I'm not sure if this has been discussed before. Who are the best harmonica performers? Let's de-prioritize musical ability (of course, we can't remove it from the discussion altogether) and talk about who the best showmen are. I recently saw Mark Hummel's Blowout and I was amazed at the disparity in showmanship. A guy like Howard Levy can be a musical genius but boring to watch, while someone like Son of Dave can play simple chords and rhythms and really get the crowd into it.
Everyone has their preferences, but can we come up with some common ground? I'm sure Jason will be on everyone's list, and I think Rick Estrin and Andy Just should be, too. ---------- Marc Graci YouTube Channel
This is interesting. I also was able to see Mark's blowout(Portland show). I concur 100%! As far as entertainers go I think Son of Dave was great, and I was amazed with corky seigel's performing skills. As far as closing your eyes and just listening, Howard and Jason had the wow factor there. I feel that son of Dave's and Corky's (all performers) choice of songs were a strong factor also, pieces that make you tap your toe to the groove lend much to showmanship versus simply displaying an amazing run/lick/solo. ---------- If you don't cut it while it's hot......
The thing that amazed me most about Howard(aside from his music,) was how in the world does he keep time with absolutely zero animation?! ---------- If you don't cut it while it's hot......
Rick Estrin for SURE. Jason ofcourse never disappoints. Dennis Grueling Steve Guyger
I love that Adam put Charlie Sayles in there.
I havent had the opportunity to see too many harp players live .... Im intersted to hear who tops everyones list. I was amazed at Estrins showmanship quite frankly. Hes just got that electric energy.
Don't get to many live shows but saw him at the Harpin' By the Sea thing at Brighton UK last weekend. Learned a lot by watching him and had a really great evening.
I say THANK YOU for introducing me to Rory McLeod and Jerome Godboo. Thet are excelent. And I forgot how much I love Madcat. But when the subject of performers comes up, as it has in the past, I once again want to bring up the name Geneva Red. Here's my Youtube from when she played in Huntington a few years ago.
