Fastest and Slowest Player...

Miguel e Smith · From: Phoenix, AZ

I've read a bit of the posts about the fastest and slowest thingy (the slowest...that's a good one). Although I know this comes down to everyone's personal favorite players (doesn't it always?)I thought I'd throw down my 2 cents worth.
Many years ago I heard Freddy Hubbard (trumpet player) in concert. Just before the show started, he said "If you like the music...DIG...if you don't....DANCE". I think that concept is good for all musicians to hear. Whether it's fast or slow or somewhere inbetween, whether it's one form of music or another...either DIG it or DANCE. Although I was mentioned in the fast players category (thanks Larry Behm), I know for a fact that I'm not "the" fastest. I've done my share of terrible sounding junk, but I hope to play something tasteful at whatever speed possible. I think we all would like to have no limitations on fast playing but it's there for all of us.
I hope we never get to the place that we organize a Steel Guitar Olympics and hand out awards to the fastest, loudest, flashiest, smoothist players out there. I probably wouldn't qualify for even a Silver Medal in any category. Then again, how would we qualify judges? Would manufacturers and the players themselves influence them? No matter who won what, I doubt steel guitar fans would forsake their long-time favorites because of the results.
I hope we all learn and get better and have "open ears" for all the really cool stuff emerging. Doesn't mean we have to forsake favorites or tradition. I personally love the variety in players styles, musical styles, fast/slow playing, tones, etc... I think our world would be boring without this diversity.

[This message was edited by Miguel e Smith on 11 May 2002 at 10:51 PM.]

Bobbe Seymour · From: Hendersonville TN USA, R.I.P.

I would like to state that Miguel e Smith is one of the finest players and people that ever sat behind a steel guitar,also a very talented recording engineer and producer. I take his opinions and comments to heart.What ever he playes or says is gold , to me.
So naturally, I have to agree wholeheartedly , and thank you, great player!

[This message was edited by BobbeSeymour on 11 May 2002 at 04:53 PM.]

Miguel e Smith · From: Phoenix, AZ

Hey thanks Bobbe! But...but...you didn't mention my speed picking (LOL)

Mike

Bobbe Seymour · From: Hendersonville TN USA, R.I.P.

Never noticed it! (Ha!ha!)

Joe Miraglia · From: Jamestown N.Y.

I am definitely the slowest steel player there is. I can pick a note, walk off the stage in front of the main speakers, and get there before the note does. Joe

Bobbe Seymour · From: Hendersonville TN USA, R.I.P.

I think that may be because of the "Slo-blow" fuse in your amp! Or possibly your cords have to much resistance in them. My ex-wife had too much resistance in her.
Backer Rupp III

Kevin Hatton · From: Buffalo, N.Y.

Guys, for Mike Smith to be saying this is VERY important. If you don't know, Mike Smith IS one of the fastest players in the world! He is also a world class producer. It is his wisdom here to tell us to enjoy all forms of steel guitar that is so refreshing. The fastest picker doesn't always translate into good taste.

Tiny Olson · From: Mohawk River Valley, Upstate NY

Mike:

I surely agree with your statements from above. I also have to tell you just how much I've been impressed with your talent over the years. An absolutely fantastic player are you.

I haven't seen you in many years but I still admire your playing to the utmost.

BTW- I still have a couple of those old Evans brochures with our pictures and comments in them. Man, I had alot less wrinkles and way less gray hair back then !! Jimmy Day is on them too and that's cool.

Tiny Olson

Joel Glassman · From: Waltham MA USA

I am the slowest steel player!
I've only sat down at a steel twice, and someone had to tell me what to do to make a sound. When that kind of micro-management is required...well, we're talkin' slow my friends!

Miguel e Smith · From: Phoenix, AZ

Hey guys, thanks a lot for the nice comments. I didn't post this topic in hopes of getting pats on the back, but they're appreciated just the same. Living up to the good stuff is a tall order but maybe with enough smoke and mirrors...

Tiny, good to hear from you. What are you doing in NY? Keep in touch.

Mike P.S.; the Gold goes to Joel...well, unless someone challanges that.

[This message was edited by Miguel e Smith on 14 May 2002 at 01:18 PM.]

Jeff Lampert · From: queens, new york city

Miguel,
Perhaps you can help us on a picking question. You might be familiar with the uptempo playing styles of Buddy Cage and JayDee Maness. There's a technique question about how the solos in "Panama Red" and "Hello Trouble" were played. If you think you can help, the topic is in the "Pedal Steel" section of the Forum and is called "I Need Some Picking Help". If you are familiar with either of those solos, you might be able to provide some insight. Thanks for any assistance you can give. .. Jeff

Joel Glassman · From: Waltham MA USA

Thanks Miguel,
The first time was the most exciting.
I pushed down on a pedal and it sounded
like "country music". This was a thrill, but I'm sure you all know what I'm talking about.

Joel

Pat Coyne · From: Gallatin

Great post Mikey! I remember reading once an article regarding Ritchie Blackmore (guitarist with Deep Purple) asking how he regarded his playing back in the mid 70's....his comment was (paraphrazed) i wish i hadn't have looked at the music to how fast i could play or cram into a phrase but that i would have played with more feeling... my favorite steel lick of all time is on an Osborne Bros cut of "Beneath Still Waters"....just a simple little slow lick that Hal Rugg put in there, something most anyone could technically play...but the feeling...WOW!! when i hear it i still get shivers up my back.

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"basso profundo"

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