Mark Ford Interview

Mark Ford had a strong impact on the Bay Area blues harmonica scene in the early 1970’s, starting with the release of the Charles Ford Blues Band on Arhoolie in 1972, which is now considered a modern blues classic (Robin Ford on guitar, Patrick Ford on drums and Stan Poplin on the bass). His powerful amplified tone and mastery of the entire range of the harmonica (he’s known for his killer licks above Hole 6 in 2nd Position) has caused him to influence many generations of blues harmonica players around the world. At the end of this interview I was fortunate to get Gary Smith to swing by and talk with Mark on camera about the old days.

Videos include: Early Influences; The Charles Ford Blues Band; Current Music; The Influence of Charlie Musselwhite and Gary Smith; Approach to Improvising; Accompaniment Playing; Tongue and U-Blocking; Bending; High End Playing; Position Playing; Playing in Minor; Playing another Instrument; Singing; Keeping Things Fresh on the Bandstand; Playing the Chromatic Harmonica and Brazil; Tribute to Paul Butterfield CD; Equipment: Harps and Mic; Equipment: Effects & Amp; Closing to Mark Ford Interview; Bonus Footage: Gary Smith and Mark Ford - The Early Years, Part 1; Bonus Footage: Gary Smith and Mark Ford - The Early Years, Part 2