These are the guestbook entries for June - August 2003.

Hey... I just wrote a song called "Swing 52." hahaha... :) John John Creech Buies Creek, NC - Sunday, August 31, 2003 at 18:44:07 (PDT) I am a dobro player.gene wooten was my best freind and trainer up untill we lost him.tony is the best and a large influance on today's bluegrass.maby one day I can meet him and show the rq jones like jerry's gene left me when he died.Thank you for your time.SLYYDE............... Mick cagle booneville, ms - Saturday, August 30, 2003 at 22:25:28 (PDT) keep up the good licks!God Bless charlie stanton mars hill, nc - Saturday, August 30, 2003 at 18:36:00 (PDT) In reference to the rhythmn chords that are played at 2:03 on Fishscale. I have always thought that it was a nod to or an influence of John Coltrane. Tony Rice has a great appreciation for John Coltrane and many other jazz greats. I agree with Mr Johnsons assessment of Fish scale. A great tune and a great solo. Artie Traum said that when he wrote the song he thought he was hot stuff on the guitar until he taught it to Grisman and Rice at Grismans house in Mill Valley. Traum came back the next day to play it with the Gasoline Brothers and their arrangment was so fast that he coulnd't keep up with them, and it was his song. In his words he "They had out-maneuvered and out-distanced me" Artie Traum also said that "Tony's technique can be compared to driving a Maserati along a curvy road on the Amalfi Coast. You wouldn't want to drive a car like that slowly: it insults the machinery".. I think that pretty well sums up the skill and feeling that Tony Rice has put into his music (and others) over the last 30 years or so. By the Mr. Rice; have you emerged from your basement with the new song titled "Swing 52" yet? And, I'm still waiting to take you shooting (with camera's) here in the "Land of the Big Stone". Walter J. Flint Yosemite National Park, CA - Saturday, August 30, 2003 at 11:09:23 (PDT) Damn right...Fish Scale is a bad mama jama of a song. Tony has spoken in numerous interviews about that time in his career and what he was learning and putting into practice with that early Dawg stuff, and the Fish is a great example of the creativity and freedom everyone exhibited in the Quintet, all while remaining down for the the song as a whole. Although it isnt quite as exciting for me, because of the amazing interplay and dynamic differences between the different instruments on the DGQ album, the River Suite album with John Carlini gives an interesting look at that song from a purely guitar standpoint. Tony also plays Fishscale occasionally live nowadays...great stuff. Can't wait to see you at the Birchmere, Tony. I'm counting the days... Andy Arlington, VA - Friday, August 29, 2003 at 10:28:22 (PDT) I don't know where Jerusalem Ridge is online, but it is on his Instructional video. Suiggestion first, the song plays exactly like it sounds, very easy to hear the notes. The vast majority of the first part plays between the 5th and 7th frets and that'll get you going in the right direction. wes - Thursday, August 28, 2003 at 18:10:36 (PDT) If I can be Mayor of this town for a moment, with your indulgence, I declare today to be "Fish Scale Day". Don't really know why (other than it's a friggin' masterpiece), but I listened to Fish Scale on the "David Grisman Quintet" album about 10 times today. I heard something about 2:03 into the track that just floored me. Tony has just finished playing a blazing solo, but 2:03 in, he starts banging out syncopated rhythmn chords. I am convinced that no one in the world could have - or would have - played those chords the way he did. In my mind, those few chords express pure "attitude", artistic fearlessness, and individual self-expression, the likes of which I have seldom heard before. At that moment, Tony was as cool as Miles, and as confident as Charlie Parker - feelin' good - launching into a solo. In Terminator 2, the kid asks the Terminator something like, "Why were you going to kill that guy?". Arnold replies, "Because I'm a Terminator." Tony, "Why did you chunk out those chords the way you did?" I think I already know the answer. Thanks. Steve Johnson Herndon, VA - Thursday, August 28, 2003 at 17:10:09 (PDT) While we are talking about learning. . . How are the DVD's Tony has out now? What level are they geared toward? I took flatpicking lessons for a year and a half, so I am not a beginner, but I have a really hard time playing these tabbed solos. Would the DVD's help me out? The tabs are probably over my ability unless I can have someone show me. . . B. Riley Greensboro, NC - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 at 09:17:17 (PDT) You are right Ol'Roscoe I try to make my music original but still try to pick up a few things here and there. Jonathan - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 18:45:20 (PDT) Would that be anywhere online? If so i would like to see it. Jonathan Campbell - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 18:43:14 (PDT) Jerusalem Ridge has already been tabbed out in several palces. I believe it is on a couple of instructional tapes. wes - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 17:02:24 (PDT) Thanks for the input. I made a mistake. I am 17 not 1. haha But I did check out your website. It is helpful. My problem is i pick a little more tim stafford style I guess. But are you going to tab out Jerusalem Ridge? I can pick it but not well. ttyl Jonathan Campbell Zirconia, NC - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 14:01:50 (PDT) I could never really get any solo down note for note, no matter who I tried to play, but my friends always said I got the feel of it down. Out of that comes some style identity I think. Critics even say Christopher Parkening has lost his style too much to trying to be technical in his music. Albeit there is only one TR since he did it first. Scott Havlick Two Harbors, MN - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 13:08:20 (PDT) Correct. I suggest learning the solos note for note, but the important thing is learning the TIMING. Utmost importance to acually hear how the notes are played. Then when you get the solos down, try to change them adding your own touches. wes - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 09:28:52 (PDT) If he learns all the solos and he does them in his own style, then he will be a lot better off, because there is only 1 Tony Rice. Ol' Roscoe NC - Monday, August 25, 2003 at 23:43:26 (PDT) Jonathan, how does a website with only Tony Rice solos tabbed out with MIDI samples to help you? Sounds like you might want to check put my page at http://home.columbus.rr.com/corn55/Rice.html If you learn all these solos then I'd say you are King. wes - Monday, August 25, 2003 at 20:56:29 (PDT) Hello Everyone, My name is Jonathan Campbell and I will be 1 tomorrow. I was just wandering if anyone knew someone of extraordinary quality that would be willing to show a young guitarist a few licks. My mentor graduated me and said i passed him up. I've watched tony's video and picked up as much as I can but I need something more challenging. Please Help! I pick a Martin d-35 which i took to Dan Lashbrook to have fossilized walrus Ivory put on the nut, saddle, and bridgepins. Just thought I would give this a shot. If anyone knows of anyone that might can help me a little please e-mail me at Jonathan28790@hotmail.com I think I spoke to a Kathi Fox at one time over e-mail. If she receives his she can e-mail me back. Also Tony Rice is the greatest guitarist of all time. Past present and future. Jonathan Campbell Jonathan Campbell Hendersonville, NC - Sunday, August 24, 2003 at 20:24:25 (PDT) I tried to post this earlier to the Yahoo! announcement board at the same time I posted to the discussion board, but they were down for some reason. So I figured the only other way to get this message through is on the Guest Book. Just want to report that we received only nine entries to the discography contest, but those who entered worked very hard to gather the information. One contestant referred to his efforts as a "true labor of love." It must have been as he came up with a list that is seven pages in length! I have a fan who is very familiar with Tony's music (Taylor Rorrer, who did not enter the contest) comparing the entries to determine who the winner will be. Please be patient as this will take a bit of time. We all have so much going on in our lives that it appears that everything is taking longer to get done these days. Anyway, once we get through these lists, the winner will be announced. Thanks to you faithful fans who contributed your time and efforts in participating. 866.866.9291 Kathi Fox Reidsville, NC - Sunday, August 24, 2003 at 19:41:52 (PDT) Hi all, haven't posted in a while, but thought I would...Just bought The Country Gentlemen CD with a couple Lightfoot songs on there. It seems Gordon's music has been covered by more than one great bluegrass artist....Are there any others out there that I can search out and buy? And a big Hi to Tony and Pam and family...I have a new addition too, a little black pug named Ruffiss.....what a ball. Scott Havlick Two Harbors, MN - Saturday, August 23, 2003 at 19:14:28 (PDT) Tony Rice , The only thing i have to say to you is that you are one bad dude on that box. Keep it real. Jared Sweet POUNDING MILL, va - Friday, August 22, 2003 at 09:44:55 (PDT) Thanks, Derek, for your detailed review of FloydFest. I wish I had the opportunity to meet you; but since I've never seen you, I wouldn't know who I was looking at even if I had known you were there. I was running the merchandise tent for the entire festival, so I didn't have much time to walk around and see everyone; but I did get to visit a moment with Billy and Bryn, Grisman, Peter, Vassar and Tony. Their perfomances were tremendous! Your write up gives them the credit they are due. Thanks again. Kathi Fox Reidsville, NC - Friday, August 22, 2003 at 07:08:40 (PDT) I am back from the Floydfest Music Festival with a report, and Tony rocked. First up, always good to see and talk with you, Tony, glad I could help what little I did before the GRisman gig. Here is how it went down; Floydfest was held in sight of the beautiful Skyline Drive in the mountains of southern Virginia and it was a festival that brought together music of all kinds from all over the world. I thought it was great in that I needed some diversity in my life. I have taken in a bunch of bluegrass and old time festivals this summer, picked a bunch, and loved every minute of it. But, as I am in my 40's, my generation listened to a lot of music along with the 'grass. So did the Jerry Douglas', Tony Rice's, Sam Bush's and even the Vassar Clements of the world. As a result, the lineup at Floydfest, that varied from African bands to world music bands to reaggae, mixed wonderfully with the bluegrass and newgrass and it was a breathe of fresh air. Highlights; Vassar--Always good to see and talk to Vassar, we have Hartford in common so we always remember a new story to tell on ole Harf, and his playing is better than ever. Old And In The Grey was a lot of fun. Peter Rowan and Grisman and Vassar, along with Herb Pederson and Bryn Bright, did a wonderful show. They paid tribute to Hartford with 'Good Ole Boys,' played the Stones 'Wild Horses,' and did the old stuff as well. Wonderful. By the way, Vassar is in the process of recording a new bluegrass album with special guests such as Willie Nelson, Bruce Hornsby, Merle Haggard, Del McCoury, Dickey Betts and Ray Charles. Later that evening Vassar told me he would be jamming later that night with wild man Larry Keel about 11pm and, although the stage was full with about 12 people, the jam was a lot of fun. Larry is an excellent flatpicker and he brought together a good group on this night. Darol Anger showed up from out of the dark, as did David Vandeventer who fiddles for Corn Tornado, and those two along side Vassar made the fiddle section AWESOME!!!!Curtis Burch was in house with his brand new Wolfe Dobro acquired earlier in the day in Asheville, and fun was had by all. The look on Vassar's face when he gets on it is priceless. Darol Anger--Darol was all over the place. He sat in on all of Yonder Mountain's set and rounded it out nicely. I also sat backstage and watched Darol and Mike Marshall learn a Pakistani-based tune with Fareed Haque of the band Garaj Mahal. The song was a complicated riff-based tune that these cats picked up in less than 20 minutes. Hard stuff to learn quickly. Amazing. I, along with anyone with a brain, love Django and Stephane Grappelli. Darol, of course, played with Stephane and even toured with him. I asked him if he was intimidated about playing with him, and he said that he found himself trying too hard. He said that Stephane did not say anything to him verbally, but during a gig he came up to him and looked Darol in the eyes while playing and when Darol played like him he would give him a look to say, "relax and play what you want to play," as in 'don't try and play like me, the mix of the two of us playing like ourselves is better.' Later in the day the fine! fiddle player from the group Baka Beyond, a mix of musicians from Africa and Europe, named Paddy Le Mercier revealed that, as a frenchmen, he had also met Stephane, so Stephane's spirit was evoked on that day in the middle of the mountains of Virginia. Darol was also a big part of the David GRisman 1970's Quintet reunion, more on that later. Josh Pinkham- Josh is a 14 year old mandolin player that is a star for the future, and this was his weekend to learn from the best. Mike Marshall took a lot of time to show him some things on the mando, and taught him a song from GRisman's Dawg albums of old. The next day Chris Thile shows up and he and Josh hit it off from the start. Chris was also a child picker so he understands what that is about. Mike Marshall asks Chris if he wants to jam with the Quintet later in the day, Chris says that he doesn't know the song, Mike says that Josh will show it to him. Josh's eyes light up like a Christmas tree and he and Chris take off like two kids with new fishing poles. Darol Anger introduces me to Jerry Thomason and tells me he is of the 'Texas Thomasons.' It takes me a few minutes of questions to figure out that Jerry is the son of the great Texas fiddler Benny Thomason......and, that Josh Pinkham is his grandson. So, Josh is the great grandson of Benny THomason. ! Pretty sweet. Jerry then broke out his four-string tenor guitar and he and Darol picked some old time. The versatility of these guys amaze me. David Grisman- He played at least three times, once with Old and in The Gray, once with his current Grisman Quintet, and held court in the best show of the weekend, the 70's reunion of his Dawg Quintet. The 70's reunion featured David, Darol, Mike, and Tony Rice, who played in Asheville the night before, and yes folks, Tony was in TOP form. Awesome. I am biased as I play the geetar, so it was inspiring and a pleasure to see Tony at his best. The crowd responded to every solo TOny through down, and shouts of "Turn Tony Up" were heard, although it probably embarrased him a little. NOnetheless, this performance was the only one that drew what big name musicians were left at the festival to the side of the stage to watch these amazing musicians. All the big names clapped and standing O'ed just like the audience, it was that awesome. Every song was a music lesson, the phrasing, the changes in tempo and contrast in sound levels, the complicated riffs and the improvising, all wonderful. For the finale they brought on Chris Thile, Sarah Watkins, and Josh Pinkham. Jeff Austin from Yonder Mountain was sitting on the side of the stage, relaxing, taking it all in, when Grisman makes that eye contact and nods his head and soon Jeff is running as fast as he can for his mando already packed in the van behind the stage. The whole bunch jammed on two songs and the crowd could not get enough, it was a great finale to a wonderful weekend. The only other concert that I have seen that was equal to this was Jerry Douglas' show in Ohio last November, not with Alison, but with his own band with Gabe Witcher, Larry Atumanuik, Bryan Sutton, and Jerry improvising and hitting 'Charlie Parker meets Bill Monroe' songs like Cave Bop with incredible precision. Amazing. Jim Lauderdale also was a star of the first couple of days, playing on his own and with Donna The Buffalo. Baka Beyond, from England, won the crowd over with their fired up and unique mix of Celtic and African music. They had a percissionist from Sierra Leone that was fantastic. Their French fiddle player Paddy, mentioned before, could speak little English, but all he could talk about was meeting "Vassure Cleement." African musicians were taking in the bluegrass music, bluegrass folks were dancing to the reaggae, whatever you wanted to hear was there. A great time for those with an open mind. Derek Halsey www.gritz.net Derek Halsey Cincinnati, - Thursday, August 21, 2003 at 11:55:27 (PDT) Agreed on that break. The end of that solo contains the best sounding lick ever recorded on acoustic guitar. Scott - Wednesday, August 20, 2003 at 16:19:31 (PDT) Several months ago, I aquired a version of Freeborn Man with the Seldom Scene and Ricky Skaggs??? I think it might have been in Japan???? Anyway, I'm sure somebody on here has a copy but I'll say that was the best bluegrass guitar break I've ever heard on any live performance by any guitarist. It was the perfect guitar break for the song. I think you could even hear Ricky get fired up and gives a big shout just after Tony resurfaces. I love soaking up all that energy right out of my headphones! Thanks for all the years of music. Scott Patrick Christiansburg , Va - Wednesday, August 20, 2003 at 08:43:39 (PDT) I've been looking for several years for the J.D. Crowe and the New South Live in Japan albums released on Trio in Japan that included TR. No luck so far. Anybody have an extra copy or two they are willing to sell? Steve Johnson Herndon, VA - Wednesday, August 20, 2003 at 05:19:03 (PDT) .......Special Thanx, to all of the fans, who posted your kind remarks here on this message board. Each one of you, are such an inspiration. You are more dear to us than you could ever realize. *May God Bless You*, and those you love............Rice Tony & Pamela Rice Turtle Island, - Tuesday, August 19, 2003 at 15:05:27 (PDT) ...........We want to wish, John Creech, Pharmacist/guitarist/friend* a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!. All the best to you John. Tony & Pamela Rice Turtle Island, - Tuesday, August 19, 2003 at 14:54:27 (PDT) Hey Tony and Pamela my name is CJ and im a 18. I would like to thank you tony for all the inspiration and great music u have put out, and thanks Pam for hooking us up with this great sight. Thanks Again see you at Terpin Hill CJ Cain Lexington, ky - Tuesday, August 19, 2003 at 06:49:18 (PDT) I love your site. My brother loves your guitar playing. My family will see you in Steelville at Wildwood Lodge. Jenny Vaughn Salem, MO - Saturday, August 16, 2003 at 20:09:39 (PDT) Tony, I Read the works of Caroline Wright about certain segments of your life and did'nt realize how much of a Ford Fan you are. If there are any problems you have I would be glad to assist you with them. I have been in Parts and Service with Ford Dealers for over 25 years. You have enriched my life with happiness and joy listening to your works, trying to play some of them myself and would be more than glad to assist you with any problems you encounter with your cars. Danny Triplett knows how to get in touch with me or Pamela could send an e-mail. PS_DOOLEY@HOTMAIL.COM Best Wishes to you and your family Patrick Dooley Troutville, Va - Saturday, August 16, 2003 at 05:52:03 (PDT) I know. Tony Philman - Friday, August 15, 2003 at 20:45:43 (PDT) tony you are the best seth hoover buckhanon, wv - Friday, August 15, 2003 at 09:05:50 (PDT) I got the opportunity to meet Danny and he said Tony gave him a copy of practically every album he's ever made for keeping his vehicle in as good of shape as his picking! He is a great guy. He was real appreciative of the gifts. Wonder if I could get a private guitar lesson for washing his car? Scott Patrick Christiansburg , Va - Friday, August 15, 2003 at 05:48:27 (PDT) I'm looking forward to the TR biography....that should be excellent. I've been wondering when someone would write one. Best wishes, WC Will McLeansville, NC - Thursday, August 14, 2003 at 07:22:09 (PDT) The name Tony Rice keeps coming up. First, the lake house I want to buy has been promised to Tony Rice first. I was looking up old friends on the internet (Tommy Espinola, Steve Smith, Pam & Bill Gurley) and there your name keeps popping up. I had to go on your site and listen to some music.....it was GREAT. Reminds me of my old bluegrass days. I see that Tony Rice will be in Chapel Hill in Sept. I might have to go check this out in person. Hope to see you soon. Marlene Terry Brown Summit, NC - Tuesday, August 12, 2003 at 10:31:42 (PDT) Thank you for the honor of letting regular folks like me be a part of the Tony Rice experience. Dale Mackey Glencoe, AL - Sunday, August 10, 2003 at 22:32:45 (PDT) .............WE WISH RECORDING STAR* JIMMY MARTIN, A SPECIAL "HAPPY BIRTHDAY" TODAY............Happy 75th, King Jim..................Tony and Pam Tony & Pamela Rice Turtle Island, N.C - Sunday, August 10, 2003 at 18:52:50 (PDT) .......Dayne, attemts to repair that guitar failed. It became spare parts for other guitars............Vick, There are no dates scheduled outside the U.S, but thanks for asking.........And Steve, "my how time has flown". Our Best wishes for your baby girls future. India, is fine. More beautiful than ever. She sends her love to your family, and all her former customers in Northern Va.......Pamela Rice Tony and Pamela Rice N.C - Sunday, August 10, 2003 at 18:47:58 (PDT) Hey guy I love everything that you do Thanks alot Ollie Blanton Salyersville, Ky - Saturday, August 09, 2003 at 18:59:53 (PDT) Just wondering when Tony is planning on playing in Vancouver Canada Vick Comox, Vancouver - Saturday, August 09, 2003 at 12:56:10 (PDT) Well Tony - you've done it to me again. I just had my own Birthday and the present my 18 year old daughter, Cyndie (yes, India, she's 18 now and heading off to college), offered me was to create some personalized CDs for me to play in the car with my favorite tunes. First thing I thought of was a CD or two with some favorite Rice tunes. I was up until 3AM last night pulling all the CDs I wanted to include from my collection and picking cuts. I didn't mind being up since I'm taking heavy doses of steroids for a medical problem and I can't sleep anyway. First, I was astounded by the quantity of the work you have done. You are one prolific cat. Then when I started skipping through all the cuts it reminded me of your versatility and mastery of multiple musical genre and how you could seemingly switch from one to the other with ease. I could hear the changes in your voice over the years both physically and artistically and the development of your guitar stylings which has clearly continued strongly to the present. In short, my long-standing respect and admiration for your work has been reaffirmed. When Bear Family gets around to putting out the Tony Rice box set they are going to have a lot of work to do. I'm probably going to end up with 5 or 6 CDs and the quick selections I made would have been much better with several months of research and reflection by experts. Steve Johnson Herndon, VA - Saturday, August 09, 2003 at 11:59:08 (PDT) I just wanted to say how much I admire you for all you have done for the acoustic guitar. I knew you and Larry at Lake Bonable at Rainbow Lake Estates during the early to middle sixties. I was at the Blue Run when "Deputy Dawg" broke your Martin. My question is this: What ever happened to that busted up Martin? Dayne Hatten Macon, GA - Thursday, August 07, 2003 at 17:52:40 (PDT) You do (did) such good work. I picked up your Gordon Lightfoot album, this morning, again, & smiled for 45 minutes. Tnx., Ken Ken ca - Thursday, August 07, 2003 at 04:36:39 (PDT) Ben--I'm with ya....top 5 anyway. It's just so different than anything you'll hear any other place! Will McLeansville, NC - Wednesday, August 06, 2003 at 20:37:56 (PDT) Native American is my favorite album of all time. Anyone else share this sentiment? ben rosenberg new york, ny - Tuesday, August 05, 2003 at 15:36:00 (PDT) when i started playing guitar at age 10,that was in 75 there was only one bluegrass guitarist on the scene that really inspired me , that was tony rice. i would really like to take the time to say a personal thank you,for taking bluegrass guitar to new heights !!! troy jones dry ridge, ky - Friday, August 01, 2003 at 10:17:18 (PDT) I would just like to thank Tony for his endless and timeless contributions to music and bluegrass. He has inspired me more than any man ever in the industry. Every show i see i get chill bumps just from hearing him play. I would like to thank you Tony for everything. Especially signing my guitar strap at rockygrass,in lyons co. colorado this year (2003)I will always remember the kindness that u have shown and i really appreciate u playing for us there and for u to take the time to sign my strap. Just so u know u know i think that you have played in the greatest band in bluegrass history with JD and you have had the greatest bluegrass albums with manzanita and plays and sings bluegrass, and you are the greatest bluegrass singer and guitar player ever thanks alot -CJ- C.J. Cain Lexington, Ky - Thursday, July 31, 2003 at 20:00:15 (PDT) I was just wondering if anyone who reads this guestbook will going to the Old Fiddlers Covention, in Galax VA next week? I will be heading up there around Tuesday and would love to get together and do some jamming if anyone from the guestbook will be there. IF you are please let me know. My email address is ctrorrer@ctc.net Taylor Rorrer Eden, NC - Thursday, July 31, 2003 at 15:34:55 (PDT) Tony, you are an inspiration and a major influence on my life. Don't let the negativity get you down- "they tear it down, you build it up." Will you be playing at MagnoliaFest this year? It is always a treat to see you under the spanish moss. Max Gainesville, FL - Thursday, July 31, 2003 at 12:45:43 (PDT) Have admired your playing from the first time I ever heard you. Best damn Guitar player in the world. Thanks Tony! Gary Lamberth troutman, NC - Tuesday, July 29, 2003 at 22:41:09 (PDT) So, I have been playing guitar for about eleven years, and trying to play bluegrass for about three years. I am just now putting in some effort to the theory side of things, like why fiddle tunes sound the way they do, and chord/scale relationships and such.....and Tony, you are a bad, bad, bad man. So many right notes, so many right chord and chord parts...thanks for setting yet another really high bar for me. I'll probably fail out of law school trying to get your stuff down. I'll probably be happier, too. Keep pickin' and I'm looking forward to seeing you in September with Rowan at the Birchmere. Andy Arlington, VA - Tuesday, July 29, 2003 at 13:33:52 (PDT) .......That is kind of you Craig. Tony will be very happy to know that. In my remark about the hitchikers, I was not reffering to your school, but rather those intruding freeloaders, who post *click-ons like (nice web sight____) and have nothing to do with the music whatso ever. They could not distinguish between a herringbone and a Milk Bone, if their life depended on it............Best Wishes to you and your students, perhaps you could send a class photo, for our album.... Mrs. Tony Rice Pamela Rice Turtle Island, N.C. - Tuesday, July 29, 2003 at 12:15:10 (PDT) Hi Tony! Looking forward to seeing you next month at CedarHill Fest or perhaps FloydFest. When's the next Rice Brothers record going to be ready? After 5 years, Wyatt returned to Acoustic Stage along with the Ronnie Bowman Band last month. Folks are still talking about that one. Hopefully, you won't make us wait that long to hear you in the Fireman's Kitchen again. Take care! Linda Osbon Hickory, NC - Sunday, July 27, 2003 at 17:23:35 (PDT) .........Please remove, hitchikers from the guest book please........Thank You, Mrs. Tony Rice Pamela Rice - Saturday, July 26, 2003 at 16:54:05 (PDT) Tony is an inspiration to me and my young students, so we added Tony to our inspiration page on http://www.blackbeltguitar.com Cheers, Craig Craig Pinegar Orem, UT - Wednesday, July 23, 2003 at 22:39:53 (PDT) I've seen TR and Rowan several times and TR will sit out on one of the encores from time to time...I think to let Rowan and his band cook one and then come out and finish with them. I think it's great--they all know that people want to hear Tony, so a little tease now and then gets people fired up. I say just be glad we get to hear him at all! WC - Wednesday, July 23, 2003 at 19:41:48 (PDT) Ben, Thanks for the reply. Tell you the truth, I thought he sounded fine; I thought he was cooking when he stepped back and said "*&^%." I agree he was picking up steam in the second set, and I thought Midnight Moonlight was his best performance of the night. I was hoping/expecting Tony to do a solo piece like "Shenendoah" or "Manzanita". I was surprised that he didn't. I thought that was a regular feature. I thought Tony was having fun in his interplay with the Mando player, throwing in some weird chords and making each other laugh. But you may be right that Tony thought he had a bad night. When we stood up to cheer him, he came over and shook our hands and it almost seemed like he felt obliged. Like we'd stood out in the rain or something. Anyway, that's the thing with live improv, you never know. I was real impressed with Tony's effort and intensity. Take care, Seth Seth Wantage, NJ - Monday, July 21, 2003 at 12:03:51 (PDT) to seth of ny: puff of smoke came from a cigarette in tony's mouth. It seemed like he needed to decompress for a moment. immediately after i caught the glimpse, the rest of the gang came out minus T. my general feeling about his performance was that he maybe didn't do as well as he wanted to. This is what made it great that he came back out for encore 2, though. ben rosenberg new york, ny - Monday, July 21, 2003 at 08:51:03 (PDT) To Ben from NY: What did this mean?: "Caught a glimpse of you (back room) in a cloud of smoke just before the first encore, and i told my gal "he ain't gonna come out". I was right." I don't comprende that. Why didn't Tony come out for 1st encore? Seth Fleishman Wantage, NJ - Monday, July 21, 2003 at 07:30:23 (PDT) I can’t believe I finally found the Tony Rice Web Site. I guess it’s been a year or more since I tried to see if a Site existed, I don’t know how the time gets away so fast. I just got home from seeing The David Grisman Quintet at the LimeKiln Theatre in Lexington, VA. It was an awesome show by the way. I found a link to Tony’s Site while visiting David’ s Site; hypertext is great. Jay Gallimore Waynesboro, VA - Monday, July 21, 2003 at 00:18:47 (PDT) Saw the show in NYC the other night. It was great to see the amount of appreciation and awe shared by all in attendance for "The Man". As a previous writer commented, it was clear that most in attendance were there to see and hear the living legend himself. Tony, seemed like you were able to relax for the second set after, what seemed like a bout of nervousness shared by all the band through the first. The thing is, those of us who play and notice the screw ups don't hold it against you to hear em. if anything, it makes you all the more accessable and appreciated. When you stood back from a major blunder and said "s#$T", i wanted to get up on stage and give you a hug. Man, it's you we love. It's not just the playing. Caught a glimpse of you (back room) in a cloud of smoke just before the first encore, and i told my gal "he ain't gonna come out". I was right. I was also a bit dissapointed, but i understood and it felt good to understand (at least to think i understood). Turned to my gal during the first encore and said "he's gotta know that they're dying out here. He's gonna come out for the second encore". You came out and helped put together a great Midnight Moonlight. It seemed like you might have felt a bit defeated and you still came out there. Bravo for that, man. Just want you to know that you are appreciated like family. Thanks for a special treat. PS: looking forward to a future of you on a stool singing and playing. Ben Rosenberg new york, ny - Friday, July 18, 2003 at 15:24:13 (PDT) While driving my car for a couple of hours the other day, I listened to the Native American album. Like many times before, the sound, emotion, the harmony and the interplay between the players struck me as something truly exceptional. To me, both TRs playing (and singing!) and the interplay with the others (maybe Jerry Douglas, especially) on that album makens me think the players must have been inspired in a special way both individually and collectively. It would be great fun (for a lot of TRs fans I believe, as well as me) to hear TR say something about the recordning process of this record (or other TR records, as well). How much time and preparation is spent, and how? etc.... Thanks, and happy holidays everyone! Hans M Oslo, - Thursday, July 17, 2003 at 11:09:57 (PDT) Saw the Rowan Rice show last night at BB Kings in NYC. Had a front row table right up against the stage! Tony came over and shook hands with me and my wife which was a real thrill. Tony was very gracious, dressed to the nines as usual, and picking his heart out. He brings such a nice mix of playfulness, inventiveness, and intensity/integrity, it was just a real treat to have such a great opportunity to enjoy his music so up close that I could hear the actual guitar, not just the miked sound. Tony, thanks a bunch. Really enjoyed it. Please please please take the Unit out to NY or NJ sometime. I am sure all the folks from last night would LOVE it. It was clear that most folks were there to hear you. Thanks again! --Seth PS-- Cute bass player! Hubba hubba! Seth Fleishman Wantage, NJ - Thursday, July 17, 2003 at 06:46:15 (PDT) Hey Tony, As always, You were just fantastic awhile back with Peter Rowan. You never cease to amaze me. One thing before I ago, Peter and Mr Skaggs need to lay off the breakfast bar at Shoneys for a few months. IM not meaning this in no sarcastic way, but Ricky does not look in the best of health and he needs to hear this. Benny Garrett Dayton, OH - Thursday, July 17, 2003 at 03:02:14 (PDT) Hey...anybody know the lineup for the next Chapel Hill gig? Any chance it's just TR solo? Will Mcleansville, NC - Wednesday, July 16, 2003 at 20:43:39 (PDT) Hi, all! I know it's been a long time since you've heard from me; but I've been very busy and spending the night with my mom for about a month now since she broke her shoulder and had replacement surgery. I just want you to know that I will be heading out for Grey Fox tomorrow and hope that I get to meet some of you there. If anyone is traveling, please be safe. Kathi Fox Reidsville, NC - Sunday, July 13, 2003 at 11:56:43 (PDT) Tony, from Munich in the heart of Bavaria (Germany), all the best wishes to you, from a longtime fan (since the days of the „Cambridge Folk Festival“ in England, in the mid-seventies, where I heard you the first time play with David Grisman, Bill Keith and Darol Anger). I hope, you soon get back your unique voice (I heard it on your DVD from Homespun, that you obviously got serious problems with it). Greetings from the small but intense Bluegrass Scene in Munich, Germany. Emanuel Niklas Munich, BY - Thursday, July 10, 2003 at 03:01:04 (PDT) Tony & Pam......Hope all is well in your neck of the woods. Heard about Larry's new Rebel porject through the grapevine and wanted to let you know I look forward to hearing it and your contributions on it. (as well as Wyatt, Jeff Parker, Sammy Shelor, Rickie & Ronnie Simpkins) I'll be going home to Berea, KY after the North Georgia Bluegrass Festival this week. Jeff Parker, his dad, me, my son and my dad usually get together and pick when the US Navy let's me get home!! Jeff always has great compliments about you. You and Pam take care of yourselves and I hope to see you play again soon. Best Wishes, Jeff Dodson Pensacola, FL Jeff Dodson Pensacola, FL - Tuesday, July 08, 2003 at 06:11:03 (PDT) You are the greatest guitar player in my book, no one compares to your playing and i love to hear you play, i own most of your cd's and listen to them all the time, keep up the great job and never stop playing. Ryan Mullins Pounding Mill, VA - Thursday, July 03, 2003 at 12:29:12 (PDT) Tony, You are the greatest bluegrass flat-top picker ever! I would consider it an honor and privilege to meet you someday; if you're every passing through Staunton, VA (home of the Statlers) please give me a call! We'd love to treat you to dinner! Phil Rosen Staunton, Va - Wednesday, July 02, 2003 at 09:07:41 (PDT) great sounds. hope i can play half as good one day. tony russo norwalk , ct - Tuesday, July 01, 2003 at 13:25:23 (PDT) Mr. Rice & Spacegrass (sorry for the Mr. but Mom wouldn't have it any other way!) Can't say/write enough to reflect my appreciation for sharing it all. Scott Hillsborough, NC - Tuesday, July 01, 2003 at 12:59:09 (PDT) I'm listening to a tape of "Hot Dawg" & "The Dave Grisman Quintet" and my son (19 years old) is intrigued. We just found this tape in the shed. I remember seeing the DGQ w/ Tony at the Great American Music Hall in SF in the 1970's. Love Tony's music since then. Glad to see Tony's still playing. Mei Ling Chun Flagstaff, AZ - Tuesday, June 24, 2003 at 21:44:46 (PDT) Tony: I think you ought to add a couple of shows closer to home man. It's been a bit since I've been able to get out and see you, and when you get back from out West, it'd be great to hear you live again around the Triad. The discs are all great, and the vinyl keeps me going, but sometimes the Nottingham just doesn't do you justice!!! I need some live picking, and there's no substitute for Tony. . B B. Riley Greensboro, NC - Tuesday, June 24, 2003 at 10:33:02 (PDT) Cory, Tony should be playing there right now. His Tour Dates page has it listed under June if you want to check it out. Kathi Fox Reidsville, NC - Saturday, June 21, 2003 at 21:04:30 (PDT) I was just wondering if Tony will be playing at Telluride this year? Thanks and Keep pickin... Cory Ithaca, NY - Saturday, June 21, 2003 at 12:17:15 (PDT) THANKS for sharing your wonderful music! It's a joy to hear your music and a pleasure to talk with you. Keep on keepin' on Tony! John Dahlstedt Urbana, Illinois - Wednesday, June 18, 2003 at 12:16:35 (PDT) Tony get well soon. WE missed you at Strawberry Park! happy belated birthday. sincerely, your biggest supporter since 1980. we really miss your voice, ole eagle ear! Jimmy Warburton Jerusalem Ridge, RI - Tuesday, June 17, 2003 at 09:38:32 (PDT) Tony, I want to thank you for your contribution to bluegrass music. I have had the good fortune to meet you sometime ago. I was with Troy and Rusty Castleberry when I was a young tyke. I have listened to your music faithfully and I accept your viewpoints posted on your web site. Do yourself a favor and get you a computer and talk with us every once and a while. Please Please come to Memphis. I am not sure if it is of interest to you but bluegrass music here has exploded into a mass meca. I look forward to seeing you at the Bartlett Performing Arts Center or Germantown Performing Arts Center. Both are great venues and I can assure you a sell out here. David David Ford Olive Branch, MS - Monday, June 16, 2003 at 14:49:19 (PDT) Just ordered Merlefest live DVD and Mark Johnsons new Clawgrass CD. Look forward to some great new music to be inspred by...Happy Father's Day TR Scott Havlick Two Harbors, MN - Sunday, June 15, 2003 at 13:33:24 (PDT) Tony, just wanted you to know you have lots of devoted fans up here in Canada. I and many others have been awed and inspired by your work for years. We did manage to see you in person several years ago at a guitar festival in Winnipeg. It would be great to see you back around our neck of the woods sometime soon! Best wishes! Ken Campbell Glenboro, MB - Sunday, June 15, 2003 at 11:30:02 (PDT) Happy Fathers Day Tony. thanks for sponcering our cyberez. "You Rock" C.S Cristy Scott - Saturday, June 14, 2003 at 22:37:19 (PDT) Sup Bro. You still rule. Keep on picking D. Locklear Pembroke, - Saturday, June 14, 2003 at 03:22:21 (PDT) Whats up Maen, this is ur buddy from va, i hope to jam with ya here soon. keep the bone loud and smooth brotha , later ur friend smokey! Sweeet va - Friday, June 13, 2003 at 15:19:07 (PDT) Ran across Your website. I really admire Your acoustic guitar chops. Hope to maybe pick a few out on the "gig" trail. Brent Mason Brent Mason Nashville, TN - Friday, June 13, 2003 at 01:17:16 (PDT) Hi again Tony. It has been a while since I have had the chance to check your site, but now that I have read a few lines in your guestbook, I'm seeing that you had a birthday recently. Congratulations for not just living another year but continuing to be the greatest flat-top guitar picker that ever walked the face of the earth!! For those of us lesser mortals, we just keep trying to pick it out like you, but we know that UDAMAN!! Lord bless, Mike Davis. Mike Davis Laredo, TX - Wednesday, June 11, 2003 at 19:57:08 (PDT) Tony...Colorado is looking forward to your upcoming shows in our beautiful Rocky Mtns! The state's not on fire this summer, either. Hope your birthday was fabulous and all is right in your world.... Gail and friends Denver, CO - Wednesday, June 11, 2003 at 16:28:16 (PDT) Kathi, thx so much. I've been looking for this album and nowhere could I find it available. I'll be ordering that soon! wes - Tuesday, June 10, 2003 at 21:02:48 (PDT) Hi Tony! Sorry I am a couple days late wishing you a Happy Birthday. Hope it was wonderful! Thanks again for your great musicianship and inspiration. God Bless You and Pam! Scott McCormick Caldwell, ID - Tuesday, June 10, 2003 at 16:42:38 (PDT) Wes, just go to the merchandise page and click on the last CD which is Clawgrass and you will see the full list of songs on the CD. Kathi Fox Reidsville, NC - Tuesday, June 10, 2003 at 11:50:09 (PDT) There is a fine verison of John Henry on the Dirk Powell and Tony Furtado CD. They combined it with Angeline the Baker. Dirk was doing some super clawhammer banjo playing. If I'm not mistaken, I believe Tony Furtado was playing slide guitar on it. If you buy this CD you will have made a great investment. Taylor Rorrer Eden, NC - Tuesday, June 10, 2003 at 05:45:38 (PDT) I was just informed that Tony recorded 'John Henry" on the Mark Johnson album 'Clawgrass' which he did with the Rice Brothers. Is this true? Anyone have this album can confirm Tony actually took a cut on the song? wes - Monday, June 09, 2003 at 20:36:49 (PDT) OK...Sorry for the confusion. I would recommend this version of John Hardy though for some great listening. Thanks to you Tony....(and Pamela) Toby Crowder Burnsville , NC - Monday, June 09, 2003 at 10:18:58 (PDT) Tony, She meant "John Henry" in response to my question whether he had recoreded it somewhere. wes - Monday, June 09, 2003 at 09:36:03 (PDT) In response to an earlier question... I believe that Tony recorded "John Hardy". Find his CD "Cold on the Shoulder"...There is a mighty fine version of the song on there with Vassar, Sam,etc... Hope you are well Tony... Toby Crowder Burnsville , NC - Monday, June 09, 2003 at 07:16:07 (PDT) ..............Tony read all the birthday messages, from family, friends, and fans...He replys: "Thank you all for making my *SWING 52* more special, Hope you all had a great day as well." ^^^^T.<><><><<<>>><><><> Mrs. Tony Rice Turtle Island, N.C - Sunday, June 08, 2003 at 23:49:39 (PDT) Happy Birthday Bro. Hope it is a goodern'. We Gemini's can't help but to rock. See you down the road Tony. Derek Halsey Derek H - Sunday, June 08, 2003 at 19:47:16 (PDT) HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRO! WE LOVE YOU !! Wyatt, Diane, Jared,& Tina Wyatt Rice Damascus, Va. - Sunday, June 08, 2003 at 15:36:34 (PDT) Happy birthday TR. Doc Roberts Round Rock, TX - Sunday, June 08, 2003 at 10:46:50 (PDT) Happy Birthday, Tony. Keep on pickin'. Love, Di Dianna Taylor Alexandria, VA - Sunday, June 08, 2003 at 07:18:06 (PDT) G'morning, sitting here waking up with a cup of coffee, pondering all the mundane chores that need to be done today, and thinking how this day is better than the rest, cuz it's my favorite guitarist and musical inspirator's birthday today. Hope your day is special Tony, and that many more birthdays will come. Happy Birthday, Tony, and God Bless you and yours. Scott Havlick Two Harbors, MN - Sunday, June 08, 2003 at 05:48:51 (PDT) Dear Tony, We cannot convey what an honor it has been to represent your music and career online. Another year passes yet your music remains timeless. Words can't describe what an impact your talents have had on the overall musical universe, and our lives persoanlly. Speaking for your fans, we continue to yearn for the next CD, and the promise of more compositions that strecth the boundries of 10 fingers connected to the mind of a genius. As a recent post stated, when I hear your fingers against the fretboard of the bone I do not know whether to hang up my apsirtations of playing guitar, or to practice an extra five hours a day in order to play the notes you make seem so effortless. May this message find you healthy, happy and striving to continue your craft. In an age of three chord millionaires, your music remains a driving force in the pursuit of musical purity. One of our musical highlights, the Orange Peel version of Shenandoah remains a high point in our musical diary. May God bless you and your life. L & C. The Marks' Asheville, NC - Saturday, June 07, 2003 at 21:21:57 (PDT) HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TONY! We love you. Have the best day ever! Steve & Kathi Fox Reidsville, NC - Saturday, June 07, 2003 at 21:19:40 (PDT) Tony, Happy Birthday to you....Happy Birthday to you... Happy Birthday ole Tony... Happy Birthday to you! and many more. Just be glad that you could not hear me singing. ha I enjoy your music very much. Thanks. Steve Ashcraft DeWitt, AR - Saturday, June 07, 2003 at 19:37:04 (PDT) Dear Tony Greetings and Happy Birthday wishes from the "Land of the Big Stone". Now as far as Birthday activities go, I suggest you get your ass down in your basement with the "Bone" and spend 10 or 12 hours composing a new instrumental composition. And what would you call this new original composition?? "Swing 52" of course. All the best to you on your special day and if you are ever in Yosemite and need a photo guide look me up. Walter J. Flint Yosemite National Park, CA - Saturday, June 07, 2003 at 10:31:16 (PDT) Happy Birthday Tony!! and best wishes to all your family. Being your birthday is the 8th and mine the 11th I will be celebrating and playing your music non-stop for 4 days straight. Wait a minute,being a guitar player and a fan thats all I do anyway Patrick Dooley Troutville, Va - Saturday, June 07, 2003 at 07:24:18 (PDT) happy birthday tony. your music continues to inspire me. the complexity and simplicity of who you are always shine through the music beautifully. album recommendation for your slip and fall r&r listening pleasure: "let's leave this town" by chip taylor and carrie rodriguez. It's old timey and delicious. i'd get it for you as a birthday present but alas, i wouldn't know where to send it and i'm not connected enough to find out. Enjoy you birthday, fellow Gemini. ben rosenberg new york, ny - Friday, June 06, 2003 at 22:02:01 (PDT) Tony, Happy Birthday!! Hope all is well. I have to agree with Jeff from Pensacola, accoustic bluegrass today is what it is due to Tony Rice. Hope you have an enjoyable birthday and thank you for wiping the dust from everyday life for us, the listeners. God Bless. Scott Sullivan Pascagoula, MS - Friday, June 06, 2003 at 12:58:57 (PDT) (early) Happy Birthday Tony!! I hope your special day (and every day) is filled with fun, friends and family. Just wanted to pop in and say I hope all is well after your patio incident. Please take care of yourself and thanks for giving us this avenue to communicate our gratitude for all the hard work and sacrifices that you, Pam and your family have done or dealt with over the years. I've said it before and this is sincerely how I feel: "Bluegrass Guitar is what it is today because of YOU and those Artists who influenced you....PERIOD. It would be a totally different Bluegrass Acoustic Guitar scene today had it not been for you and your contributions over the past 30 or 35 years. Thanks so much for the Music you have blessed us all with." Jeff Dodson Pensacola, FL - Friday, June 06, 2003 at 10:07:16 (PDT) Happy # 52! And many more! Will McLeansville, NC - Thursday, June 05, 2003 at 17:15:34 (PDT) Amazing...June 8th is also my girlfriend's birthday. A good day for me, indeed. Happy Birthday, Tony. Here's to many, many more. Andy Arlington, VA - Thursday, June 05, 2003 at 06:54:10 (PDT) Hello Tony.I wanted to go ahead and wish You a Happy Birthday. Wishing You all the best. Your Buddy, Zane Zane Fairchild Maggie Valley, NC - Thursday, June 05, 2003 at 02:04:43 (PDT) Have a very Happy Birthday, and we hope you have many more. Dale and Eva Moubray Harrisonburg, Va - Wednesday, June 04, 2003 at 16:37:47 (PDT) ....Just wanted to let Tonys fan`s know his birthday is June 8th. I will show him the board late that night. He will be able to see any of the birthday wishes anyone has posted to him........Tony is doing well, still under his M.D`s care for the time being.......Sorry Wes, Tony has not recorded John Hardy, at this writing..........Love and Best Wishes to all, thank you for all the concerns.....Pamela Mrs. Tony Rice Turtle Island, - Tuesday, June 03, 2003 at 22:50:32 (PDT) Any update on Tony? Is he doing ok? Will - Tuesday, June 03, 2003 at 18:42:30 (PDT) Has Tony ever recorded 'John Henry'? I've looked everywhere but cannot find any evidence of this on a recording. I thought it would be a nice addition to my website. Thanks. Wes - Tuesday, June 03, 2003 at 09:58:42 (PDT) Just want to say thanks to Tony for a great show at Graves mnt. and for taking the time for a picture 1 min. before he was to be on stage. Also want to say hello to Kathi whom I meet at Tony's table. Keep your head up things can only get better! And finally Every one who enjoys Tony's playing as I do should check out a young flatpicker in Asheville, named Dan Bletz. He plays with a band named the Biscuit Burners. Thanks again and Keep Pickin. Cory Ithaca , NY - Monday, June 02, 2003 at 18:49:37 (PDT) It just don't get any better than hearing Tony on his Martin Guitar. Keep up the great work Tony, and we will keep buying the CD's. Thanks Mike Olinger Cleveland, TN - Monday, June 02, 2003 at 07:40:16 (PDT) I would like to thank Dale Moubray for his assistance at the merch table after the show (and his wife, Eva, for "loaning" him to me) at Court Square Theater in Harrisonburg, VA this Friday evening. I had to "guard" the table as it was out in the lobby away from the show, so I didn't get to see or hear the performance, but in Dale and Eva's words, it was "awesome"! I'll get a review of the weekend up on the News & Press page as soon as I rest up a bit from the trip. Kathi Fox Reidsville, NC - Sunday, June 01, 2003 at 09:38:26 (PDT)