I saw a great interview with George Benson where he talks about idolizing Wes Montgomery. George went to see Wes in a club as a young man, and during a break went up to him and asked if he could take some lessons. Wes refused, saying "How can I give you lessons when I'm still learning to play myself?"
There is no other adjective I can use to describe this excerpt about the incomparable artist of the six strings instrument he played Mr. Wes Montgomery. I absolutely love your style of reporting Sir. Thank you so very much.
I was lucky to be in Ronnie Scott's Night Club in London the night Wes was playing (a few nights there)..(1965 ish) Utterly Brilliant & a bit of a shock to be just a few feet from him, his Guitar & amp. During the interval I went back stage, & found him a very quiet mild & gentle person, softly spoken, open & easy to talk to, and seemed surprised at how I engaged in sensible questions about his technique & cheekily asked him for some tips.. ( A treasure) He explained his simple reasons for playing with his thumb, it allowed him to play later hours without disturbing anyone, and was also a far better sound. He was also using National strings at that time. I had already heard some of his tracks..The rest of the night was fabulous. I later got a copy of "The Incredible Jazz Guitar of Wes Mongomery" LP. Again such a lucky chance & All indelible in my memory. Thankyou for a great post.
Started listening to Wes when I was in the service. I became enamored with his unusual style and melodies...one of the G.O.A.T.S a wonderful guitarist.
Thanks so much for this. Wes is my favourite guitarist. First heard him at a party on Melbourne around 1969 when someone stuck one of his records on the turntable. Blew my mind. 53 years later his photo hangs on the wall above my computer. My inspiration
The day that Wes passed, the Grateful Dead played at the Fillmore East, dedicated their show to him and Garcia and company played until 4 am. It was the best I ever saw them play - and I saw them many times.
@ 1blastman: It is a measure of the esteem in which Wes was held that many famous rock-and-rollers attended his shows, people like the Rolling Stones, as well as critics, fans and other jazz cats.
By chance do you remember the set list at all. There isn’t a recording of the show or a set list. There is a setlist for the day before so you could look at those songs and eliminate those as possibilities
I first heard Wes in the 60's and was captivated by his sound. My whole life I've been hungry to know more about him and his music, and now you've laid out a feast for us to take in. Thank you so much.
This documentary had me transfixed. I have just started learning guitar at age 62, so i have an interest in hearing things guitar. But the combination of this revoutionary jazz trendsetter's story and the super detail minded, informative, and hypercongenial narrator had me listening from beginning to end and saving the address to send friends to be educated and entertained by everything Wes Montgomery.
Had a Wes Montgomery Band at my Music College. It was the best Jazz band I ever was in. Our teacher, Gary Barone (RIP) one of the best Trumpets players I ever saw live in person, who worked with Zappa and many others, told us storys when he met Wes and his brother at several Jam sessions. I guess it was one part of it that the Band was that good, because we felt the Music History when we played.
For many years I have heard many rock musicians praise Wes Montgomery , yet knew little about this innovative Jazz Master... That is until now you sir have incredibly tied together everything we should know about Wes Montgomery....Thanks !
I never listened to Wes until that Movie came out and Tony McAlpine played him. I always Listened to Tony! But never knew about Wes. Now I know! Very Nice!!
@@Producelikeapro Yes, I am a little surprised you didn't mention "Jimmy and Wes: The Dynamic Duo." Jimmy Smith had a similar effect on keyboard players as Wes did on guitarists.
Bought a house from Jimmy Smith....2003...in Sacramento ... Didn't even know who he was at the time. It had an addition that had a small elevated stage....with a cushioned bench lining the opposing wall that sat about 15 people.
@@martybrodell2424 - Re: "Jimmy Smith had a similar effect on keyboard players as Wes did on guitarists." Yes, that is quite right.... very correct, sir. The story of jazz organ divides very neatly into before and after Jimmy Smith. Joey DeFrancesco ably carries the torch for Jimmy today. If you haven't checked him out, go for it... you'll be glad you did.
Warren, you are a musical treasure! Your presentations are better than anything else out there. You really have a respect and a reverence to the artists that you chronicle. You sir have an artistry that goes beyond just narrating, your insights and your obvious passion for your fellow musicians is both entertaining and extremely educational. I continue to promote your videos to all my musical friends. Keep up the phenomenal work (that is clearly a joy), you have spoiled me rotten!!
You are very kind. Artists such as Wes deserve all the respect we can give! Hugely important and influential artist and the more I know about him the more I love him! Thanks ever so much for your amazing support! It means a lot
TH-cam, God Bless You. Out of this whole Cosmos, on this Sunday morning to little northern Michigan town, you decided I receive this biography of Wes Montgomery. It's a magical moment. It takes me back to wee hours listening to WJZZ, Detroit. Probably 1967, the year of the riot. Wes Montgomery playing "A Day in the Life." Time stopped. TH-cam, I sincerely wish to thank you.
Larry Carlton is in a category all his own. Just like Wes Montgomery. You might even find he sat in with Steely Dan and the Eagles. Also a personal favorite of mine Peter White. Of course, George Benson. Mississippi John Hurt.
Thank you: so much for this documentary, on wes. I was reased on jazz Bebop! as a kid. my father played albums on the record player with Wes, miles Davis, Nat King Cole, Dion Warwick . and so many more every day in our house. But wes Montgomery is my favorite. When my father died, I was only 20. But he left me all of his jazz albums . 8 of them are wes Montgomery. I always wonted to see a movie about his life and can't wate to see the documentary in 2023. I use to look at the Chicago bulls when Mikel Jordan was playing, with Wes montgomery music playing in the back ground, it was spiritual!
Thank you for this documentary. I have heard of Wes Montgomery referenced by so many guitarists but never took the time to listen to him myself. I took a break from watching your production and listened to live in 65. It was amazing! I got lost in the melody and the lines he played. Thank you for introducing me to Wes Montgomery. I'm sure this video (its so disrespectful to call it this) took days to create.
Started noticing Wes listening to Arch Macurdy 10-12pm radio national Aus in the 60's.There was no one like him! Django was cool and so was Charlie legends in their own rite but Wes was something again eh??And still is!!!.using---the universal language!
Wes joined the John Coltrane Quintett (+ Eric Dolphy) in 1961 for one gig at the Monterey Jazz Festival. They played "My Favorite Things", "Naima" and "So What/ Impressions". A review in Downbeat states, that Wes was towering over the others (even Trane himself!) as a soloist! Sadly there are no known recordings though...
Actually I’ve heard that recording do in fact exist. Haven’t found it though… Been wanting to hear it forever! I want to believe that I one day will indeed hear it…
@ Stephan Leo: I knew a man - now deceased - who actually saw that show live, and his comments echo yours. Wes blew everyone off stage when he was with 'Tranes group, including Coltrane himself, which was no easy feat. Alto player Eric Dolphy, who was in Coltrane's band, apparently was quite sore because he thought Wes had intentionally "cut" everyone, but that's just nonsense or even professional jealousy. There was not a mean or vindictive bone in Wes' body. That's just not who he was. If Wes outshone everyone else on stage that night, it was purely inadvertent. He just had a very special and profound gift for reaching people with his music. In my view, perhaps unique in jazz history. There were a few others who had that super-special spark, but not many. The greatest of the great jazz performers not only play at a ridiculously high level themselves, they also elevate everyone else around them. Wes had that ability, too. As great as the Wynton Kelly Trio sounded with Miles Davis - and they cemented their stature for all time playing with that group - they reached even greater heights playing with Wes. Pianist Kelly, bassist Paul Chambers, and drummer Jimmy Cobb sounded as if they'd been born to play with Wes Montgomery and he with them. I was only seven years old or so when Wes passed away.... I have often reflected that it would have been wonderful to have been there for some of those legendary performances. What a golden age of great music it was! And not just by Wes, either, but many others as well.
@@GeorgiaBoy1961 From everything I've heard about Dolphy from musicians who knew him, he was as sweet a person as they come, and all about the music. The idea he would have been jealous of Montgomery 'outshining' him or anyone else is a nonstarter.
Really nice mini-documentary! Wes Montgomery tied all the genres together. You can put his playing in any musical context and it WORKS. A truly great guitar player. Thanks..
Embarrassed to admit that although I'm familiar with the work of nearly every other guitarist mentioned in this video, I'd never heard of Wes Montgomery. Just ordered a load of his albums, as I had no idea how impoverished I was musically! So glad I came across this masterfully executed video.
I got onto Mr. Montgomery when I heard James Hetfield mention him as an influence, during an interview. I've been listening ever since. Loved this video. Thank you!
Hammett also has spoke about some love for certain jazz. There are lots of metal guys into jazz if you look below the surface...the guys from megadeth too, among many others from the 80s to today, ones you would not even believe. Tho most of the metal guys like fusion guitarists more (basically jazz complexity with distortion, and the precursor to shred...70s fusion guitarists were shredding beyond all the rock players at that point...only in the 80s did rock metal guys catch up tech wise to the 70s fusion players, but they never did harmonically, tho that has been changing more recently with many jazz metal players combining both successfully
@@mikomon309 I think he may have meant Kirk, who I know has mentioned his love for certain jazz in countless guitar magazine interviews over the years, dont know if Hetfield said same, but I'm sure you can google and find some of those interview references if out there. I know Kirk said so for sure, along with other jazz players. Wes is basically one of the first jazz people new to jazz start with, as it is easy on the ears compared to more esoteric jazz out there. Also note that current Metallica Bassist Trujillo made a whole documentary about jazz fusion bassist Jaco Pastorius of 70s fusion band Weather Report. I doubt Lars likes jazz, tho he cites Jethro Tull's drummer Ian Paice as one of his favs, who while not jazz, clearly has borrowed some jazz drum techniques.
I grew up in Brownsburg, just west of Indy (Indianapolis AKA "Nap Town"), and eventually knew of Wes Montgomery. Fast forward to 2008 (?), I visit a cousin in D.C., who is a bit older than me and lived in the next town over; he was an idol to me when we were growing up. Turns out he took up playing guitar, and Montgomery was among the guitarists he studied. Too bad we haven't stayed in touch . . .
@@TheWhollymoly (Looked him up) Not familiar with him, but I'm not a huge Jazz guitar person. Him being the guitarist for Henry Mancini is noteworthy, for sure.
WONDERFUL and thorough documentary on Wes Montgomery! He's always been the pinnacle of jazz guitar for me. I made a comment many years ago: "I've never heard Wes Montgomery play a wrong note!"
I came here because Wes sound was one of the most nice I had heard as a chlid with my Dad and his records... But also, I had this intrigue to know more about him, far more than the fact thaat he played so nice.a Gibson, and in octaves.. It ´s sound is a picture of my earliest music aproaches, and I am now surprised to see, after al this years of listening to lots of music, that he might be, the first Pat Metheny I heard about jajaj I love Django as well , for the same reasons, but, i haven't had the chance on hearing Charlie Cristian..so I will! Thanks a lot for this great video and series and Channel-Have a great 2022! A bassist woman from Argentina...
@@Producelikeapro So nice..My Dad didn't play an instrument, but his love to Music, the way he enjoyed listening to it , and collectin his 78 rpm vinyls, and his knowledge about all Jazz players of the era, ins the root of who I am today...=) Thanks to you , nice to share this feelings, and reminding those nice moments-- Now I am into Metal, Extreme Metal, Rock, Funk , and Polyphia, but i never ever forget where has everything come from!
Wow!!! I was taken aback when you said that you're mostly a rock guitarist. That was a really heartfelt homage to Wes coming from a rock player. I'm a classical player and therefore I can't cite Wes or any other jazz player as influences, But, I certainly listened to Reinhardt, Christian and Montgomery quite a bit. Thanks for a really excellent 42 minutes of my life.
Excellent overview. I have always been a huge fan of Wes Montgomery. The deep Rich sound he got with those Fast moving cords driving the melody within them is pretty phenomenal. How he did it with little musical training just shows he was a natural genius
Great documentary! I loved it. Wes is definitely a major influence. My father had a lot of Wes Montgomery records I was immediately blown away by his sound. I am a Jazz Pianist and now I am learning guitar one of the first Wes Montgomery blues songs I am attempting to learn is Sundown and West Coast Blues I can play the melodies but those solos are going to take awhile because I am still learning the guitar. Thank you for this post great information. Looking forward to seeing the next documentary.
@@Producelikeapro , You are welcome. Again thank you for this information. My father told me Wes played with his thumb but the way he played was incredible. The sound his technique all amazing. It’s really sad the world lost him when he was 45. Had he lived I can only imagine what he would have been doing musically. Wes is definitely a major influence for me just like all of the other Jazz greats. Please keep up the great work. I wish you tube was available when I was growing up. You either listened to the radio, went to the concert or buy the record. Today many musicians are incredible because they are blessed with the audio and the visual. All the best to you and forever success!
I play a little bit guitar myself but never saw much about Wes Montgomery because, IMO, most video' about him are boring. But I liked this one very much and learned something about him and his playing. Very inspiring!
Thanks so much for this excellent video. I was a huge Wes fan in high school and absolutely loved A Day in the Life. I grew up in a jazz house. My parents had over 4000 LPs, old 10" records and 45s from the 30s thru the 70s. I loved the Wes/Jimmy Smith records and JImmy's solo work. Wes had a sound like no others. That thumb smoothed out the notes and made him unique. Too bad he died so young. A true jazz master.
Thank you for putting this out. I am from the Indianapolis area and grew up never knowing Wes Montgomery. I accidentally discovered his music as I was learning to play and was in the process of exploring various styles. When I found out he was a son of Indy...I really started listening and studying how he was different and it led me to Pass, Hall, Kessel and Farlow. As important as I know Django and Christian to be, it is difficult to get a sense of their greatness as so much of their work was hidden behind big bands. The trio's and quartets that came along later really helped the guitar to stand out as a lead instrument obviously, but also as a rhythm instrument when there is a piano or base solo. I actually enjoy listening to Wes play the little background chords as it illustrates his sense of timing and how he could phrase. Your video is one of the best I have seen about Wes. I look forward to the documentary too. Hope to see you do a video on Joe Pass. I don't think Joe heard a note he didn't like and he could go on some amazing runs. The fact he could do solo shows is all you need to know about his mastery. Thanks gain for a good start of 2022!
Thanks ever so much Ben! I’m a huge fan of Wes. Growing up in the UK my father played Wes, Charlie Christian, Django Reinhardt and of course Joe Pass! There will be some Joe Pass soon enough as well! So much to cover!
this is so insightful, montgomery got me into jazz. i'm personally not the biggest fan of montgomery with strings, but the energy on so many of his early stuff is just insane! full house is one of my favorite albums also "a day in the life", or the song california nights is what got me into wes in the 1st place, so very interesting to me that this album is based on beatles stuff lmao, crazy i had no idea. if i can make a suggestion for a future ep, would love to see one on rudy van gelder himself
actualy Django played octave solo's and chord solo's but Wes developed it for his unique way of constructiung melodic lines ,I do believe Jimi was a Wes fan owned his records and may have even seen him live.
Superb! I'm not afraid to say I actually hear Wes as an absolutely unique guitarist to whom no one else compares.(period) I'm very excited to hear about the 2023 film. Thank you.
Fantastic as usual. You are always spot on and respectful. I've heard a lot but not all Wes, now I wanna go in and fill the gaps. Kudos sir for the information and the spark.
@ Backspin66: Adrian Ingram, whose biography of Wes is excellent, contains a quote from one music critic or another, Ralph Gleason or maybe producer Orrin Keepnews, that when Wes played his takes on the recording with the string section and the orchestra, they showed their appreciation by tapping their bows on their stands for him. He didn't read music ... and Wes been nervous about having to play in front of schooled musicians. He needn't have worried, they were as impressed by him as he was of them. Even Wes' "late period" commercial stuff is great not just on its own terms, but because Wes was making so many future jazz fans. That's how I grew to love jazz in all its forms, by listening to a Wes Montgomery LP and then going from there. Opened all sorts of doors for me, and it still is.
@@dlawlis - Hey, that's very cool! Back in the late-1990s/early 2000s, I went with some friends to the old jazz scene in Indy, Indiana Avenue, I think it was called... where Wes and his bothers, Freddy Hubbard, and so many other local greats hung out back in the old days. Indy was a great city for jazz during that era. I love all kinds of jazz, but to this day, Wes is my absolute favorite performer. He raised the bar so high I doubt anyone is going to do better. Let's put it this way: I hope I am alive to see it if/when it happens, because it would have to be someone very special.
@@GeorgiaBoy1961 That's right, Indiana Ave. I've driven on it many times but haven't spent a lot of time there. I've been to local Jazz clubs quite a few times though.
I'd heard Wes Montgomery through my Dad who strangely enough, was a strict trad jazz fan. It was a particular jazz radio station my Father would listen to that had a mix of contemporary and trad jazz and the sounds of Wes, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis and a host more, would appear on the nightly bill. It was also Wes Montgomery who introduced me to some early George Benson and 2 albums in particular that are still way ahead of their time, ''Beyond the Blue Horizon'' released in '71 and ''Body Talk'' from '73. These two discs fleshed out the Wes Montgomery story for me, with some brooding Miles Davis influences thrown in. George's tributes to Wes are astonishing improvisations that carry all the tone and texture that Wes was so well known for. I still return to Wes and George for that distinctive sound in an era filled with all genres of music from fusion, prog, hard rock, teenie bopper pop, contemporary symphonic, Tex Mex, country, folk, blues, reggae, swing, soul, funk, ragtime, jellyroll, Dixie, to mention the predominant ones. It was a time of innovation and nostalgia and possibly still the most fertile time in modern music but Wes is still King.
❤it was around '68 that i first heard Mr. Montgomery n radio in LA.. next day i found a couple used Lp's and i was hooked. i was 17. he introduced me to jazz music and i trded in 30p rock albums for jazz records.
This is a great series. Thank you. The care you take, the attention to detail. But most of all thanks for the introduction to the music man that happened to play guitar in Wes Montgomery. I'd love to meet Allan Holdsworth in the same way. I heard somewhere the tune Clair De Lune would move him to tears. That helped me listen again to Holdsworth's musical language in his chord voicing and lead lines. I had missed something when thinking of him only as a guitarist.
Very well done. Wes, Monk and Buddy (my dad) were the most genuine family oriented men that I have ever known. I feel especially privileged to have known and loved them. They were just the best!
Are you a musician as well? I really love the music of Wes, but don't know the music of his brothers as well. I'll have to check it out. Thanks for your comment.
I needed this. Thank you Warren for highlighting one of the best and most influential guitarists to ever live. And he shares a birth day with David Gilmour!!! Awesome.
So grateful for all of these videos. So important to get all of these amazingly influential musicians' stories on record to bring context to the ever evolving world of music. Thank you!
My mother played Wes as she prepared dinner or simply read the newspaper in her favorite chair. I would be playing on the floor. Today his music creates sanctuary in my home. Invoking the spirit of my mom, her love of music, peacefulness and celebrating my family.
Thank you for sharing your touching memories! My mom is almost 85, and as a youngster used to listen to Wes Montgomery practice (and play) throughout the fifties in San Francisco ( at the bars and clubs) with her Dad and Uncle ( my grandfather and grand uncle). We enjoy his music together, and she has lovely memories as you have shared!
"Innovators" is a term with a generally positive connotation, but those who have seen ahead of everyone else have also been derided for it. Wes Montgomery is one example.
Thank you for sharing this, people need to know what a beautiful guitar player he was. He was also a hard working father. Wes created also a wonderful great sound. After him i never seen an other guitarist that played the octave like that.
Very well said about the one and only Wes Montgomery. "Smoking at the Half Note" is one I would take with me to a desert island. How about the same about another great- Jim Hall!
He seemed like a very humble, sweet guy. Always looking to move forward. The critics hated his most successful albums….last time I checked, nobody has ever named a street or made a statue of a critic. I’m a prog rock guy, and critics never liked my favorite band, Yes. Just goes to show how seriously critics should be taken…..
I hear you! Growing up my favourite band were Queen and critics never liked them! People like Queen. I’m also a huge Prog fan, Yes, Genesis, King Crimson, Caravan, Camel, National Health, all the Canterbury bands!
Five stars, Warren! I'm a huge Wes Montgomery fan and watched lots of TH-cam videos. You have just created the best Wes biographical video I've ever seen. Certain people are endowed by a higher power with supernatural talent that ordinary people can never attain. Django, Charlie Christian, and Wes Montgomery are still the ultimate masters in the world of jazz guitar to this very day. There are other incredible guitarists who are right up there at the top as well, but Wes was a true innovator like nobody else in modern times.
I heard and bought Lee Ritenour’s “Wes Bound” the year it came out in the early 90s and loved. Only some years later did I learn that this album was in tribute to Wes Montgomery.
I know what your saying Lee Ritenour has a one of a kind sound on that song and is also a great a player on acoustic guitar as well from his Earth bound album his song water from the moon with his keyboardist friend Dave Grusin on it if you haven't heard it before check it out I'm sure you will enjoy it .
On any given night that Wes performed the back walls at clubs would be lined with jazz musicians. And notably on some nights famous Guitarist like kenny Burrell, George Benson and others. They also loved to hear another innovative guitarist named" Grant Green". Who "Wes" lived to hear play live himself also.
Very well done…so informative …thank you for your splendid effort to honor Wes. At 71, I grew up listening to and being influenced by his ground breaking style and sound in the 50’s and 60’s…I miss my Gibson ES175D Custom Black with gold hardware guitar…let it go to a friend back in 1970. Made the same mistake with my Selmer Paris Saxoophones…Bari, Tenor and Alto…also my Musser vibes…and my 1965 VW Bus…oh well…20-20 hind sight…
Can't help but be reminded of the fast show when I hear some of the strange names of some of the old jazz musicians and group names! Great vid by the way.
I was in college in 60s listening to Wes on my record player. Then in in the 70s listening to George Benson on cassettes with our stereo system (as well as going to his concerts in Chicago suburbs). Now I I know why I listened to these two jazz guitarists. The former influenced the latter. Thanks for your insights.
The early Benson albums were the best, way more raw burning. Like wes, benson sold out doing pop in the mid to later 70s (breezin, etc) He cooks on the early ones tho
I got into Wes Montgomery after I heard Zappa recommended guitarists to listen to Montgomery if they wanted to learn to play guitar. At the time I was a young heavy metal fan and ended up playing lots of jazz guitar after hearing Wes Montgomery's work. It's like you say, he's a connecting piece.
As a child, raised in a jazz environment, Wes was the first guitarist that I'd ever heard. I remember "Bumpin" as one of my favorites! Thank you for this video!
Thanks for making this video! Wes Montgomery was my primary inspiration to pick up a guitar as a young teenager in 1965. I immediately figured out that I would never play as well as he, but the love for the instrument that he instilled in me has lasted all the years since. Yes, Wes, was the man. Thanks again for a masterpiece of a video. I think Wes would be proud.
Great video! "Here That Rainy Day" off of Bumpin is one of my all time favourite Jazz tunes. Wes really proved the simplicity is sometimes the best & the fact he influenced so many artists outside of of the Jazz circle proves how impactful he truly is! Really had no clue about his thumb, Interesting fact!
What other artists do you think changed music? Comment below!
Tom Jobim, Robert Fripp, Brian Eno, Zappa, Chuck Berry, Pat Metheny, Carlos Santana
Bob Dylan, Rolling Stones, U2, Radiohead,
@@AngelHadzi ALL coming!
Beethoven?
@@TheWorldTeacher coming soon!
He's my favorite jazz guitarist, because his playing always sounds like music. Never showing off, never playing for other musicians.. Always music.
Yes, you are so right
Great presentation topped off by your pleasurable spirit. Thank you.
Thank you. Well said
Integrity is the hardest thing to achieve. I here it in his music.
I saw a great interview with George Benson where he talks about idolizing Wes Montgomery. George went to see Wes in a club as a young man, and during a break went up to him and asked if he could take some lessons. Wes refused, saying "How can I give you lessons when I'm still learning to play myself?"
Spot-on ✔
You know you're a legend when George benson, Pat metheny, Lee ritenour Idolize you.
That’s awesome!
Thanks for the extra information on Mr. Montgomery and family
There is no other adjective I can use to describe this excerpt about the incomparable artist of the six strings instrument he played Mr. Wes Montgomery.
I absolutely love your style of reporting Sir. Thank you so very much.
I was lucky to be in Ronnie Scott's Night Club in London the night Wes was playing (a few nights there)..(1965 ish) Utterly Brilliant & a bit of a shock to be just a few feet from him, his Guitar & amp. During the interval I went back stage, & found him a very quiet mild & gentle person, softly spoken, open & easy to talk to, and seemed surprised at how I engaged in sensible questions about his technique & cheekily asked him for some tips.. ( A treasure) He explained his simple reasons for playing with his thumb, it allowed him to play later hours without disturbing anyone, and was also a far better sound. He was also using National strings at that time. I had already heard some of his tracks..The rest of the night was fabulous. I later got a copy of "The Incredible Jazz Guitar of Wes Mongomery" LP. Again such a lucky chance & All indelible in my memory. Thankyou for a great post.
You deserve a huge Award for making this outstanding Tribute to the world's Best Jazz Guitarist ever. I Thank You sincerely.
Wow! Thanks ever so much
It’s hard to describe the beauty of Wes’ playing…just brilliant.
Agreed 100%!
Totally enjoyed that enlightenment !
Wes was a man at ease with a peaceful soul, and that's what you hear in his playing. What a gift he was.
four on six got me hooked on wes😭 i love his guitar
Thanks for sharing!
What a legend! Thanks Headmaster Warren for the history lesson.
Thanks ever so much Lee!
Started listening to Wes when I was in the service. I became enamored with his unusual style and melodies...one of the G.O.A.T.S a wonderful guitarist.
Thanks so much for this. Wes is my favourite guitarist. First heard him at a party on Melbourne around 1969 when someone stuck one of his records on the turntable. Blew my mind. 53 years later his photo hangs on the wall above my computer. My inspiration
The day that Wes passed, the Grateful Dead played at the Fillmore East, dedicated their show to him and Garcia and company played until 4 am. It was the best I ever saw them play - and I saw them many times.
@ 1blastman: It is a measure of the esteem in which Wes was held that many famous rock-and-rollers attended his shows, people like the Rolling Stones, as well as critics, fans and other jazz cats.
Awesome story. Thanks for sharing. Classic.
I meant to comment here. Awesome story. Thanks for sharing !!!!!
By chance do you remember the set list at all. There isn’t a recording of the show or a set list. There is a setlist for the day before so you could look at those songs and eliminate those as possibilities
Like Ed Scmidt, I am wondering what the Dead played - anything Wes?
I fell into Wes Montgomery in the mid 60's and man what a great guitarist he was I was in my teens and Bumpin on Sunset 🌇 was so Sweet 🔥🔥
My dad who played guitar introduced me to Wes Montgomery’ s “Bumpin’” when I was a teen and I was hooked!
Amazing
I first heard Wes in the 60's and was captivated by his sound. My whole life I've been hungry to know more about him and his music, and now you've laid out a feast for us to take in. Thank you so much.
Thanks ever so much!
I really enjoyed your overview and homage to Wes. and his sensational contribution to music. Thank you.
This documentary had me transfixed. I have just started learning guitar at age 62, so i have an interest in hearing things guitar. But the combination of this revoutionary jazz trendsetter's story and the super detail minded, informative, and hypercongenial narrator had me listening from beginning to end and saving the address to send friends to be educated and entertained by everything Wes Montgomery.
Thanks ever so much for your kind words! I really appreciate it! Wes was a giant amongst musicians!
Had a Wes Montgomery Band at my Music College. It was the best Jazz band I ever was in. Our teacher, Gary Barone (RIP) one of the best Trumpets players I ever saw live in person, who worked with Zappa and many others, told us storys when he met Wes and his brother at several Jam sessions. I guess it was one part of it that the Band was that good, because we felt the Music History when we played.
Thanks ever so much for sharing!
For many years I have heard many rock musicians praise Wes Montgomery , yet knew little about this innovative Jazz Master... That is until now you sir have incredibly tied together everything we should know about Wes Montgomery....Thanks !
Wow! Thanks ever so much that really means a lot
I never listened to Wes until that Movie came out and Tony McAlpine played him. I always Listened to Tony! But never knew about Wes. Now I know! Very Nice!!
Fantastic
One of my favorite jazz albums is "Jimmy and Wes: The Dynamic Duo." Jimmy Smith and Wes Montgomery together? Yes please!
Yes! Marvellous record
@@Producelikeapro Yes, I am a little surprised you didn't mention "Jimmy and Wes: The Dynamic Duo." Jimmy Smith had a similar effect on keyboard players as Wes did on guitarists.
Bought a house from Jimmy Smith....2003...in Sacramento ... Didn't even know who he was at the time. It had an addition that had a small elevated stage....with a cushioned bench lining the opposing wall that sat about 15 people.
@@martybrodell2424 - Re: "Jimmy Smith had a similar effect on keyboard players as Wes did on guitarists."
Yes, that is quite right.... very correct, sir. The story of jazz organ divides very neatly into before and after Jimmy Smith. Joey DeFrancesco ably carries the torch for Jimmy today. If you haven't checked him out, go for it... you'll be glad you did.
Truly 2 men at the top of their craft. Totally agree
And when was the last time we actually saw a jazz guitarist smile while soloing? ;) Great video, thank you Warren!
Thanks ever so much
jazz guitarists smile all the time while soloing, but you wouldn't know if you don't see jazz...
Depends on how broad your definition of jazz is lol
@@newusernamehere4772 Also depends on how broad a smile you're used to seeing !!
As a child I listened to Wes Montgomery albums for hours and hours which were absolutely phenomenal!
Excellent Expose of his life!
☆☆☆☆☆
Thanks ever so much! I really appreciate it
Happy New Year
Correctamundo 💯
Excellent job! A great bio. I saw Wes in 1967 at the Lighthouse in Hermosa Beach California... it was life changing.
Bravo ! Great information ! I heard Wes play in Newark,NJ in 1965 . He was an amazing guy !
Your scholarship is amazing. This is by far the best presentation I've ever seen. Bravo.
Wow! Thanks ever so much! That really means a lot and thank you for your beautiful email
Totally agree! I'm not even a music fan, but the presentation is so good I found it hard to stop watching 😊
@@Producelikeapro I agree! A great presentation. Were do you find the old music footage?
Was thinking same thing, Miko. Very comprehensive coverage of Wes Montgomery here. Journalistic, in fact.
@@acousticshadow4032 Wes was my Uncle. So I have a definite interest.
Warren, you are a musical treasure! Your presentations are better than anything else out there. You really have a respect and a reverence to the artists that you chronicle. You sir have an artistry that goes beyond just narrating, your insights and your obvious passion for your fellow musicians is both entertaining and extremely educational. I continue to promote your videos to all my musical friends. Keep up the phenomenal work (that is clearly a joy), you have spoiled me rotten!!
You are very kind. Artists such as Wes deserve all the respect we can give! Hugely important and influential artist and the more I know about him the more I love him! Thanks ever so much for your amazing support! It means a lot
Wow you knocked this presentation out the box!! You honored Wes with this bio!! Bravo sir😍
Nice one, Warren! I'm not a jazz fan, but still enjoyed this immensely. I love stories about musicians. Stay well ♡♡
Thanks ever so much! Glad you enjoyed the video
I met and jammed with the late great organist Jimmy Smith! Wes Montgomery was his favorite guitarist!
That's amazing Ronald! Thanks for sharing!
TH-cam, God Bless You. Out of this whole Cosmos, on this Sunday morning to little northern Michigan town, you decided I receive this biography of Wes Montgomery. It's a magical moment. It takes me back to wee hours listening to WJZZ, Detroit. Probably 1967, the year of the riot. Wes Montgomery playing "A Day in the Life." Time stopped. TH-cam, I sincerely wish to thank you.
Thanks ever so much! So glad you enjoyed it!
Larry Carlton is in a category all his own. Just like Wes Montgomery. You might even find he sat in with Steely Dan and the Eagles. Also a personal favorite of mine Peter White. Of course, George Benson. Mississippi John Hurt.
Excellent summary of his life. For me he invited "smooth jazz" and is still in a class of his own.
Thank you: so much for this documentary, on wes. I was reased on jazz Bebop! as a kid. my father played albums on the record player with Wes, miles Davis, Nat King Cole, Dion Warwick . and so many more every day in our house. But wes Montgomery is my favorite. When my father died, I was only 20. But he left me all of his jazz albums . 8 of them are wes Montgomery. I always wonted to see a movie about his life and can't wate to see the documentary in 2023. I use to look at the Chicago bulls when Mikel Jordan was playing, with Wes montgomery music playing in the back ground, it was spiritual!
Terrific!! Thanks for releasing this. I heard Wes back in 1967 andI have never recovered from it.
Thanks for sharing David!
Many budding guitarists don't know that Wes was an amazing chord improvisor, playing all-chord solos that are worth listening to many times.
Thanks ever so much!
Thank you for this documentary. I have heard of Wes Montgomery referenced by so many guitarists but never took the time to listen to him myself. I took a break from watching your production and listened to live in 65. It was amazing! I got lost in the melody and the lines he played. Thank you for introducing me to Wes Montgomery. I'm sure this video (its so disrespectful to call it this) took days to create.
Thanks ever so much! I really appreciate your wonderful comment! It really means a lot
Started noticing Wes listening to Arch Macurdy 10-12pm radio national Aus in the 60's.There was no one like him! Django was cool and so was Charlie legends in their own rite but Wes was something again eh??And still is!!!.using---the universal language!
Music the universal language?
Wes joined the John Coltrane Quintett (+ Eric Dolphy) in 1961 for one gig at the Monterey Jazz Festival. They played "My Favorite Things", "Naima" and "So What/ Impressions". A review in Downbeat states, that Wes was towering over the others (even Trane himself!) as a soloist! Sadly there are no known recordings though...
Thanks Stephan ever so much for sharing! I really appreciate it
Coltrane invited Wes to join his group.
Actually I’ve heard that recording do in fact exist. Haven’t found it though… Been wanting to hear it forever! I want to believe that I one day will indeed hear it…
@ Stephan Leo: I knew a man - now deceased - who actually saw that show live, and his comments echo yours. Wes blew everyone off stage when he was with 'Tranes group, including Coltrane himself, which was no easy feat. Alto player Eric Dolphy, who was in Coltrane's band, apparently was quite sore because he thought Wes had intentionally "cut" everyone, but that's just nonsense or even professional jealousy. There was not a mean or vindictive bone in Wes' body. That's just not who he was.
If Wes outshone everyone else on stage that night, it was purely inadvertent. He just had a very special and profound gift for reaching people with his music. In my view, perhaps unique in jazz history. There were a few others who had that super-special spark, but not many. The greatest of the great jazz performers not only play at a ridiculously high level themselves, they also elevate everyone else around them. Wes had that ability, too. As great as the Wynton Kelly Trio sounded with Miles Davis - and they cemented their stature for all time playing with that group - they reached even greater heights playing with Wes. Pianist Kelly, bassist Paul Chambers, and drummer Jimmy Cobb sounded as if they'd been born to play with Wes Montgomery and he with them.
I was only seven years old or so when Wes passed away.... I have often reflected that it would have been wonderful to have been there for some of those legendary performances. What a golden age of great music it was! And not just by Wes, either, but many others as well.
@@GeorgiaBoy1961 From everything I've heard about Dolphy from musicians who knew him, he was as sweet a person as they come, and all about the music. The idea he would have been jealous of Montgomery 'outshining' him or anyone else is a nonstarter.
Really nice mini-documentary! Wes Montgomery tied all the genres together. You can put his playing in any musical context and it WORKS. A truly great guitar player.
Thanks..
Thanks ever so much! That really means a lot
Embarrassed to admit that although I'm familiar with the work of nearly every other guitarist mentioned in this video, I'd never heard of Wes Montgomery. Just ordered a load of his albums, as I had no idea how impoverished I was musically! So glad I came across this masterfully executed video.
Never heard of Wes? Wow!
Wow
I got onto Mr. Montgomery when I heard James Hetfield mention him as an influence, during an interview. I've been listening ever since. Loved this video. Thank you!
Thanks ever so much for the great comment
Hammett also has spoke about some love for certain jazz. There are lots of metal guys into jazz if you look below the surface...the guys from megadeth too, among many others from the 80s to today, ones you would not even believe. Tho most of the metal guys like fusion guitarists more (basically jazz complexity with distortion, and the precursor to shred...70s fusion guitarists were shredding beyond all the rock players at that point...only in the 80s did rock metal guys catch up tech wise to the 70s fusion players, but they never did harmonically, tho that has been changing more recently with many jazz metal players combining both successfully
James "Metallica" Hetfiled mentioned Wes? Dude, I don't doubt you, but I NEED to know where/how you heard this information.
@@mikomon309 I think he may have meant Kirk, who I know has mentioned his love for certain jazz in countless guitar magazine interviews over the years, dont know if Hetfield said same, but I'm sure you can google and find some of those interview references if out there. I know Kirk said so for sure, along with other jazz players. Wes is basically one of the first jazz people new to jazz start with, as it is easy on the ears compared to more esoteric jazz out there.
Also note that current Metallica Bassist Trujillo made a whole documentary about jazz fusion bassist Jaco Pastorius of 70s fusion band Weather Report. I doubt Lars likes jazz, tho he cites Jethro Tull's drummer Ian Paice as one of his favs, who while not jazz, clearly has borrowed some jazz drum techniques.
@@RocknJazzer Thanks!
What an excellent showcasing of just an amazing musician. I am an instant fan of this channel.
Wow! Thanks ever so much
I grew up in Brownsburg, just west of Indy (Indianapolis AKA "Nap Town"), and eventually knew of Wes Montgomery. Fast forward to 2008 (?), I visit a cousin in D.C., who is a bit older than me and lived in the next town over; he was an idol to me when we were growing up. Turns out he took up playing guitar, and Montgomery was among the guitarists he studied. Too bad we haven't stayed in touch . . .
Looks like you need to reconnect with your cousin!
@@Producelikeapro Oh, how I'd love to! "We're only immortal -- for a limited time."
@@TavisAllen marvellous
Royce Campbell?
@@TheWhollymoly (Looked him up) Not familiar with him, but I'm not a huge Jazz guitar person. Him being the guitarist for Henry Mancini is noteworthy, for sure.
I am a wess fan you described him excellently. You even widen my perspective of wess and music in general. Thank you Bravo
You have done a great service educating us on jazz guitar history.
Thanks ever so much
I am just trying to my Son to study the control board!
WONDERFUL and thorough documentary on Wes Montgomery! He's always been the pinnacle of jazz guitar for me. I made a comment many years ago: "I've never heard Wes Montgomery play a wrong note!"
I came here because Wes sound was one of the most nice I had heard as a chlid with my Dad and his records...
But also, I had this intrigue to know more about him, far more than the fact thaat he played so nice.a Gibson, and in octaves..
It ´s sound is a picture of my earliest music aproaches, and I am now surprised to see, after al this years of listening to lots of music, that he might be, the first Pat Metheny I heard about jajaj
I love Django as well , for the same reasons, but, i haven't had the chance on hearing Charlie Cristian..so I will!
Thanks a lot for this great video and series and Channel-Have a great 2022!
A bassist woman from Argentina...
Thanks ever so much! I had the same experience with my Father! Thanks for sharing
@@Producelikeapro So nice..My Dad didn't play an instrument, but his love to Music, the way he enjoyed listening to it , and collectin his 78 rpm vinyls, and his knowledge about all Jazz players of the era, ins the root of who I am today...=)
Thanks to you , nice to share this feelings, and reminding those nice moments--
Now I am into Metal, Extreme Metal, Rock, Funk , and Polyphia, but i never ever forget where has everything come from!
Thank you "Wes Montgomery"!!!
Yes! Incredible
Bumping on Sunset changed all music for me. It still sounds pure and fresh to this day
Thanks ever so much for sharing
Thank you for this. Wes Montgomery fans we have a secret handshake, we can all spot each other eventually.
Haha That's awesome!
Wow!!! I was taken aback when you said that you're mostly a rock guitarist.
That was a really heartfelt homage to Wes coming from a rock player.
I'm a classical player and therefore I can't cite Wes or any other jazz player as influences,
But, I certainly listened to Reinhardt, Christian and Montgomery quite a bit.
Thanks for a really excellent 42 minutes of my life.
Excellent overview. I have always been a huge fan of Wes Montgomery. The deep Rich sound he got with those Fast moving cords driving the melody within them is pretty phenomenal. How he did it with little musical training just shows he was a natural genius
I was wanting to be like Jimi when I was 12 then I heard Wes. I was shocked and awed went straight into jazz and soul. This was very great thank you.
I wanted to be both as well! I hear you
One of the best reviews and break down of the great Wes Montgomery 🎸!
Great documentary!
I loved it. Wes is definitely a major influence. My father had a lot of Wes Montgomery records I was immediately blown away by his sound.
I am a Jazz Pianist and now I am learning guitar one of the first Wes Montgomery blues songs I am attempting to learn is Sundown and West Coast Blues I can play the melodies but those solos are going to take awhile because I am still learning the guitar.
Thank you for this post great information.
Looking forward to seeing the next documentary.
Thanks ever so much Nick for your great comment! Yes, my Father introduced me to him as well
@@Producelikeapro ,
You are welcome. Again thank you for this information.
My father told me Wes played with his thumb but the way he played was incredible.
The sound his technique all amazing.
It’s really sad the world lost him when he was 45.
Had he lived I can only imagine what he would have been doing musically. Wes is definitely a major influence for me just like all of the other Jazz greats.
Please keep up the great work.
I wish you tube was available when I was growing up.
You either listened to the radio, went to the concert or buy the record.
Today many musicians are incredible because they are blessed with the audio and the visual.
All the best to you and forever success!
I play a little bit guitar myself but never saw much about Wes Montgomery because, IMO, most video' about him are boring. But I liked this one very much and learned something about him and his playing. Very inspiring!
Thanks ever so much! I really appreciate it
Awesome video - thank you so much for making this !
Really inspired and motivated me
Thanks ever so much Cody!
Thanks so much for this excellent video. I was a huge Wes fan in high school and absolutely loved A Day in the Life. I grew up in a jazz house. My parents had over 4000 LPs, old 10" records and 45s from the 30s thru the 70s. I loved the Wes/Jimmy Smith records and JImmy's solo work. Wes had a sound like no others. That thumb smoothed out the notes and made him unique. Too bad he died so young. A true jazz master.
Thank you for putting this out. I am from the Indianapolis area and grew up never knowing Wes Montgomery. I accidentally discovered his music as I was learning to play and was in the process of exploring various styles. When I found out he was a son of Indy...I really started listening and studying how he was different and it led me to Pass, Hall, Kessel and Farlow. As important as I know Django and Christian to be, it is difficult to get a sense of their greatness as so much of their work was hidden behind big bands. The trio's and quartets that came along later really helped the guitar to stand out as a lead instrument obviously, but also as a rhythm instrument when there is a piano or base solo. I actually enjoy listening to Wes play the little background chords as it illustrates his sense of timing and how he could phrase. Your video is one of the best I have seen about Wes. I look forward to the documentary too.
Hope to see you do a video on Joe Pass. I don't think Joe heard a note he didn't like and he could go on some amazing runs. The fact he could do solo shows is all you need to know about his mastery.
Thanks gain for a good start of 2022!
Thanks ever so much Ben! I’m a huge fan of Wes. Growing up in the UK my father played Wes, Charlie Christian, Django Reinhardt and of course Joe Pass! There will be some Joe Pass soon enough as well! So much to cover!
@@Producelikeapro Grant Green...how could I forget Grant? Love Idle Moments. Thanks again for the content. I am now a subscriber.
this is so insightful, montgomery got me into jazz. i'm personally not the biggest fan of montgomery with strings, but the energy on so many of his early stuff is just insane! full house is one of my favorite albums
also "a day in the life", or the song california nights is what got me into wes in the 1st place, so very interesting to me that this album is based on beatles stuff lmao, crazy i had no idea.
if i can make a suggestion for a future ep, would love to see one on rudy van gelder himself
Thanks ever so much for sharing that! Yes, Wes must have got so many people started listening to Jazz!
Hendrix "3rd Stone from the sun" must have been Wes influenced with such a distinctive Octave melody.
Wouldn’t surprised at all
actualy Django played octave solo's and chord solo's but Wes developed it for his unique way of constructiung melodic lines ,I do believe Jimi was a Wes fan owned his records and may have even seen him live.
I've always thought that Jimi was influenced by Wes on that great track.
In an interview, Mitch Mitchell said that Hendrix cited Montgomery as one of his early influences.
Speak...
Thanks very much. WeS seems like such a genuine person in the interviews. A real great person. Wonderful.
Thanks ever so much for your comment
Superb!
I'm not afraid to say I actually hear Wes as an absolutely unique guitarist
to whom no one else compares.(period)
I'm very excited to hear about the 2023 film.
Thank you.
Me too! Going to be amazing to get to see and hear even more about him!
I saw a car driving down the A2/M2 in Kent , UK this evening, the number plate was, I kid you not JA55 WES!!!!
That’s fantastic
Fantastic as usual. You are always spot on and respectful. I've heard a lot but not all Wes, now I wanna go in and fill the gaps. Kudos sir for the information and the spark.
That’s wonderful to hear! I’m sure you will love everything you hear!
When the "critics" says "it's not good" I like it. Wes with Strings is great.
Haha that happens to me too!
@ Backspin66: Adrian Ingram, whose biography of Wes is excellent, contains a quote from one music critic or another, Ralph Gleason or maybe producer Orrin Keepnews, that when Wes played his takes on the recording with the string section and the orchestra, they showed their appreciation by tapping their bows on their stands for him. He didn't read music ... and Wes been nervous about having to play in front of schooled musicians. He needn't have worried, they were as impressed by him as he was of them.
Even Wes' "late period" commercial stuff is great not just on its own terms, but because Wes was making so many future jazz fans. That's how I grew to love jazz in all its forms, by listening to a Wes Montgomery LP and then going from there. Opened all sorts of doors for me, and it still is.
@@GeorgiaBoy1961 Wes is the reason I started listening to Jazz also, plus he's from my hometown.
@@dlawlis - Hey, that's very cool! Back in the late-1990s/early 2000s, I went with some friends to the old jazz scene in Indy, Indiana Avenue, I think it was called... where Wes and his bothers, Freddy Hubbard, and so many other local greats hung out back in the old days. Indy was a great city for jazz during that era.
I love all kinds of jazz, but to this day, Wes is my absolute favorite performer. He raised the bar so high I doubt anyone is going to do better. Let's put it this way: I hope I am alive to see it if/when it happens, because it would have to be someone very special.
@@GeorgiaBoy1961 That's right, Indiana Ave. I've driven on it many times but haven't spent a lot of time there. I've been to local Jazz clubs quite a few times though.
I'd heard Wes Montgomery through my Dad who strangely enough, was a strict trad jazz fan. It was a particular jazz radio station my Father would listen to that had a mix of contemporary and trad jazz and the sounds of Wes, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis and a host more, would appear on the nightly bill.
It was also Wes Montgomery who introduced me to some early George Benson and 2 albums in particular that are still way ahead of their time, ''Beyond the Blue Horizon'' released in '71 and ''Body Talk'' from '73. These two discs fleshed out the Wes Montgomery story for me, with some brooding Miles Davis influences thrown in. George's tributes to Wes are astonishing improvisations that carry all the tone and texture that Wes was so well known for.
I still return to Wes and George for that distinctive sound in an era filled with all genres of music from fusion, prog, hard rock, teenie bopper pop, contemporary symphonic, Tex Mex, country, folk, blues, reggae, swing, soul, funk, ragtime, jellyroll, Dixie, to mention the predominant ones. It was a time of innovation and nostalgia and possibly still the most fertile time in modern music but Wes is still King.
I love Mr.WES MONTGOMERY sounds thank You so much for letting us know About his Documentary out in 2023
❤it was around '68 that i first heard Mr. Montgomery n radio in LA.. next day i found a couple used Lp's and i was hooked. i was 17. he introduced me to jazz music and i trded in 30p rock albums for jazz records.
This is a great series. Thank you. The care you take, the attention to detail. But most of all thanks for the introduction to the music man that happened to play guitar in Wes Montgomery. I'd love to meet Allan Holdsworth in the same way. I heard somewhere the tune Clair De Lune would move him to tears. That helped me listen again to Holdsworth's musical language in his chord voicing and lead lines. I had missed something when thinking of him only as a guitarist.
Wow! Thanks ever so much, I really appreciate it. Yes, Wes was a huge influence on me growing up!
Very well done. Wes, Monk and Buddy (my dad) were the most genuine family oriented men that I have ever known. I feel especially privileged to have known and loved them. They were just the best!
Are you a musician as well? I really love the music of Wes, but don't know the music of his brothers as well. I'll have to check it out. Thanks for your comment.
I needed this. Thank you Warren for highlighting one of the best and most influential guitarists to ever live. And he shares a birth day with David Gilmour!!! Awesome.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Yes, hugely influential musician!
Jimi's last song to close out Woodstock just echos Wes Montgomery. Goosebumps!!!
Regarding hitchhiker's thumb -- Tosin Abasi certainly uses his!
Fantastic
I'm more into the bluesand folk based guitar genres but I happened to get myself learning jazz guitar. I couldn't stop watching this
Brilliant piece i loved Wes without even knowing his place in guitar 🎸 history 👏
Thanks very much. Such an important artist
Great work man, thank you for bring to us the story of the Master of Jazz Guitar!
So grateful for all of these videos. So important to get all of these amazingly influential musicians' stories on record to bring context to the ever evolving world of music. Thank you!
Thanks Arthur! I really appreciate it!
A touching tribute to a musician who has touched me like few others. I almost cried when you almost cried describing his sudden death
It's too late Warren, But I MUST watch
haha thanks!! I hope you enjoyed it!
Wow I've been studying Wes my whole life. I never saw the vid of him 26 years old!! Thanks!!
Thanks Alan for sharing!
Really enjoyed that one, thank you Warren !
Thanks ever so much
My mother played Wes as she prepared dinner or simply read the newspaper in her favorite chair. I would be playing on the floor. Today his music creates sanctuary in my home. Invoking the spirit of my mom, her love of music, peacefulness and celebrating my family.
Thank you for sharing your touching memories!
My mom is almost 85, and as a youngster used to listen to Wes Montgomery practice (and play) throughout the fifties in San Francisco ( at the bars and clubs) with her Dad and Uncle ( my grandfather and grand uncle).
We enjoy his music together, and she has lovely memories as you have shared!
Wes Montgomery is the one guitarist I never ever get tired of listening to. He was unique.
"Innovators" is a term with a generally positive connotation, but those who have seen ahead of everyone else have also been derided for it. Wes Montgomery is one example.
Agreed 100%!
I first heard his recordings at age16 and I still believe now as I beleive then that he is the most influential jazz guitarist of all time.
Thank you for sharing this, people need to know what a beautiful guitar player he was. He was also a hard working father.
Wes created also a wonderful great sound.
After him i never seen an other guitarist that played the octave like that.
Thank you for sharing this. It’s the best overview of Wes’ life and impact I’ve seen. Well done.
Very well said about the one and only Wes Montgomery. "Smoking at the Half Note" is one I would take with me to a desert island. How about the same about another great- Jim Hall!
He seemed like a very humble, sweet guy. Always looking to move forward.
The critics hated his most successful albums….last time I checked, nobody has ever named a street or made a statue of a critic.
I’m a prog rock guy, and critics never liked my favorite band, Yes.
Just goes to show how seriously critics should be taken…..
I hear you! Growing up my favourite band were Queen and critics never liked them! People like Queen. I’m also a huge Prog fan, Yes, Genesis, King Crimson, Caravan, Camel, National Health, all the Canterbury bands!
Five stars, Warren! I'm a huge Wes Montgomery fan and watched lots of TH-cam videos. You have just created the best Wes biographical video I've ever seen. Certain people are endowed by a higher power with supernatural talent that ordinary people can never attain. Django, Charlie Christian, and Wes Montgomery are still the ultimate masters in the world of jazz guitar to this very day. There are other incredible guitarists who are right up there at the top as well, but Wes was a true innovator like nobody else in modern times.
I heard and bought Lee Ritenour’s “Wes Bound” the year it came out in the early 90s and loved. Only some years later did I learn that this album was in tribute to Wes Montgomery.
I know what your saying Lee Ritenour has a one of a kind sound on that song and is also a great a player on acoustic guitar as well from his Earth bound album his song water from the moon with his keyboardist friend Dave Grusin on it if you haven't heard it before check it out I'm sure you will enjoy it .
On any given night that Wes performed the back walls at clubs would be lined with jazz musicians. And notably on some nights famous Guitarist like kenny Burrell, George Benson and others. They also loved to hear another innovative guitarist named" Grant Green". Who "Wes" lived to hear play live himself also.
Lee is a legend also
Very well done…so informative …thank you for your splendid effort to honor Wes. At 71, I grew up listening to and being influenced by his ground breaking style and sound in the 50’s and 60’s…I miss my Gibson ES175D Custom Black with gold hardware guitar…let it go to a friend back in 1970. Made the same mistake with my Selmer Paris Saxoophones…Bari, Tenor and Alto…also my Musser vibes…and my 1965 VW Bus…oh well…20-20 hind sight…
Thanks for sharing your experience! I really appreciate it
He was a giant and so important to us all
Outstanding video! This is not a just a TH-cam video... This is in the documentary class! Well done. Thanks
Wow, thank you! I really appreciate it! Wes is outstanding
Can't help but be reminded of the fast show when I hear some of the strange names of some of the old jazz musicians and group names! Great vid by the way.
Thanks ever so much! I’m glad you enjoyed the video
One of his last recordings he named "A Day In A Life" and it is beautiful. It had some Beatle songs on it. He played "Willow Weep For Me."
Thank you soooo much for this. I've been a Wes-fan for many years. Ever since "Smokin' At the Half Note". Again thank you
I was in college in 60s listening to Wes on my record player. Then in in the 70s listening to George Benson on cassettes with our stereo system (as well as going to his concerts in Chicago suburbs). Now I I know why I listened to these two jazz guitarists. The former influenced the latter. Thanks for your insights.
The early Benson albums were the best, way more raw burning. Like wes, benson sold out doing pop in the mid to later 70s (breezin, etc) He cooks on the early ones tho
One of thee best short documentary’s on this artist ever .. can’t wait for the documentary Wes Bound ..
Thanks ever so much
I got into Wes Montgomery after I heard Zappa recommended guitarists to listen to Montgomery if they wanted to learn to play guitar. At the time I was a young heavy metal fan and ended up playing lots of jazz guitar after hearing Wes Montgomery's work. It's like you say, he's a connecting piece.
i love this cat so much, what a gentleman, let alone an innovator. He and Trane deepen my love for this art form.
wow what an amazing insight into the life of one of the greatest jazz guitarist ever.many thx for the upload...WOW
As a child, raised in a jazz environment, Wes was the first guitarist that I'd ever heard. I remember "Bumpin" as one of my favorites! Thank you for this video!
What a great lecture and a great lecturer and a great way to start the day. Thank you for, yet again, another great history lesson.
Thanks very much Todd!
Thanks for making this video! Wes Montgomery was my primary inspiration to pick up a guitar as a young teenager in 1965. I immediately figured out that I would never play as well as he, but the love for the instrument that he instilled in me has lasted all the years since. Yes, Wes, was the man. Thanks again for a masterpiece of a video. I think Wes would be proud.
Great video! "Here That Rainy Day" off of Bumpin is one of my all time favourite Jazz tunes. Wes really proved the simplicity is sometimes the best & the fact he influenced so many artists outside of of the Jazz circle proves how impactful he truly is! Really had no clue about his thumb, Interesting fact!