Re: [Harp-L] Distorted harmonica versus Clean harmonica sound question

[Peter Madcat Ruth <madcat@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

One of my favorite blues harp players was Jr. Wells who would often just used his vocal mic for harp.
Also there are some amazing Big Walter Horton solos and Sonny Boy Williamson solos played acoustically.

Personally I play both acoustically and through an amp, but even when playing through an amp I aim for a small amount of distortion rather than a large dose.

Peter Madcat Ruth
Musician - Grammy Award Winner
madcat@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
www.madcatmusic.net
www.youtube.com/user/petermadcatruth



On Aug 7, 2012, at 1:29 PM, Randy Singer wrote:

> I play both amplifed distorted style AND clean harmonica style into a mike and PA.
> 
> Of course, it seems much more fun to play blues, etc with a distorted harmonica amped sound.
> 
> But here is my question......
> 
> Some of the greatest blues solos are done with the amped style.
> 
> I wonder if if some of the greatest amped blues soloists like little walter, jason ricci, william clarke, etc, would have played their signature songs as well if they played them without distortion?
> 
> Anyone wish to chime in????
> 
> Do YOU feel you can play hard core blues all night armed with only a mike? Isn't that the true test of a legitimate blues harp player? Not to use effects or distortion as "crutch".
> 
> best,
> 
> 
> randy singer