I can relate, John Bonham, was my biggest influence, and even though I was born in 78' his thunder was heard by a 6 year old me, when my metal and hard rock loving uncle had to baby sit me an a emergency for my mom, he put Led Zeppelin's song remains the same on for me, and that had my undivided attention, from the beginning til the end, it was at that moment i knew I wanted to be a professional drummer, and that's just what I became.
Grew up in Austin. First saw Stevie when he was playing in the band "The Cobra's" at a tiny club called "The Hole in the Wall" across the street from U.T. I knew that first night that he was something special. Must have seen him live at least 3 dozen times over the years and got to know him casually because he shopped in the grocery where I worked. He was very humble about his gift. A really nice guy. The day he died was a very dark day (week, month, year) in Austin. He shares the G.O.A.T. title with Hendrix when it comes to the blues. Stevie was a lexicon of the blues - there wasn't an obscure blues player out there that he hadn't studied.
I'll never forget the first time that I saw SRV play on TV. He flipped the guitar behind his back and played a guitar solo. I know that when I am playing something that's difficult I get a strained look on my face from the concentration. I looked at SRV's face to see how difficult this feat was for him. He had the biggest smile on his face and looked so relaxed. It blew my mind. I already knew that SRV was great, but this was something special.
GREAT PIECE! As a young man I was so very fortunate to see Stevie in the DFW area bar circuit. He was such a powerful player and to see him in such small settings was beyond phenomenal. A true Texas inspiration for this now older Texan! Love and miss you sooo much SRV.
Yeah buddy...used to catch him on any random Wednesday night at St Christophers in Dallas. Before Tommy joined. There'd be like 5 people there. Good times.
I made my first "real guitar" purchase, replacing a Squier, at a shop on University Ave. in Madison, WI (the name escapes me at this moment) and it was a '98 Fender "standard" Stratocaster in black with a rosewood finger board. I knew that purchase would mean I'd be living off of mac & cheese, ramen noodles and spaghetti for a long time, but I had to have it. The people in that shop listened, patiently, as I went on and on about SRV. I mentioned that the SRV strat they had hanging on the wall was what I really wanted but there was no way I could afford it. Those kind people let me noodle around with that SRV strat while they packaged the black strat I went home with (still have it). They even threw in a hard shell case for no extra charge. Like Keith, I found SRV after the fateful day. The first song I remember hearing was "Telephone Song". I can still picture the car I was in, the street I was on and how the sun was setting. Early 1992. In the town I lived in all the good record shops had disappeared and I had to go to Madison, in a rickety '78 Malibu, to have anything resembling variety. I was in a record shop in one of Madison's malls when I heard a voice which matched what I had heard on "Telephone Song". I went right up to the shopkeeper and asked "What is playing right now?" The album they were playing was the live album "In The Beginning". I purchased the cassette (still have it) and went head-first down the SRV rabbit hole. Stevie Ray Vaughan's influence cannot be measured. He was so intense that we mortals are still attempting to process all that he provided us during his short life. My bog-standard '98 black "Mexicaster" IS my SRV strat if only because I made that purchase because of SRV.
Without a doubt Stevie Ray Vaughan is the Greatest Blues guitarist to this day. His approach of incorporating and honoring the Legendary blues masters that inspired him is second to none. He didn’t mimic or imitate, he borrowed created and inspired. He’s a true Gentleman and a Legend, his passion for his choice of instrument was infinite. Any song he remade, he owned it. Thank you again Keith for your Great work of presentation educating and inspirational videos. Cheers!
I think one thing that makes SRV so impressive is that his playing still stands up todays standards. He died in 1991, 30 years of innovation and he’s still up top. I can think of very few other artists that meet that criteria.
@@alexcorona Yes, the 3 note wonder was Amazing and afforded the King with 72 years of musicianship. In the short 25 years that Stevie was with us as a musician he has left a bigger impact on the Blues community than the 3 Kings combined.
There's no greatest Blues guitarist as (unlike say, jazz) it depends on channeling feeling through even very simple songs. I mean, for instance, 'Sliding Delta' by Mississippi John Hurt is quite basic (3 chords) but it's really compelling nevertheless.
He was the total package. Incredible stage performer, singer and player with the greatest guitar tone of all time. He looked great, unusually stylish in some ways and at times threatening. Every note, chord, bend and vibrato was his territory or domain. He made us want to be him.
One of my favorite guitarists, and two of my favorite guitar instrumentals, Lenny, and Riviera Paradise. This video is a wonderful and insightful tribute to SRV as seen through his guitars. A thousand thanks. 👏😎
Nobody played guitar better than Stevie Ray Vaughan one of my favorite videos of him is playing with Jeff Healey and the way he backed off and the way that he backed off and let Jeff take the lead in the solo is a true testament to the man Stevie Ray Vaughan was
First time I saw SRV was in October '83 in a little club in Destin FL. Was luck enough to be on stage right in front of SRV, at most 3ft way. I have one of his picks and some nice photos a friend, a professional photog took during the show. Later I was allowed onto his bus and got to chat for a short while with him and his kindly autographed the ticket stub ($5) - but five dollar I have ever spent for sure! He was kind and humble, smiled easily and in no way appeared rushed despite likely being completely worn from all the energy he put into the show. Oh, and what a show! Never have I witnessed an artist becoming one with an instrument as I did that night seeing Stevie. That was the first of five times seeing him including the lows of his severe drug days to the highs of his post recovery period. Any I can say that even during his bad days he was far better than most. One of my friends ended up with of Number 1 that flew off during his very rough and tumble Third Stone From the Sun medley. I still get emotional when I think too much about his passing.
Great video. It's surprising that #1 lasted as long as it did. I remember seeing him on the Couldn't Stand the Weather tour with Lonnie Mack opening. During Third Stone he stood/squatted on the body of the guitar and pulled up on the headstock lifting the body off the ground. Then he proceeded to thrash the guitar around by the vibrato arm. It was mesmerizing and almost brought my guitar teacher, who was with me, to tears to see the guitar treated like that. Good memories.
Right! I commented here too, that during that medley a friend of mine ended up with a piece of #1 that came flying off during Third Stone! Not sure if it was part of the bridge or one of the tuners? But man, doing that night after night..... truly amazed like you that #1 lasted so long. Strong testimony for both Fender and his guitar tech(s).
I'd never heard of Stevie Ray Vaughan until his first appearance on "Austin City Limits" on a double bill with the Fabulous Thunderbirds, with his brother Jimmy on guitar. By the time he finished his set with "Voodoo Chile" my jaw was on the floor. I went the following Monday and bought a Stevie Ray Vaughan cassette. Another one gone far too soon.
I started playing guitar because of SRV. At the age of 13, I saw him on Austin City Limits and my life would never be the same. I saw him play Voodoo Chile and it gave me goosebumps. I have goosebumps just thinking about it. I bought the real deal greatest hits volume 2, and tried to learn Voodoo Chile. That song opened up the fretboard to me and I was able to learn the pentatonic scale. Then I learned that the major and minor pentatonic scales are all used in a lot of other guitar solos. The rest is history. Thank you SRV.
I am so happy that I got to see SRV live many times - every time was magical. One concert that stands out was at James Madison University 1/25/86 (tix cost $9.50!) with The Fabulous Thunderbirds opening and Stevie and Jimmy doing some songs together. But when SRV launched into Voodoo Chile a hush fell over the entire stadium (only half full, I might add). I believe everyone in attendance realized they were witnessing something amazing - I know I had goosebumps.
I’m inclined to agree with you about feeling worn out after listening to SRV’s records. It’s one thing to listen to someone tear up a fretboard, but it’s another thing entirely for a guy to be so intense that his playing envelops you and makes you feel like you’re on that roller coaster with him.
Stevie for me is the best ever - nobody's soul shines through the six strings like his. I saw him about 5-7 times - the first time in a small (somewhat heralded/famous club...) "my father's place" - 1984 - still have not seen anyone come close to that electrifying performance. I was also at the MSG show in 1989 - double bill tour with Jeff Beck. Stevie speaks to me every single time I hear him, and I don't there will ever be another like him....I hope I am wrong!
I don't know that you understand how beautiful these videos can be, serving as such meaningful tributes to these artists and their music... at the end of the day the most meaningful contribution many of us might make is that we were fans of this music and generations from now they wont remember us, but they'll have this music to enjoy. I'm perfectly fine with that as a legacy, if in someway we can sneak a hand onto this and say we had a part.
There are 2 Bramhalls. One is Doyle Bramhall II who was pictured with Jimmy in this video and the other is his dad Doyle Bramhall who played with Jimmy in the early years and collaborated with Stevie on some of his songs. Great vid thanks !
Cheers Keith! For anyone wondering - for the introduction I'm playing through a 1965 Fender Pro Reverb...It's actually the #1 Production model...Which presumably makes it the first 1965 Fender Pro Reverb built? (Oh and an Ibanez TS10)
Very cool video I did Live sounds in a club in Ft Worth and one night during an Everett Harp show Stevie walked in plugged in and played for about 30 to 45 min then unplugged and left. it was an amazing show and night. I will never forget that nor his playing.. He was a monster player. and I often wonder where his playing would have journeyed to in time.
Finally got around to watching this one Keith…, not going to lie, I shed a tear or two from this one. Being a born and raised Texan, I remember getting handed a Tape of Stevie…. I love him dearly and he inspires me to keep showing up to my guitar every day. This is one of the best contributions to his story I’ve seen yet…. Thanks for sharing…
In 2 days, it will be 33 years since SRV was taken, and it's still as painful as it was that day. He is the reason I play guitar to this day. I've always felt an intense connection to Stevie, and tears still fall sometimes when I think of him..... I would bet I'm not the only one.
I consider myself fortunate to have seen SRV less than a year before his death (Tucson, 08/29/89). What I remember most was when, during a solo, he turned to his amps and bent up to hold a note. It seemed like it lasted forever. When he finally resolved the lick, it just floored the audience. That day I learned that one note, played right, was better than a million notes played with mediocrity. I also learned that Chris Layton was deafening behind a drum kit. For a three-piece, they were loud as hell but in the best way possible.
Thank you, Keith, for another great addition to the collection. I've been waiting for this one for a while. I also came late to SRV. I was living in England when he died and when someone told me that he had I thought they were talking about the dude with the bandana who played for Springsteen. A few years later I watched the El Mocambo video and by the end of it I was in tears. I've been playing guitar for over 50 years and to me SRV was the best. He didn't just play guitar; he became music. Whenever I hear Hendrix or Clapton I feel the urge to play but when I hear Stevie Ray Vaughan I want to give it up...
@@joshuagibson2520 His performances on Austin City Limits of Tightrope, Couldn't Stand the Weather and Mary Had a Little Lamb were absolutely breathtaking in how they demonstrate the passion, eloquence and pure musicality of his playing.
@@joshuagibson2520 Never tire of it. I am reamazed every single time at his passion, fluidly, power, grace, beauty - just everything, and oneness with the guitar.
You folks that were lucky to have seen SRV live, or to have even been alive and old enough to enjoy the excitement of his career, are so fortunate it’s not even fair
⚓️ Thanks Keith 😎 I like to imagine the artist > Clapton > Lennon > Earle > Crowell > Russell > trying different guitars, exploring tones… like we all do > to varying degrees. ⚓️
This isn't a big thing but the guy who did the painting of Stevie's Texas Flood is Brad Holland, who like me, is an ex Hallmark artist. While I greatly admire that art, I had no idea that was not a Fender Stevie was playing - I didn't notice the Tokai logo. I guess it shouldn't surprise me that Stevie, like so many professional musicians, have played numerous guitars throughout their careers - so it was really great to hear all about them in this video. Thank you, Keith!
Japanese guitars in the early 80s were better than US guitars in many opinions. Tokai, Greco, Ibanez. JV Squier, Maya, Yamaha all made stellar instruments!!! Most top players own and play many different guitars but they are usually associated with a certain brand because they're being paid.
I keep starting this but I stop and back it up, saving it for later like the last piece of cheesecake. The morning with coffee and some guitar playing will be the right time, I think. I know this is going to make me want to go play guitar and I have to go to bed!
Of all my Strat heroes, SRV was my last reason for buying my first Strat 26yrs ago as well as one of the aftermath inspirational influences from watching his 1983/89 Austin City Limits performances afterwards. As he strung his Strats with heavy sets (13-56 or 60), i briefly challenged myself for heavier (14-62😳) but that didn't last 5 days as that heavy tension took a toll on my hands as well as my maple neck so I went back to my light-gauge lane (10-46) very quickly! Thanks for the video... top job!
Thanks! A woman who worked in my dept in a Milwaukee discount store saw the concert at Alpine Valley the night before Stevie died. There were several SRV fans in that store and we all grieved.
I recorded some blues tunes with Larry "Totsie" Davis who co-wrote Texas Flood .The sessions were produced by Albert King. It was quite a thrill.!!! My favorite SRV recording is his Sobriety AA speech. It most likely helps save some lives. A music store co-worker in Atlanta said someone claiming to be SRV wanted a bunch of guitar string delivered to a rehab facility,and thought he was being pranked, but it really was SRV and Im told he was very greatful and very nice to be with. He died Sober. RIP SRV
Thnx very much for this bro. KNOPFLER and now Stevie. You have impeccable taste. We were lucky enough to see SRV live in Salem, Oregon, scant days before his untimely passing. For that I am eternally grateful to the guitar gods.
Nice tribute, Keith. Chris Buck is an insanely gifted player who deserves more attention. I saw Stevie a half dozen times and he always played each show like his last, “leave a pint of blood on that stage” (almost famous).
I'll never forget being at Gold's Gym in Newington CT when I heard the news of the crash. Stevie was an absolute monster on guitar, I wish I had been able to see him just once...
John Cordy's performance on the intro was beautiful.. Another side of his playing I have not heard quite so plainly before. And he is once again sublime.
Awesome work on this video, Keith. I love Stevie for a lot more than his playing. His music and words got me through some tough times. A lot of tough times. Stevies #1 had the biggest frets I’ve ever seen on a guitar. They’re not jumbo or super jumbo. They are hyper jumbo! I’ve compared my up close pictures from the Grammy Museum of #1 and my super jumbo Jescar frets that I install on every guitar I own aren’t even close. They have to be a good 10 to 15 thousandths wider and taller. I believe the SRV artist Strat used to have a 10” radius fingerboard stock. I swear mine was before I refretted it. And yeah, Stevie sold a million Tubescreamers(and the hundreds of modded clones), Stratocasters, Pickups, Fender amps and heavy gauge strings.
I was lucky enough to see Stevie with the stray cats in 89, and it's the only performance that I saw a guitar players go through 3 different guitars in mid song until he eventually ended up with the one he started with. That man didn't care if the strings broke, he was going to play his absolute best.
Another great video, Keith. I didn’t get into SRV until the summer of 1985. Having just graduated in May from Iowa State, I moved to Texas for my first professional job (being a design engineer for a bridge construction GC) and for the the warm weather and the excitement that comes with “big city” living. DaveV the engineer, who worked in a cubical next to mine was a free spirit rock climber from Louisiana. He was also a huge SRV fan. We both loved live music, in general, so got to be friends and I turned him on to my favs like The Clash and REM and he turned me on to SRV. A year or two later, I got to see Stevie & Double Trouble open up for The Who at the Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas; The Fabulous Thunderbirds also played a set. It was a perfect night, floor seats about 25 rows back, great weather and all three bands had their speed balls dialed in perfectly. It was sure sad when we heard he had passed. Just a damn pilot error leaving that show in Wisconsin. Just think of all the killer music he would have made were it not for that crash. RIP Stevie Ray. Thanks again.
O god. I was lucky to get a chance to meet SRV in (I think) 1986. He was doing a run of shows at the Royal Oak Music Theatre in Royal Oak, MI. I was working at the deli that did the catering.
Great video! I can relate to his Epi Riviera, as I bought one myself in a pawn shop, as it was half the price of a 335 (1973). SRV could get his sound from whatever he was playing, he was one of a kind, and no one else fills his shoes.
This is FANTASTIC Keith... SRV was a HUGE inspiration to me, and had a huge impact on me musically and emotionally. And DAMN did I try to chase his tone... LOL unsuccessfully of course, THAT kind of tone ESPECIALLY is all in the hands... I was devastated the day I heard that he died.. Right after coming back and through his addictions, with the whole world opened up in front of him, with a clear mind and healthy body.. And fate decided it was not to be... Rest in Peace Stevie....
Saw him live back in the late 80's. I have to admit, I didn't even know who the guy was (I was still a teenager) but my friend bugged me to go with him & paid for my ticket so I begrudgingly gave in. He walked on stage (it was only a really small club) & ripped in to the opening bars of 'Voodoo Chile'. My jaw literally dropped & as I looked around the place, I saw a hell of a lot more guys with the same expression lol. He was simply incredible & I was instantly converted. A wonderfully expressive player (plus, that vibrato, eesh!)
I stumbled upon this video randomly and I think that it is so cool that you brought up Ithaca Guitar Works! I live in the area and these are some of the nicest people you could ever meet, I bought my Martin D-16 from there in 2013 and it’s still my main guitar today! If anyone is in the Ithaca area, make sure you stop by Ithaca Guitar Works! Great ppl.
Stevie was the catalyst, the reason I decided to pick up the guitar at 14 years old, I would choose a Mexican made Stratocaster, black and white just like (I thought) was on the cover of Texas Flood in around 1991 after falling asleep listening to Live Alive and then woke up with my brain clicking on and screaming ‘you HAVE to learn to play like him!’ I began learning on my dad’s early 70’s Gibson Les Paul, the first chords and song I learned was ‘Pride and Joy’ but I got fairly good quickly, and soon after got my first guitar of my very own, the Mexican Stratocaster for around $400. Then came the first amp, going from my dads absurdly loud silver faced Twin Reverb, to a Fender Princeton Chorus, then came the Tube Screamer, then countless guitars and amps that were traded in for newer ones, then gave up playing for a while, then got back into it again, played in rockabilly bands, then quit again, and now after a break from it and a couple guitar trade ins, I have a new Fender American Vintage II 1961 sunburst Stratocaster that reminds me of SRV’s number one, and also Rory Gallagher’s number one (who is also my dads favourite guitar player of all time, just behind Hendrix, maybe tied lol. SRV has always been there behind my playing and my love for the guitar, for the blues, and I imagine he’ll always be. We miss you Stevie, but we’ll see you in the next world, and we won’t be late. 🎸 🔥 🎶
1992 was about when I discovered SRV as well, so I was a little late to the party too. I was a senior in high school and found "The Sky Is Crying" at a local record store and similarly it blew my mind
I remember where I was when I first heard Stevie. I had to stop the car and listen. I remember where I was when I heard the sad news. I had to stop the car and cry.
What an amazing first guitar!! I will also say that the day after I moved to Austin, we were checking out guitar shops, and ended up at Ray Henning’s Heart Of Texas Music. We knew nothing of the heritage of the store until later, but my friend left with a killer guitar that day.
Did see pat traverse, Robin trower, Steve Marriott all in a bar setting in Muskegon Michigan mid 80s. Also Soft white underbelly. BOC travel name. Burning for you? Heard that 6 months before hit radio. Concerts and guns. No wonder I'm half deaf. REGRET NOTHING. 😈🦅
was fortunate enough the play SRVs ex Chris Cross Strat. had an hour with it, simply amazing sound from those 59 pickups. just crazy. thanks. SRV a guru.
Nice work, Keith. man, break at work in SSF, '83. I go out for a quick drive. Hit the SF State college station (yes, i remember and frequent KCSM, KFJC and KZSU). They play 'I'm Crying ' From SRV TF. New to me. Blown OUT!!! DJ starts screaming at the end like it's a joke.' Get to work. Co worker knew of the station and the phone number. Called the guy,,,,i think i scared him. Fan of SRV for that album but lost me. In Step ruled and knew of his 'there and back' story. bad news on the door step,,,,i used to get the SF Chron early in the morning. The one with news of him passing wound up in shreds in the kitchen. Pissed and heartbroken. We covered his take on Goin' Down via the SRV Boxset.. in '05. I loved this,,,,i went last ;) RIP, SRV.
An excellent show as always Keith. While I own all the SRV records and the first release of the SRV Strat, this episode informed me as to all the other guitars he played but he always sounded like Stevie
That very first Gibson is almost exactly like my beloved early 70's ES325, mini HB's and all! I also had a Mayer Strat, and loved it! I sold both in a series of dumb decisions. Augh!! --gary
Thanks Keith, like so many others, SRV was my favorite, found him in the late 70's and followed him the rest of the way. I got to see him open up for The Who in the Cotton Bowl. I had floor seats and as usual folks were milling around during his opening act, but I was locked in and remember the crowd settling in and being mesmerized as he played, he really wasn't an opening act for anyone and the crowd showed their appreciation after he quickly got their attention. He is certainly missed, especially down here in Texas...
A similar story, I recall walking into Lenny's Music in New Orleans in the summer of 1983 just as he dropped the tonearm on "Texas Flood", and in about 30 seconds, the world changed. I said I don't know who that is but I want a copy of that album. Lenny said it was the only copy he had, it had just come in, but he reluctantly let me have it. Lenny Samuel (RIP) and his shop are no more, but I'll always remember him for that.
We need a short guitar history of five watt world
Yup!!
Seconded
Yes!
Yes we do
I would watch that
Stevie Ray was the reason I started playing guitar in 1987, and I cried when he died. What a legend.
ditto on all counts :' )
I can relate, John Bonham, was my biggest influence, and even though I was born in 78' his thunder was heard by a 6 year old me, when my metal and hard rock loving uncle had to baby sit me an a emergency for my mom, he put Led Zeppelin's song remains the same on for me, and that had my undivided attention, from the beginning til the end, it was at that moment i knew I wanted to be a professional drummer, and that's just what I became.
Grew up in Austin. First saw Stevie when he was playing in the band "The Cobra's" at a tiny club called "The Hole in the Wall" across the street from U.T. I knew that first night that he was something special. Must have seen him live at least 3 dozen times over the years and got to know him casually because he shopped in the grocery where I worked. He was very humble about his gift. A really nice guy. The day he died was a very dark day (week, month, year) in Austin. He shares the G.O.A.T. title with Hendrix when it comes to the blues. Stevie was a lexicon of the blues - there wasn't an obscure blues player out there that he hadn't studied.
One of my early heroes. It was hard not to be influenced by him and his brother growing up in South Texas in the 80s.
Nice seeing you here, Zac! I love your channel as well.
6 degrees if separation ...I was just out of HS when SRV started to make it. San Antonio..late 70s...thanks Zac :p
I'm 20 but Same here in North Carolina and SRV and Luther Perkins are my guitar heroes
I'll never forget the first time that I saw SRV play on TV. He flipped the guitar behind his back and played a guitar solo. I know that when I am playing something that's difficult I get a strained look on my face from the concentration. I looked at SRV's face to see how difficult this feat was for him. He had the biggest smile on his face and looked so relaxed. It blew my mind. I already knew that SRV was great, but this was something special.
GREAT PIECE! As a young man I was so very fortunate to see Stevie in the DFW area bar circuit. He was such a powerful player and to see him in such small settings was beyond phenomenal. A true Texas inspiration for this now older Texan! Love and miss you sooo much SRV.
Saw him three times. Once in Houston after he really got going...
Yeah buddy...used to catch him on any random Wednesday night at St Christophers in Dallas. Before Tommy joined. There'd be like 5 people there. Good times.
The whole block must’ve been shaking!
I made my first "real guitar" purchase, replacing a Squier, at a shop on University Ave. in Madison, WI (the name escapes me at this moment) and it was a '98 Fender "standard" Stratocaster in black with a rosewood finger board. I knew that purchase would mean I'd be living off of mac & cheese, ramen noodles and spaghetti for a long time, but I had to have it. The people in that shop listened, patiently, as I went on and on about SRV. I mentioned that the SRV strat they had hanging on the wall was what I really wanted but there was no way I could afford it. Those kind people let me noodle around with that SRV strat while they packaged the black strat I went home with (still have it). They even threw in a hard shell case for no extra charge.
Like Keith, I found SRV after the fateful day. The first song I remember hearing was "Telephone Song". I can still picture the car I was in, the street I was on and how the sun was setting. Early 1992. In the town I lived in all the good record shops had disappeared and I had to go to Madison, in a rickety '78 Malibu, to have anything resembling variety. I was in a record shop in one of Madison's malls when I heard a voice which matched what I had heard on "Telephone Song". I went right up to the shopkeeper and asked "What is playing right now?" The album they were playing was the live album "In The Beginning". I purchased the cassette (still have it) and went head-first down the SRV rabbit hole.
Stevie Ray Vaughan's influence cannot be measured. He was so intense that we mortals are still attempting to process all that he provided us during his short life. My bog-standard '98 black "Mexicaster" IS my SRV strat if only because I made that purchase because of SRV.
Without a doubt Stevie Ray Vaughan is the Greatest Blues guitarist to this day. His approach of incorporating and honoring the Legendary blues masters that inspired him is second to none. He didn’t mimic or imitate, he borrowed created and inspired. He’s a true Gentleman and a Legend, his passion for his choice of instrument was infinite. Any song he remade, he owned it. Thank you again Keith for your Great work of presentation educating and inspirational videos. Cheers!
I think one thing that makes SRV so impressive is that his playing still stands up todays standards. He died in 1991, 30 years of innovation and he’s still up top. I can think of very few other artists that meet that criteria.
Disagree, BB King still holds the title.
I agree wholeheartedly! The reason I picked up a guitar. Now only if I could play like him...
@@alexcorona Yes, the 3 note wonder was Amazing and afforded the King with 72 years of musicianship. In the short 25 years that Stevie was with us as a musician he has left a bigger impact on the Blues community than the 3 Kings combined.
There's no greatest Blues guitarist as (unlike say, jazz) it depends on channeling feeling through even very simple songs. I mean, for instance, 'Sliding Delta' by Mississippi John Hurt is quite basic (3 chords) but it's really compelling nevertheless.
He was the total package. Incredible stage performer, singer and player with the greatest guitar tone of all time. He looked great, unusually stylish in some ways and at times threatening. Every note, chord, bend and vibrato was his territory or domain. He made us want to be him.
One of my favorite guitarists, and two of my favorite guitar instrumentals, Lenny, and Riviera Paradise. This video is a wonderful and insightful tribute to SRV as seen through his guitars. A thousand thanks. 👏😎
Nobody played guitar better than Stevie Ray Vaughan one of my favorite videos of him is playing with Jeff Healey and the way he backed off and the way that he backed off and let Jeff take the lead in the solo is a true testament to the man Stevie Ray Vaughan was
First time I saw SRV was in October '83 in a little club in Destin FL. Was luck enough to be on stage right in front of SRV, at most 3ft way. I have one of his picks and some nice photos a friend, a professional photog took during the show. Later I was allowed onto his bus and got to chat for a short while with him and his kindly autographed the ticket stub ($5) - but five dollar I have ever spent for sure! He was kind and humble, smiled easily and in no way appeared rushed despite likely being completely worn from all the energy he put into the show. Oh, and what a show! Never have I witnessed an artist becoming one with an instrument as I did that night seeing Stevie. That was the first of five times seeing him including the lows of his severe drug days to the highs of his post recovery period. Any I can say that even during his bad days he was far better than most. One of my friends ended up with of Number 1 that flew off during his very rough and tumble Third Stone From the Sun medley. I still get emotional when I think too much about his passing.
Great video. It's surprising that #1 lasted as long as it did. I remember seeing him on the Couldn't Stand the Weather tour with Lonnie Mack opening. During Third Stone he stood/squatted on the body of the guitar and pulled up on the headstock lifting the body off the ground. Then he proceeded to thrash the guitar around by the vibrato arm. It was mesmerizing and almost brought my guitar teacher, who was with me, to tears to see the guitar treated like that. Good memories.
Right! I commented here too, that during that medley a friend of mine ended up with a piece of #1 that came flying off during Third Stone! Not sure if it was part of the bridge or one of the tuners? But man, doing that night after night..... truly amazed like you that #1 lasted so long. Strong testimony for both Fender and his guitar tech(s).
Hahaha bring him to tears and take a lesson from SRV right lol
I'd never heard of Stevie Ray Vaughan until his first appearance on "Austin City Limits" on a double bill with the Fabulous Thunderbirds, with his brother Jimmy on guitar. By the time he finished his set with "Voodoo Chile" my jaw was on the floor. I went the following Monday and bought a Stevie Ray Vaughan cassette. Another one gone far too soon.
I started playing guitar because of SRV. At the age of 13, I saw him on Austin City Limits and my life would never be the same. I saw him play Voodoo Chile and it gave me goosebumps. I have goosebumps just thinking about it. I bought the real deal greatest hits volume 2, and tried to learn Voodoo Chile. That song opened up the fretboard to me and I was able to learn the pentatonic scale. Then I learned that the major and minor pentatonic scales are all used in a lot of other guitar solos. The rest is history. Thank you SRV.
I am so happy that I got to see SRV live many times - every time was magical. One concert that stands out was at James Madison University 1/25/86 (tix cost $9.50!) with The Fabulous Thunderbirds opening and Stevie and Jimmy doing some songs together.
But when SRV launched into Voodoo Chile a hush fell over the entire stadium (only half full, I might add). I believe everyone in attendance realized they were witnessing something amazing - I know I had goosebumps.
Completely in the presence of something "otherworldly" of sorts. No mere human.
I’m inclined to agree with you about feeling worn out after listening to SRV’s records.
It’s one thing to listen to someone tear up a fretboard, but it’s another thing entirely for a guy to be so intense that his playing envelops you and makes you feel like you’re on that roller coaster with him.
Stevie for me is the best ever - nobody's soul shines through the six strings like his. I saw him about 5-7 times - the first time in a small (somewhat heralded/famous club...) "my father's place" - 1984 - still have not seen anyone come close to that electrifying performance. I was also at the MSG show in 1989 - double bill tour with Jeff Beck. Stevie speaks to me every single time I hear him, and I don't there will ever be another like him....I hope I am wrong!
I don't know that you understand how beautiful these videos can be, serving as such meaningful tributes to these artists and their music... at the end of the day the most meaningful contribution many of us might make is that we were fans of this music and generations from now they wont remember us, but they'll have this music to enjoy. I'm perfectly fine with that as a legacy, if in someway we can sneak a hand onto this and say we had a part.
I hear you Ben. That’s very well said.
There are 2 Bramhalls. One is Doyle Bramhall II who was pictured with Jimmy in this video and the other is his dad Doyle Bramhall who played with Jimmy in the early years and collaborated with Stevie on some of his songs. Great vid thanks !
Cheers Keith! For anyone wondering - for the introduction I'm playing through a 1965 Fender Pro Reverb...It's actually the #1 Production model...Which presumably makes it the first 1965 Fender Pro Reverb built?
(Oh and an Ibanez TS10)
I'll go put the link to your video in the description now to make it easier for folks to get their John. Thanks again man!
Very cool video I did Live sounds in a club in Ft Worth and one night during an Everett Harp show Stevie walked in plugged in and played for about 30 to 45 min then unplugged and left. it was an amazing show and night. I will never forget that nor his playing.. He was a monster player. and I often wonder where his playing would have journeyed to in time.
Finally got around to watching this one Keith…, not going to lie, I shed a tear or two from this one. Being a born and raised Texan, I remember getting handed a Tape of Stevie…. I love him dearly and he inspires me to keep showing up to my guitar every day. This is one of the best contributions to his story I’ve seen yet…. Thanks for sharing…
Thanks David
As a grown ass man this brought tears to my eyes also ✌🍄👍
Been on a Stevie binge the past few days. Good timing
Guitars of Albert Lee given the inimitable KW take would be a real treat. I live in hope...
Brilliant as always KW, Ta mate.
In 2 days, it will be 33 years since SRV was taken, and it's still as painful as it was that day. He is the reason I play guitar to this day.
I've always felt an intense connection to Stevie, and tears still fall sometimes when I think of him..... I would bet I'm not the only one.
I consider myself fortunate to have seen SRV less than a year before his death (Tucson, 08/29/89). What I remember most was when, during a solo, he turned to his amps and bent up to hold a note. It seemed like it lasted forever. When he finally resolved the lick, it just floored the audience. That day I learned that one note, played right, was better than a million notes played with mediocrity. I also learned that Chris Layton was deafening behind a drum kit. For a three-piece, they were loud as hell but in the best way possible.
Thank you, Keith, for another great addition to the collection. I've been waiting for this one for a while. I also came late to SRV. I was living in England when he died and when someone told me that he had I thought they were talking about the dude with the bandana who played for Springsteen. A few years later I watched the El Mocambo video and by the end of it I was in tears. I've been playing guitar for over 50 years and to me SRV was the best. He didn't just play guitar; he became music. Whenever I hear Hendrix or Clapton I feel the urge to play but when I hear Stevie Ray Vaughan I want to give it up...
Mocambo is fuckin phenomenonal. I always tell.people you need to hear and see him play to do some justice. He's just as amazing to watch as hear.
@@joshuagibson2520 His performances on Austin City Limits of Tightrope, Couldn't Stand the Weather and Mary Had a Little Lamb were absolutely breathtaking in how they demonstrate the passion, eloquence and pure musicality of his playing.
@@joshuagibson2520 Never tire of it. I am reamazed every single time at his passion, fluidly, power, grace, beauty - just everything, and oneness with the guitar.
You folks that were lucky to have seen SRV live, or to have even been alive and old enough to enjoy the excitement of his career, are so fortunate it’s not even fair
⚓️ Thanks Keith 😎 I like to imagine the artist > Clapton > Lennon > Earle > Crowell > Russell > trying different guitars, exploring tones… like we all do > to varying degrees. ⚓️
This video should be subtitled: 'Stevie Played a Partscaster: Keep Practicing'. By the way, love the work at 5WW, keep it up!
This isn't a big thing but the guy who did the painting of Stevie's Texas Flood is Brad Holland, who like me, is an ex Hallmark artist. While I greatly admire that art, I had no idea that was not a Fender Stevie was playing - I didn't notice the Tokai logo. I guess it shouldn't surprise me that Stevie, like so many professional musicians, have played numerous guitars throughout their careers - so it was really great to hear all about them in this video. Thank you, Keith!
Japanese guitars in the early 80s were better than US guitars in many opinions. Tokai, Greco, Ibanez. JV Squier, Maya, Yamaha all made stellar instruments!!! Most top players own and play many different guitars but they are usually associated with a certain brand because they're being paid.
And sure answered my unasked question about why the Fender never looked right.... thought was just artistic license.
I keep starting this but I stop and back it up, saving it for later like the last piece of cheesecake. The morning with coffee and some guitar playing will be the right time, I think. I know this is going to make me want to go play guitar and I have to go to bed!
Just got into five watt world this week been binging the short histories/guitars of while I work. So excited for this one!
Of all my Strat heroes, SRV was my last reason for buying my first Strat 26yrs ago as well as one of the aftermath inspirational influences from watching his 1983/89 Austin City Limits performances afterwards. As he strung his Strats with heavy sets (13-56 or 60), i briefly challenged myself for heavier (14-62😳) but that didn't last 5 days as that heavy tension took a toll on my hands as well as my maple neck so I went back to my light-gauge lane (10-46) very quickly! Thanks for the video... top job!
Stevie Ray Vaughn The Best of Them! Have Loved All His Music Since I First Heard Him Play! He Taught Himself to Play Just Like That!
Thanks! A woman who worked in my dept in a Milwaukee discount store saw the concert at Alpine Valley the night before Stevie died. There were several SRV fans in that store and we all grieved.
I recorded some blues tunes with Larry "Totsie" Davis who co-wrote Texas Flood .The sessions were produced by Albert King. It was quite a thrill.!!! My favorite SRV recording is his Sobriety AA speech. It most likely helps save some lives. A music store co-worker in Atlanta said someone claiming to be SRV wanted a bunch of guitar string delivered to a rehab facility,and thought he was being pranked, but it really was SRV and Im told he was very greatful and very nice to be with. He died Sober. RIP SRV
Dying sober sounds so sad
@@Ottophil In AA it is one of our Most Desirable Gifts GIFT GOD IS FOREVER THERE BUT TO EACH HIS OWN
Thnx very much for this bro. KNOPFLER and now Stevie. You have impeccable taste.
We were lucky enough to see SRV live in Salem, Oregon, scant days before his untimely passing. For that I am eternally grateful to the guitar gods.
Nice tribute, Keith. Chris Buck is an insanely gifted player who deserves more attention.
I saw Stevie a half dozen times and he always played each show like his last, “leave a pint of blood on that stage” (almost famous).
I'll never forget being at Gold's Gym in Newington CT when I heard the news of the crash. Stevie was an absolute monster on guitar, I wish I had been able to see him just once...
John Cordy's performance on the intro was beautiful.. Another side of his playing I have not heard quite so plainly before. And he is once again sublime.
There are millions of guitar players out there, this channel needs a million subs!
Awesome work on this video, Keith. I love Stevie for a lot more than his playing. His music and words got me through some tough times. A lot of tough times.
Stevies #1 had the biggest frets I’ve ever seen on a guitar. They’re not jumbo or super jumbo. They are hyper jumbo! I’ve compared my up close pictures from the Grammy Museum of #1 and my super jumbo Jescar frets that I install on every guitar I own aren’t even close. They have to be a good 10 to 15 thousandths wider and taller.
I believe the SRV artist Strat used to have a 10” radius fingerboard stock. I swear mine was before I refretted it.
And yeah, Stevie sold a million Tubescreamers(and the hundreds of modded clones), Stratocasters, Pickups, Fender amps and heavy gauge strings.
One of the most amazing things about Stevie was not only his playing, but the fact that he was only like 5'4 lol
I was lucky enough to see Stevie with the stray cats in 89, and it's the only performance that I saw a guitar players go through 3 different guitars in mid song until he eventually ended up with the one he started with. That man didn't care if the strings broke, he was going to play his absolute best.
Another great video, Keith. I didn’t get into SRV until the summer of 1985. Having just graduated in May from Iowa State, I moved to Texas for my first professional job (being a design engineer for a bridge construction GC) and for the the warm weather and the excitement that comes with “big city” living.
DaveV the engineer, who worked in a cubical next to mine was a free spirit rock climber from Louisiana. He was also a huge SRV fan.
We both loved live music, in general, so got to be friends and I turned him on to my favs like The Clash and REM and he turned me on to SRV.
A year or two later, I got to see Stevie & Double Trouble open up for The Who at the Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas; The Fabulous Thunderbirds also played a set. It was a perfect night, floor seats about 25 rows back, great weather and all three bands had their speed balls dialed in perfectly.
It was sure sad when we heard he had passed. Just a damn pilot error leaving that show in Wisconsin. Just think of all the killer music he would have made were it not for that crash.
RIP Stevie Ray. Thanks again.
My favorite “Guitars of” yet! I remember my parents listening to SRV in the car when I was a kid, and to this day he is still my favorite guitarist.
One of the most passionate guitarists in history.
I have a deep connection to a Strat thanks to this man. My biggest guitar influence.
R.I.P. Stevie
Also great video!!
O god. I was lucky to get a chance to meet SRV in (I think) 1986. He was doing a run of shows at the Royal Oak Music Theatre in Royal Oak, MI. I was working at the deli that did the catering.
Great video! I can relate to his Epi Riviera, as I bought one myself in a pawn shop, as it was half the price of a 335 (1973). SRV could get his sound from whatever he was playing, he was one of a kind, and no one else fills his shoes.
This is FANTASTIC Keith... SRV was a HUGE inspiration to me, and had a huge impact on me musically and emotionally. And DAMN did I try to chase his tone... LOL unsuccessfully of course, THAT kind of tone ESPECIALLY is all in the hands... I was devastated the day I heard that he died.. Right after coming back and through his addictions, with the whole world opened up in front of him, with a clear mind and healthy body.. And fate decided it was not to be... Rest in Peace Stevie....
Saw him live back in the late 80's. I have to admit, I didn't even know who the guy was (I was still a teenager) but my friend bugged me to go with him & paid for my ticket so I begrudgingly gave in. He walked on stage (it was only a really small club) & ripped in to the opening bars of 'Voodoo Chile'. My jaw literally dropped & as I looked around the place, I saw a hell of a lot more guys with the same expression lol. He was simply incredible & I was instantly converted. A wonderfully expressive player (plus, that vibrato, eesh!)
I stumbled upon this video randomly and I think that it is so cool that you brought up Ithaca Guitar Works! I live in the area and these are some of the nicest people you could ever meet, I bought my Martin D-16 from there in 2013 and it’s still my main guitar today! If anyone is in the Ithaca area, make sure you stop by Ithaca Guitar Works! Great ppl.
Had the great fortune of seeing 'Jimbo' at the Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle. No words. Thank you for this great video.
We definitely need a short guitar history of five watt world!! 👍👌🤘🤞
Glad to watch! 🍀 I been homeless a few months, am pleased to have Wi-Fi and he able to watch your wonderful channel again.
Cheers! UK 🍀
How you haven’t been asked to narrate major motions picture stuff is beyond me. You are killing it!
The picture of Doyle Bramhall is Doyle Bramhall II, Doyle Bramhall passed away a few years back.
Yes, indeed. Doyle Sr. was the close family friend
@@MIKE-D158 I got to meet Sr. at a charity gig in San Antonio back in the mid 90's
Everyone talks about "Let's Dance"....but "China Girl" was the true star of that album.
These always give me chills. Especially when the subject player has passed. Goes to show that music lasts a long while
Stevie was the catalyst, the reason I decided to pick up the guitar at 14 years old, I would choose a Mexican made Stratocaster, black and white just like (I thought) was on the cover of Texas Flood in around 1991 after falling asleep listening to Live Alive and then woke up with my brain clicking on and screaming ‘you HAVE to learn to play like him!’ I began learning on my dad’s early 70’s Gibson Les Paul, the first chords and song I learned was ‘Pride and Joy’ but I got fairly good quickly, and soon after got my first guitar of my very own, the Mexican Stratocaster for around $400. Then came the first amp, going from my dads absurdly loud silver faced Twin Reverb, to a Fender Princeton Chorus, then came the Tube Screamer, then countless guitars and amps that were traded in for newer ones, then gave up playing for a while, then got back into it again, played in rockabilly bands, then quit again, and now after a break from it and a couple guitar trade ins, I have a new Fender American Vintage II 1961 sunburst Stratocaster that reminds me of SRV’s number one, and also Rory Gallagher’s number one (who is also my dads favourite guitar player of all time, just behind Hendrix, maybe tied lol. SRV has always been there behind my playing and my love for the guitar, for the blues, and I imagine he’ll always be. We miss you Stevie, but we’ll see you in the next world, and we won’t be late. 🎸 🔥 🎶
1992 was about when I discovered SRV as well, so I was a little late to the party too. I was a senior in high school and found "The Sky Is Crying" at a local record store and similarly it blew my mind
SRV is my favorite. As always, you did a great job Keith!
I remember where I was when I first heard Stevie. I had to stop the car and listen. I remember where I was when I heard the sad news. I had to stop the car and cry.
Another winner Keith, thanks for bringing us such powerful Stevie memories.
I just bought a poor man's Charlie.. a Squier Vintage Modified Surf-Stratocaster with 3 lipstick pickups.. what a cool axe 🪓😎
LOVE YOUR WORK!
✌🍄👍
It’s worth mention that he also played a Squire Strat also in the late 80s.
What an amazing first guitar!!
I will also say that the day after I moved to Austin, we were checking out guitar shops, and ended up at Ray Henning’s Heart Of Texas Music. We knew nothing of the heritage of the store until later, but my friend left with a killer guitar that day.
SRV is the reason I play - I heard Texas Flood and bought a Strat Starter Pack that day, been chasing him ever since. Thanks for this Keith!
Stevie is one of the best guitar players ive ever heard. He is one of a kind. I will be listening to him till the day I die. Love you Stevie.
Great video. Just had my Tube Screamer out earlier this week playing SRV with a new amp, so good!
Loved Stevie. I saw him in concert 3 time's. Beginning, middle and second to last show. 🙏❤😪🦅
Did see pat traverse, Robin trower, Steve Marriott all in a bar setting in Muskegon Michigan mid 80s. Also Soft white underbelly. BOC travel name. Burning for you? Heard that 6 months before hit radio. Concerts and guns. No wonder I'm half deaf. REGRET NOTHING. 😈🦅
Savoy Brown. Kim on guitar. Steve growling vocals. Another great show. In a bar setting. Mid 80s-early 90s. West Michigan had some great shows.
SRV was my first concert as a youngster, saw him at the Royal Oak Music Theatre, Michigan. Totally blown away.
THANX SO MUCH FIVE WATT WORLD!!!
I've always loved that Hamiltone, such a beautiful instrument.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME. GREAT SHOW.
He's the reason I fell in love with the Strat neck pickup.
was fortunate enough the play SRVs ex Chris Cross Strat. had an hour with it, simply amazing sound from those 59 pickups. just crazy. thanks. SRV a guru.
Nice work, Keith.
man, break at work in SSF, '83. I go out for a quick drive. Hit the SF State college station (yes, i remember and frequent KCSM, KFJC and KZSU).
They play 'I'm Crying ' From SRV TF. New to me. Blown OUT!!!
DJ starts screaming at the end like it's a joke.'
Get to work. Co worker knew of the station and the phone number.
Called the guy,,,,i think i scared him.
Fan of SRV for that album but lost me.
In Step ruled and knew of his 'there and back' story.
bad news on the door step,,,,i used to get the SF Chron early in the morning.
The one with news of him passing wound up in shreds in the kitchen. Pissed and heartbroken.
We covered his take on Goin' Down via the SRV Boxset.. in '05. I loved this,,,,i went last ;)
RIP, SRV.
I saw SRV with my Dad, in 89 at Deer Creek (noblesville indiana)... an amayzing night
Ohhh man, we need this! And I must head to the shop floor now. Pause!! As you can expect... I'll be back! Thanks Keith!
Loving strat month
Beautiful! Thanks, Keith. 😎
Fantastic video! Thanks for making it and sharing the wonderful guitars of SRV with all of us.
An excellent show as always Keith. While I own all the SRV records and the first release of the SRV Strat, this episode informed me as to all the other guitars he played but he always sounded like Stevie
Fell in love with the guitar because of SRV. Currently wearing my new hoodie and noodling on my 2000 Fender Fat Strat Texas Special
Love the stories and +1 for including Chris Buck
Life by the drop will always be my personal favorite, Mr Vaughn will forever remain the best musician OAK CLIFF ever produced!
That very first Gibson is almost exactly like my beloved early 70's ES325, mini HB's and all! I also had a Mayer Strat, and loved it! I sold both in a series of dumb decisions. Augh!! --gary
his tone sends shivers up my spine.
Keith, one of your best. Well done.
Another killer video, Keith, thanks, saw SRV twice, summer '85 at the Pier in NYC and early 1986 in a bar in Albany-----sensational performances.
I liked you story at the beginning about discovering SRV, good ol pre internet days.
Just came from the Anderton's Tube Screamer shootout... perfect
Great job, Keith, thank you!
Thanks Keith, like so many others, SRV was my favorite, found him in the late 70's and followed him the rest of the way. I got to see him open up for The Who in the Cotton Bowl. I had floor seats and as usual folks were milling around during his opening act, but I was locked in and remember the crowd settling in and being mesmerized as he played, he really wasn't an opening act for anyone and the crowd showed their appreciation after he quickly got their attention. He is certainly missed, especially down here in Texas...
I was at that MSG show. I almost didn't go. I'm so glad I went.
A similar story, I recall walking into Lenny's Music in New Orleans in the summer of 1983 just as he dropped the tonearm on "Texas Flood", and in about 30 seconds, the world changed. I said I don't know who that is but I want a copy of that album. Lenny said it was the only copy he had, it had just come in, but he reluctantly let me have it. Lenny Samuel (RIP) and his shop are no more, but I'll always remember him for that.