a clinic during the day. Most likely they will do this at a flat rate. You can then sell each spot for the class. I'll not speak for Joe and Doug but myself I would be fine for the promoter to make money on this aspect of the event. Doug and Joe obviously will be able to additionally sell their merchandise for additional income. Next, you want to have a concert open to the public. I would encourage you to hire a local band or singer that has some following in the area. That way they would attract a few folks. Doug and Joe could incorporate them into the program how they desire. Next, I would sell local sponsorship to music teachers, music stores, and any other entity that wants to connect to your clientele. There are many other ways to make this profitable but that's a start.

There are so many more assets in the steel community beyond Joe and Doug as well. Come on folks, get to booking some of these great teachers and players. You'll support the whole process and you might actually make a bit of money to support your habit. Very Happy

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Bill Hankey · From: Pittsfield, MA, USA

Zane,

As you can readily see, I lead with my left, but have never been given the opportunity to deliver with a convincing termination of the opposition through technical examinations. I refer to the written words that just may contain vague biases that are linked to my failure in proving a point. I have an e-mail address and I have a white hot iron in the fire concerning a burst in promotion, should I see a light at the end of the tunnel. b0b assured me in a past thread that I had nothing to fear but fear as for the closing of threads except for violations of forum rules. The record shows that my concerns about the closing of threads needs to be addressed. I'm not arguing with leadership; but rather, looking for a solution.

Bill McCloskey · From: Nanuet, NY

Bill, what are you hoping will happen to these mediocre players being put on stage next to professionals? That they will somehow be inspired?

My own opinion is that it is detrimental to the player to be exposed to an audience before he or she is ready.

As a case in point, I remember going to a steel guitar forum years ago and hearing a well respected member of this forum play in one of the rooms. The person in question is knowledgeable and provides a lot of information and advice here. I had never heard them play before and was astonished at how bad they were. I mean really bad. My opinion of that person has never been the same.

Putting someone on stage when they are not ready is no gift to the person who has to play and those in the audience who have to endure.

Brian Henry · Posted 6 Sep 2010 12:55 pm **Putting Many Eggs In One Basket!**

Bill, Here are some reasons to keep all your eggs in one basket:

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Barry Blackwood · Posted 6 Sep 2010 2:46 pm

TB, that was egg-ceptional!! Whoa!

Barry Blackwood · Posted 6 Sep 2010 2:51 pm

Mike Perlowin wrote:

Bill Hankey · From: Pittsfield, MA, USA

tb henry,

Where did you learn that type of poor conduct? Would you consider a shorter version Of "eggs in a basket"? I ask writers who may enjoy a lively debate, to continue supporting the durability of a concept that concerns future greats of the pedal steel guitar. I'm advocating calling attention to partiality issues that convey uncertain messages openly to steel guitar hopefuls. Putting individuals on notice by engaging in shunning, and opting for preferential treatment to insure that mediocre players will remain on hold indefinitely, is reality. After 30 or 40 years of booking accommodations, for seating and lodging, a little bell commences to ring amongst what is considered a nonrepresentational agenda. Responses to bona fide inquiries in the past, concerning performances, had set me straight by activating a system of blunt refusals, succinct and abrupt. I should be happy! Right!

Doug Beaumier · From: Northampton, MA

Duane Reese · Posted 6 Sep 2010 4:10 pm

Bill Hankey · From: Pittsfield, MA, USA

Duane,

You are very convincing, and I find that you can exceed normal accusative boundaries in attempting to discredit me. BTW, what are your ratings as a steel guitarist? Do you have 30 years of stage experience under your belt? Do you think for one minute that your attitude would remain unchanged, if you met a few pickers here in Western Massachusetts? If you are qualified to match your outcries with expertise on the pedal steel, I'll fill the room with apologies.

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