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Topic: Sonny Treadway |
Bill McCloskey
From:
Nanuet, NY
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Posted 11 Apr 2010 1:15 pm |
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I did a search on the forum for Sonny Treadway and only came up with a couple of posts, so I thought I would start a thread about this amazing player.
I love all the Sacred Steel players, but Sonny has always stood out because of his unique approach and sound he gets. Playing both lead and bass at the same time, he really creates the illusion of two players trading licks. One of his CD's is just him and an rhythm guitar player, and get is sounds much fuller, like a trio.
I am hoping that some of you who know the Sacred Steelers will post their thoughts on the man, the musican, the music, and the technique. |
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Bill McCloskey
From:
Nanuet, NY
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Posted 12 Apr 2010 3:06 am
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| I'm surprised no one responded to this thread. Is it a lack of interest or lack of knowledge of who Sonny is? |
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Bob Stone
From:
Gainesville, FL, USA
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Posted 12 Apr 2010 5:55 am
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Bill,
Sonny keeps to himself. He plays in the Jewell Dominion tradition, and of course, was greatly influenced by Lorenzo Harrison. The Harrison style incorporates a lot of playing on the bass strings. That said, Sonny has his own distinctive sound. He is also known as a talented standard guitar player, but I have never heard him. He spent a lot of time backing up Harrison at assemblies all over the US.
Sonny grew up in Detroit playing with Ronnie Hall, Wayne White, Calvin Cooke, et al in Felton Williams' basement.
The last time I saw Sonny--about 3 years ago playing in church--he was retired from his day job and playing a lot. And playing very well.
You are not alone as a Treadway fan. There are many--Chris Strachwitz of Arhoolie Records among the most avid. Recording Don't Let the Devil Ride live after church ca. 1993 was an unforgettable experience.
By the way, my 300-page Sacred Steel book will be available from University of Illinois Press in early Fall 2010. I will post more specific info when available. |
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Bill McCloskey
From:
Nanuet, NY
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Posted 12 Apr 2010 5:58 am
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| "Don't Let the Devil Ride " is the song that first made me a fan. The bass sound he gets is just a treat to listen to. I put on all my Treadway last night. He is such a pleasure to listen to. I wish he would record and play out more. |
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Al Terhune
From:
Newcastle, WA
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Posted 12 Apr 2010 6:06 am
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Well, you piqued my curiosity, Bill. I just bought one from the below.
http://tiny.cc/y1yjp
I'm also wondering what type of guitar that is on the cover?
_________________
Al
My equipment:
One heck of a Wife
The ghost of a red Doberman
Several pairs of reading glasses strewn about |
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Brad Bechtel
From:
San Francisco, CA
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Posted 12 Apr 2010 6:56 am
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| Bill McCloskey wrote: |
| I'm surprised no one responded to this thread. Is it a lack of interest or lack of knowledge of who Sonny is? |
I would say it's a lack of exposure to Mr. Treadway's playing, plus the fact that you asked on a Sunday afternoon.  He only has the one solo CD available, although his songs on the first Sacred Steel CD on Arhoolie are standout performances.
_________________
Brad’s Page of Steel
A web site devoted to acoustic & electric lap steel guitars |
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Bob Stone
From:
Gainesville, FL, USA
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Posted 12 Apr 2010 7:27 am
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Hi,
Sonny's steel is home made, using Fender Deluxe 8 pickups and fretboard and a tuning gear assembly from an old Sho Bud pedal steel, all installed in a body he made from reclaimed wood. On the records he is playing a Fender Compact Bassman amp, and I think that's what he is still using. |
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Orville Johnson
From:
Seattle, Washington, USA
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Posted 12 Apr 2010 7:33 am
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| I agree that Treadway is my favorite among the Sacred Steelers. |
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