In this lively collection of interviews, storied music writer Jas
Obrecht presents a celebration of the world's most popular
instrument as seen through the words, lives, and artistry of some
of its most beloved players. Readers will read--and hear--accounts
of the first guitarists on record, pioneering bluesmen, gospel
greats, jazz innovators, country pickers, rocking rebels,
psychedelic shape-shifters, singer-songwriters, and other movers
and shakers. In their own words, these guitar players reveal how
they found their inspirations, mastered their instruments, crafted
classic songs, and created enduring solos. Also included is a CD of
never-before-heard moments from Obrecht's insightful interviews
with these guitar greats.
Highlights include Nick Lucas's recollections of waxing the first
noteworthy guitar records; Ry Cooder's exploration of prewar blues
musicians; Carole Kaye and Ricky Nelson on the early years of rock
and roll; Stevie Ray Vaughan on Jimi Hendrix; Gregg Allman on his
brother, Duane Allman; Carlos Santana, Eric Johnson, and Pops
Staples on spirituality in music; Jerry Garcia, Neil Young, and Tom
Petty on songwriting and creativity; and early interviews with
Eddie Van Halen, Joe Satriani, and Ben Harper.