Praise for Sonny Boy Williamson II
Much is said about Little Walter, and rightly so. But man, tune into Sonny Boy II. This guy played exclusively acoustic, as far as I know. Still, his tone is outstanding. It never gets old for me. And his licks are so catchy and infectious. You'll be humming them all day.
In listening to several current and vintage players and " lick harvesting" as Dave calls it, I have noticed that many modern era players have borrowed liberally from SBII. I hear a turbo charged version in John Nemeth , whom I idolize, and the late great Lester Butler of the Red Devils. Recently while poking around on YouTube, I caught Little Charlie and the Nightcats Man, I knew exactly where he was going with his solo because it was SBII s from the song Ninety Nine.
I strongly encourage beginners and intermediate players to listen to SBII to grab some digestible, adaptable licks that you'll hang onto forever. And just enjoy listening to this national treasure.
Charting the master's solos is one of the fastest ways I've found to learn music, the instrument, and to reveal each one's genius.
Play a one measure lick on your stereo until you have it in your head. Then try to pluck it out on a piano app so you can write down the notes. Then use an app like Harmonica Key Finder or Harp Ninja to translate the notes to the holes you need to play. This is tablature or tabs. You'll be playing your version of Sonny Boy's licks before you know it.
That sounds like a good weekend project. Thanx.
Have a good weekend!!
Amad learning and practicing David's Artist Study of Bye Bye Bird has taught me a huge lesson on playing solo. I've just started tossing it in a little at open jams to see what the drummers or guitarists might do with me. Huge things happen with that kind of approach that is in the moment stuff.
I agree that SB2 is worth the effort and time to grab some knowledge and lick vocabulary. Watching him play is also a huge inspiration. Especially the hands !!!! As I learn it I do it more and more even with A mic in hand. Lately others have noticed my hand movements that I'm naturally (finally) doing which is influencing my playing.
Ultimately the study of Sonny Boy and others is helping me to play like "me".
Big Walter said " I don't want to play like nobody else, that's their style. I want to play like this Walter "
But I am happy to learn from all the greats until my style comes out Of me which is happening with time in,
John
I know, latley I have been listening to his "Down and out Blues" album on my big house stereo. I am still a beginner so I'm not sure how to copy his licks yet, but man I can't wait to play them someday!! I have also been paying close attention to hand usage for that great wa wa. So good!!