I saw Tony Rice live in a small bar in Roanoke, VA (USA) around the time this video was made. I had started playing the guitar a year or two before, and remember being frozen and quite emotional while he and his brother played for 2 hours. I was 10 feet from the most amazing sound and master guitarist I'd ever seen. Thank you for reviewing him. You are so respectful of the masters.
Reminds me of seeing Derek Trucks for the first time. He was 19, in a small bar Pittsburgh. He was way more into jazz and jamming up in the stratosphere back then. I stood about 2 feet from him the whole night. Oh, and Susan Tedeski showed up to sing in the last set. This was before they were even dating. She was up for best new female vocalist Grammy at the time. Probably my best music story I have. Man I might trade my story for yours though.
You should do Brad Paisley sometime in the future. Especially the videos of him trying out amps and not performing. Then it's just him noodling around and not thinking about it. Absolutely insane.
Bryan Sutton is actually more ridiculous technical playing-wise but Tony had the whole package. He wasn't just flawless, he had a bluesy aspect to his bluegrass stuff that really separates him from the pack. You know it's Tony within 3 seconds, when he's playing on Bela's recordings.
Tony Rice was a true master of his art...I don't think it can be done any better. Aside from the brilliance of his playing, he conveys the song with heartbreaking humanity while still flashing a mischievous twinkle in his eye and an occasional wry smile.
@@truckerkevthepaidtourist I'm sorry for the loss your brilliant friend. I've loved Tony Rice's unique musical for a long time. I wish I could have known him.
He used to sit in my living room in L.A. with my Uncle Clarence White and practice. I was 5 probably. My Mom and Dad Loved him and saw him in Va. some time back before he passed.
Zane you're an unbelievable picker yourself. The few videos I've seen of you were really inspiring. I remember one in particular taped in a living room, you and another fella also really good. So cool and fitting that you were friends with Tony.
you might be interested to know that the guitar tony is playing is the 1935 D-28 formally owned by clarence white it is considered by experts to be the "holy grail herringbone" the best sounding martin guitar in the world far from mint it features a very roughly enlarged sound hole (actually whittled with a knife),a very faded real tortes shell pickgaurd, a ill fitting replacement fretboard(which magically perfected the intonation) and a heavily scratched body including the scares of being shot with a pellet gun its worth millions white bought it for 25$ on another note this instructional video is owned by literally EVERY serious bluegrass player and is STILL studied like the bible
The tortoise shell pickguard was given to Tony while touring Japan with JD Crowe. A Japanese guy gave it to him after a show. If you watch the Andy Griffith show, an Episode with Clarence white playing that Guitar, it has the original pickguard on it and dots on the fretboard that were put on there just to film that episode. Clarence and Roland look like twins in that episode as well. I got this info while doing a workshop with Roland White, his brother, at Kaufman music kamp in Maryville, TN a few years ago.
Clarence used the D-28 that he and Roland bought as a rhythm guitar, but most of his lead work was done either on a D-18 or other guitars later on. He sold the D-28 in 1965 to buy a Tele and was playing a Noble dreadnought at the end of his life. Tony said that the D-28 was in terrible shape when he got it and it took an awful lot of work to make it playable. He wanted it, not so much because it was a great guitar as because it had belonged to one of his heroes. After all the work that was done on it, it has become a great guitar, but as much of the great sound coming outa that guitar is due to the guy playing it as to the guitar itself. The enlarged soundhole remains a secret, since it was already done when Clarence and Roland bought the guitar. The fretboard is an ebony Gretsch board with no position markers. As Roy Garrett said, the producers of the Andy Griffith show didn't think it looked right with no position markers, so they put paper stickers on the board for the show.
Thank you for showcasing Tony Rice. He's hands down the most influential bluegrass picker ever. I also enjoy watching your reactions. Well done and thanks again!
Yes! Hope you do more of these too. Love me some Tony Rice, Mark O'Connor, Clarence White, Doc Watson, etc. Oh and be sure to check out Billy Strings! He's really impressive and has some great songs of his own already at only 26 years old he's inspiring a lot of young people to bluegrass.
Billy Strings is a pretty directionless guitarist, unfortunately. A classic "I'm gonna blow you away with technical skill" picker whose bit gets old after a break or two.
What a voice....what a picker! I've got the album, "Drive," with Bela Fleck (banjo), Tony Rice, et. al.. Simply amazing. Fil, you always choose interesting musicians, and your analysis is always insightful and interesting! 👍
@Zane Fairchild Thank You for the coherent come back, Check out Four on Six /I believe it's called / from the Acoustics album ,I was lucky enough to see that line up live, but than again I've seen Tony probably 10 time's, real nice person too.
Went to see Tony Rice at Apes (North Carolina) circa 1993. Amazing performance after simply having read some references on a French Magazine "Bluegrass" back then. He was playing with his band (his brother was there) so, in addition to hat you explained, Tony could leave the bass and chord positions and fly over the fretboard, using elaborated scales for the bluegrass average. On his further albums, he developed a distinctive and more complex style and, when playing a solo (i.e.: O, Shenandoah) he used now and then his middle and ring fingers, while the most time is flat-pick, obviously. Now, that I put his CDs at home, quite often, I feel that his voice came from his heart; I mean, a timeless way of singing... that's what I personally get. Thanks for having dedicated this video to the eternal Tony Rice (RIP)
Melodic, exactly. I find myself coming back more than once to listen to this guy. Confess I was not aware of him. Thanks so much to you and whoever suggested for you to take a listen. There are so many great players in the country and bluegrass field that not many are aware of. Thanks to TH-cam and people like you more people are getting to see what is out there today and in the past. THANKS!!
I’ve been waiting for this one. I’m so glad you chose this video. Tony is one my favorite singers too. That flat picking though...❤️ gotta add, Tony says place the capo right on the fret. Also, I believe he’s playing the Martin D28 once owned by Clarence White.
Ok, going out on a limb here...there is a luthier in England called Atkin that makes a replica of this guitar, the Martin D28 White/Rice. Fil, if you ever do a road trip video, go find these folks and play their guitars. I think they’d be up for it.
I'm always happy to see folks unfamiliar with the rice family learn about their talents . I played in a band many years ago with Wyatt, Tony's brother but long before that, my upbringing in traditional music included a healthy dose of His playing. The other aspect of Tony's contribution. Which is often overlooked was his amazing vocals. His rhythm playing was just as impressive too and was a major force in shaping "newgrass".
I played at a living room music/jam session about 1976+/- with someone who, as I recall played, Mandolin in a band with Tony Rice's brother, seem to recall that name Wyatt. It may have been at the Banjo maker's house "Dean" up in Bradenton, FLA. I was playing in a band Shady Grove Bluegrass, with an older gentleman, Frank Stafford, who had sang harmony with Mac Weisman. I play harmonica, played in Bluegrass Gospel Train also, and was invited by many of the main Bluegrass Bands who played the festival circuit to sit-in. Chubby Anthony (one of the "twin fiddles" with Chubby Wise who played with Mac Weissman) would invite me to play on his sets and other bands whose name I do not recall.....I think one was "Sunshine Bluegrass Bots" (they were a bit hit since they were all young and really good). I opened for Doc & Merle Watson in 1976 in FLA and in 1978 in California. Also, for you Flatpickers putting in the names......check out the video "From Doc Watson to Carl Miner". Carl played in my band at 17/18 years old and I have played with some great Flatpickers, he is one of the great ones.
I had the pleasure of seeing Tony at the Carrboro Arts Center here in NC in 1995. He had lost his voice by then and could no longer sing, but his playing was unparalleled. He always let the other musicians on the stage with him shine as well. I did find his voice very soothing. Thank you for featuring him. I enjoyed this.
Thank you so much for posting this. Although I'm a rock fan at heart, I started listening to Tony some 30 years ago. It got me into bluegrass so much that I picked up the banjo and flat top picking and played in a bluegrass band for 6 years. He has always been one of my favorite musicians. Thanks again Fil...
I really enjoy watching all of your videos. You genuinely love music and it shows and I love how inspired you get watching these amazing musicians. All different styles too...love the analysis too!
Watching this both reminds me of Tony's genius and calls to mind once again YOUR breadth of understanding, both of which are almost supernaturally impressive in their own right. Thanks, Fil.
Thank you for showcasing Tony. This is the first I ever heard of him. Wow! And you are absolutely correct. His playing is deceptive. He makes it look easy but there is a lot going on. Plus singing at the same time. On a video you posted either about Jerry Reed or Chet Atkins you mentioned how the guitar playing in country music is focused on accuracy and the actual melody of the song. So perfect. The guitar fills I see by Roy Clark, Chet Atkins, Glenn Campell, Jerry Reed, Danny Gatton, etc all have a purpose and matching the melody or a counterpoint to it. Hardly any wasted notes. All of it to fit the song.
Absolutely hypnotic. I am actually a drummer. I started listening to Tony Rice in the 80s along with a a boat load of acoustic music mainly because I hated the way drums were recorded through out the decade. Tony's stuff with Ricky Scaggs is phenomenal. If you get a chance bend your ears to some of Phil Keaggy's acoustic stuff. He is quite unique. Maybe some classical players. Julian Bream, Christopher Parkening, John Williams are all well known and worth checking. I am hooked on your analysis, and share them with many of my guitar player friends. By the way, I would love to hear you play some acoustic folk, country. Just a thought. Cheers.
What a gem,good one Fil! As I've said before that even if I don't play, I've learned to appreciate even more the music that's brought me joy all these many years♡
I'm 59 & always been a music lover , but Phil has opened me up to new old artist like Tony Rice I would never discovered other wise , Thanks You Phil form here in Tennessee .
Thanks a ton Fil for this one.. One of my biggest influences for sure.. And once again..Extremely good synopsis of one of the very best 'flatpickers' on the planet.. You are spot on Fil!
As old as it is, that is still one of the best flatpicking videos on TH-cam and I love that you are analyzing something from before you were born. Mr. Rice took up the mantle of Clarence White and of late Molly Tuttle is picking up his. 👍
What's most impressive to me is that he never looks down at the guitar. :O That to me is a sign of incredible skill and ability or as some might call it... talent. Excellent video Fil, really enjoyed your commentary on this one.
Phil I really appreciate you being such a student of the guitar and find appreciation for all styles of guitar. Surprisingly enough I first discovered Tony not when he was playing bluegrass but when he was playing jazz with mandolin player David Grisman. He could probably play anything he set his mind to. He does a superb version of the Randy Newman song "I Think It's Gonna Rain Today".
Fil, Thanks so much for doing this piece on T. R. I actually bought the instructional tape many years ago, watched it about 3 times, realized I was way out of my depth, and never watched the tape again. I'll send it to you if you want it.
Another great one Fil! Thank you for playing some of these amazing Bluegrass artists if you want to really have fun look up the bluegrass group Iron Horse they got some amazing classic rock covers
So melodic, so smooth it goes so way beyond blue grass even though most is blue grass technique, so cool you found him. And air! He has so much air control in that melody.
I never heard of this guy, but he is very talented and this was really nice. To sing AND playing those difficult guitar parts is pretty incredible! What a versatile instrument the guitar is too. Really cool to hear how many different kinds of music is played on the guitar by such talented players. Good job again Fil!
It was first hearing Tony's picking on 'Pizza Tapes' with Garcia and Grisman that brought me to bluegrass. Tony's playing and compositions are just something else and I am always amazed at how many fanatical guitar fans have never heard of Tony.
Thank you for checking out Mr Rice!!! That whole family were VERY talented musicians, and when Tony came home for a visit you were in for a treat cause the whole family would get together and raise the roof :-) If Tony wasn't playing his guitar... he was fishing, we had a lot of fun, played some music and fried some fish with a 6 pack on the side ;-) Thanks again sir :-)
Adored Tony - everything about him. So sad when he walked on at Christmas. A lovely man and killer, innovative player. He changed Bluegrass for so many people - like The Beatles changed R&R.
Tony Rice is one of my favorite guitar pickers, along with Clarence White and Molly Tuttle, and I've watched his instructional video many times. Thank you for digging down and further explaining.
That Quintet album is beyond awesome. Right after I bought the album I was lucky enough to see The Grisman Quintet with Tony Rice at The Armadillo World headquarters in Austin back in 79. I'm not sure anyone there was expecting much. Within their first number the audience stood up, walked to the foot of the stage and stood there staring at an unbelievable performance. We all watched in awe. It was like watching God create the universe. A few weeks later they were on the Tonight Show. When they finished their song to rousing applause the camera went to Doc Severinsen lying on back with his trumpet on his chest as if he were just knocked out or dead!
Another great picker, Fil. Thanks. Tony's had some trouble with his voice, but I understand he's gotten some of it back. I haven't seen him in 4-5 years. Not many better bluegrass pickers, maybe Randy Scruggs(RIP), or Pat Flynn. Cheers.
Thanks, Brad. I have heard that, and it is excellent! In the fall 1972, they opened Freedom Hall in Johnson City, TN. The first music show they had was The Earl Scruggs Review. Tickets on about the 3rd-4th row, right in front of Randy. He was amazing. (as was Earl and everybody else in that band) Folks think Tony's good, and he definitely is, but Randy was the fastest flat picker I've ever seen. RIP Randy. (and Earl) edited to add Now that I'm thinking about that, I guess that was my first "concert". I always considered Rory Gallagher/ZZ Top in Spring of '73, as my first. I've been pretty blessed with the great music I've seen in my life. lol Both, left a big, and lifelong, impression.
& in case you missed this post below, here ya go Brad. Blue... err, Newgrass Mountain Top. New Grass Revival Bela Fleck, Sam Bush, Johnny Cowen, & Pat Flynn th-cam.com/video/1AYl8VBfzH4/w-d-xo.html or Strength In Numbers Bela Fleck, Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, Mark O'Connor & Edgar Myer th-cam.com/video/TzTvsHiCswE/w-d-xo.html or mebbe John Hartford Bela Fleck Doug Dillard Sam Bush David Greer Pat Flynn Strawberry '86 Jam th-cam.com/video/cLOPHvh0m7w/w-d-xo.html
There are so many nice versions of this song of really fantastic players - after all these years Tony´s is still the most stunning and breathtaking one.
There used to be this small bluegrass music shop at Military Circle in Norfolk Virginia, it was called Ramblin Conrad's. And they would have featured guests come in and have little shows in the evenings and I purchased a couple of tickets to see Tony Rice unit and there was another band there featuring his banjoist I think it was Goodreau. What a show - we're talking folding chairs just 6 feet away from one of the most incredible bands I've ever witnessed. It was pure, it was truth, it was The Tony Rice Unit.
Awesome! Seen Tony quite a few times back in the mid 90s. One of the cleanest flat pickers I've ever seen. One favorite show was him and Norman Blake, top 5 musical performance I've seen in my life. Thanks for what you do Wings Of Pegasus.
Norman Blake wrote this song. Norman is a phenomenal picker, as well. When you watch him play, you think, oh that looks easy, I can do that. No, no you can't, its incredibly intricate and difficult. I really like Norman's picking because its so melody driven and he isnt trying to impress you with cascading or machine gun pace licks.
Tony Rice is a bluegrass and guitar icon. He changed the music for the better and has left a great legacy. What I especially like about him is his reverence for the originators of bluegrass. His Bluegrass Album Band recordings are so vital! And he also ventured into gypsy and jazz with the same reverence.
Sublime performance. Great example of Appalachian/Southern music which was gifted to us in the USA eons ago by Scottish/Irish/British settlers. Suggestion: Marshal Tucker Band "Ramblin" 9/10/73 Grand Opera House Toy Caldwell on guitar. Plays primarily with his thumb. Southern rock legend.
I find I have to come back time and time again to watch this. "Melodic" is the first word that comes to mind to describe that incredible guitar playing. Great singer and song.
Hello, Phil my friend! This gentleman is a true musician & flatpicking master! Reminds me of the Carter family of long ago who inspired pickers for ages! Doc Watson, a phenomenal picker, I bet you've already done a breakdown of his style?? 😁
Another great narrative! Have been blessed to see Tony live numerous times and he clearly set the standard. Such a shame he can no longer sing or play. He is greatly missed.
I've been listening to Tony Rice for way over 30 years and I am still dumbfounded every time I watch him. I "play" guitar and I understand how absolutely amazing he is.
Thanks for doing a Tony Rice video. I'm very happy people know who he is, as he was one of my first guitar heroes back in the 70s. Unfortunately, it's my understanding that he's very ill and no longer plays.
As rockhard stated this is a legendary guitar. My cousin was a bluegrass session man and songwriter in Nashville for years and knew Tony. Got to play this holy grail guitar. Poor Tony's voice is nothing of the glory you see here, any more. :( Seeing you appreciate the music of my my people (of your people too really), is really satisfying. From North Carolina to y'll in the old country. Bless
The youtuber Lessons with Marcel has a great video on the deep dive of capo’s in bluegrass. The upshot of it is that it allwos the bluegrass guitarist (and banjo player) to play the same 3 chord shapes and progressions in every key needed. Commonly it is just the 1 4 5 chord progression with in the keys of G, C, or D. They can use these chord shapes (of G C and D) on the capos and get most other keys needed!
one of my favorite flat pickers. unparalleled feel in both rhythm and lead. inspired (at least vocally) by the great canadian singer/writer gordon lightfoot.
@@wingsofpegasus This is my cue to suggest Clarence White as a subject. I saw Tony Rice in the late 1970's with David Grisman around the time of the Hot Dawg Album. (Note Hot Dawg had a track with Stéphane Grappelli who was there too :) I was awestruck by Tony Rice and soon read about how he discovered Clarence White's guitar. I was familiar with Clarence White because a good friend introduced me to the Byrds years earlier. But at that time it was difficult to find much more about Clarence White. Thankfully, over the years more of his material has become available and youtube has some great stories about Clarence White. So... I'd love to see his versions of "Sheik of Araby (True Stereo)" and/or "When You're Smiling" (which is just so lovely, both the solo and The Kentucky Colonels versions) portrayed here. But there is no video that i can find of either piece. So anything from Clarence White would be wonderful as a subject. Perhaps "Clarence White - Bluegrass guitar picking technique (slow motions)" would work. th-cam.com/video/owKTvzPrBeo/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for reacting to him, he is one of my favorites. He his flawless in this old style country/bluegrass, but he is no slouch in other genres. His playing on So What from the Pizza Tapes with Garcia and Grisman is a fantastic jazz exploration. Also his composition is top notch. Manzanita is incredible. You should check out some video of him playing with Sam Bush, Bela Fleck, and Mark O'Connor...Playing with top tier musicians pushes Tony to show off a bit
Great analysis. He is good and I love listening to this and you explain why. Thinking out loud Fil, when you start talking guitar talk I get well, omg alternative picking, Pull-offs, hammer-ons, economy picking, sweeping, right hand, left hand, capo, I'm starting to dream about this stuff and your in them Fil ! and no sir you can't ask about them. lol.🤣 love ya!😍😘❤
YOur welcome ! I believe I posted the link to this video in the comment section of one of your other videos awhile back .!Tony recorded this Norman Blake tune on a solo album of the same name " Church Street Blues". Tony plays solo on the album , except for , I believe four tunes in which he is backed up by his brother Wyatt . One notable aspect of Tony's technique is the clarity, tone and volume he produces from an acoustic guitar , he has set the bar for many modern bluegrass guitar players .
Thanks for doing Tony. His rhythm playing is second to nobody in the bluegrass world. When he got into his acoustic jazz era with the David Grisman Quintet, not long after this VHS was recorded, he just went through the roof. Then he did bunch of Bluegrass Album band albums with the best of the best of bluegrass album bands. Then, he did a few albums with all his brothers. Yeah, they play too. Then.....yeah more, he formed the Tony Rice Unit with his brother and several other stellar players. And here's the heartbreaking part. He could no longer sing, so he and fellow long time friend, Peter Rowan formed a band with two female players in the band. He only played lead guitar. He hasn't played or sang in quite a few years now. Again thanks for Tony. Keep him in mind and maybe do something from him in the future.
Tony Rice is awesome, I love it that you’re showcasing all of these country/bluegrass musicians, so much awesome talent! I hope to see you analyze Ricky Skaggs sometime.
It's amazing to watch his face in close up while singing because you could swear somebody else is playing the guitar, then with zoom out you realize all that's going on with the hands!!!
Thanks Fil, for exposing today's up & coming players to the great players that guys like me grew up with(I'm 61). Every time I see one of those stupid "100 Greatest Guitarists" lists, it always seems to leave out the guitarists that you like to feature. Keep up the good work.
Great pick Fil rad !!!!!!! Tony is the master of the flatpick !!!! A bluegrass ninja he is !!! Thanks a ton Fil !!!!! He kills this Norman Blake tune !!!!
I saw Tony Rice live in a small bar in Roanoke, VA (USA) around the time this video was made. I had started playing the guitar a year or two before, and remember being frozen and quite emotional while he and his brother played for 2 hours. I was 10 feet from the most amazing sound and master guitarist I'd ever seen. Thank you for reviewing him. You are so respectful of the masters.
Cool! No problem!
Really hes still playing?? I thought he had some serious health issues
Reminds me of seeing Derek Trucks for the first time. He was 19, in a small bar Pittsburgh. He was way more into jazz and jamming up in the stratosphere back then. I stood about 2 feet from him the whole night. Oh, and Susan Tedeski showed up to sing in the last set. This was before they were even dating. She was up for best new female vocalist Grammy at the time. Probably my best music story I have. Man I might trade my story for yours though.
It's so nice to see a young man with an appreciation for all genres of music. Tony Rice is one of my particular favorites.
Cool!
One of my favorite guitarists of all time.
Cool!
You should do Brad Paisley sometime in the future. Especially the videos of him trying out amps and not performing. Then it's just him noodling around and not thinking about it. Absolutely insane.
Bryan Sutton is actually more ridiculous technical playing-wise but Tony had the whole package. He wasn't just flawless, he had a bluesy aspect to his bluegrass stuff that really separates him from the pack. You know it's Tony within 3 seconds, when he's playing on Bela's recordings.
Tony Rice was a true master of his art...I don't think it can be done any better. Aside from the brilliance of his playing, he conveys the song with heartbreaking humanity while still flashing a mischievous twinkle in his eye and an occasional wry smile.
RIP Tony. One of my best friends and one of the kindest souls passed away yesterday. Rest in peace old friend. Love you always!! Zane
Was he sick off and on last few yrs??
I thought I remember reading about some health issues
@@truckerkevthepaidtourist I'm sorry for the loss your brilliant friend. I've loved Tony Rice's unique musical for a long time. I wish I could have known him.
He used to sit in my living room in L.A. with my Uncle Clarence White and practice. I was 5 probably. My Mom and Dad Loved him and saw him in Va. some time back before he passed.
Zane you're an unbelievable picker yourself. The few videos I've seen of you were really inspiring. I remember one in particular taped in a living room, you and another fella also really good. So cool and fitting that you were friends with Tony.
@@highcard150 Clarence White of the Byrd's? My favorite band of all time. The intersection between Bluegrass and rock and roll is underappreciated.
his voice is such a comfort...this song is life.
you might be interested to know that the guitar tony is playing is the 1935 D-28 formally owned by clarence white
it is considered by experts to be the "holy grail herringbone"
the best sounding martin guitar in the world
far from mint it features a very roughly enlarged sound hole (actually whittled with a knife),a very faded real tortes shell pickgaurd, a ill fitting replacement fretboard(which magically perfected the intonation) and a heavily scratched body including the scares of being shot with a pellet gun
its worth millions
white bought it for 25$
on another note this instructional video is owned by literally EVERY serious bluegrass player and is STILL studied like the bible
Cool! Thanks!
The tortoise shell pickguard was given to Tony while touring Japan with JD Crowe. A Japanese guy gave it to him after a show. If you watch the Andy Griffith show, an Episode with Clarence white playing that Guitar, it has the original pickguard on it and dots on the fretboard that were put on there just to film that episode. Clarence and Roland look like twins in that episode as well. I got this info while doing a workshop with Roland White, his brother, at Kaufman music kamp in Maryville, TN a few years ago.
He also has his own Signature Model Santa Cruz for slightly more than 25 dollar's, more like 4.000 dollar's
@@roygarrett1663 great trivia! Thanks Roy
Clarence used the D-28 that he and Roland bought as a rhythm guitar, but most of his lead work was done either on a D-18 or other guitars later on. He sold the D-28 in 1965 to buy a Tele and was playing a Noble dreadnought at the end of his life.
Tony said that the D-28 was in terrible shape when he got it and it took an awful lot of work to make it playable. He wanted it, not so much because it was a great guitar as because it had belonged to one of his heroes. After all the work that was done on it, it has become a great guitar, but as much of the great sound coming outa that guitar is due to the guy playing it as to the guitar itself.
The enlarged soundhole remains a secret, since it was already done when Clarence and Roland bought the guitar. The fretboard is an ebony Gretsch board with no position markers. As Roy Garrett said, the producers of the Andy Griffith show didn't think it looked right with no position markers, so they put paper stickers on the board for the show.
This is the purest form of music, just a man and his guitar. Love it!
👍
Yep, the kind of music I came from , my roots , born and raised in South GA. and what I aspire to be the best I can be at as well...
Your fans out here Love and appreciate you, Fil and how you're a fan who loves and appreciates just about anybody else who is mega- talented !!!
Thanks Gwendolyn! And Brad! 🤘
Thank you for showcasing Tony Rice. He's hands down the most influential bluegrass picker ever. I also enjoy watching your reactions. Well done and thanks again!
Yes! Hope you do more of these too. Love me some Tony Rice, Mark O'Connor, Clarence White, Doc Watson, etc. Oh and be sure to check out Billy Strings! He's really impressive and has some great songs of his own already at only 26 years old he's inspiring a lot of young people to bluegrass.
Thanks!
And Molly Tuttle too, as she is awesome (and the very first female to win IBMA Guitarist Of The Year).
Billy Strings is a pretty directionless guitarist, unfortunately. A classic "I'm gonna blow you away with technical skill" picker whose bit gets old after a break or two.
What a voice....what a picker! I've got the album, "Drive," with Bela Fleck (banjo), Tony Rice, et. al.. Simply amazing. Fil, you always choose interesting musicians, and your analysis is always insightful and interesting! 👍
Fleotus Bing you outta here him talk now. His voice has been fucked from all the coke he’s done. Sad but true
Thanks!
+Fleotus Bing Check out his work with Norman Blake. Beautiful stuff.
+Howard Walters NOT TRUE AT ALL. Please stop spreading that rumor.
@Zane Fairchild Thank You for the coherent come back, Check out Four on Six /I believe it's called / from the Acoustics album ,I was lucky enough to see that line up live, but than again I've seen Tony probably 10 time's, real nice person too.
Never heard of him. That’s why I love this channel. What a master guitar player. Thanks Fil.
No problem!
Went to see Tony Rice at Apes (North Carolina) circa 1993. Amazing performance after simply having read some references on a French Magazine "Bluegrass" back then. He was playing with his band (his brother was there) so, in addition to hat you explained, Tony could leave the bass and chord positions and fly over the fretboard, using elaborated scales for the bluegrass average.
On his further albums, he developed a distinctive and more complex style and, when playing a solo (i.e.: O, Shenandoah) he used now and then his middle and ring fingers, while the most time is flat-pick, obviously.
Now, that I put his CDs at home, quite often, I feel that his voice came from his heart; I mean, a timeless way of singing... that's what I personally get.
Thanks for having dedicated this video to the eternal Tony Rice (RIP)
Melodic, exactly. I find myself coming back more than once to listen to this guy. Confess I was not aware of him. Thanks so much to you and whoever suggested for you to take a listen. There are so many great players in the country and bluegrass field that not many are aware of. Thanks to TH-cam and people like you more people are getting to see what is out there today and in the past. THANKS!!
No problem!
Im glad you appreciate this. This is my entire childhood. I got to play with him at a festival once. Best moment of my young life. RIP tony rice
Glad you took the time to watch and share Tony Rice's talent. He's been my favorite bluegrass picker for ages. Enjoy your videos, keep them coming.
No problem!
I’ve been waiting for this one. I’m so glad you chose this video. Tony is one my favorite singers too. That flat picking though...❤️ gotta add, Tony says place the capo right on the fret. Also, I believe he’s playing the Martin D28 once owned by Clarence White.
Ditto that!
Right on the fret, I will have to try that :)
Ok, going out on a limb here...there is a luthier in England called Atkin that makes a replica of this guitar, the Martin D28 White/Rice. Fil, if you ever do a road trip video, go find these folks and play their guitars. I think they’d be up for it.
Cool! Thanks!
This guy has so many amazing guitar skills, love listening to Tony.
Amen!
I'm always happy to see folks unfamiliar with the rice family learn about their talents . I played in a band many years ago with Wyatt, Tony's brother but long before that, my upbringing in traditional music included a healthy dose of His playing. The other aspect of Tony's contribution. Which is often overlooked was his amazing vocals. His rhythm playing was just as impressive too and was a major force in shaping "newgrass".
Cool!
Please do more bluegrass guitarists in your videos Phil. David Greer, Bryan Sutton, Jeff autry are 3 that come to mind
I played at a living room music/jam session about 1976+/- with someone who, as I recall played, Mandolin in a band with Tony Rice's brother, seem to recall that name Wyatt. It may have been at the Banjo maker's house "Dean" up in Bradenton, FLA. I was playing in a band Shady Grove Bluegrass, with an older gentleman, Frank Stafford, who had sang harmony with Mac Weisman. I play harmonica, played in Bluegrass Gospel Train also, and was invited by many of the main Bluegrass Bands who played the festival circuit to sit-in. Chubby Anthony (one of the "twin fiddles" with Chubby Wise who played with Mac Weissman) would invite me to play on his sets and other bands whose name I do not recall.....I think one was "Sunshine Bluegrass Bots" (they were a bit hit since they were all young and really good). I opened for Doc & Merle Watson in 1976 in FLA and in 1978 in California. Also, for you Flatpickers putting in the names......check out the video "From Doc Watson to Carl Miner". Carl played in my band at 17/18 years old and I have played with some great Flatpickers, he is one of the great ones.
I had the pleasure of seeing Tony at the Carrboro Arts Center here in NC in 1995. He had lost his voice by then and could no longer sing, but his playing was unparalleled. He always let the other musicians on the stage with him shine as well. I did find his voice very soothing. Thank you for featuring him. I enjoyed this.
phil, you're eclectic appreciation is what makes this channel so great. thanks!
Thanks!
I haven't even played the video yet and already like it 1000 times! Absolutely love Tony Rice, and love his version of Church Street Blues. Thank you!
No problem!
Thank you so much for posting this. Although I'm a rock fan at heart, I started listening to Tony some 30 years ago. It got me into bluegrass so much that I picked up the banjo and flat top picking and played in a bluegrass band for 6 years. He has always been one of my favorite musicians. Thanks again Fil...
Cool!
I really enjoy watching all of your videos. You genuinely love music and it shows and I love how inspired you get watching these amazing musicians. All different styles too...love the analysis too!
Thanks!
Watching this both reminds me of Tony's genius and calls to mind once again YOUR breadth of understanding, both of which are almost supernaturally impressive in their own right. Thanks, Fil.
What a tremendously talented bluegrass guitarist. Thanks for the music Tony. 🙏🎸
Really great tone. Those Blue Grass guys can really play.
Yep!
Thank you for showcasing Tony. This is the first I ever heard of him. Wow! And you are absolutely correct. His playing is deceptive. He makes it look easy but there is a lot going on. Plus singing at the same time. On a video you posted either about Jerry Reed or Chet Atkins you mentioned how the guitar playing in country music is focused on accuracy and the actual melody of the song. So perfect. The guitar fills I see by Roy Clark, Chet Atkins, Glenn Campell, Jerry Reed, Danny Gatton, etc all have a purpose and matching the melody or a counterpoint to it. Hardly any wasted notes. All of it to fit the song.
Amen!
Absolutely hypnotic. I am actually a drummer. I started listening to Tony Rice in the 80s along with a a boat load of acoustic music mainly because I hated the way drums were recorded through out the decade. Tony's stuff with Ricky Scaggs is phenomenal. If you get a chance bend your ears to some of Phil Keaggy's acoustic stuff. He is quite unique. Maybe some classical players. Julian Bream, Christopher Parkening, John Williams are all well known and worth checking. I am hooked on your analysis, and share them with many of my guitar player friends. By the way, I would love to hear you play some acoustic folk, country. Just a thought. Cheers.
Thanks! I've done Phil here somewhere!
What a gem,good one Fil! As I've said before that even if I don't play, I've learned to appreciate even more the music that's brought me joy all these many years♡
Cool!
I'm 59 & always been a music lover , but Phil has opened me up to new old artist like Tony Rice I would never discovered other wise , Thanks You Phil form here in Tennessee .
Thanks a ton Fil for this one.. One of my biggest influences for sure.. And once again..Extremely good synopsis of one of the very best 'flatpickers' on the planet.. You are spot on Fil!
Thanks!
He makes it look effortless, great player!! His rhythm is impeccable. Awesome flat picker. I like the way you say “capo”🤟🏻
😂
Jesus, he can flatpick faster than most people fingerpick....and it's so clean.
As old as it is, that is still one of the best flatpicking videos on TH-cam and I love that you are analyzing something from before you were born. Mr. Rice took up the mantle of Clarence White and of late Molly Tuttle is picking up his. 👍
Glad to see you covered this. Tony is one of my favorites. I could listen to this song all day long and never get tired.
No problem!
What's most impressive to me is that he never looks down at the guitar. :O That to me is a sign of incredible skill and ability or as some might call it... talent. Excellent video Fil, really enjoyed your commentary on this one.
Yeah it's practise and repetition, the muscle memory remembers the shapes ☺
Phil I really appreciate you being such a student of the guitar and find appreciation for all styles of guitar. Surprisingly enough I first discovered Tony not when he was playing bluegrass but when he was playing jazz with mandolin player David Grisman. He could probably play anything he set his mind to. He does a superb version of the Randy Newman song "I Think It's Gonna Rain Today".
Cool!
Fil, Thanks so much for doing this piece on T. R. I actually bought the instructional tape many years ago, watched it about 3 times, realized I was way out of my depth, and never watched the tape again. I'll send it to you if you want it.
Tony is amazing, of course, but here's some love for another master picker and sublime songwriter, Norman Blake.
Norman is 13 years older !
Big Norman Blake fan here, glad to see this comment!
Norman wrote this song 🙂
Another great one Fil! Thank you for playing some of these amazing Bluegrass artists if you want to really have fun look up the bluegrass group Iron Horse they got some amazing classic rock covers
Thanks!
So melodic, so smooth it goes so way beyond blue grass even though most is blue grass technique, so cool you found him. And air! He has so much air control in that melody.
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I never heard of this guy, but he is very talented and this was really nice. To sing AND playing those difficult guitar parts is pretty incredible! What a versatile instrument the guitar is too. Really cool to hear how many different kinds of music is played on the guitar by such talented players. Good job again Fil!
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Listen to tony rice manzanita or Shenandoah
@@wingsofpegasus check out manzanita or Shenandoah and also home from the forest
It was first hearing Tony's picking on 'Pizza Tapes' with Garcia and Grisman that brought me to bluegrass.
Tony's playing and compositions are just something else and I am always amazed at how many fanatical guitar fans have never heard of Tony.
Thank you for checking out Mr Rice!!! That whole family were VERY talented musicians, and when Tony came home for a visit you were in for a treat cause the whole family would get together and raise the roof :-) If Tony wasn't playing his guitar... he was fishing, we had a lot of fun, played some music and fried some fish with a 6 pack on the side ;-) Thanks again sir :-)
No problem!
Adored Tony - everything about him. So sad when he walked on at Christmas. A lovely man and killer, innovative player. He changed Bluegrass for so many people - like The Beatles changed R&R.
Tony Rice is one of my favorite guitar pickers, along with Clarence White and Molly Tuttle, and I've watched his instructional video many times. Thank you for digging down and further explaining.
No problem!
First of 3 great Tony Rice analysis videos. Heart emoji for all of them!
Just recently discovered Tony. Love his playing with the David Grisman Quintet. Thanks for this one!
No problem!
That Quintet album is beyond awesome. Right after I bought the album I was lucky enough to see The Grisman Quintet with Tony Rice at The Armadillo World headquarters in Austin back in 79. I'm not sure anyone there was expecting much. Within their first number the audience stood up, walked to the foot of the stage and stood there staring at an unbelievable performance. We all watched in awe. It was like watching God create the universe. A few weeks later they were on the Tonight Show. When they finished their song to rousing applause the camera went to Doc Severinsen lying on back with his trumpet on his chest as if he were just knocked out or dead!
bruce maniscalco was that the Tonight Show performance with Stephane Grappelli?
Cannot believe you covered this one Phil, Tony's my favorite. Thanks so much! feels great someone else is digging it.
Another great picker, Fil. Thanks. Tony's had some trouble with his voice, but I understand he's gotten some of it back. I haven't seen him in 4-5 years.
Not many better bluegrass pickers, maybe Randy Scruggs(RIP), or Pat Flynn.
Cheers.
Yeah I heard his talking voice recently, it was much deeper.
Thanks, Brad. I have heard that, and it is excellent! In the fall 1972, they opened Freedom Hall in Johnson City, TN. The first music show they had was The Earl Scruggs Review. Tickets on about the 3rd-4th row, right in front of Randy. He was amazing. (as was Earl and everybody else in that band) Folks think Tony's good, and he definitely is, but Randy was the fastest flat picker I've ever seen. RIP Randy. (and Earl)
edited to add
Now that I'm thinking about that, I guess that was my first "concert". I always considered Rory Gallagher/ZZ Top in Spring of '73, as my first. I've been pretty blessed with the great music I've seen in my life. lol
Both, left a big, and lifelong, impression.
& in case you missed this post below, here ya go Brad.
Blue... err, Newgrass Mountain Top.
New Grass Revival
Bela Fleck, Sam Bush, Johnny Cowen, & Pat Flynn
th-cam.com/video/1AYl8VBfzH4/w-d-xo.html
or
Strength In Numbers
Bela Fleck, Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, Mark O'Connor & Edgar Myer
th-cam.com/video/TzTvsHiCswE/w-d-xo.html
or mebbe
John Hartford Bela Fleck Doug Dillard Sam Bush David Greer Pat Flynn Strawberry '86 Jam
th-cam.com/video/cLOPHvh0m7w/w-d-xo.html
lol wow, it's awesome to watch Tony work. Brought a smile to my face and a bit of wonder to my day.
There are so many nice versions of this song of really fantastic players - after all these years Tony´s is still the most stunning and breathtaking one.
There used to be this small bluegrass music shop at Military Circle in Norfolk Virginia, it was called Ramblin Conrad's. And they would have featured guests come in and have little shows in the evenings and I purchased a couple of tickets to see Tony Rice unit and there was another band there featuring his banjoist I think it was Goodreau. What a show - we're talking folding chairs just 6 feet away from one of the most incredible bands I've ever witnessed. It was pure, it was truth, it was The Tony Rice Unit.
Cool!
Awesome! Seen Tony quite a few times back in the mid 90s. One of the cleanest flat pickers I've ever seen. One favorite show was him and Norman Blake, top 5 musical performance I've seen in my life. Thanks for what you do Wings Of Pegasus.
Cool! No problem!
Staying grounded is why I watch this channel. Thanks!
Thanks!
Norman Blake wrote this song. Norman is a phenomenal picker, as well. When you watch him play, you think, oh that looks easy, I can do that. No, no you can't, its incredibly intricate and difficult. I really like Norman's picking because its so melody driven and he isnt trying to impress you with cascading or machine gun pace licks.
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Norman Blake is a must. Doc Watson, Tony Rice and NB are like the holy trinity of bluegrass guitar.
Thank's for this video of Tony Rice , he is my favorite acoustic player of all time . He is also a very good singer .
No problem!
Thank you for the coverage and kind comments.
Our best back to you.
No problem Pamela, Eric's playing deserves as much audience as I can give! ☺
Wow, that's Tony's wife! Who's Eric?
Tony Rice is a bluegrass and guitar icon. He changed the music for the better and has left a great legacy. What I especially like about him is his reverence for the originators of bluegrass. His Bluegrass Album Band recordings are so vital! And he also ventured into gypsy and jazz with the same reverence.
My god he's amazing. One of the best i have seen, absolutely effortless and so very precise...woooow.
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Sublime performance. Great example of Appalachian/Southern music which was gifted to us in the USA eons ago by Scottish/Irish/British settlers.
Suggestion: Marshal Tucker Band
"Ramblin"
9/10/73 Grand Opera House
Toy Caldwell on guitar. Plays primarily with his thumb. Southern rock legend.
Thanks!
Thank you for this! I had forgotten Tony Rice. What a great picker! I really appreciate your esoteric tastes and interests. Thanks again.
No problem!
I find I have to come back time and time again to watch this. "Melodic" is the first word that comes to mind to describe that incredible guitar playing. Great singer and song.
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Hello, Phil my friend! This gentleman is a true musician & flatpicking master! Reminds me of the Carter family of long ago who inspired pickers for ages! Doc Watson, a phenomenal picker, I bet you've already done a breakdown of his style?? 😁
Yeah before this video 👍
Not sure if anyone has suggested it but you should listen to him do Manzinita! Just wow.
RIP my friend.
Another great narrative! Have been blessed to see Tony live numerous times and he clearly set the standard. Such a shame he can no longer sing or play. He is greatly missed.
Amen.
I have been getting into Tony Rice lately, so it is fun to catch this on your archive. He is so good, I'm scared of him.
Again, you really nailed everything in your analysis. It's great that you do these analyses in a very broad range of music.
Thanks!
The GOAT
I've been listening to Tony Rice for way over 30 years and I am still dumbfounded every time I watch him. I "play" guitar and I understand how absolutely amazing he is.
When I watch this, I realise I don't really play guitar - I just piss around on it a bit.
Thanks for doing a Tony Rice video. I'm very happy people know who he is, as he was one of my first guitar heroes back in the 70s. Unfortunately, it's my understanding that he's very ill and no longer plays.
Tony anchors the left index , and uses his little finger ( pinky) more than we almost ever see. That's given me the next 50 years of homework. Thanks.
Great analysis of Tonys style. He knowsreal talent when he sees it
As rockhard stated this is a legendary guitar. My cousin was a bluegrass session man and songwriter in Nashville for years and knew Tony. Got to play this holy grail guitar. Poor Tony's voice is nothing of the glory you see here, any more. :( Seeing you appreciate the music of my my people (of your people too really), is really satisfying. From North Carolina to y'll in the old country. Bless
The wonderful guitar of the great Tony Rice .
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The youtuber Lessons with Marcel has a great video on the deep dive of capo’s in bluegrass. The upshot of it is that it allwos the bluegrass guitarist (and banjo player) to play the same 3 chord shapes and progressions in every key needed. Commonly it is just the 1 4 5 chord progression with in the keys of G, C, or D. They can use these chord shapes (of G C and D) on the capos and get most other keys needed!
one of my favorite flat pickers. unparalleled feel in both rhythm and lead. inspired (at least vocally) by the great canadian singer/writer gordon lightfoot.
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The only better rhythm player out there is his brother Wyatt, best rhythm guitar player to grace a stage.
yes, i've seen the two of them together. (on a video). he IS incredible.
Aloha from Kentucky! Mr. Rice got that guitar from Clarence White , another bluegrass mvp
Hi!
@@wingsofpegasus This is my cue to suggest Clarence White as a subject. I saw Tony Rice in the late 1970's with David Grisman around the time of the Hot Dawg Album. (Note Hot Dawg had a track with Stéphane Grappelli who was there too :) I was awestruck by Tony Rice and soon read about how he discovered Clarence White's guitar. I was familiar with Clarence White because a good friend introduced me to the Byrds years earlier. But at that time it was difficult to find much more about Clarence White. Thankfully, over the years more of his material has become available and youtube has some great stories about Clarence White.
So... I'd love to see his versions of "Sheik of Araby (True Stereo)" and/or "When You're Smiling" (which is just so lovely, both the solo and The Kentucky Colonels versions) portrayed here. But there is no video that i can find of either piece. So anything from Clarence White would be wonderful as a subject. Perhaps "Clarence White - Bluegrass guitar picking technique (slow motions)" would work.
th-cam.com/video/owKTvzPrBeo/w-d-xo.html
That was incredible. I've never seen a person bend their picking thumb like that to nail strings.😱.
Thanks for reacting to him, he is one of my favorites. He his flawless in this old style country/bluegrass, but he is no slouch in other genres. His playing on So What from the Pizza Tapes with Garcia and Grisman is a fantastic jazz exploration. Also his composition is top notch. Manzanita is incredible. You should check out some video of him playing with Sam Bush, Bela Fleck, and Mark O'Connor...Playing with top tier musicians pushes Tony to show off a bit
Thanks!
Great analysis. He is good and I love listening to this and you explain why. Thinking out loud Fil, when you start talking guitar talk I get well, omg alternative picking, Pull-offs, hammer-ons, economy picking, sweeping, right hand, left hand, capo, I'm starting to dream about this stuff and your in them Fil ! and no sir you can't ask about them. lol.🤣 love ya!😍😘❤
YOur welcome ! I believe I posted the link to this video in the comment section of one of your other videos awhile back .!Tony recorded this Norman Blake tune on a solo album of the same name " Church Street Blues". Tony plays solo on the album , except for , I believe four tunes in which he is backed up by his brother Wyatt . One notable aspect of Tony's technique is the clarity, tone and volume he produces from an acoustic guitar , he has set the bar for many modern bluegrass guitar players .
Thanks for doing Tony. His rhythm playing is second to nobody in the bluegrass world. When he got into his acoustic jazz era with the David Grisman Quintet, not long after this VHS was recorded, he just went through the roof. Then he did bunch of Bluegrass Album band albums with the best of the best of bluegrass album bands. Then, he did a few albums with all his brothers. Yeah, they play too. Then.....yeah more, he formed the Tony Rice Unit with his brother and several other stellar players. And here's the heartbreaking part. He could no longer sing, so he and fellow long time friend, Peter Rowan formed a band with two female players in the band. He only played lead guitar. He hasn't played or sang in quite a few years now. Again thanks for Tony. Keep him in mind and maybe do something from him in the future.
No problem!
Tony Rice is awesome, I love it that you’re showcasing all of these country/bluegrass musicians, so much awesome talent! I hope to see you analyze Ricky Skaggs sometime.
Thanks!
Wings of Pegasus you’re welcome!
Dude this channel is awesome. Great commentary and selections. Subbed.
Thanks William!
Would love to hear your analysis of Jerry Douglas. Rolling Stone magazine called him "the Jimi Hendix of Bluegrass music".
Thanks!
Great suggestion! I would like to second that!
Tony is a fav of mine. First time I heard this song I thought it was 2 guitars playing.
Haha yep!
Another musician I have not heard of. That level of right hand work and singing. And with a pick - goodness! Awesome choice Fil.
No problem!
Finally Tony and Doc Video's.. bravo
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Wings, if you haven't watched him play Shenandoah, watch it, it will blow our mind.....
Thanks!
His lifes work is a master class for all guitar players. He doesnt even need to be commented on. We know what we had with tony rice. Rip
Got a early 2000 hd28 martin i had him sign at merlefest. Staying with me for sure
I know it might look easy to some people but it makes my head swim.!!! Music is a gift from God and playing a guitar is a miracle to me !
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EXCELLENT presentation and observations fil. Keep up the great work
Thanks!
Tony is the master of picking! Also at one time the best bluegrass vocalist to ever sing!
It's amazing to watch his face in close up while singing because you could swear somebody else is playing the guitar, then with zoom out you realize all that's going on with the hands!!!
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Thanks Fil, for exposing today's up & coming players to the great players that guys like me grew up with(I'm 61). Every time I see one of those stupid "100 Greatest Guitarists" lists, it always seems to leave out the guitarists that you like to feature. Keep up the good work.
Yeah those lists are crazy sometimes!
This is the smoothest picking I`ve ever seen / heard. beautifull. :-)
Wow! I suggested that you look at Tony rice only a couple of weeks ago and here it is! You’re the best, Phil. A true lover of guitar
No problem!
Great pick Fil rad !!!!!!! Tony is the master of the flatpick !!!! A bluegrass ninja he is !!! Thanks a ton Fil !!!!! He kills this Norman Blake tune !!!!
No problem!