The Steel Guitar Forum

I was in Detroit on a family matter last week. So, the Sunday before Xmas I went to Ted Beard's church & the Sunday after Xmas I went to Calvin Cooke's church.

Listening to these masters in their own millieu is both humbling & inspiring at the same time. Studio recordings definitely do not do them justice (since the congregation is both audience, participant & synergist).

After the services, I introduced myself to them & thanked them for their contributions to rhe steel guitar. I was touched by the modesty & humility of these men.

Lucky you!!!

What steel players did you get to hear?

Hi Bill- Happy new year!

I lucked out & heard both masters themselves: Maurice 'Ted' Beard & Calvin Cooke.

Calvin taught Robert Randolph, Alvin Lee & also Chuck Campbell how to play. In my opinion, he's the master & they are very good but still students. I compare Calvin to the master of touch & tone- even if you dont like his style, you just gotta love his TONE! Tone like 30 year-old Bourbon, vibratto like butter and now & then he shoots fire from his fingers! Butter, Bourbon & fire- how about that? I can hear Calvin's influence in alot of Robert's playing...

Ted Beard had a completely different style altogether. He was backing singers mostly, played more chords, less single note solos & used the volume pedal more. He sounded almost more like a 'country' gospel player to me, but I'm no judge.

I think I'll go back next time I'm in town...

I heard both these players in Florida two years ago and both are great and also very nice people! When I saw Ted he started out a little slow but soon rocked the house. I had the honor of joining Calvin on stage for a tune and that definetely ranks as one of the highlights of my musical experience.

Happy New Year everybody!

Bill