b0b, here is the nomination as you requested. I had to find it, convert it to a txt file, cut and paste it to this topic. I'm computer literate enough to do it otherwise. Here it is and thanks for your patience.
February 25, 2003
Subject: Julian Tharpe's Formal Nomination to the Steel Guitar Hall of Fame
Julian, until his tragic demise, had been a long time entrepeneur of the pedal steel guitar. His futuristic innovations both of the tuning and of the physical makeup of the guitar itself are widely known and appreciated.
He played with such recording greats as Ray Price, Barbara Mandrell and many others too numerous to mention. His performances on the psg were mind boggling and culminated with standing ovations on many of his lead rides. One of his appearance with Ray Price in the Astrodome is indicative of his capability. Over 7,000 people stood and applauded his instrumental act there. I witnessed this.
Julian, along with Reece Anderson, was very instrumental in the development of the Universal tuning we now use on pedal steel. Although Reece's tuning is more 'calm', for lack of a better word, than Julian's, one can see the similiarity of the two. That is understandable because of Julian's efforts in the MSA factory and his close friendship with Reece. Julian's tuning and guitar setup included 14 strings and at one time he had 22 pedals on the guitar.
Julian has recorded at least five (5) LP's of which I am aware. They include:
1. Deep Feelings
2. Southern Fried Steel
3. The Jet Age
4. Take Your Pick
5. 12 + 14 = Country Jazz with Zane Beck
These are the only 5 I have, there could possibly be more.
Julian, as an instructor, was very patient with me and others who studied under him in Dallas. I'm certain Billy Phelps and possibly a gent named McHam (sic) were studying at the same time I was there. I don't know how many more students he had. He was an expert in the E9 and C6 tunings, and he was very articulate in the Universal tuning he had developed. I, along with many others, still use a version of that tuning.
Julian was also part of the Branson's Baldknobbers (sic) show in Branson Missouri. It was one of the first theaters that opened in that city. I cannot tell you how long he participated in that show, but he's listed in the lobby as part of the "first casts" that was there.
On March 3, 1976 I attended a Nashville jam session, in which a LP was supposed to be made (I never saw a copy of it) that Jimmy Bryant and others produced. I believe it was called "The First Time". He performed, along with bassist Henry Strzlecki (sic), drummer Louis Bellson, and I believe the sax player was a gentleman named Gore, and the steel players invited included Speedy West, Julian, Day, Hal Rugg, Reece Anderson, L. Green, Chalker, Doug Jernigan, and possibly one other. This was probably the first time that many "name steel players" were ever in one place at one time. When Julian finished his set, every person in the studio stood and applauded. That never happened but the one time. A tribute to a great talent by his peers.
This is my third attempt to have Julian's name placed in nomination for the Steel Guitar Hall of fame and I consider it a privilege to do so. He was an outstanding player, a teacher of the instrument, and provided the steel guitar community another path for tuning possibilities. Although he's passed on, his legacy has left many with fond memories, and thoughtful aspirations. Julian Tharpe, along with many others, belong in the Steel Guitar Hall of Fame. Your consideration is welcomed.
Fred Shannon
6716 East Robinson Rd
Big Spring, Texas, 79720
Tel no--915-263-2213
email:
fjshan@crcom.net
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The spirit be with you!
If it aint got a steel, it aint real
