In Recognition Of His Contributions To The Art Of Fingerpicking

May 31, 2006 9:32 AM

Tommy Emmanuel, CGP. Master of fingerstyle guitar. Captain of covers. Alpha and Omega of originals. After watching these videos, you'll have few questions as to why recording and touring partner Chet Atkins bestowed upon Tommy the title "Certified Guitar Player." (pdf)
posted by The White Hat (15 comments total)

Oh, for fuck's sake.
posted by jack_mo at 9:39 AM on May 31, 2006

This meme ends here.
posted by pmbuko at 9:45 AM on May 31, 2006

If you're after a guitarist who plays contrapuntal standards, I much prefer this guy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdZqjQqFzkU&search=joe%20pass
posted by BobsterLobster at 10:01 AM on May 31, 2006

Don't you know you have to be blind to fingerpick?
posted by fuerloins at 10:18 AM on May 31, 2006

I actually got see to see him open for Del McCoury at a local Bluegrass festival. He just played solo - just playing guitar on some songs and singing others. Emmanuel's playing is something to witness live - the man's hands are fast and strong - both on the fretboard and over the sound hole. His choice of material was so-so, but he was totally captivating to watch play.
posted by borkus at 11:06 AM on May 31, 2006

I've seen him a couple times myself, and it's really a sight to behold. So much sound from one guitar.
posted by The White Hat at 11:12 AM on May 31, 2006

Listening to this stuff make me feel like i'm in an IHOP. Try this instead: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9oJ577qtGM
posted by breakfast_yeti at 11:41 AM on May 31, 2006

Fantastic Music. Thanks!
posted by pithy comment at 12:03 PM on May 31, 2006

Enjoyed this very much.
posted by puddinghead at 1:35 PM on May 31, 2006

He is an exceptional guitarist. He did this thing where he played two tunes at the same time. Sure, both were nursery rhymes, but still. He kept on playing and playing, and I had to leave before I fell down. I would have to concur that his choice of music is not necessarily the best though.
posted by doozer_ex_machina at 2:01 PM on May 31, 2006

Got to meet the man just last week. He was in Dublin for the opening of the Dublin Guitar Festival, for which a friend of mine is on the committee. Absolutely amazing gig, was sat right up front and my eyes were transfixed to the fretboard the whole set. His technique is exquisite! Nicest guy you could possibly meet too! Great post!
posted by TwoWordReview at 2:07 PM on May 31, 2006

He's good, but definitely not as interesting as this guy
posted by j.p. Hung at 5:25 PM on May 31, 2006

Yea, for fuck's sake already, nice thread. Man, the post was cool, but the comments with links are awesome! I'm gonna totally wreck my teeth tonight trying the tea-spoon thing. Damn you j.p.!!!!!!!!!
posted by snsranch at 6:55 PM on May 31, 2006

Yeah, more lesser knowns who wipe the floor with our average 'pop-rocker'.

This is where you should invest your music listening time and energy.

FUCK the superstars!
posted by HTuttle at 7:20 PM on May 31, 2006

Jeepers, Mance Lipscomb.

I haven't listened to him since retiring my obscure 8-track blues collection to the attic.

(I wonder if they still play?)
posted by HTuttle at 7:27 PM on May 31, 2006