How many years? Guitars?Main influence(1)

Billy Carr · From: Seminary, Mississippi, USA (deceased)

Lots of interesting topics listed here on the forum. I'd like to read about some of the players that are listing some of these. How many years has a player been playing steel guitar to start with. I'll start with myself. I started in 71'. 35 years ago. Guitars? Well, I'm not really sure but I think as of today, I've had 40 to 50 personal guitars over the years. If I were to list only one major influence in the PSG circles it would have to be John Hughey. I'm not calling anybodys number here but instead I'm just wanting to know a little more about some of the players. Thanks.

Brett Day · From: Pickens, SC

I've been playin' steel for six years, almost seven. I started on December 25th, 1999 at the age of eighteen. December 25th will be my seventh year at the steel guitar. Brett, Emmons S-10, Morrell lapsteel, GFI Ultra D-10-aka "Redgold Beauty"

Robert Thomas · From: Mehama, Oregon, USA

Started in about 1944 or 45. Toook lessons. The Oahu American Institute of Music course. Played a six string open hole guitar. Got my first electric in about 1948-49, a Gibson BR-9 with a matching amplifier. In 1950 I graduated to a Fender D-8 Custom. In 1952 I graduated to a T-8 Fender Stringmaster. In 1971 I want to a new Sho-bud Professional D-10, 8+4. In 1999 I finally went to my very last PSG, the HWP Mullen D-10, 8+4.
As you can tell from the figures, I have been playing about 62 Years. I have never tired of playing, but I did give up the night scene many years ago. I still play 3 times a week and enjoy every minute of it, but at almost 73 I realize that my enjoying time is running out. Each day is harder to get through. Keep that in mind and take good care of your health, It will pay off big in the end of the stretch. I am fortunate in that I have no health issues and I don't have to take any medications, but I do know that this old body is getting very tired. Enjoy your ride while you can. There is nothing like the thrill of making beautiful music on the Steel Guitar.
The major influence for me has been that sound.

Joe Smith · From: Charlotte, NC, USA

Billy, I started with a lap steel around 1949. I was 12 years old and it was a 20.00 guitar with the strings raised at the nut. At 69, I still enjoy playing the pedal steel and practice a couple hours a day.
I would have to say that the biggest influence for me was a local steel player (Gene Alexander) who got me started.

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My playing sounds more like it did before than it does now

Dick Wood · From: Springtown Texas, USA

I started taking lessons in 1981 played 4-5 nights a week thereafter until I stopped playing from 1993-1995 because I got more involved in Police work.

Started playing again in 1996 and have played 3-5 nights a week since then.

I have owned around 10 guitars and my major influence is Buddy Emmons.

Gabriel Stutz · From: Chicago, USA

I've always been curious about how long all you guys have been playing, as well. It will be interesting to see. I've only been playing for about 4 years. I took lessons for a while from a great player here, and I've been reasonably busy ever since. As you may have guessed there aren't a lot of steel players around here - a few, but not too many - and, while there are some amazing and experienced players here, most of us are pretty new to the instrument.

Gabriel

[This message was edited by Gabriel Stutz on 20 November 2006 at 10:03 AM.]

Terry Wood · From: Lebanon, MO

I stared playing pedal steel guitar April 1975. My first steel was a Lloyd Green SHO-BUD and it about cost me a divorce. I traded for and played a Double ten MSA like Curly Chalker's for about 2 years. Then I had my friend Reece Anderson and his crew Bud Carter custom build me a double ten Super Sustain MSA. After hearing Julian Tharpe in Panama City FL during May 1981, I switched to a single 12 Zane Beck BMI. Summer 1984, I had the late Zane Beck and Don Fritsche of BMI steels custom build me a 14 stringer like Julian's. I been playing that steel evr since. It oringinally had 14 pedals and I detached one that I seldom used. I have the pickups wound like Julian's and I have actually fried two amps with it over the years. It has the sound for me.

Influences and friendships have included players like Lloyd Green, Buddy Enmmons, Speedy West, Jerry Byrd, Don Helms, Jimmy Day, Hal Rugg, Weldon Myrick, John Hughey, Curly Chalker, Reece Anderson, Doug Jernigan, Zane Beck, Bobby Black, Bob White and of course Julian Tharpe. I think it's sad that more younger players will never get to hear or see these guys play live. I really miss a bunch of these guys!

May GOD bless you!

Terry Wood

Terry Wood · From: Lebanon, MO

Biggest influence on me, probably the Genius of the late Julian THarpe! THe man was years ahead of his time!

Terry

Farris Currie · From: Ona, Florida, USA, R.I.P.

BILLY this is a great subject.

I started in mid 60s with a teacher, name MICKY YAGLE

he played 6string only lap,and multi-kord.

I learned all wrong, full chords, A Tuning and Etuning full chords.

I could hear the full sounds on TOGETHER AGAIN ect. i asked and teacher said OH THEY ARE JUST GOOD.

Teacher said those Emmons steels ect. were no good they can't pull a full chord with one pedal.

well, as years went on, i learned about split pedals ect.

moral of the story, my teacher came to me, and had a fit. said if he was younger he would get me to teach him. a few months later he died.

don't learn the wrong way, today we have all the computer and lessons available.

farris

Billy Carr · From: Seminary, Mississippi, USA (deceased)

Good so far. Let's keep'em coming!

Ben Jones · From: Seattle, Washington, USA

years playing - almost one year
guitars - 2 but one only lasted a week.
main influence - Jaydee Maness

Im a NOOB!

Chris LeDrew · From: Canada

I've been playing pedal steel for 6 years, fortunately (for me, anyway) all of that time in a working band. I joined when I knew three or four lick and runs, and have developed from there. The forum kicked me into high gear in the last 2 years, and I've become fully immersed. Before that, I was a "throw the steel in the trunk and leave it there" type of player. Ha-ha........

I've owned a Phillips Custom S-10, Thompson D-10, MSA Lacquer Universal, Sho~Bud Pro 1 ('80s), National lap, Fender Stringmaster, Carter D-10, Carter SD-10, and now another Pro 1 ('76) - my current and only working guitar.

I have to credit deceased friend and fellow forumite Fred Truitt for getting me started, and to his wife Millie for giving me his steel guitar upon his passing. Major influences include Lloyd Green, Buddy Emmons, Neil Flanz, Al Perkins, Sneaky Pete. I've since learned a lot from Paul Franklin, Bruce Bouton and Jeff Newman through courses. If I was stranded on a desert island with only one steel CD, it would be "Live At Panther Hall".

Billy Joe Bailey · From: Jackson, Mississippi, USA

I started out in about 1988 with a Showbud Maveric - move to a Mullen D-ten-8-5 move to a Derby single 3-5 I had a d-10 Carter 8-5
I now own a 97- Emmons Lagrand LL thats a keeper,, And ALSO -- A - 2006 Rains that I purchased recently from Billy Carr -- Carr's steel guitar shop. What can I say the Rains people build fine guitars. So go git you one.
As for my influence, that would have to be none other than Jeff Newman,with out a doubt.
There are others like Paul Franklin and Steve Palousek, but I have JeffS Tab scatter everywhere in my little Steelguitar world.
Five years ago I gave live to Christ, so now,I take what little talent I have on steel and back a Gospel songwriter we have a little four piece band.We'll play on anybody's doorstep that will let us, if they want to hear the gospel song, and played on steel guitar.
Our band is called Debtfree,the studio that we are working out of belongs to the singer
And we will be putting a gospel CD out before long. well anyway thats my two cents BJ

[This message was edited by Billy Joe Bailey on 20 November 2006 at 08:46 PM.]

Richard Sinkler · From: aka: Rusty Strings -- Missoula, Montana

35 years. Main influences are John Hughey, Buddy Emmons, Lloyd Green, Hal Rugg and Sonny Garrish

Oops, forgot the guitars.

National T-8, ZB S-10, ZB D-10, Kline D-10, Sho~Bud Super Pro, Carter D-10 (my present guitar)

[This message was edited by Richard Sinkler on 22 November 2006 at 05:34 PM.]

Hal Higgins · From: Denham Springs, LA

Come this March...it will be 37 years of this wonderful instrument.....and I have no plans to retire from playing it anytime soon, as for the number of guitars, Billy, I don't have enough fingers and toes to count them....(lol).....I will say that I've without a doubt have the best one I've ever had with this "RAINS" ('06 model). It stays in tune and has such a great sound. BTW, it's the one I got from you, (who'd a thunk...lol). Influences.....hmmm....let's see......there's the "Big E"....and then Buddy Emmons.........(get the picture?)...I could not say that John Hughey hasn't influenced my playing at all.....'cause that would not be true.....He's a monster player, and undoubtedly, has influenced many players.......I could never even begin to come close to their playing abilities...Is this what you wanted Billy? Hey all you players both young and old, if you happen to be in the market for a steel guitar or any steel guitar related products, give the starter of this topic a try...Carrs Steel Guitar Shop, located in Seminary, MS. Billy will treat you so many ways, you're bound to like some of them.....(hehehe). He'll even wash your car window for you, if'n I'm lyin' I'm dyin'......thanks Billy.

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Be Blessed........HAL
2006 Rains w/8 & 5 Chestnut Burl Mica. Rack system with Evans Preamp (LV), DPC1400,Lexicon MPX500, Furman Power Conditioner, 2 Evans Cabs with Eclipse 15's Modified Evans Preamp (no rack ears), Boss RV5, DD3, Digitech RP50, 2 Hilton Pedals, Walker Seat w/sidekick and backrest, BJS 10 string bar with birthstone. Zookies thumb pick L-30.

[This message was edited by Hal Higgins on 21 November 2006 at 08:16 AM.]

CrowBear Schmitt · From: Ariege, - PairO'knees, - France

i started out playin guitbox bout the age of 14 - 1965
got my first real one (59 Strat) in 68
got my first lap steel (Gibson BR6) in 70
got my first psg (SB Maverick ) in 1984
discovered this forum round 2000 & got my first real psg (SB D10 Professional)very soon after i discovered y'all

got my first Gibson EH150 in 2002
got my first Zum in 2003
Guitbox was my main instrument but Steel done took over

[This message was edited by CrowBear Schmitt on 21 November 2006 at 09:48 AM.]

Larry Jamieson · From: Walton, NY USA

I started with an MSA semi-classic in 1973. Went to the "Hank Thompson School of Country Music" at Claremore Oklahoma, 1974-76. There, I had lessons from Gene Craine, a super player! Married, started a family, and played with several bands in Oklahoma, then returned to New York in 1985. Wanted more knee levers (the MSA had only one) so I tried a BMI, Excel, Carter, Cougar, and finally ordered a new Zum which I received in November of 1993. It is the best of the lot and I played over thirty gigs on it this summer. I also bought a 1977 MSA Classic a year ot two ago for a 2nd guitar. It plays great but does not sound as good on stage as the Zum. So far, my health is good and I am enjoying playing shows, dances, fairs and so on. We don't play many bars, and I don't miss them! I am thankful that I work with a good bunch of musicians and we get along well. See my crew on line at www.countryexpressmusic.com. Larry J.

Jody Sanders · From: Magnolia,Texas, R.I.P.

I started lessons in 1944. Was playing in clubs at age 18. I have done live and taped radio and TV. Played on the three largest country venues in the US when I was in my "prime"as a player. Have released(or let escape) two casette albums. Have done lots of local sessions, and worked with lots of "name" acts. Have owned probably 10 different brands of steel guitars. Have played on most of the major steel guitar shows and am still doing around 90 to 100 dates a year locally.I love it. First influence was Little Roy Wiggins and too many more to list. Am presently playing a D10 Pedalmaster. Jody.

[This message was edited by Jody Sanders on 22 November 2006 at 09:55 PM.]

Jody Cameron · From: Angleton, TX,, USA

I started in 1980...I was 17 yrs. old then. I've probably owned 12-15 different guitars over the years.

My main influences were (are) Emmons, Green, Day, Jernigan and Hughey.

I still love steel as much as I ever have!

JC

I forgot to mention my biggest influence! The poster above me...Jody Sanders. He started me out in 1980. Luv ya JB!

[This message was edited by Jody Cameron on 21 November 2006 at 08:01 PM.]

Charlie Moore · From: Deville, Louisiana, USA

Well Billy i started on psg in 1972,bought a ZB D10 could'nt learn to play,sold it to Earl Carpenter amp and all $600..In1976 i bought a shobud prolll,and a sho bud amp the one with the controls in the front top left corner..1977 went to a local bar called the cujun corner talked to Johnny Legget(he was the band leader and owned the club)i asked do you need a steel player he said can you play i said no but i learning,he said bring your stuff in and set up..he played one song looked at me and said,you are right you can't play but i think you will learn..i took the job 9:00pm till 3:30am 6 nights a week $30 a nite(paid my dues)i went to a 79 pp,80 mod Franklin,78 pp,3 different mullens,now i have a 83 mod zum..all D10s..and i'm on my 3rd wife..there it is..thanks...
Charlie...

Robert Dominick · From: Bradenton, FL

Billy...Started playing pedal steel in 1984, 22 years ago. First psg was a Shobud LDG. Up until that time I had played guitar for 25 years prior to taking up the steel. Played professionaly up until 1997. Just got back into the steel this past summer after laying out for 9 years. Right now I have a Carter S-10. Main influences have been Lloyd Green, Buddy Emmons, Jay Dee Mannes and Buck Reid. Hope to get back into playing part time again soon. The Forum has been a real impetus for me in getting re-started again! Love it!

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Carter S-10 3x5, Fender Steel king, Boss DD-3, Boss ME-50

Jim Walker · From: Headland, AL

I got my very first steel in 1999. An Emmons student model and went through 4 steels in 6 months but never learn to play that go around. I started over in January of this year and I'm on my 4th PSG this time. I become interested in PSG after wathcing John Hughey intro "Look At Us" and get a standing ovation at a Vince Gill Concert back in 1997.

John Coffman · From: Wharton,Texas USA

April 2007 will make my third year trying to play the Steel. 4 steels the Carter starter (went to another newbie). Currently 2 Thomas's D10/SD10 and a Desert Rose beginner. The Desert Rose is wrapped and under the tree for my Son's christmas.

At this point just learning and have fun with a great hobby. Lot's of Travel and High stress is my day job so do not get to play as much as I'd like. Biggest influences Mr. Green, Cindy Cashdollar and Big Jim Murphy.

Hero's that are great guys and friends that have helped me grow and reach from more. Jim Harper, Jody Sanders (also my steel teacher) and Jody Cameron. These guys are great promoters of Pedal steel.

My support group SETGSA. A Great bunch of people. God bless you all for the good things you do.

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Thomas SD10 3/4,Thomas D10 8/5 and Desert Rose S10 3/4. Beginner Just Steelin on the Brazos river.

Larry Strawn · From: Golden Valley, Arizona, R.I.P.

I got my first steel around 1975, a Wheeler D-10, didn't have time to devote to it so I threw it in the closet until I traded it for some other "toys". What a mistake!!
Finally in about 1996 I traded a set of drums for an MSA single 10, 3/1, and it was Horrible [me not the steel]! From that to an MSA D-10 Classic, then an SD/10 Emmons, and now a Fessy U12. Still just a hack, but playing with our band and others that will let me one to three weekends a month things are getting better. [If I could just get my friend Bill Baily here in Kingman to give me lessons]

Larry

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"Fessy" S/D 12, 8/6 Hilton Pedal, Sessions 400 Ltd. Home Grown E/F Rack
"ROCKIN COUNTRY"

Bob Carlucci · From: Candor, New York, USA

Been hackin 30 years... First influences were Buddy Cage,Rusty Young, Sneaky Pete, Garcia,Al Perkins, followed closely by Brumley,Moon, Rhodes.... My playing today is a conglomeration of all these guys, but no where near their level.. Owned,played and loved several steels including 4 MSA's,Dekley,6 Buds , Williams,a brief fling with a Fender 400,... currently a 5+5 Carter S 10 and an old 6+4 Bud S 10 share time... Fender/Peavey /Gibson amps are in the rotation,,, and with me its all tubes or nothing.... My steel playing has set me apart from all the other 6 string guitarists around me for decades, and it was the best birthday gift of my life, when my young bride bought me that Maverick so long ago... bob

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