R.I.P. Doc Watson
Doc, was born in Deep Gap, North Carolina on March 3, 1923. He went blind at 1 years old from an eye infection. Later his Daddy made him a banjo from a cat skin and said, "Learn to play this son... I think it'll help you get through life. We'll get you a store bought one when we can.“
Doc passed today at 89, (May 29, 2012)... He was a legend. He played guitar, banjo, violin, and harmonica. He got his first guitar, a mail order "Stella" from the Sears Roebuck catalog. An amazing man, musician, player, songwriter, and one heck of an awesome flatpicking guitar player that drove it on home like no other...
Doc Watson came to the national stage in the 1960’s. In an age of protest songs and corny renditions of traditional folk tunes his style was very personal and authentic North Carolina way of singing hymns, country blues, and ballads. Doc inspired all kinds of musicians from many styles of music for over 40 years.
|
|
He alway's played guitar front and center. It was like listening to a 4 piece band. He had the bass, the rhythm, and the lead including counterpoint. His gift to me was like Jimi Hendrix, Doc reinvented the guitar and its purpose. A man of incredible self taught talents and determination, Doc Watson went on to win the hearts of music lovers everywhere and played for over 70 years. He won many awards and accolades, but most importantly, he won the hearts of fans from all over the world. A humble guy, he put it this way, “I’m just one of the people.” Back in his early days preparing for a radio show the announcer thought he needed a catchier name than Arthel Lane Watson. He yelled out to the audience for suggestions and a woman replied, “Doc!” and it stuck. Doc Watson it is! |
Bless you Doc and thank you. I learned so much from you!
R.I.P. Arthel Lane Watson and thank you for years of inspiration and being an important part of my life's soundtrack. Thanks for being real and playing the guitar. You more than earned your ticket to the promised land.
Comments(12)