Gnarly
822 posts
Dec 16, 2013
9:37 AM
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BigSteveNJ
32 posts
Dec 16, 2013
12:43 PM
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The incomparable Mickey Raphael on harp. I've seen him with Willie too many times to remember, and his playing is always tasteful and right where it should be; it's straddling that border between bad-ass skill and musicality. He never plays anything too "out" for the crowd to appreciate.
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Gnarly
824 posts
Dec 16, 2013
1:10 PM
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Mickey is revered as a deity in Texas.
But check out Bonnie's solo--that is the blues.
Just listened to the solos again, the guitar then the harp is definitely the one two punch.
Not to mention Leon then Willie--this is just great music, great American music.
Last Edited by Gnarly on Dec 16, 2013 1:13 PM
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BigSteveNJ
39 posts
Dec 16, 2013
8:02 PM
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I've heard Mickey with a Champ and a stock SM57, and I've heard him acoustic in front of a vocal mic. One of the best case-studies for learning your instrument and getting good tone BEFORE and even IN SPITE OF the use of amplification.
Also some great people, this bunch. I've got tales...
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Gnarly
826 posts
Dec 16, 2013
8:26 PM
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Do tell!
Last Edited by Gnarly on Dec 16, 2013 8:28 PM
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BigSteveNJ
43 posts
Dec 17, 2013
7:56 AM
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Here's a shorter one, in a nutshell:
Lived in Scranton. Drove to NJ shore for a gig, three-hour drive. Played till 1 AM. Drove another hour to Atlantic City. Went to 24-hour breakfast place. Found out where Willie's hotel was (not telling). Went there, brought bottle of Wild Turkey for him. Met Willie early AM. Had drink with Willie early AM.
He asked us if we were in town for his show. We said two of us had comp tickets, third person needed to buy. He said, "forget that. Go to box office, tickets will be waiting for you." Then asked where we were staying. We told him (truth) we had come in at 2 AM, were staying up until that night after the show, and then would sleep a little in the car before driving back to Scranton.
Willie gave us his hotel-room key and told us he would be sleeping on his bus. We got to greet Sister Bobbie and the rest of the band that morning as well.
Since then, there have been more stories, but that one is precious to me. Had a chance to talk to Willie, got some great advice, and never forgot their kindness to us.
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