play music, don't play harmonica

[KPGraham@xxxxxxx]

>Steve "play music, don't play harmonica" Jennings


"Play music,don't play harmonica"

I really like this quote and I have a small story.

I was a Augusta Blues Week last year in West Virginia. There
were about 40 harmonica players and when a sing along or
jam got started there where always 5 or 6 guys with harps
waiting for a solo. I can't compete with most of these guys so I
play chords and a few fills but didn't take any solos. I was with
Bob Margolin about 2 in the morning and had had a few beers.
They were playing a very sweet version of a song, (I think its
called Bring home your loving? Starts: If you ever change your
mind about leaving me behind...) It is not 12 bar blues. Each
of the hotshot harpers took a stab and played their Little Walter
licks and it did not sound good. The ladies from Saffire were
singing and Gay grabbed me and forced me forward to take
a solo. Instead of jamming, I played the song! As sweetly as I
could with a few tasty bends at the end. They made me play 
another verse. I have it on tape and I'll never be that good again.

I played the music, not some lick that I had canned. My brother
took me back to the room, made me take 4 aspirin and told
me that I just might have a chance at being a good harmonica
player. The only compliment that I have ever received from him
about my playing.

Damn, If you can come up with the $500 don't miss Blues Week.