These are the guestbook entries for April - May 2004.

Blaine Hampton-- Greenville Guitars out of NC. Give him a call, but only if you're a serious musician and serious* about buying and you're willing to pay for a quality instrument. Anonymous - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 17:47:55 (EDT) ANYONE KNOW OF A GOOD VINTAGE MARTIN GUITAR DEALER? I AM LOOKING TO PURCHASE 1940-1950'S MODEL MARTIN GUITAR. ANY INFO WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED! RICK ELIZABETHTON, TN - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 16:16:52 (EDT) Hey CJ, there's a tab book out there for 'Acoustics' which I have used to no end. I believe it's a Mel Bay book. It has the album cover on the front. it also shows the fast triplet s in Gasology. Pick-on everyone. And good morning to TR, Pam, and all the other "children" in the family. Scott havlick Two Harbors, MN - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 08:25:20 (EDT) Tony, when are You going to do another jazz album in the style of Backwaters? Im sure I am not the only one on this board who would love to hear You do another one. Pam, please tell Tony that the fans are wanting another jazz album. Thank You In Advance Steve - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 04:10:34 (EDT) Hello Steve. Yeah, Tony is just amazing. I was blown away by that Fishscale lick when I first heard it back in 1980 or so and I'm still blown away by it today. In some ways I'm more blown away by it now than I was back then because I know more guitar now than I did then. I realize even more now how monster it is. Hearing him do the Used to be triplets live from 75 might be even more impressive for me though. Tony's ability is nearly superhuman. In many ways, Tony is more impressive now than he used to be too! Tony's got another gear that most people just don't have. Tony is the greatest!! matt - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 22:37:37 (EDT) You are right Matt. The end lick on Fishscale on the first DGQ album is unreal. How in the hell did he pull those licks off? 14 miles to barstow is still my favorite break of Tony's, WOW!!!!!!!! Steve - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 22:14:58 (EDT) If the Scalar Tony licks that Walter was refering to are the triplet type, then Tony does several other good ones, including one on Gasolgy, one on a tune from the David Grisman Rounder album (the name of that song escapes me right now), and probably the best ones of all are on Fishscale from the DGQ album. I have a live recording of Tony from 1975 and he blazes through triplets on a version of Used To Be To You. They are very similar to the You Don't know my mind album version. He actually pulled the triplets off faster on that live song than on that album's version of You Don't know my mind! AMAZING!! Matt - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 19:09:03 (EDT) speaking of his jazz stuff, i bought acoustics today, what scales does he use on that stuff, i use alot of blues scales, and major in bluegrass much like tony does but those scales dont exactly get it done with the more jazzy stuff, i figured it could be a dorian patter or some type of variation figured somebody might know exactly what patterns to study. cj lex, ky - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 16:25:10 (EDT) Find me any better Jazz acoustic guitar playing than that is on Mar West and I will gladly listen to it. The real fast lick on Mar West sounds like a bumble bee, it is awesome acoustic guitar playing. Al Dimeola who? Steve - Friday, May 28, 2004 at 20:57:08 (EDT) Ah... ok. I think that's a series of triplets. He also does that on Rattlesnake off his 'Tony Rice' album. I can here it in You Dont Know My Mind, I believe that's also triplets. Acoustix, I listened to the part I think you are referring to. First, it is always much simpler than it sounds, so go there first. It's a hard passage to hear cause there's so much stuff going on, and in addition I'm not sure if Rice is the only rhythm guitar playing there so you may be hearing two guitars at once. It sounds like an Em chord played higher on the frets. Going from the 6th to the 1st string make this chord, 0-x-9-7-10-x. That's where I'd start. You can play this chord much lower at the 3-5 frets but you would lose the silky, sliding feel to it. You'll notice Rice will take standard chords played on the low frets, and elect to play them up higher for different sounds and also to take advantage of the sliding up and down action. Sorry I can't be more help, he does too many chord variations to keep track. Just play around up there you eventually land a few awesome sounding chords yourself. wes - Friday, May 28, 2004 at 19:59:18 (EDT) Wes, what I mean by scalar run is just an extremely fast run of notes. This particular use of extreme picking speed on Rice's part only happens 3 times on all of his recorded history (that I'm aware of). The examples are "You Don't Know My Mind" from the CD "California Autumn" it occurs at 0:56 seconds into the song. The second example occurs on "Freight Train Boogie" at 2:01 on Tony's first solo. A third example of this fast scalar run would be at 1:14 on the song "Is That So" from the Mar West cd. The latter song being about the fastest I've ever heard Tony play on a solo. My whole point being that these are real flash runs which is something you almost never hear Tony Rice do because he has so much taste in his playing that he doesn't need to "show off". however, the 3 times he has on record are simply awesome and just about rip your head off... Walter J. Flint Yosemite National Park, CA - Friday, May 28, 2004 at 17:19:41 (EDT) Wes, sounds like you're great at figuring out stuff..Do you know what Chord Tony is making on the "Crossings" recording I mentioned a couple of posts ago? Thanks. Acoustix - Friday, May 28, 2004 at 16:29:24 (EDT) Thanks. Uhm.. I think I may have the Todd Phillips CD Released. I'll have to dig through my archives of CD's and tapes to see what I have. The request for Tipper has inspired me to tab out Rice's second break for that song. Right now I'm just starting the Em phase of it. Exceedingly more simple than it sounds. Maybe I'll check out his playing on Released after I'm done with this. Did someone say that Rice's second improvised solo to Tipper has already been tabbed somewhere? If so I am not aware of it. wes - Friday, May 28, 2004 at 11:22:04 (EDT) I dont know steve, i would love to get my lunch hooks around that book too! the new larry rice recording is coming soon also and I am about to bust to get that too. Wes , I am still trying to find a way to get you a copy of Mr. Rice's 2nd. break on the title cut of T. Phillips album "released" I could just send you the cass. in the mail but I dont know if it will do you any good. maybe someone out there has a better way to get it to you than I do? I still say it is one of Mr. Rice's finest solo's ever.Thanks also to the new webmaster of this site. You are all doing a great job! I , along with many others, visit this site 7 days a week and I love getting the what's new updates so often. It helps to know what is coming out or what is going on from week to week. thanks alot!! sean tuscaloosa, al - Friday, May 28, 2004 at 10:15:41 (EDT) I'm still not sure that's the correct chord I asked about in my earlier post. I did try the anonymous post guitar chord..But I still think it's just a little different..How about it guys,,anyone else have any idea what chord Tony is making there? Acoustix - Friday, May 28, 2004 at 00:02:05 (EDT) Walter, what are you referring to when you say "scaler runs"? If you mean the chord degression he does on You Don't Know My Mind alot, I've got that tabbed out. Not sure which song it is on, but I refer to it as the most awesome acoustic guitar lick ever. If not, then I'd like to hear what you are referring to. ;) wes - Thursday, May 27, 2004 at 19:23:55 (EDT) Hello anyone out there? Does anyone know how Tony's book is coming along? Steve - Thursday, May 27, 2004 at 14:52:55 (EDT) lbllll l''nxm,x,n,mb,,b8 fffffff/ -8890- Jocelyn Paige Kellam Eden, N.C. - Thursday, May 27, 2004 at 13:54:24 (EDT) I like your guitar. I wish you good luck. Good-Bye, Jocelyn Age, 3 jocelyn kellam Ede n, N C - Thursday, May 27, 2004 at 13:52:01 (EDT) Walter...I have the entire Kaleidoscope album and it is great. Email me at crowdertoby@hotmail.com Toby Crowder Burnsville , NC - Thursday, May 27, 2004 at 13:43:21 (EDT) Finally!! If you want to hear Tony tear it up with Don Reno, get a new cd released by Rounder Records called " Bluegrass Express" (Rounder 82161 1159-2) The song is called "Freight Train Boogie". It was originally released on the Don Reno album "Family and Friends" on Kaleidescope Records. It was recorded in 1983 and Reno and Rice take exstensive solo breaks on the tune. Tony even lets loose with one of his famous (but not often displayed) ultra fast scalar runs like the one he did on "You Don't Know My Mind" from "California Autumn". He also pays chord comps and lots of other really interesting Tony Rice'isms that are the reason he is truley one of the greatest that ever wielded a flatpick. I had never heard this song before and it's great to hear Tony and Don Reno trading leads and having fun. Let's hope Rounder will release the entire album in the near future.. Walter J. Flint Yosemite National Park, CA - Thursday, May 27, 2004 at 13:30:54 (EDT) Try this: E A D G B E 0 7 4 0 0 0 A little variation of an Em chord, but I am pretty sure it's the one you're looking for. Anonymous - Monday, May 24, 2004 at 18:26:32 (EDT) Got a question for some of you out there. On the "Crossings" recording by Tony, David Johnson, et. al.,,,I believe the tune is "Victory In Jesus." What the heck chord is Tony making at approx. 4:07? Just to make for sure, it is the tune that starts and ends in Em,,,and the main tune is played in G. It is the most awesome sounding variation of Em I've ever heard. Sounds like he slides into it. Anyone know how it's made and could tell me the finger positions? Thanks. Acoustix - Monday, May 24, 2004 at 14:41:12 (EDT) Steve I can definately hear Tony's influence in your pickin! I'd have to listen more than once to be sure Tony wasn't playing that telecaster! wes - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 11:12:13 (EDT) Justin, I think Tabledit has a demo, it's easy to use, just open file and select the song you want to load then hit the play button. wes - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 11:04:51 (EDT) I would like to thank Tony Rice for his great influence in my Accoustic & Tele pickin' through out my life. [|:-o}-<, God Bless You, Tony! Steve Piticco. http://www3.sympatico.ca/spiticco/ Steve Piticco Belleville, ON - Saturday, May 22, 2004 at 00:30:12 (EDT) Wes, if I give you my e-mail will you send me Tipper and tell me how to use tab-edit? I really want to know how to play that tune.I have now for 2 years. Justin Nauss Upper Northfield, Nova Scotia - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 21:32:05 (EDT) wes its cjcain2004@msn.com... another thing, when is the biography coming out? cj lex, ky - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 18:34:40 (EDT) Hey that is a nice picture of a guitar on you website wes. Did you take that and is that your guitar? Tony Rules - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 15:31:55 (EDT) I've got a transcription of Tipper but haven't posted it on my site. It is his entire solo from Me and My Guitar. I normally don't like to put previously transcribed material on my web site so if you'll gimme your email I'll send it to you. It is in Tabledit form. wes - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 15:28:37 (EDT) What a Labor Day Lineup ! Sam Bush on Friday, Chris Hillman and Herb Pedersen on Saturday, and Tony Rice on Sunday. Can it get any better...... http://www.wildwoodspringslodge.com/concert/index.html Bill Chicago land, - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 10:15:41 (EDT) Tony's solo from "Tipper" was transcribed by John Carlini and appeared in an issue of Acoustic Guitar Magazine in about 1995. It was just the solo though and not the head to the tune (which is probably harder to play than the solo)I believe it is the issue with Richard Thompson on the cover. The article on Tony was called "Picking Power".. Walter J. Flint Yosemite National Park, CA - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 00:14:55 (EDT) Ya thats a question I have been wanting an answer to.I would like to know also were to find a tab to Tipper.Post it on the board if know anything. Justin Nauss Upper Northfield, Nova Scotia - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 21:44:05 (EDT) DOES ANYONE KNOW WHERE A MAN MIGHT FIND THE TAB FOR TIPPER, THOUGHT IT MIGHT BE IN A MAGAZINE OR BOOK I DIDNT KNOW ABOUT cj lex, KY - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 18:47:55 (EDT) Tony, I came so close to getting to pick with you. Next time I'll try to hitch a ride with Elmer Birchett. I'll try to make it down to pick some five with you. When will you be in or around the London area again? I know where a 46 D-18 is and nearly all original. I used to own it. Wish you all the best. Jason Jason Johnson London, Ky - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 04:37:27 (EDT) Hi Tony, Sorry about my english, I am from czech republic in Europe but you will be understand me ( may be ) I am listening your music long time it is very nice, now I have your Tony Rice Teaches Bluegrass Guitar and little learn your solos, 15 years ago I am was playing bluegrass too in Europe but end . If I am listen your music I want play again o)))) Good luck Zdenek@ameritech.net Zdena Chicago, IL - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 03:22:34 (EDT) I love you Tony! Alice Greensboro, NC - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 21:59:43 (EDT) I dont see anything snubbish about You or Jeff, Doc. Mrs, Rice, when is Tony going to do some more TV work? I wish Alison would do something on MTV, a show like MTV Unplugged. That would be great. Except these guys WOULD be unplugged. Steve - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 20:01:19 (EDT) To Jeff Dodson: Hey, just when I was getting over the snub from that website, you bring it up. Now I've got to go back to therapy... Doc Round Rock, TX - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 19:15:45 (EDT) For those pickers in the area, there will be a Martin clinic/workshop at Perfect Sound in Reidsville, NC on Monday, May 17 @ 7:00 with Martin rep, Richard Starkey. Taylor Rorrer Eden, NC - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 21:25:14 (EDT) Hey bluegrass buddies. Please help us get the word out this week about a great upcoming show in Asheville, NC on Wednesday, 5/19. The documentary, "A Beautiful Thing" will open the night's festivities. The documentary follows the Larry Keel Experience around during various tours throughout 2002, including clips with Tony Rice & Vassar Clements. The buzz is certainly out about this documentary after it's premiere at Merlefest this year. This is the second and possibly only other screening of this movie and Asheville is lucky enough to have it. The movie will start about 9pm or so and will last about an hour and a half. Following the movie will be a jam session led by Larry Keel and featuring various Asheville artists that lend their talents to the "experience". This will be a night Asheville won't forget and we'd love to see all of you come out. Please spread the word to your friends about this great evening of music. Tickets for this event are only 10 bucks in advance and 12 at the door. Dirt cheap for the amount of entertainment you get. The Pizza Company has a website with basic venue information, pictures and directions at www.ashevillepizza.com. Check it out. There's also info available at www.larrykeel.com. THE SKINNY: "A Beautiful Thing", the Larry Keel Experience documentary at approx. 9pm "Larry Keel & Friends", picking right after the movie @ the Asheville Pizza Company on 675 Merrimon Ave in Asheville, NC you can contact the venue at 828-254-5339 tickets are $10 in advance & $12 at the door questions -> email me at thejamgrasspimp@yahoo.com thejamgrasspimp Asheville, NC - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 12:48:59 (EDT) Well it was a hot set with TRU at the ohio state fairgrounds. W/ special guests vassar, pete rowans and J.D Crow. It was only 60 mins but there was no messin around, serious music, a very hot performance. Dennis Hamm Columbus, oh` - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 22:18:11 (EDT) Just wanted to comment on your show in Blacksburg Va. It was completely breathtaking. I had always wanted to see you in concert. My boyfriend is a huge fan and plays guitar also, he was of course with me and he definately enjoyed the show. I just wanted to let you know that you are an awesome performer and musician. BluegrassSinginChick Richlands, Va - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 17:53:35 (EDT) We recently saw your show in Blacksburg. AWESOME! You did a duet with fiddle named Shenandoah. I could not believe it. Made me cry. Is it recorded? Galaspa Christ, va - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 23:07:17 (EDT) Just viewed "Bluegrass Journey" for the first time. It has some great upclose shots of Tony playing Shenandoah, Danny Boy, Hobo Song, and Cattle in the Cain. It is a quality production. Scott Sullivan Pascagoula, MS - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 14:29:43 (EDT) I didnt take the wrong way Jeff. We cool. Steve - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 12:33:45 (EDT) Anxiously waiting to see what new changes may be coming about. Steve, my last post reads a little more mean spirited than I intended it to be. Thanks for not "banning" me. (haha) I've already been banned from one related board.....right Derek and Doc !! Jeff Dodson Pensacola, FL - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 09:50:05 (EDT) Hey Jeff, if I became the moderator I would have to kick You off first thing. Just kidding there little buddy. I would not want that job for a million bucks. HA! I am looking forward to all the new stuff also. Steve Whine City, SD - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 04:07:46 (EDT) Hey Folks!! If any of you Tony fans are around southern Ohio, you have to come out and see him at the Appalachian Uprising on June 4th in Scottown Ohio.. Tony headlines that night of the festival.. and tickets are only $35 for all three days if you buy them before May 28th.. they go up to $45 at the gate.. This venue is beautiful!! some of the other artists include: Sam Bush, Darrell Scott, Larry Keel, The Lonesome River Band, Melvin Goins, and many more!! Check it out. www.earthproductions.net Thanks, Bob Delong Bob Delong Scottown, OH - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 01:51:00 (EDT) For the love of all things holy, get your butt out to Colorado for some shows! Robert Margesson Denver, CO - Thursday, May 13, 2004 at 14:38:19 (EDT) There is also a link to the tabs page (great job Wes) from the Links section of this website. http://www.tonyrice.com/links.html Webmaster - Thursday, May 13, 2004 at 09:45:14 (EDT) cj, I think this is the site You are talking about..... http://www.flatpick-l.org/tonytab and it is run by Wes, who does a great job. Steve - Thursday, May 13, 2004 at 02:20:34 (EDT) whats that tony tab site thats on here somethimes, cause i need to find that stuff for night flyer, i only have like a day to learn it! cj lex, ky - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 at 18:06:14 (EDT) I watch portions of the Tony Rice video collection or portions of the Legends of Flatpicking videos (Tony's segments) every day. His playing is amazing on those 2 videos, especially Freeborn Man. I was wondering what any of you other Tony fans think of Tony's playing on those 2 videos.? Has anyone ever heard what Tony thought of his performances on those videos? David - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 at 17:03:21 (EDT) You know, Steve as much time as you've spent on here whining about content over the last week or two, you should check and see if "Magic Bus" will let you be a Moderator for the "new board" coming soon. You sure are acting like a moderator. Hope the new TR board is all we hope it will be. Keep up the great work Tony, all best to you, Pam and Family. Jeff Dodson Pensacola, FL - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 at 09:21:02 (EDT) I dont see as to where that would be out of line as long as it is about Tony or his music. Steve - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 at 05:51:01 (EDT) a question for you all about what is okay for this board.. is questions regaurding tony and his music okay or is it just comments for tony to read or statements to him? anyway i was wondering if anyone new the chords night flyer? hope thats okay to post if not ill reframe of such questions in the future. c.j. lex, ky - Tuesday, May 11, 2004 at 22:53:54 (EDT) I heard from someone that the 50's D-28 belonged to Hylo Brown.It had a pickup in it one time.A couple of years ago it was on Vintage Guitar classifieds for $13000 USD. Justin Nauss Upper Northfield, Nova Scotia - Tuesday, May 11, 2004 at 17:04:27 (EDT) I think Tony played a 50's D-28. I know that the picture on the "guitar" album where he looks real young and plays faded love, has a photo that shows the top side with a "CF Martin 1833" sticker on it. Steve - Tuesday, May 11, 2004 at 14:01:33 (EDT) hey does anyone know what guitar tony played before getting clarences? C.J. lex, ky - Tuesday, May 11, 2004 at 08:50:06 (EDT) Thanks Magicbus.com for looking out for this great board. I am looking forward to the new things You all have mentioned. Steve - Tuesday, May 11, 2004 at 06:35:37 (EDT) I WANT CANDY DONT DONT D)NT DONT DNY LOL HEHEHEHEHEHEHEEH booklie cairnsis, - Monday, May 10, 2004 at 22:29:41 (EDT) Whew, this guestbook sure can get heated and has been censured once more due to a few people insisting on using it as their own personal email system. PLEASE, do NOT respond to inflamatory remarks or inappropriate subjects on the guestbook. Just send me your complaint and I'll remove the offending comment. If it comes down to it, I will be forced to turn the guestbook off again until it calms down. Again, there IS a fan discussion list available for all the banter that has been going on. For those who wonder, banning an IP no longer works because of dynamic IP creation at the ISP level. Just so everyone knows we are working towards another discussion board. Most likely it will be located in a fan club type of environment, and this board will become a moderated list and will bounce all messages that are off topic to the mission of this guestbook. Lot of changes coming down the pike for Tony and this website so stay tuned! MagicBus.com - Monday, May 10, 2004 at 11:56:24 (EDT) I'd like to extend a happy mother's day to Pam, and a big hello to the Rice family. Looking forward to the Bluegrass Journey DVD coming in the mail. Pick on. Scott Havlick Two Harbors, MN - Sunday, May 09, 2004 at 09:42:48 (EDT) Hey Guys Great to see you all at Merlefest and had a nice chat with Tony backstage at the Midnight Jam. Every set was a joy as always. I have added some pics to my site which includes Tony. Enjoy Slainte All John Cutliffe http://www.jigtime.com John Cutliffe Atlanta, GA - Saturday, May 08, 2004 at 23:38:28 (EDT) The Frets issue I was referring to was september 1987. Tonyfan - Saturday, May 08, 2004 at 03:56:09 (EDT) Like the webmaster has stated, there is a place we can go too,to talk about guitars and such. Steve - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 21:08:18 (EDT) In Frets magazine (from some time around 1983, i think) TR explains that he has "counter sunk" the brigde pins, and there is also a close up picture of the bridge. Why he did it? Because he didn't like to feel the pins while playing. Also, he has/had glued a piece of ebony onto the lower side (inside the guitar, that is) of the bridge, to prevent the sharp ends of the strings to cut into, and eventually through, the bridge. I sure miss Frets Magazine, by the way..... Tonyfan - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 05:33:05 (EDT) Love Your picking Tony. My guitar of choice is a Collings it will blow any over hyped golden era away. boo hoo hoo. Keep up the great work Tony Steve - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 03:30:43 (EDT) I guess everyone just has their own favorite guitars, as well as their own choice of sound that they like.......That is why all of us Don't like the same kinds of music. Tony, love your picking. Hope your Guestbook can be a place for info and posting good things instead of a bunch of childish matter. Greg Mi - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 23:40:39 (EDT) Is Martin a new line of guitars? Has anyone played one? wes - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 22:06:00 (EDT) Gimme an ebony, unslotted pin any day of the week! By the way, anyone who's thinking about having pin holes routed out should get someone to do it who has one of those little tools from Stewart-MacDonald that makes the hole conical in the same shape as the pin you will use in it--and, yes, the skill to know exactly when to quit. Alan Kaye Cairo, GA - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 17:01:32 (EDT) Wow, thanks for the response. I've only been thinking about it and there really aren't any local luthiers that I'd trust with my TR anyway. Doc Round Rock, TX - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 10:22:56 (EDT) Please take personal communications offline or to the Tony Rice discussion list which can be found at http://www.tonyrice.com/mailinglist.html This is for ongoing discussions. Stay tuned for new stuff being added to TonyRice.com . Thank you. Webmaster - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 09:17:48 (EDT) Counter Sunk means that the top of the pins are flush with the bridge, they dont stick up and they blend in with the bridge. Z . F. - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 03:55:11 (EDT) WHAT DOES COUNTER SUNK MEAN, AS FAR AS END PENS GO cj LEX, - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 01:33:51 (EDT) Hey TR fan. I think for the price, the blueridge guitars are hard to beat. They really have a great tone to them. Z . F. - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 23:23:14 (EDT) I WAS JUST WONDERING HOW MANY PEOPLE THAT ARE READING THIS HAVE PLAYED THE BLUERIDGE 100 OR 200 SERIES GUITARS? IM TALKING BR-160,180, AND THE BR-260,280. ID LIKE TO KNOW WHAT YOU THINK OF THEM. BECAUSE I KNOW I PERSONALLY HAVE A 160, AND NOT TO OFFEND YOU DIE HARD MARTIN LOVERS OUT THERE, BUT THAT BLUERIDGE ABSOLUTELY BLEW EVERY MARTIN I PLAYED OUTOF THE WATER. BUT ID LIKE TO KNOW WHAT EVERYONE ELSE THINKS. AND TONY, WHAT MORE CAN I SAY THAN YOU ARE THE MAN DUDE! NO MARE CAN BE SAID THAT HASNT ALREADY BEEN SAID. HUGR TR FAN lexington, KY - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 23:19:03 (EDT) The deal with bridge pins. A perpetual controversy, for certain. Shortly after about 1985, Martin stopped notching their string slots. In theory, the slot in the pin should allow enough clearance. In practice, this may be flawed due to a couple of circumstances-- 1) the diameter of the string exceeding the clearance provided by the slot in the pin or 2) the warping or cracking of bridge pins over time due to the pressure placed on them from direct contact with the ball of the string. Either situation can provide a displeasing result. That being said, it is NOT absolutely necessary to notch/ramp your bridge pin holes. In my opinion, however, I think notching the holes transfers the stress of a stretched string to a sturdier part of the guitar-- the bridge plate versus the bridge pin. As for the countersunk pins, I think this is largely a player preference. I have my bridge pins countersunk just because I think they look and feel better. The debate of which type of bridge pins will rage on and on forever-- or as long as people have fossilized ivory to peddly at astronomical prices. Personally, I prefer wooden pins. They appear to be sturdier, at least to me, than regular plastic pins. My belief also happens to be that the more wood is taken out of a guitar, be it for plastic bridge pins or plastic binding or any inlays, I think that same amount is detracted from the tone. Yes, there are pre-war D-45's that will discredit my belief... however, that's my story and I'm sticking to it! Dang it! :) An aspiring luthier confusion - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 20:57:13 (EDT) Hey Tony My name is Daniel Langley i am 16 i have been playing the guitar for about 9 months now my brother is 12 he has been playing the dobro for about the same time any how back during christmas my mother ordered a jerry douglass t-shirt for him and it was kind of close to christmas and jill douglass spent 13$ to send a 20$ t-shirt over night so my brother e-mailed her a thank you note so she called to talk to the dobro player and find out his name in the mean time my dad ordered a AKUS DVD and when it came there was an autographed JD picture anyway let me get to the point of my post he has been aggrevating the tar out of me because he god a autograph from the dobro guru and tony rice didn't give me an autograph Now i don't want to sound like i am just a star struck guitar picker like alot of other folks but if you could find time it would bevery much appreciated Daniel O. Langley Dan langley Indianapolis, In - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 19:08:39 (EDT) My Dad bought a GE before me and he slotted and ramped his own bridge he said it was easy but i ain't cuttin on a 3,000$ Guitar unless i am sure it will help That is why i asked the Lord of the Guitar Pickers :') Dan Langley Indianapolis, In - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 18:51:25 (EDT) correction (Jeff Pinkham)lol M R - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 17:39:24 (EDT) For those that did not attend Merlefest, check out this news; Sunday; This is a trip. Sunday is a mellow day, as most people come on the day before. The Nashville Bluegrass band jam with Doc Watson in the morning and it is wonderful. Then I run into a friend of mine who works for Sugar Hill Records and he is staying at a cabin about 20 minutes away from the festival grounds. He tells me that none other than John Paul Jones of Led Zeppelin fame, came by a jam session and sat just outside the jam circle and worked on his bluegrass mandolin chops. I said, "Are you damn sure it was him?" He says, "Yes." The on the main stage the John Cowan Band comes out to play. Half way through his set Cowan brings out Sam Bush, which makes sense because they both played in the New Grass Revival Band back in the 1970's and 80's, (Bela Fleck came out of that band, and they recorded a great live album with Leon Russell years ago). Then, out comes John Paul Jones of f*cking Led Zeppelin. He grabs up a bass and they go into a medly of three songs, two bluegrass songs, and in the middle of those they go into "Dazed And Confused." Obviously the crowd went nuts. After that cook I finally run into Jones backstage and we meet and watch the incredible David Grisman and his wonderful band. At the end of Grisman's jam he brings out every mandolin player on the grounds, Sam Bush, 14 year old Josh Pinkham, Tony Williamson, Mike Marshall, etc. It is obvious that these guys have been working with Jones on his bluegrass chops, as when this awesome jam ends and Sam Bush comes off the stage he tells Jones that "There is all the mando leads you need." I talk to Jones and tell him I heard he was playing some mandolin last night. He smiles and says that "I was trying. These players are fantastic. This whole thing has inspired me." He has got the bug. Bill Monroe said that if you can master bluegrass you can play anything, with its improvisation and structure. It was very cool to see someone like John Paul Jones see it first hand, which makes a difference and always turns heads around, and in the mountains of North Carolina he got to meet up with the best who were glad to play with him. Derek H Derek Halsey Gritz Magazine, OH - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 16:38:19 (EDT) Back from Merlefest, and what a treat it was. Tony, good to see and talk with you again. I stood next to Tim O'Brien and took in the set, which was perfect for a spring afternoon. I thought Wyatt played real nice, as did Ricky. Tony always blows my mind and that goes without saying. Any resemblance of me lucking into hitting a note on my axe pales in comparison, truly inspiring. And Rob Ickes sounded real good as well. I like the combo. It was good to talk with Ricky as well. I tell him every time that the song "Old Tree" has become a kind of anthem with folks out in my part of the country. It is a wonderful song, with Tony and Randy Kohrs on it, from the Don't Fret It CD> Good time. Derek H Derek Halsey Cincinnati, Ohio - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 16:35:34 (EDT) im just changing out the fretboard for a bound ebony, with no inlays, enlarging the soundhole, and am probably going to put a vintage long saddle bridge on there as well. sounds cool huh? HUGE TR FAN lexington, KY - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 11:38:19 (EDT) Frets.com has alot of useful information. Also www.bryankimsey.com (in the lutherie section) There's alot to be said about solid pins and "slotted bridges", but I haven't taken the plunge as of yet. Countersinking bridge pins may help marginally in the "string break angle" department, but for the most part countersinking is done to keep the pins out of the way of your wrist/palm during rhythmic passages. I've heard the countersunk pins can be a little troublesome when it comes to string changes, especially those in live situations. But if guys like Tony, Tim Stafford, Kenny Smith etc, give it a thumbs up, it certainly can't hurt. I would certainly leave a job like this to a time tested, proven and recommended setup professional. Jeff Dodson Pensacola, FL - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 10:52:16 (EDT) Well you know the bridge and the saddle are like a hammer that "strikes" the sound board when you play strings. Every little bit that you take away affects the knocking ability of that hammer, so I think it's a little bit of a trade-off. In Tony's case I've always thought he really wanted those pins out of his way in moving about over the saddle. On an old guitar, you might be getting wallowed out already, so it would not be much of an adjustment. If you've ever seen or had a new Martin with those plastic pins sticking halfway out of the bridge, you would want something done to them too, but I think they do that so that when they settle and waller out the holes, they will still be tight. Getting unslotted pins puts material back into the hole, but you need a super professional job making notches in the actual bridge for the strings. There is a web site somewhere about modifying Martins that explains all of it pretty well. I've had unslotted pins put in an LSV, and I was a lot happier in the belief that I was going to save my bridge plate and could use more different kinds of fancy pins. Later on I bought a different guitar that started out with unslotted pins. They are not countersunk, but they are right down there and seem like they will last that way--hope so. Certainly the bridge plate will, and I've seen where Tony agrees that it's important not to have a sloppy bridge plate, and I've got an old J-45 that is really missing some bridge plate wood around the holes, probably the absolute classic case of what he's talking about. Alan Kaye Cairo, GA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 10:11:53 (EDT) Make that "I read somewhere that Tony's bridge pins are counter-sunk into the bridge. I'd be interested in the same thing if I knew it wouldn't damage the instrument. Comments?" Too much coffee... Doc Round Rock, TX - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 09:38:00 (EDT) I read somewhere that Tony's bridge pins are counter-sunk into the bridge. I'd be interested in the same thing if I knew it wouldn't manage the instrument. Comments? Doc Round Rock, TX - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 09:36:14 (EDT) I have a 1939 D28 and it has the original non slotted bridge pins. I think the solid pins do help with the sustain and maybe with the crispness off the tone, although the ones in the old bone are plastic, I favor bone or ivory. I hope this helps You. Z . F. Asheville , NC - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 02:33:50 (EDT) huge tr fan what all are u doing to that blueridge ive been wanting to do the same thing to the mahogany model? like change the neck out and do the sound hole stuff cj lex, ky - Tuesday, May 04, 2004 at 23:21:27 (EDT) Tony I have listened to bluegrass music all my life and I have always known you were Good but I didn't realise how good untill I started to play. now I figured if anybody knows about guitars its you. I just recently Bought a Martin D-18GE very nice guitar to begin with but i have heard alot of talk about Solid bridge pins and Whatnot Giving more volume sustain and being less harsh on the bridge plate want to know what you think is best. P.S. I am having trouble working out the kinks in the break for red haired boy do you have any suggestions or any of your signature g runs to throw in there. Dan Langley indanapolis, IN - Tuesday, May 04, 2004 at 20:50:41 (EDT) MISSY AND I HOPE TO CATCH YOUR SHOW AT THE LYRIC THEATRE BLACKSBURG VA CANT WAIT!!!!! NHT 1 TR FAN DANVILLE, VA - Tuesday, May 04, 2004 at 19:22:26 (EDT) the guitar that im modifying is a Bluerdge BR-160. If you havent ever played a blueridge before you ought to go out and play one, they are amazing!!! HUGE TR FAN lexington, KY - Tuesday, May 04, 2004 at 13:13:53 (EDT) I am happy you were able to attend the show cj. I stayed home to watch all the little wild Rices. Maybe next year I will find a brave baby sitter to watch this crew...P Pam - Tuesday, May 04, 2004 at 04:09:30 (EDT) You were so great at MerleFest this year! It was really a treat to hear you--plus I just got the "Pizza Tapes" while I was there, which I totally love. I'm totally humbled and inspired--I'm learning how to play guitar and listening to you and some of the other musicians like Jorma Kaukonen was a real boost. I hope I'll get to hear you live again soon. Best wishes! penne sandbeck louisburg, nc - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 22:14:20 (EDT) Your shows are just like The World's Fair...they get bigger and better every year! Keep the tunes coming Tony!! Mike Olinger Georgetown, TN - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 20:42:43 (EDT) also to add on merle fest to see tony, bryan, richard bennett(which i had no idea would be with pine mt.), russ, and many other great pickers was a real treat hope you others who were there enjoyed it. let me know what you thought! cj lex, ky - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 20:35:29 (EDT) to the guy from lexington (Huge tr fan) what type of guitar are you modifying to look like tonys? just wondering if you work on guitars or what? maybe we can pick some time? cj lex, ky - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 20:17:50 (EDT) tony had a awsome show with the unit at merlefest, im only 18 and have been following tony for about 4 years and he to me in the last year has been playing better than ive ever seen i am so thrilled to see him happy and picking so good! Pam did you make it out wondering what you thought? cj lex, ky - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 20:10:01 (EDT) (((((((TONY)))))))) hey! its me ya cousin Dianne! i love ya website! see ya soon! me;) Dianne Reidsville, N.C. - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 19:03:17 (EDT) Finally got to see the CMT performance. Did my heart good to see Allison honor Tony as her greatest musical influence. Allison Krauss is one classy lady and great musician, and she was better than ever too. I hope to see Tony do more guest appearances with AKUS! I had someone ask me if I was posting here using just the name "Steve" - that's not me. Stephen P. Johnson Herndon, VA - Sunday, May 02, 2004 at 22:17:35 (EDT) I often wondered why Tony never recorded Lightfoots tune "Ribbon of Darkness," I think Tony could have really did a great job on this tune. Marty Robbins also did a great rendition of this tune. Lightfoot Fan - Sunday, May 02, 2004 at 16:48:21 (EDT) Rob Ickes was with the TRU at Oakboro, NC last Nov.; Rice, Rice, Simpkins, Simpkins. I don't think it gets any better than that! And if there is a better fiddle/mandolin player in the bluegrass universe than Rickie Simpkins I've yet to hear him/her. DP Bristol, TN - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 23:54:30 (EDT) AS I SAID I AM GOING TO SEE THE TONY RICE UNIT ON MAY 15TH ON COLUMBUS, AND I WAS WONDERING ABOUT SOMETHING. LIKE I SAID I HAVE NEVER BEEN TO SEE TONY LIVE BEFORE SO IM NOT UP ON THE TONY INFO. WHO SINGS FOR THEM NOW? DO THEY DO ALL INSTRUMENTALS, OR DO THEY HAVE VOCALS? AND I JUST WANTED TO SAY ALSO, TONY YOU ARE THE MAN!!! AND EVEN THOUGH U R KNOWN WORLDWIDE AS A BLUEGRASS MUSICIAN. I STILL THINK WHO YOU ARE WHAT YOU DO, I SPURE ROCK AND ROLL. NOT ROCK AND ROLL IN THE LITERAL SENSE, BUT JUST ROCK AND ROLL IN THE SENSE THAT YOU DO WHAT YOU DO THE WAY YOU WANT TO DO IT, AND IF PEOPLE LIKE IT, THATS COOL, AND IF THEY DONT, THATS COOL TOO. AND U R THE MASTER OF YOUR INSTRUMENT TO BOOT!! TO ME THAT IS ROCK AND ROLL MAN. KEEP PICKIN, UR THE BEST!! HUGE TR FAN Morehead, Ky - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 22:27:47 (EDT) Andy, you mentioned Merlefest...XM Radio has been broadcasting live all weekend. I caught (and recorded) Tony's set Friday afternoon. They played great as always. First time I have heard the Unit with Rob Ickes on dobro who fit in very well. Terry OH - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 21:24:07 (EDT) Kathi, I got the DVD and strings today. Thank you so much. That was very cool of you and it was well worth the wait. Mark Chicago, IL - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 19:35:47 (EDT) I got the Mar West album a long time ago. And it along with Backwaters are two of my favorite albums period. The picking on Mar West is unreal, if You want to hear some great jazz guitar, get this album and pay close attention to the first cut. Amazing! Z . F. Asheville, NC - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 18:57:04 (EDT) I'd be willing to bet that a lot of Tony's newer fans have never heard the song "Mar East" It's a snappy and sinewy little number with Tony dancin all over the fingerboard especially on the head, and pretty much unavailable unless you want to buy a casstte of the The Tony Rice Unit: "Mar West" (does anyone listen to cassettes much these days?) Anyway, if you want to hear the entire "Mar West" on cd you can buy the recording on a japanese import manufactured by Tokuma Japan Communications and distributed by Vivid Corporation from Japan. It is the entire "Mar West" recording on cd and it sounds great. The bass of Todd Phillips especially sounds good. "Mar East" is the only song from the original album that Tony did not select to be on his compilation called "Devlin" released on Rounder Records. So if you want "Mar West" on cd you can get it from Amazon.com for $35.00. I know that's alot of money but it was worth it for me just to have the song "Mar East" in digital. The sound is noticeably more spacious and clear than Rounders "Devlin" collection and it comes in a mini gatefold cardboard LP replica. "Mar West" is one of Tony's Quartet of Jazz albums he made in the late 70's and early 80's from one the best and most overlooked periods of his illustrious career both as a guitar player and composer. This album is so good that Rolling Stone (that pantheon of great music taste wink wink) gave it 5 stars in the "New Rolling Stone Record Guide". Great music is hard to ignore. Let's hope that "Still Inside" gets the digital treatment next and we can basically have all of Tony's great work in the digital format. Walter J. Flint Yosemite National Park, CA - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 17:51:05 (EDT) Dont forget to add Kenny Smith to the dream guitar cd/video list. Daniel Haynesville, VA - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 09:49:48 (EDT) Andy,you're right both guitars were ran over. The D-18 was hurt much more. I read this in Flatpicking Guitar Magazine. Vol. 3 # 1 Nov/Dec. 1998, there's a big section on Tony's guitar on page 10. Rob N.C. - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 20:55:20 (EDT) Rob, I never knew that. I have a recording of Tony and the unit from 1991, where he mentions that the guitar he was playing Clarence's and that it had been run over by a car. Was the the D-18 he was talking about? On a whole other note...how does one tap into the Merlefest webcast? I can't find a link that points me in the right direction....Keep pickin' Andy Arlington, VA - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 20:27:16 (EDT) Andy, It was Clarence White's 1957 D-18 that got ran over by a car, the 1935 D-28 was shot with a BB gun, allegedly by Clarence. Rob N.C. - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 20:04:11 (EDT) Kathi Fox you will be greatly missed ... thanks ever so much for the tremendous job and putting up with all of us fans ... we'll miss seeing you at the shows ... may you be blessed in all you do ... please keep in touch ... thebluegrassbug - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 10:47:22 (EDT) Do you mean shooting it with a pellet gun or running it over with a car? Both have happend to the '35. Enjoy Merlefest, you lucky people. Keep pickin' Andy Arlington, VA - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 10:34:06 (EDT) AND WHEN I SAY THAT, I MEAN OF COURSE A NON MARTIN, CAUSE I KNOW YOU CAN JUST BUY A HD-28LSV. IM TALKING ABOUT MODIFYING A NON MARTIN. SEE TONY, EVERYBODY WANTS YOUR GUITAR, MAYBE ITS CAUSE WE HOPE IF WE HAVE A GUITAR LIKE YOURS WE CAN SOMEDAY PLAY LIKE YOU. NOT A CHANCE HUH?? HUGE TR FAN Lexington, KY - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 09:03:51 (EDT) HERES A QUESTION I HAVE FOR EVERYONE. HAS ANYBODY WHO READS THIS, EVER MODIFIED THEIR GUITAR TO RESEMBLE TONY'S. ITS SOMETHING THAT IM THINKING ABOUT DOING, AND WHEN I GET DONE WITH IT, ITS GOING TO SWEET. HUGE TR FAN Lexington, Ky - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 09:01:14 (EDT) I have been a fan of Tony's since I first heard him play with Bluegrass Alliance at the Tam O'Shanter Lounge in Louisville, Ky. I have followed him through his evolution and growth into the true maestro and virtuoso he is today. I wish him well and continued success. Mark Zigoris Cincinnati, OH - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 21:25:14 (EDT) I think the CD/Video should be Tony Rice,Doc Watson,Tim Stafford, and Bryan Sutton, and finally Richard Bennett.Richard sounds so much like (not exactly, there is one Tony Rice and only ever going to be Tony Rice) Tony, that it is not funny.I think your video suggestion is great, Norman Blake is a great guitar player, but I not really a big fan of his lead picking.Dont get me wrong, if I could pick like him, I would be in good shoes but he is nothing like TR.Norman is an awesome rhythm guitar player though.It would be an awesome combination though. Justin Nauss Justin Nauss Upper Northfield, Nova Scotia - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 15:09:16 (EDT) Kathi- Sorry to hear you will be leaving. I would just like to thank you for all of your time that you gave in order to answer my many questions concerning Tony's guitar playing and music. Also for the help in choosing my many CD's and videos that I have purchased from you. I hope you have a blessed life ahead of you. Take Care Gregory Wy - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 13:34:39 (EDT) I think you are the worlds greatest guitar picker. Keep on pickin and please come close to Murfreesboro Arkansas so I may come to see you play. Your biggest fan. Bill D. Cooper Bill D. Cooper Murfreesboro, Ark - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 12:06:46 (EDT) Of course that should read "Tony Rice/Norman Blake/Richard Bennet Video. Jeff Pensacola, FL - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 10:13:09 (EDT) Besides his Instructional video material, there are a few performance videos out there from Vestapool Video that have Tony playing in live festival settings in all-star lineups as well as the the TR Unit. ("Tony Rice: The Video Collection" and "Legends of Flatpicking Guitar") For a real treat, dig up the old JD Crowe and the New South video from 1975. That is truly great to see. Wyatt Rice's Advanced Bluegrass Rhythm video has a couple of tunes where Tony comes in and plays while Wyatt does backup. FGM has put out two great picking videos (Kenny Smith/David Grier/Wyatt Rice & Jim Hurst/Tim Stafford/Bryan Sutton) I too would love to see Tony in one of these settings..... Perhaps a Tony Rice/Norman Blake/Richard Bennet CD?? I think it's high time some of these superpickers got together and made an all-star live concert (then they could market and sell the videos) Jeff Pensacola, FL - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 10:11:25 (EDT) Huge TR Fan, you have every reason to be stoked about seeing Tony live in person. I've seen him 4 times and I can tell you that you won't ever experience anything quite like it. In a recent article in Bluegrass Now magazine, Tony was commenting on Vassar Clements and he said he was in awe of him. He said he just liked to watch Vassar when he arrived at a show, how he carried himself, opened his case, etc. I am the same way about seeing Tony. He is the epitome of cool. Just to see him walk in, open his case, talk to folks, etc. I am always in awe of him before he ever even plays. And when he DOES PLAY,,,well, that's a whole other paragraph on how awesome and incredible that is..Literally beyond words. So, go and enjoy yourself, Huge TR Fan. Soak it all up..And THANK YOU, Tony, for being such a huge inspiration and huge part of all of your adoring fans' lives. Brad Batesville, AR - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 09:31:20 (EDT) Does anyone know what day Tony is playing at Merlefest? I bought a Saturday ticket mostly to see him play and now it appears his name was removed from Saturday's lineup. Bummer! rut reidsville, nc - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 08:32:44 (EDT) Rob, easy there tiger. Steve - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 08:16:53 (EDT) Tony - I'm looking forward to see you play at Merlefest. There's nothing like the Merlefest experience, and watching you play on stage is one of the highlights for me. I hope to see Kathi at the Merlefest Mall sometime during the 4 days too. Thanks Tony for playing around the Raleigh area these past 2 years! Gerry Four Oaks, NC - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 07:43:21 (EDT) Eric Clapton?? Why? That's an insult to Tony. Rob N.C. - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 07:21:17 (EDT) I have been a fan for many years, your music has a way of making whoever will listen to it, your friend. And i have made many friends playing your music. Thanks and God Bless. Roger P. Roger Parker Knoxville, TN - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 05:49:32 (EDT) My dream video would be Tony, Bryan Sutton, Eric Clapton, Steve Vai and Yngwie Malmsteen. Of course I am talking acoustic on the numbers they would do together. Steve - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 04:46:44 (EDT) I am second to that. Tony & Bryan are the best in the business. Tony is the best guitar player that ever walked.And always will be!!!!! Bryan Sutton is not far behind. They both can play any genre of music they want to. SUPER FAST and super clean. I think even to "spice" things up a little get Tim Stafford and Doc Watson in on that session. Tim is probably the smoothest guitar player, in my mind (outside of Rice), and Doc is the pioneer of Bluegrass flatpicking (Clarence White also was a big pioneer too,of course).If people agree post replys and maybe this could happen.Maybe someone will see it and get up and get them four together and record or video tape all them together.This would be extremely awesome!!!!! Maybe someone can write to Dan Miller of Flatpicking Guitar Magazine and get a petition started and maybe this can be possible.Well I got to go and just think what this would be like.(Learn some new licks also).Thanks. Justin Nauss Justin Nauss Upper Northfield, Nova Scotia - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 at 18:14:53 (EDT) COOLEST, NOT SOOLEST! HUGE TR FAN - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 at 16:51:57 (EDT) IM SO STOKED ABOUT GOING TO SEE TONY IN COLUMBUS OH, ON MAY 15TH. IVE NEVER ACTUALLY SEEN HIM LIVE, ALTHOUGH IVE WATCHED HIM MANY MANY TIMES ON TAPES AND SHOWS. HES THE MAN!!! NOBODY ELSE EVEN COMPARES!! YOU KNOW WHAT IM STILL WAITING FOR THOUGH, FOR TONY, AND BRYAN SUTTON TO GET TOGETHER SOMETIME. THAT WOULD BE PROBABLY THE SINGLE SOOLEST THING IVE EVER SEEN. BUT ANYWAYS, KEEP ROCKIN OUT TONY, UR TRULY A LEGEND!!! HUGE TR FAN MOREHEAD, KY - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 at 16:51:12 (EDT) You're a standup guy, Jeff. All the best! DP Bristol, TN - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 20:16:06 (EDT) Fair enough Wes and DP. I'll keep it TR oriented from now on or use the mailing list as suggested. I'm far from being a grumpy old f--- as you put it DP. I'm a 35 year old US Navy Submarine Senior Chief Petty Officer. (16 1/2 years US Navy Active Duty Submarine Service and still going). Y'all have a nice day...I think I'll go practice some.) Jeff Dodson Pensacola, FL - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 20:02:49 (EDT) I second wes. (He's probably an old grumpy f--- like I am.) DP Bristol, TN - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 19:19:48 (EDT) Hi Walter, Could you refer us to where you found this quote? Thanks Walter? - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 18:24:37 (EDT) Alison Krauss, on her Flame Worthy highlight: "Definitely sharing the stage with [guitarist] Tony Rice. He's an all-time hero. My favorite records ever made are some of Tony's records. If I don't know where my Tony Rice records are, I buy a new set. If I don't know where they are right now, I go buy a new set". Walter J. Flint Yosemite National Park, CA - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 17:37:59 (EDT) Great new web site. A huge fan and fellow picker who would love to see you here in Scotland before too long. Like a great wine, great pickers get better with age! Alister H Rae Peebles, N/A - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 17:18:37 (EDT) Please use the mailing list for ongoing discussions. MagicBus.com Asheville, NC - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 16:45:18 (EDT) Jeff, sorry that you took my post as not being chileld out enuff. I can't see anywhere that I was being overly unchilled out. All I am asking for is a Tony Rice forum on this website so we can keep certain discussions alive without being lost. I don't see how anyone can argue with this idea. wes - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 15:39:06 (EDT) Kathi, I think you've done a wonderful job and it's always been a pleasure to see your posts here. Take care of yourself and I hope everything works out for the best. WES, Sorry about using Tony's Guestbook in a manner that is slightly outside of the established "express opinions and comments about the professional aspect of Tony Rice and his Music" guidelines. Maybe you could possibly chill out a little. If it weren't for people who had a little side conversation every now and then (like possibly hooking up with each other down the road), there wouldn't be a whole lot on here based on the participation I see. Anyway, have a good one Wes......Oh, I'm sorry, that's not within the guidelines either.....UMMM, UMMMMM, well, hope to see you soon Tony. (There we go) Jeff Dodson Pensacola, FL - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 14:22:03 (EDT) After three years of making an attempt at operating Tony’s merchandise company, SpaceGrass Productions, it is no longer feasible for me to continue. An announcement will be made soon as to how the business for website orders and sales in other arenas will be handled. It has been such a pleasure working with all of Tony’s wonderful fans. I’ve appreciated the kindness and patience when situations have caused delays in orders and for the folks who just call to check on Tony’s welfare. Orders that have already been requested and paid for are in the process of being completed. It may take a while for those of you who recently ordered as I am getting organized for MerleFest which is the last show which I will attend with Tony’s merchandise. Any calls regarding outstanding orders should be directed to Kathi Fox at 336.951.2521. Our address is 2421 Baker Crossroad, Reidsville, NC for those of you who find a need to mail your concerns. God bless all of you and I’m sure I will continue to keep in touch with some of you as I have made many friends through the operating of this business. Kathi Fox Reidsville, NC - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 13:56:44 (EDT) The Flame Worthy performance was great. It was really special to see the respect that Tony, Jerry, Sam, Alison (could she have been more gorgeous?) and the rest were getting from the crowd. At one point, my friend asked "Could they be playing happier music?" No. No they couldn't be. Great work, Tony. Keep pickin', Andy Arlington, VA - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 11:51:00 (EDT) WEBMASTER, could we get a Tony Rice forum started here? People are using this guestbook as more than just dropping in to say hi. And topics of particular attention wouldn't get lost in all the clutter. wes - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 11:39:24 (EDT) Which store CJ? I visit Currier's Music everytime I'm home. Not sure if I can swing Festival of the Bluegrass this year. I've taken one long trip and I have North Georgia Bluegrass Festival on the "radar screen" in July, so it may be out of my reach. Does anyone have the Tut Taylor and Clarence White Flatpicking CD released last December. I just heard of it and definitely plan to get it. It can be found here (http://www.midcontinentmusic.com/detail.cfm?Catalogid=1867) among other places. Jeff Dodson Pensacola, FL - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 09:15:16 (EDT) hey jeff, my mom owns a store in richmond, so maybe we could hook up and pick sometime come to festival of the bluegrass, we camp out all week, that festival is great and jd, and the scene being there every year makes it better wish they could get tony and lrb though later cj lex, ky - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 00:18:42 (EDT) Frank Mullen had taken some great photographs at the CMT Awards (thanks Frank)and they can be viewed by going to href=http://www.wireimage.com and typing Tony's name in the search field. We are currently working on getting a gallery for these photos when Frank gets off the road. Christian Asheville, NC - Monday, April 26, 2004 at 17:35:30 (EDT) To anybody that is going to Big Top Chitaqua in Bayfield, WI or more to anybody not sure if they're going because the long drive, do anything you can to get there. This place is the coolest concert place I've ever been to. We saw The David Grisman Quintet there last year. The sound is amazing. Everybody there is very nice. They even let me bring in my video camera and tape with no hastle what so ever. They have great BBQ food and beer. Also it's fun to hang out in Bayfield and the Apostile Islands, very beautiful area. Better reserve a room now, they go quick. Mark Chicago, IL - Monday, April 26, 2004 at 12:38:04 (EDT) CJ, I believe that is a pick stuck between the nut and the tuning posts...between the D, B, and E string. It's a common practice for guitar picker's on stage in case you ever drop your pick in the middle of a set, song, solo, etc..... Maybe we can get together and pick next time I'm home on Military Leave. I go to Berea a couple of times a year and "grew up" (age 13 - 18) in Richmond. I lived about 3 miles from Fort Boonesborough. I'm sure you could get together a decent little jam circle, huh? Maybe I can make the Festival of the Bluegrass this year? Jeff Dodson Pensacola, FL - Monday, April 26, 2004 at 09:36:24 (EDT) hey guys the link below is a pic from this site of tony and sam, if its blown up to a background on your computer screen it looks like there is a pick or something wedged in the headsctock, just wondering if anyone knew what that was thought maybe it might be clarences or something cool? http://www.tonyrice.com/pics/gallery/g2g.jpg cj lex, ky - Monday, April 26, 2004 at 08:31:46 (EDT) I agree with the previous posts about the CMT Flameworthy Awards show ... Everyone needs to go over to CMT.com and let them know we want to see Tony's performance with Alison Krauss made into a video ... here's the link ... http://www.cmt.com/interact/boards/cmtflameworthyawards.jhtml?c=v&t=360772&m=1967684&o=0&i=0 there's a few posts but we need lots more for THE MAN!!! also go over to Alison's site ... AKUS.com and send her an email ... I'm sure with her influence she'll get it done !!! bluegrassbug - Monday, April 26, 2004 at 08:24:26 (EDT) Great show in Ashvilleat the Orange Peel! Only a handfull of us deserved to be there, the rest were just there to be seen or party. Excited to see you at Blueplum festJC! Please do DownHome again BK. Brian Klepper Jonesborough, Tn - Sunday, April 25, 2004 at 19:50:03 (EDT) Tony, Thanks for the great forum at the Old Town School yesterday. It was great to hear your philosophy on musicianship and musicality. I appreciate and agree with you about each individual working towards his or her own sound and not just trying to copy someone else. Thank you for signing my guitar. I play a lot of shows throughout the year and I get a lot of questions on my musical influences. Now I can just point down at my flat-top and let it speak for itself even further. You really opened up a lot of doors musically in that two hour session. Thank you. Ben Benedict Ben Benedict Chicago, IL - Sunday, April 25, 2004 at 18:07:40 (EDT) Anybody heard how Tony's voice is doing? A couple of years ago he was singing a little bit of harmony with Rowan...any updates? TR Fan - Sunday, April 25, 2004 at 14:36:33 (EDT) My friend had got us tickets for front table seat one...front and center at the Old School, unfortunately we couldn't make it. Can't wait for the Big Top, now. Keep pickin. Scott Havlick Two Harbors, MN - Sunday, April 25, 2004 at 14:08:50 (EDT) Looking forward to Orkney Springs on July 4th Tony. Bring the Bone so that tone can bounce around in the Valley. RL Thorsen Warrenton, VA - Sunday, April 25, 2004 at 13:05:44 (EDT) Caught the show at The Old Town School of Folk Music last night. Excellent acoustics and not a bad seat in the house. First off, King Wilkie was great. They opened the show and were very solid. The kid on banjo rips it up. If you haven't checked them out, you should. Lonesome River Band came on next and did some of their own tunes and then introduced Tony and backed him up. The kid singing for LRB was hilarious, keeping everybody laughing between songs. Tony's playing...I guess I can't say anything that hasn't been said, but you have to see it to believe it. If you're a player, he either makes you want to quit or go play your guitar. Thanks to Tony, all the bands, and everybody there at Old Town. I hope you can come back through Chicago more often. Mark Chicago, IL - Sunday, April 25, 2004 at 12:03:54 (EDT) Tony spent about 2 hours talking about his approach to music yesterday at a workshop at the Old Town School . Told stories , and showed off the Old d-28. The bottom line, he plays it like he feels it, and we are lucky to have the chance to see and hear. A hear felt "Thank You ",and I can't wait for Labor Day. The WildWood may have the best music in the Country this year ! Bill chicagoland, il - Sunday, April 25, 2004 at 11:32:37 (EDT) I have the Hot Dawg album and Tony only plays guitar on it. Stephane Grapelli plays the violin. Tony does some great picking on dawgs bull! Z . F. Asheville, NC - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 22:50:17 (EDT) Does anyone have David Grisman Hot Dawg? If so, could they tell me if Tony played fiddle on it?I was told by someone that he played fiddle on it.What cuts he playe don it would helpful also.Thanks. Justin Nauss Justin Nauss Upper Northfield, Nova Scotia - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 22:21:52 (EDT) is there any links to some pics of the flameworthy proformance cj lex, ky - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 22:09:11 (EDT) I haven't seen but 1 person over on the CMT boards plugging Tony's performance. Copy and paste this link into yer browser to link to the page where you can tell CMT to show more of Tony Rice's talent......please? www.cmt.com/interact/boards/cmtflameworthyawards.jhtml?c=v&t=360772&m=1970149&o=0&i=0 C.L. Garvin Fayetteville, WV - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 16:58:15 (EDT) Tony not only has talent but he also has CHARISMA!!!!! Elizabeth King Johnson City, TN - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 16:56:06 (EDT) Sorry Tony Got derailed by the previous post and I forgot to mention that I really liked your portion on cmt. My video tape is almost wore out from rewinding it so much. I know You must get tired of hearing this but You are the greatest that has ever picked up a guitar! A true fan, Jon Saunders Jon Saunders Charlotte, NC - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 16:54:05 (EDT) Hmm looks like Tony has fans that like more than just his guitar playing. lmao Jon Saunders Charlotte, NC - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 16:42:15 (EDT) i THINK YOU ARE SOOO SEXXY TONY, I WANT YOUR BODY. i WANNA LAY IN BED AFTER WE HAVE SEX AND HAVE YOU PLAY THE FLATTOP FOR ME. GET WELL SOON!! SUZIE FRAMINGHAM , MA - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 15:43:27 (EDT) After watching the Flameworthy show on CMT. one thing is apparent.....THE BOSS IS BACK.... John NC - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 11:37:33 (EDT) hey cj in lexington. email is jcr23ky@yahoo.com. i know 3 chords or so, but enjoy myself. give me a yell. sorry to all for personal stuff. jim rice pikeville, ky - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 10:24:28 (EDT) Attended the show last night at The Ark in Ann Arbor, with Tony and the Lonesome River Band...Awesome performance! My first time seeing any of them live and I was blown away. Tony was absolutely magnificent (how he do dat?). He makes it look so easy and fluid - I may have to just give up trying to flatpick and go back to the piano...NOT! Thanks so much, Tony...it was a joy! Rick Schellhammer Mason, MI - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 09:43:36 (EDT) Hey Tony, I enjoy hearing you each week on Car Talk. Mark Norfolk, - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 08:20:26 (EDT) Tony stole the show ....To bad cmt is more interested in t & a than the finest music made by man....A Tony Rice workshop in Chicago today,, life is good !!!!!!! Bill Chicagoland, - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 07:33:01 (EDT) I cant wait to see Tony at the Appalachian Uprising. Peace Bob Bob Scottown, OH - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 00:09:10 (EDT) Tony... Thank you for the diverse music you provide.. Much Love.. and I can't wait to see you at the Appalachian Uprising on June 4th!! www.earthproductions.net Peace, Bob Bob Raleigh, NC - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 00:05:48 (EDT) I just pulled out some stuff I taped off of the old Nashville Network years ago. A few shows Tony was on called,"Nashville Now" and "New Country" and one called "The American Music Workshop" That stuff is great! It was good to see Tony on TV again. I really love the way you style and profile Tony. My favorite album is "Me and My Guitar" favorite tune is "Port Tobacco". Rob N.C. - Friday, April 23, 2004 at 18:54:25 (EDT) http://www.cmt.com/interact/boards/cmtflameworthyawards.jhtml?c=tl&o=0 Go here and add to the thread I started called "Tony Rice's Guitar Performance" I think he needs his own video. C.L. Garvin Fayetteville, WV - Friday, April 23, 2004 at 15:42:26 (EDT) Mrs. Rice??? is there any way they can get the picks of the flameworth perfomance and the post pictures i saw them taking of tony and allison up on the site , it would be a good adition to the photo gallery cj lex, ky - Friday, April 23, 2004 at 15:05:19 (EDT) wish tony would play some more with akus, it would be a great add to that band, and then dan could do all the mando stuff cj lex, ky - Friday, April 23, 2004 at 14:51:46 (EDT) tony you are the master.my dam hero. rick whitson elizabethton, tn - Friday, April 23, 2004 at 12:34:49 (EDT) Hey Tony, i just wanted to let you know that my name is Tony Rice too. well i havent heard of any of your music b4 maybe one day i'll hear it. i just wanted to say hi and i think that it's kool that i have someone who's Famous that has the same Name as me. well keep up that good work. PEACE OUT! By the way im 17! Tony Rice Tony Rice El dorado, AR - Friday, April 23, 2004 at 09:37:49 (EDT) We would like to invite you to visit our newly launched tribute site to Redd Stewart: www.reddstewart.com, a site launched in memory of Redd (co-writer of Tennessee Waltz, You Belong To Me, Slow Poke, Bonaparte's Retreat, Soldiers Last Letter, and many more!) Please sign our guest book so we know you stopped by! Did you ever record, perform, or meet Redd or Pee Wee King? We'd love to hear about it! Thank you. Billy (Redd's son) & Sharon Billy & Sharon Stewart Norfolk, VA - Friday, April 23, 2004 at 07:57:52 (EDT) GOOD WORK! NICE SITE! www.logos.boo.pl mark - Friday, April 23, 2004 at 02:21:03 (EDT) GOOD WORK! NICE SITE! www.logos.boo.pl MArk - Friday, April 23, 2004 at 02:19:42 (EDT) I wanted to visit your site because my inspiration and music teacher Mr. Glenn Tolbert speaks very highly of you and your music.I am new to bluegrass and lovin' it.Hope to see you in person someday. Lee Lee A Davis Bessemer , Al - Friday, April 23, 2004 at 00:37:21 (EDT) The post my girlfriend made is so true. Tony has Influenced my playing a lot and if someone would start a list of all the other guitar players he has Influenced it would be a mile long. Z . F. Asheville, NC - Friday, April 23, 2004 at 00:15:30 (EDT) It is nice to see true artists get the attention they deserve. Great appearance on CMT. You're truly a hero Tony. Brandon Davis Independence, VA - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 23:38:22 (EDT) Sorry about that, I hit the wrong button and it posted my half message. Anyhow, as I was saying, I was watching You last night with my boyfriend and he was telling me how much You have influenced his playing and I can tell it in his playing. Please do more tv before he goes insane. Marissa D'ambrosia Asheville, NC - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 22:17:05 (EDT) I watched You on tv with my B Marissa D'ambrosia Asheville , NC - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 22:14:13 (EDT) somebody put the link to the cmt message board on here so we can show how much feed tony got for that, they really should get these types of things going more, i would even like to see tony with akus maybe a whole set sometime, it really went together great and id pay out the you know what to see them live for a whole show cj lex, ky - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 22:12:34 (EDT) I saw Tony on the rerun last night and thoroughly enjoyed it. actual musicianship does more for me than cheap visual effects so i only wathced it for tony. i am kind of getting into strings i have played clarinet for five years but strings and the music relating to them are more appealing to me. i have some questions for those of you out there in the know. 1. what does tony do that his guitar is able to cut through the band for solos as i have heard several guitars that can't quite cut the mustard when it comes to solos. 2. i have a japanese made guitar that is close to thirty that was my dad's first guitar that i am learning on. aside from a heavy finish it is a good guitar a D-28 herringbone replica and the brand is Nashville Musical Instrument Company model W 260. does anybody know anything about this brand? Matthew Yeager flintville, tn - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 21:48:59 (EDT) .......I would like to thank all of Tony`s fans for posting such nice comments, about last nights C.M.T FLAME WORTHY performance. I will read all of your comments and names via phone to Tony, who is still on tour. ....Viewer responce is critical input needed by producers to determine which shows and artist have the most impact for programing. Any responce to them not only on Tonys behalf but also on bluegrass in general, will greatly influence producers, and benifit bluegrass artists and bluegrass music..... Thank you all for your thoughtful comments, they are appreciated more than you will ever realize. My Love and Appreciation, Pamela Pamela Rice Turtle Island, - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 21:05:56 (EDT) Tony knocked Nashville on its A!# Tim Bradley Carrolton, GA - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 18:06:54 (EDT) Tony, the whole town is buzzing about You. You absolutely got the attention of a lot of people around here. I am sorry that Keith Urban had to follow You, I know it is not the same style You play and Keith is a great guy and guitar player, but Keith had to follow a living legend and that is not fair. Please, dont let this be the last television appearance for awhile, we fans are wanting more of that great guitar. Thank You Robert Mulholland Robert Mulholland Nashville, TN - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 18:04:28 (EDT) Great idea. CMT would be a hell of a lot better off with Tony on a few of their programs. Steve - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 17:54:25 (EDT) I was just thinking, Why dont all of us Tony Rice fans go over to CMT's website and reply to the flameworthy message board and let them all know what we thought of Tony on tv lastnight. Daniel C. Haynesville, VA - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 17:17:01 (EDT) Saw Tony on the awards on CMT last night. I really enjoyed the tune and especially Tony's break. I was glad to see the old Martin out and about. Great job. roy Roy Yeager Flintville, TN - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 14:43:57 (EDT) Greatly looking forward to Friday night's SOLD OUT show with Tony and the LRB...this will be my first time to see Tony live, and I'm pumped! Rick Schellhammer Mason, MI - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 14:35:08 (EDT) If the NASHVEGAS / CMT Execs had half a brain, they'd take that portion of the show and make a "live video" out of that one single performance and show it regularly. I have to tape it from a rerun and listen to that awesome rhythm again. Tony, you're simply the MASTER at that, and as you said in your recent Instructional DVD, we can certainly tell that you LOVE to play rhythm in a Bluegrass Context. Keep picking and we hope all is well with you and your family. Jeff Dodson Pensacola, FL - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 13:54:35 (EDT) I've been reading the posts all day about the show last night and someone summed it up best when they said it made them 'proud'. Everyone on that stage was a true professional and a master of their craft! No props, dance routines, or anything unecessary. Just the fact that they are some of the most talented musicians on the planet showing the rest how the real pro's do it! Raymond Reidsville, NC - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 12:59:26 (EDT) I missed the whole thing but here are the repeat shows on CMT. I know I'll be watching. Fri 4.23 9:00 PM CMT 2004 Flame Worthy Video Music Awards Sat 4.24 7:00 PM CMT 2004 Flame Worthy Video Music Awards Sun 4.25 4:30 PM CMT 2004 Flame Worthy Video Music Awards Tue 4.27 9:00 PM CMT 2004 Flame Worthy Video Music Awards Wed 4.28 12:00 AM CMT 2004 Flame Worthy Video Music Awards Sat 5.15 9:00 PM CMT 2004 Flame Worthy Video Music Awards Sun 5.16 3:00 PM C.L. Garvin Fayetteville, WV - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 12:10:52 (EDT) I will agree with those that have posted about the CMT show, Tony you were outstanding. My hat is off to Allison Krauss for having some of her mentors (and ours) play and showing them off on TV to maybe some people who have not heard them. Also, Wes, I saw the humor also in some of the other "talent." I don't know his name, but one fella danced around with a guitar slung around his neck and never played the thing. Then Tony comes out and defines class and taste. Scott Sullivan Pascagoula, MS - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 10:49:50 (EDT) Well, I waited for it and it was worth it...CMT awards show ...some REAL talent with AK/Union Station, Jerry, Sam, Stuart and Mr. Rice !!! Gave me chills when Tony took his break on 'Sawin' On The Strings'. Fabulous! I think they should have more Tony related stuff on CMT!! Taylor Rorrer Eden, NC - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 10:35:52 (EDT) Well, I waited for it and it was worth it...CMT awards show ...some REAL talent with AK/Union Station, Jerry, Sam, Stuart and Mr. Rice !!! Gave me chills when Tony took his break on 'Sawin' On The Strings'. Fabulous! I think they should more Tony related stuff on CMT!! Taylor Rorrer Eden, NC - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 10:35:29 (EDT) Awesome! Guess there'll be some Nashwood pickers reviewing that video for a couple of weeks, eh? I was very proud. Doc Roberts Round Rock, TX - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 09:59:00 (EDT) They ran it twice! Showed the whole thing again at 11:00. I think they should run that memorable moment 2 or 3 times a day indefinitely. Alan Cairo, GA - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 09:57:06 (EDT) You could feel the whole place go silent as ron block finished his break and Mr Rice stuck that big sound hole up in the mic. my heart almost stopped because i thought everyone was going to clap so loud and drown out some of his break, but i guess all the guitar players in nashville had already warned the crowd beforehand, that they were fixin too see and hear absolute true perfection. they heard it and so did i,they were blown away and so was i and then they holl'rd and so did I!! sean smith tusc., AL - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 09:42:01 (EDT) Tony, great job last night on CMT! It certainly stood out as the highlight of the night. I look forward to seeing you on TV many more times. Joe Asheville, NC - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 09:32:32 (EDT) It was such a treat to see Tony and Jerry standing side by side again and cutting up. Absolute THUNDEROUS rhythm coming out of the "old bone", and you certainly wore it out on your lead and outro. If you only knew how many players you mentored!!Tony, you looked like a million bucks. Great to see you again. A great performance by all. Hopefully, we can see more of you in that setting again. Once again, the great acoustic musicians of our time are showing NASHVEGAS how it's supposed to be done. Tony, I gotta catch one of your shows with LRB......that has to an unbelieveable experience to watch and hear. Best wishes up in Michigan and Illinois this week with LRB. Tell Jeff Parker I said "HOWDY", if you get a chance. Jeff Dodson Pensacola, FL - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 09:21:24 (EDT) Well what can I say, words can’t describe Tony’s sound! This is the first time I have seen Tony live and what a treat to see someone so talented and having such a good time. He was the highlight of the show! buzz santa cruz, ca - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 09:14:26 (EDT) It was funny after seeing all those other "performances" by the "big names" with their flashing lights, mood-setters, dancing girls, and every other prop to help make them look cool, when Tony walked on stage, the coolness simply started to ooze all over that stage. It really is funny, Bluegrass is the coolest music around, don't let anyone tell ya diff'rent. wes - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 09:00:03 (EDT) I saw Tony last night on the CMT awards show. It was by far the best thing on the whole show and a great opportunity for millions to witness the great talent that those of us who follow this web page have enjoyed for years! Great job Tony! Raymond Reidsville, NC - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 08:49:22 (EDT) I was so excited to see Tony on tv, I did not realize he was going to be on tonight. When I saw Tony I screamed and liked to have scared my room mate half to death. My voice is about gone because I screamed at the top of my lungs after Tony's very nice lead break. I am still shaking because I have seen THE MAN on National television. Your the greatest Tony. Beth Wright Canton, GA - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 00:08:00 (EDT) Great seeing you on TV tonight, Tony. Aside from making the most incredible music ever, you all looked like you were really having the time of your life. I assure you that your fans and other viewers were having the time of our lives hearing and seeing it too! Thanks.. Tony fan - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 00:01:12 (EDT) I saw Tony on C.M.T and i must say that it brought tears of joy to my eyes to see tony looking and sounding better than ever. I hope tony will do more tv in the future. we love you tony and we all are so proud of what you did tonight YOU RULED. Also thanks to Miss Pamela Rice for letting us know about this i would have not missed this for the world. God bless....Steve Steve - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 23:58:08 (EDT) It was so awesome to see Tony play with AKUS, et. al. tonight! He was absolutely flawless. Like the earlier post said, the rest of the guitar players could put their guitars away and go home after that! I hope to see alot more of THE MAN on TV. It is the best thing I've EVER seen on CMT. You're the GREATEST there's ever been, Tony. Brad Apple Batesville, AR - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 23:56:22 (EDT) Hey guys it was awsome to see that tonight. I am always in favor of tonys sound but tonight was the best sound he has had that ive heard live, but it was also a great suprise to see sam tony and jerry together, hope to see something like that at merle fest. Allison and dans voice sounded great as well, i hope to see more of tony and akus together it worked out great! Pam please let the big man know how great he did, it pleased many fans to finally see him get some publicity(especially hear in kentucky) and it was too kind of allison to ask those guys to play as well as what she said about each one of them before the song, she deserves alot of respect for what she put together tonight thanks a ton!!!! should have called the song picking on the strings!! CJ lexington, ky - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 23:45:10 (EDT) Sawing on the Strings was Flame Worthy! What a joy! Alan Kaye Cairo, GA - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 22:02:25 (EDT) It's great to see Tony on national TV! Charlie Cain Lexington, KY - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 21:43:29 (EDT) Words cant describe how good it felt to see Tony on tv tonight! It is great to see that good music must still be appreciated in Nashville and how Allison and the whole allstar bluegrass group out ROCKED the rest without the help of lights, smoke, sexy female dancers and most importantly musical politics! Keep Rockin' Tony!!! Daniel C. Haynesville, VA - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 21:05:26 (EDT) Also the rest of the band sounded great cant forget them, Man I just cant get over the tone that man gets out of a guitar. Fabulous Tony, IM so proud that You showed how it is done. Z . F . Asheville, NC - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 20:43:56 (EDT) AK looked very good. Tony looked too cool. The whole band sounded great. wes - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 20:42:57 (EDT) Just saw Tony. My God how he was busting it. That is the best I have heard him in the last 10 years, that bone was just shattering the stadium. The rest of the guitar players at the awards show can just put their guitars in the cases and go home, because the Master has just testified!! Z . F . - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 20:40:55 (EDT) By the way in case you dont know what I am talking about, Tony was on as a guest with Alison Krauss & Union Station on the Flameworthy Awards on CMT just like maybe 5 minutes ago. JUSTIN NAUSS Upper Northfield, Nova Scotia - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 20:34:03 (EDT) Oh my lord!!!!! Tony was AWESOME!!!!!!He cut loose!!!!!That was beyond worlds!!!!!The old 'Bone was cutting through awesome on the mic!!!!! That was best sound out of that guitar I have ever heard!!!!! I am speechless!!!!! Tony Rice never sounded so good!!!!! That was awesome!!!!! Thanks, Justin Nauss P.S. Wes, Tony's playing is velvety smooth now a days but it the best ever!!!!!He knows how to get tone out of the old 'bone!!!!! JUSTIN NAUSS Upper Northfield, Nova Scotia - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 20:29:25 (EDT) Pat Flynn Rules!! Alton Elliott Lexington, N.C. - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 20:19:09 (EDT) As for the finish removal from the back of the neck....I don't see why not. Banjo and Mandolin players do it. I did it on my 1970 D-28. Much faster and less grabbing. The trick is to find the fine line between removing most of the finish without removing ALL of the finish. There needs to be a dull sheen of sorts to keep the wood sealed. I did it to mine mostly because there were some many wear places between the 1st and 5th frets, I just decided to make it all even from the volute down to the 10th fret. I look forward to seeing Tony with AKUS tonight. Jeff Dodson Pensacola, FL - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 10:06:14 (EDT) The Pizza Tapes seems to be a a pretty contentious item on this list....wasn't there another argument about this one a little while ago? It was Jerry, Tony, and David just screwing around, and David happens to have a recording studio at his disposal. I think the most telling aspect of that album is the "What did we just play?" chatter between tracks. It was the first time Jerry and Tony had played together, and they were having fun making noise together. If you want slick, this isn't it. But it sure is intimate and interesting. Keep pickin' Andy Arlington, VA - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 07:56:28 (EDT) Hi cj, You were asking about the disadvantages of removing the finish from the back of the neck. The only thing I have heard is that the neck will be more prone to warping, but I really dont know if this is true. To me it gives a faster feel to the guitar and it doesnt feel as "sticky" when You sweat. Hope this helps You. Z . F . Asheville, NC - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 03:50:27 (EDT) I fell so sorry for poor Alvin of Lexiton. I know he crys whenever he listens to THE PIZZA TAPES. I bet the Rices,Grismons, and Mrs. Garcia, crys too!!!! ALL THE WAY TO THE BANK, cashing the royality checks. sob!! sob!!! sob!! Bank President - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 01:15:36 (EDT) does anyone now the disadvantage to taking the finish off the back of the neck, i have a martin d28-lsv, ive played chris eldridges of seldom scenes and his is like that as well as a few friends of mine it feels more comfortable, not sure how tonys is but just wondering if you all know any reasons not to do that cj lex, ky - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 22:09:27 (EDT) hey jim from pikeville, just wondering if your a picker i live in lexington, have friends that live over by pikeville independent though and im up there several times a year. cj lex, ky - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 21:56:28 (EDT) i am so happy to get to see tony on cmt. finally some exposure to those who miss out on alot of good stuff. Cutt' em' loose! cj lex, ky - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 21:52:58 (EDT) Went to show at Orange Peel Sat. night. Unbelievable show. Great venue. I shall return. Thanks to Tony and the Unit. It was worth the 3 1/2 hour trip. To Ronnie Simpkins: enjoyed the conversation, and I'll try to get that Merlefest picture from the ex-wife and get it to you. It was very thrilling getting to shake hands with Wyatt and Tony. Just a great night for a music lover. Thanks to all there. Jim Rice Pikeville, Ky - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 21:40:14 (EDT) I second that Steve. Show them what a guitar player can do on cmt Tony. Good Luck buddy. Z . F . - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 19:56:40 (EDT) Yes, Yes, Yes. Man this is what I have been waiting for. I hope they let Tony bust it loose. YIPEEEE!!!! Thanks Mrs. Rice Steve - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 19:53:45 (EDT) ........ I would like to inform all of Tony's fans, that he will be performing, tomorrow night, April 21.st with Alison Krauss, Union Station, and Jerry Douglas, on the FLAME WORTHY AWARDS. Tune in to C.M.T for your local time to watch the show......Pamela Pamela Rice Turtle Island, - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 16:19:19 (EDT) I'll second Joe's comments. The band sounded fantastic, and Tony's guitar tone and playing were just awesome. I could tell Tony loved it. I've been listening to Tony for years, and the other night at the Orange Peel felt like the first time I heard him again. And Eric's job on sound left nothing to be desired...it was perfect. Ya'll catch a show soon as you can! Best wishes. Billy Cardine Asheville, NC - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 15:50:58 (EDT) Tony, what's the chances of you and Martin Taylor making an album together? You know like Les Paul and Chet Atkins did years ago called, "Chester and Lester"; but with acoustic guitars. Les did the plectrum style and Chet did the finger style. I think you and Martin would represent the best of both styles. Rob NC - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 14:07:35 (EDT) The TRU show saturday night was absolutely phenomial. Asheville was priveldged to have Ricky Skaggs' soundman Eric (last name escapes me) running the sound and boy did it ever show. It very well could have been the best sound I have ever heard at a Unit show. So Eric if you read this, JOB WELL DONE! Tony put on an exceptional show. It is so good to see him have so much fun on stage. Every Rice fan should go see the Unit next time they are at the Orange Peel. Top Shelf music at a Top Shelf venue. Joe Dendy Asheville, NC - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 09:18:03 (EDT) Just another point of view: To say whether or not someone is a good singer is purely subjective. Technically speaking, Garcia may not have had the vocal instrument that Eric Clapton has per se, however, he certainly presented a "unique" sound. Two other names come to mind; Dylan and Hendrix. Could you imagine music history without songs like Subterranean Homesick Blues or Hey Joe? Singing/musicianship is an art just like any other art; painting, writing... A lack of diversity in any art form would be quite boring. For example, tune into any top 100 stations and you can hear all the cookie cutter pop band garbage. From my understanding, these bands are directed on how and what to sing? WTF has happened here? I love Pizza Tapes. billy blanks royal oak, - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 08:54:19 (EDT) Come on Alton! You'll have to agree, The Pizza Tapes CD does have a Very Cool cover! Rob NC - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 07:03:39 (EDT) Whomever thinks Jerry Garcia or Hazel Dickens can sing needs to go and get their hearing checked! Don Clayton Toledo, OH - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 00:02:35 (EDT) Any update on the "Live @ the Rams Head" recording? God bless Scott Sullivan Pascagoula, MS - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 17:36:52 (EDT) Alton is correct in a couple of areas, the singing was tasteless, considering Jerry Garcia did all the singing, with a few beers under his belt, I agree. The playing, hm, compared to a professionally recorded and edited session, yes, but for a few buddies istting around noodling, I'd say 've walked away from listening to that session with quite a few new licks under my belt. IMHO, these types of sessions are the best way to get new ideas because the music is literally flowing out, these guys were playing exactly what they felt for the moment, versus a professional recording where it is less desireable to go out on a limb. wes - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 12:17:13 (EDT) David Grier plays a tune called Alphabet Soup on one of his albums (Lone Soldier, I think)... :-) Tonyfan - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 09:32:20 (EDT) I like alphabet soup. Think the indians will ever get their land back? What in the heck does this have to do with Tony Rice? Bellamy Washington - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 07:48:30 (EDT) Ah, I see. Arrogance sure doesn't improve sound. Well, I like both Pizza and Alphabet soup... Tonyfan - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 05:33:46 (EDT) Well Tonyfan, I like David Grier as a musician, but alton comes across arrogant like david grier does. Its no biggy. Steve - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 04:14:18 (EDT) Musicians, that is.... Tonyfan - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 03:10:30 (EDT) Great misicians also have days when they "repeatedly f***s upping".... Pizza Tapes gives a great insight on TRs, JGs and DGs approach to noodling and shooting from the hip. As "true" record as any, in my opinion! (Steve - why does he sound like a Grier supporter? I like Grier supporters. I'M a Grier supporter...) Tonyfan - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 03:07:43 (EDT) Join Tony before his concerts on April 24, 2004 at The Old Town School of Folk Music in this unique, intimate setting as he shares his thoughts on musicianship. Tony has agreed to give insight into how he approaches music in general. This will not be a "hands-on" workshop but rather an open forum. Proceedings will be moderated by the school's own master musician, Chris Walz. Open to all students and lovers of music. To register, please call The Old Town School at 773-728-6000 or online at www.oldtownschool.org. MagicBus.com Asheville, NC - Sunday, April 18, 2004 at 22:45:11 (EDT) Sounds to me like alton is a David Grier supporter. Steve - Sunday, April 18, 2004 at 22:01:14 (EDT) not to rag on you alton, but u need to get a grip, the pizza tapes is a great album, and if you think that an artist who curses is second rate, then i suppose u think all musicians who use bad language are second rate, including jimmy hendrix and the other 5 million legendary people who do. Now if you bought the pizza tapes as your first tony album then thats where you made your mistake, go get plays and sings bluegrass, or manzanita, its a more true recording of tony, the pizza tapes warent exactly seriously done, if your not willing to do that go back to listening to kenny g or who ever pleases you. Tonys the best blugrass guitarist ever and your post wasent at all respectful to that, and if you dont have anything cool to say about the man dont get on this board, tonys always been kind to me when i have been able to talk with him, so you have misjudged him, and i really dont think anyone gives a damn about how he talks! cj lexington, kentucky - Sunday, April 18, 2004 at 21:53:04 (EDT) HEY ALTON, GET OVER IT!!!! THIS WAS MEANT TO BE A PRIVATE SESSION ANYWAY. WHOSE TO SAY, MOST ALL MUSICANS PROBABLY RELAX AND CUT UP THIS WAY. IT IS A SHAME THAT YOU ARE GONNA LET SOMETHING LIKE THIS AFFECT HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT SUCH GREAT MUSICANS. WHAT SHOULD IT MATTER WHAT THEY DO IN THEIR OFF TIME? IT STILL DOESN'T CHANGE THE FACT THAT THEY ARE STILL THE BEST,IN OR OUT OF THE RECORDING STUDIO!!!! RICE--YOU ARE STILL THE GREATEST--KEEP ON PLAYING LIKE YOU DO! RICK AND KELLY WHITSON ELIZABETHTON, TN - Sunday, April 18, 2004 at 21:10:14 (EDT) Poor Alton. Tony and Jerry said the F word and now he's indignant. And as everyone knows, great musicians NEVER use profanity, or drink, or smoke, or just have a good time together. Nah, they never do that.... DP Bristol, TN - Sunday, April 18, 2004 at 18:41:00 (EDT) Wheres your cd Alton?? billy blanks royal oak, - Sunday, April 18, 2004 at 17:07:22 (EDT) I recently purchased the Pizza Tape CD. It was most disappointing to hear such garbage coming from who I thought at one time were a classy bunch of musicians. The singing is terrible, the playing is tasteless, and the language was filled with profound indignation. I have heard better music taped from a local firehouse jamming, that wouldn’t be given the time of day to be listened to for CD formatted purposes, why? Because they weren’t given the title of, “The Best Musicians In The World.” In and because of this one release I have lost respect for those musicians participating in it. You might say, “Well, it wasn’t meant to ever be released.” and I say that is why I lost respect, because this is what they were and are, second rate. Alton Elliott Lexington, N.C. - Sunday, April 18, 2004 at 16:37:21 (EDT) CJ - Re: Merlefest - the river's edge is a whole lot of fun, and there are some stellar pickers there. I enjoyed it the last three years, but won't be able to this year. Have a great time. Keep pickin', Andy Arlington, VA - Saturday, April 17, 2004 at 13:05:58 (EDT) Now it’s the first time watching your homepage. It’s great - I like it. We, the Nashville Line Dancers Aalen (NLDA) are the best Elvis Presley Background Dancers in Germany. Our Elvis Impersonator is the great Jack Favor ‘’Eifel-Elvis’’ - The Number One in Germany. Please look on our website: www.nlda.de We’re glad for any signs in our guestbook. Let The Good Times Roll Oskar Kolb, Manager of the Nashville Line Dancers Aalen Nashville Line Dancers Aalen Aalen, BW - Saturday, April 17, 2004 at 05:52:40 (EDT) who all is going to merle fest, i need to make sure i can find some good pickin its my first time, i hear the rivers edge is good, although i will be staying int he rv lot cj lex, ky - Friday, April 16, 2004 at 14:56:09 (EDT) Just to add to the tone discussion with a pleasant anecdote...My dad has been playing for over 30 years, and the first nice guitar he bought was a 74 guild dreadnaught (a D50, is the model name, I think). He played on it for a number of years (about 8 or so) and then upgraded to one Martin HD-28 and then another. The Guild was lent to someone for their use in learning how to play. This person played it for about six months, and then left it in their basement in the case for about 13 years. Two years ago, my dad finally got the guitar back and gave it to me as a birthday present. I strung it up with some shiny new strings and it sounded like a wooden bell. Ring ring ring. Its amazing, and I wish I could have heard it in the past to compare the sounds. Its not as bassy as a Martin, and it has enough punch to ring through a campfire jam with a banjo and two mandos (Godbless Merlefest, btw...). For all of you who have new to relatively new instruments....there is a reason that older instruments are coveted like they are. The good ones only get better with age. Keep pickin'. Andy Arlington, VA - Friday, April 16, 2004 at 11:08:22 (EDT) Wes, I agree with You 100% And I also enjoy Your tabs You have on Your site. Keep up the great work buddy. It is true that an AKG 451 or 452 with a eb roll off or a good neumann km184 can really add a lot to the guitars sound, but having a great instrument or great microphones is only half the battle. Great studio engineers are as important as the musician him self. They can make You or break You. Great Studio engineers for acoustic music are few and far beetween. Bill Wolf is the best going in my opinion. Steve - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 23:45:04 (EDT) First-timer here. Just got back from hearing Tony, Wyatt and Co. at "Sundown in the City" in downtown Knoxville. Glad to have had this opportunity to see and hear one of the truly great ones! Thanks for the music. Tim Knoxville, TN - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 23:33:50 (EDT) But I'm not taking away from Tony's tone. We just need to be conscience of the reality of the recording process. A good engineer with the right gear can really make a difference. That's why it's never good to judge a guitar from a recording. Tone Poems is a sublime example of very little outside interference when wanting to hear the tone of each instrument come through as natural as possible. They used mic straight to tape, the only added effect was some spatial enhancement, which is basically a stereo affect. Even so, the use of Neumann mics in that setup still affect the sound. Neumann is well known to add it's own color. However since each take was done with the exact same setup and mic placement, we got to hear the true tone of each instrument. I really love that album. wes - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 22:05:57 (EDT) No, but Neumann, MCI, Lexicon make some great gear that can make any guitar sound good. ;) wes - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 22:01:14 (EDT) One more post for tonight and thats it. I would like to add that one of the most important things in picking a guitar or banjo is the right hand. That is the one thing I will argue with till the day I die. I know some pickers that have great left hand fretting techniques, but their right hand is sloppy as everything. If these people IM talking about, took the time to get their right hand right, they would be unreal musicians. Steve - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 22:00:16 (EDT) I would like to add that a while back there was sort of a game where Mrs. Rice asked us if we could figure out which cuts Tony used the ovation on. Last time I checked ovation wasnt making guitars that sounded like 1935 D-28's. Steve - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 21:53:46 (EDT) Dont feel sorry for me guys. lol. To me timeless timber and the huber rings make an instrument sound better, but the proof is not in the pudding for me. And it darn sure doesnt make the banjo sound like an old prewar gibson. But I do see Your points also, im not on here to start a war. peace, Steve Steve - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 20:53:29 (EDT) that tortoise shell pick makes all the difference too. You can pull all sorts of tone with one of those billy blanks royal oak, mi - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 19:21:19 (EDT) Poor Steve, I really hate to add this, but yes I disagree with you also Steve. One only has to listen to Tone Poems Vol 1, with Grisman and Rice, and if you cannot hear the difference in tone between each and every guitar Tony plays, well then, I suggest getting a better stereo system. And this was with a Neumann KM85 and U89 mics, which if anything, make instruments sound even better. , even though the goal of Tone Poems was to allow the true tone of each instrument come through, which they do very well with some Neumann color. I think what you might have meant to say Steve, was that Tony can take any guitar and bring out the best of it's tone. wes - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 15:33:54 (EDT) I disagree with Steve also.People are not buying all this Huber tone rings and Timeless Timbers rims,and countless other banjo parts to sound like Earl's Holy Grail Granada or other banjo's he has played on recordings.They are buying all these parts to acheive taking a run of the mill banjo and make it sound like a million bucks.Regardless of the name on the headstock.What I mean, by a "million bucks" is, coming as close as possible to the pre-war tone as possible.Steve Huber is not making exact copies of Pre-war tone rings to sound like Earl's banjo.He making them to sound pre-war.Regardless what kind of tone ring you have, you have a different piece of wood to make the rim and that affects tone,clearity,high's,mid's,low's,and the "pop".You can have rims made out of the same tree and regardless, one will sound better than the other.No two pieces of wood sound the same.Ever. Justin Nauss Upper Northfield, Nova Scotia - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 15:11:35 (EDT) Well, Steve, I must humbly disagree with you...totally. Tony's the man for sure, but it's just not an accurate statement to say a Johnson beater in his hands will have the sound, presence and tone of a pre-war (or equally crafted) instrument. And I must say, while Earl Scruggs is due all the credit and respect in the world for his development, creativity and mastery of the modern day 5 string banjo sound, there are many others who can stand proud next to him. (Steve Huber, Sammy Shelor, Robbie McCoury, Ron Stewart, Jim Mills, etc....) Of course these monsters have Earl to thank for their vision and direction. (Just like every modern day flatpicker or rhythm guru has Tony to Thank.) A final note.....the LAST thing I would call anything Steve Huber has done for the 5-string banjo a "Gimmick". "The proof is in the pudding", as they say. This isn't a personal attack on you, Steve, just a humble disagreement on some of your theories. Happy Picking. Jeff Dodson Pensacola, FL - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 10:57:28 (EDT) Heres the facts guys and girls. Tony Rice can take ANY guitar and get the same tone as he does from the "ol bone" just like Earl can take any banjo and get that tone everyone is searching for. Banjo players can put all the huber tone rings, timeless timber and all those other gimmicks, but they are not gonna sound like Earl. My advice is get a guitar that suits You and stick with it. Play the hell out of it until You play the sound into it. A lot of people dont keep an instrument long enough to see if it is going to be any good or not. If it doesnt sound like a 1939 bone in 6 months they sell it! And another piece of advice, STUDY! STUDY! Tonys right hand, that is where every bit of it is at. His hand movement is like watching someone with a fine writing technique. He has a soft touch and he does not "dig" at it like hes digging for taters. Steve - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 09:47:29 (EDT) elderly has a 1990 pro model tony rice for 4000 if any of you all have time check it out and see what you think. i have a hd28lsv right now but i looking to upgrade to brazilian or at least a better top than sitka cj lex, ky - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 at 22:16:54 (EDT) StradivarIUs... :) anonymous - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 at 21:27:11 (EDT) Well, people can get all supernatural and religious sounding as if there's little demons inside the guitar just waiting to come out if played "just right", but you cannot ignore the natural tone of an instrument, no matter if you've got mastery or it has mastery over it. You can strum one guitar and strum another and hear the difference in tone. Of course there is the ability to play clean and get great tone from a guitar. I've never been a believer that you can take a piece of junk guitar and make it sound like a Stradivarous. You can make it sound better than say the average Joe, but it will still be deficient in tone. wes - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 at 21:10:09 (EDT) That D-28 is a different instrument for sure... I've had the pleasure of playing the instrument, and I'll be the first to tell you-- you have to listen to the instrument *tell* you how to play it. That's what makes *any* instrument sound like it is supposed to. If you have mastery over an instrument, it will sound one sided. If an instrument has mastery over you, it will sound one sided. If you and the instrument both give and both take, it will sound the way it is supposed to sound. Just my 0.02 anonymous - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 at 20:12:39 (EDT) Oh just to follow up with my point from my rambling below. This is what the Santa Cruz guitars have attempted to achieve which is the sound of Tony's D28. Which like I aid lots of folks are unimpressed with when they play it. Perhaps this is the reason some people don't like the SC guitars live. However, put them in front of a Neumann U48 and things open up like a 55 gallon jug of cockroaches. Ooodles and ooodles of balanced tone. wes - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 at 09:49:23 (EDT) The name on top of the headstock is meaningless. I've never been impressed with the D-35. I think the 3 piece back really kills the tone. Tony has recorded with many different guitars over the years. He recorded with an Ovation on the Skaggs/Rice record. Notice how BOOMY it sounded? Great huh. I think the only time I've ever heard Tony's guitar sound bad in a recording is his recording of "Home Sweet Home" on the Bluegrass Album Band. Not sure what happened there, perhaps it was intentional, but it just didn't have very good tone. Could be he recorded this after his guitar was waterlogged from the flood? Tony says that some people that get to strum his D28, are surprised that it didn't have the tone they thought it would. I like to put a guitar into two categories, the live tone and the recorded tone. Some guitars will sound great live, but really bad when recorded. Vice versa, some guitars are not that great live, but souund very balanced and just perfect for recordings. I belive Tony has mentioned how balanced his D28 is. I believe his guitar is the perfect axe for record. wes - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 at 09:44:26 (EDT) You guys don't throw rocks at me for this, but I bought a Blueridge BR-160 guitar and it is absolutely incredible. The Martin D35 I owned could now even hold a candle to the Blueridge. The Blueridge not only sounds unbelievable, but is very well made. It is alot prettier than alot of the expensive guitars being made today. I know the Blueridge guitars are cheap in comparison to the bigger names, but you should try them out for the money! anonymous - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 at 09:36:51 (EDT) I bought my Tony Rice about 3 years ago. The tone gets better and better. I have a Martin D-35 and as much as I love it it can't touch the boom of my TR. I've played several Collings guitars and love them but the prices are a tad out of my range. Looking for a used Collings though. Doc Roberts Round Rock, TX - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 at 09:18:44 (EDT) I do believe all good guitars will sound "better" with time, but that may not be the same sound you wanted as it did when it was new. IF you want a nice mellow guitar and you find the perfect tone in a new guitar, in 3 years or so, that mellow tone may begin to brightn up, or viceversa, it may not be the tone you want. Reference Santa Cruz guitars, I think the good one's have the best tone around but it takes several years to achive it. The problem is that most Santa Cruz guitars don't have the right tone, at least in my opinion. I got lucky and found the best Santa Cruz around. It's 4 years old. wes - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 at 08:57:05 (EDT) To me, the Collings guitars are the best factory guitars being made today, sorry Tony. And they also have one of the best resale values of any factory made guitars besides Martins. I once had an 1988 Brazilian Tony Rice Santa Cruz and it took me forever to sell that thing. I finally had to sell it for way less than what I paid for it. Another problem I noticed with the older Santa Cruz's was that the tops were way to thin and I have seen a lot of the older ones with the tops sunken in, I guess Santa Cruz has changed that by now I sure hope so! Steve - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 at 02:07:29 (EDT) usually a guitar opens up and sounds better with time cj lex, ky - Tuesday, April 13, 2004 at 22:53:38 (EDT) you are the man tony doug bellamy leeco, ky - Tuesday, April 13, 2004 at 21:40:23 (EDT) Don't judge a new guitar, regardless how it sounds it will change within a few years. The great sound you get now may not be as great 3 years from now when time changes tone. wes - Tuesday, April 13, 2004 at 19:25:27 (EDT) what do u all think about the collings guitars, i really believe they are the best guitars being made right now as far as a large known luthier goes, just wondering what u all think?? Wonder if Tony has got his hands on one yet? cj lex, ky - Tuesday, April 13, 2004 at 16:34:01 (EDT) I saw an ad several years ago in Bluegrass Unlimited that was placed by Mr. McKinney himself. I don't remember the date but it was the last time Alison Krauss was on the cover. It gave an address where you could order a capo. Raymond Reidsville, NC - Tuesday, April 13, 2004 at 12:30:26 (EDT) You have brought me to heaven many many many times with your incredible playing! Now please come play the west coast sometime soon. I know you are playin with Peter Rowan a couple of dates in June, but we need more! Thanks so much, best wishes to you and yours, Dan and Lucy Dan Quincy, CA - Monday, April 12, 2004 at 14:39:02 (EDT) Hey Taylor R. Do you have phillips emaill addy or phone #. email me if ya can. thanks alot Jared Sweet va - Monday, April 12, 2004 at 13:02:03 (EDT) The old D-28 does come out every once in a while, probably the closer the show is to Tony's home in North Carolina. I've seen and (much more importantly) heard it a few times here in the DC area, as well as at Merlefest. I even got a chance to hold it after a show in Annapolis a few years ago. Thanks Tony. Not often that one gets to hold something so important to American music. Andy Arlington, VA - Monday, April 12, 2004 at 12:10:24 (EDT) does anyone know if its possible to find an original mckinney capo? Cj lex, ky - Monday, April 12, 2004 at 10:12:05 (EDT) About the old bone,,I think Tony does occasionally bring it out to play. I saw him in Steelville, Missouri last October and was thrilled to see him playing it. Saw it up pretty close. And the sound was beyond description.. anonymous - Monday, April 12, 2004 at 09:54:37 (EDT) On May 22, 2004, The Great High Mountain Tour will roll into Cary, North Carolina. For more info: trorrer@triad.rr.com Taylor Rorrer Eden, NC - Sunday, April 11, 2004 at 18:50:51 (EDT) How do I get tix for the Albany Tony Rice Unit show? All I want is to see the Unit live!! Albany is as close as yer comin', but I can't find any ticket info or contact info online. Pls send info to sethfleishman@earthlink.net --Seth Seth Sussex County, NJ - Sunday, April 11, 2004 at 11:07:00 (EDT) The last I've read, the 'Bone is in semi-retirement. Being an heavily used and slightly abused 1935, its been around the block more than a few times. It currently resides at the shop of Tony's regular guitar tech, in his instrument humidor. The "custom dreadnaught" you saw was one of Santa Cruz Guitars' TR Artis models that they have patterned after the CW HD-28. Tony has had a working relationship with that company for quite some time. Andy Arlington, VA - Friday, April 09, 2004 at 08:02:15 (EDT) Does anyone know if Tony still performs on the old 1935 D-28 (previously owned by CW)? I saw him perform in Ann Arbor, MI back in March 1999, and he had a similar looking (apparently custom made) Dreadnaught. It did have the enlarged soundhole, but he didn't use the old Martin? Is is still in use, or did Tony retire it and use the new one? Jeremy Pensacola, FL - Friday, April 09, 2004 at 02:46:56 (EDT) I have missed seeing you lately the last time we were at a show was in 1988 at Doc watson's festival in N.carolina You are awesome!!! Sorry about your voice, we miss it.. but your guitar playing is what makes you so awesome... love it when you and Peter Rowan banter with each other.. keep up the good work, looking forward to your book. Lynda Costelli Lynda Costelli Ruskin, florida - Thursday, April 08, 2004 at 22:44:12 (EDT) Love Your music Tony. I think You are the greatest. Have You ever heard of singer, songwriter Amy Fairchild? i think she has some family that plays bluegrass You two could really do a great cd together, heres her link. http://www.amyfairchild.com/index.html Brett Keys Staten Island, NY - Thursday, April 08, 2004 at 20:01:30 (EDT) Great Music Tony! Jason Jackson Booneville, KY - Thursday, April 08, 2004 at 09:33:42 (EDT) as far as the bone goes i dont think you have to worry about it sitting on a wall, tony bought it for some 550 dollars so that not at all a crazy price, and plays the u know what out of it, so as far as that goes theres at least one martin that isent sitting on the shelf. CJ lex, ky - Thursday, April 08, 2004 at 08:27:19 (EDT) How do you do it with such precision and accuracy it`s simply amazing how you developed that sound. Taylor Huntley Cambridge Nova Scotia, - Wednesday, April 07, 2004 at 12:18:22 (EDT) Capo? Tony dont need no stinking capo!! Hehehe!! TONY RULES!!! Mahvelous, Tony, Mahvelous!! Bob Scottown, OH - Wednesday, April 07, 2004 at 00:24:12 (EDT) YOU ARE THE GREATEST STEVE LEMONS FORREST CITY, AR - Tuesday, April 06, 2004 at 18:28:21 (EDT) In an effort to clean house a bit, I have a 2000 model Gallagher G70 that's looking for a good home. E-mail me offlist for more details if you're interested in possibly adopting this great guitar. E-Mail - trorrer@triad.rr.com Taylor Rorrer Eden, NC - Tuesday, April 06, 2004 at 18:25:24 (EDT) Yes, it is really sad that vintage instruments are being bought for much more money than need be just so it can sit on a wall next to the Picasso. I always thought an instrument was meant to be played. And that's my $.02 worth. Pick on everyone. Scott Havlick Two Harbors, MN - Tuesday, April 06, 2004 at 17:39:24 (EDT) CJ... Personally I like them McKinney because I believe it is a little smaller. A friend of mine has one of Phills with locking mechanism and it is very smooth also. I guess it boils down to personal preference, that is how I made the decision. I guess in the back of my mind, I liked the simplicity of the design rather than having the push-buttom locking system on the Elliott. Either way, the are great capos. Toby Crowder Burnsville , NC - Monday, April 05, 2004 at 17:36:33 (EDT) I know what I would give for the old "bone" and I am not just blowing smoke. Put it this way Tony would never have to pick another lick for the rest of his life! I am sure I am not the only one in this world who would love to own that great piece of american history. Rich Ross Dallas, TX - Monday, April 05, 2004 at 05:22:20 (EDT) I had a guitar once. Thought I'd like to make it sound like the Bone so I took my Daisy BB gun and put a hole in it right near where the Bone has one. Guitar sounded just as bad so I took my 12 gauge shotgun and put a bigger hole in it. I don't play it much. wes - Sunday, April 04, 2004 at 16:41:34 (EDT) Monetary value on an early 1935 D-28... Check out elderly instruments. They specialize in pre-war instruments. To the musician and not the collector, originality isn't quite as big of an issue as tone. Without the pedigree of being Clarence's or Tony's, a pre-war D-28 in that condition to a collector might be 15-20K. To a true musician, without the pedigree, he'd be willing to pay MUCH more for the tone of the instrument, discounting its originality-- upwards of 30 or 40 I'm sure. As for the value now, WITH the pedigree, it's priceless-- as much a part of Americana as the original acetate recording of "This Land Is Your Land" by Woody Guthrie recently unearthed by the Smithsonian Institute. One can only hope that over generations, these instruments end up in the hands of true artists of the craft who appreciate a BB hole and a scratch here and there, rather than into the hands of mere collectors seeking a pristine specimen to hang next to their original Picasso. Just my $.02 anonymous - Sunday, April 04, 2004 at 16:12:23 (EDT) The album "Guitar" was recorded at Lemco Studios in Lexington Kentucky and I do believe the guitar that was used was a 50's D-28 that used to be owned by Hylo Brown. Don't quote me on the Hylo Brown part though. The japanese album you speak of is called "New South Live" J.D. Crowe & The New South recorded live at Kubo Hall, August 30, 1975 in Tokyo, Japan. It was manufactured, distributed and released on Trio Records Tokyo, Japan. The cover of the album does indeed show Tony playing the string bass and Ricky Skaggs playing the guitar. There are 10 songs on the album. There might have been a second album released from the same show or another show from that period, but I am not positive about this. Walter J. Flint Yosemite National Park, CA - Sunday, April 04, 2004 at 12:36:05 (EDT) That should read Clarence White and $10,000 Steve - Sunday, April 04, 2004 at 03:48:35 (EDT) cj, In my opinion I like the McKinney style better, but the Eliott is very nice also. As for the other question about the "bones" value, just as a vintage guitar without the pedigree of being owned by Tony or Clarence Whit, I would say in vintage circles with it not being totally original about $10.000, but with the history behind it and all I would say it would be priceless, meaning the skys the limit. Steve - Sunday, April 04, 2004 at 03:46:52 (EDT) on the capos which one is better the elliot or the mckinley style that he makes. (Toby???) CJ ky, lex - Sunday, April 04, 2004 at 00:14:46 (EST) whats the bone guitar worth if you can really put a dollar figure on it, like does anyone know what someone would pay for it or its what its been valued at. cj lex, ky - Sunday, April 04, 2004 at 00:05:59 (EST) Does anyone know when & where the ORIGINAL LP Tony Rice - Guitar was recorded?I have just got done reading on flatpick-l.org that it was recorded in 1974 in Japan when Tony had the old 50's D-28.If this is true, that guitar sounds just as good as the Holy Grail of all 'bones.That is just my opinion though.But I still think the old 'bone is the best sounding guitar out there.Nothing will ever touch it!Does anyone know where I can get a copy of when J.D. Crowe & New South were in Japan and Tony played bass on a few cuts on the LP.I have just got done reading that when Tony would grab Bobby Sloan's bass Bobby would grab the fiddle and Ricky would the guitar.This must have been amasing.I really need to get a copy of this!!!!!Well I got to go now and "absorb" as much Rice guitar licks as I can. Thanks, Justin Justin Nauss Upper Northfield, Nova Scotia - Saturday, April 03, 2004 at 12:14:24 (EST) Just a note about the the capos... Phil makes both the "Elliott" with his own locking mechanism, and he also makes the "McKinney". I ordered mine and had it in less than two weeks and Phill is one of the nicest guys that you would ever care to deal with. I highly recommend him, no matter which capo you choose. And trust me...the extra $$ for the capo is worth every penny. Toby Crowder Burnsville , NC - Friday, April 02, 2004 at 14:29:13 (EST) I am about to bust to find out any info on the bio,the book of mr. r's photos or the new album with bro. larry or any new releases. help !! please! before i pop. i need a fix bad! sean smith AL - Friday, April 02, 2004 at 11:43:10 (EST) Being fairly new to bluegrass music, I first heard Tony play on one of Seldom Scene's anniversary recordings. I didn't know who the guitar player was at the time, but when I found out, I raced to the store to find some of Tony's music. His Bluegrass Guitar Collection contains some of the finest music I have ever heard. Now, I want it ALL! ! ! Kevin Hunt Malvern, AR - Thursday, April 01, 2004 at 13:53:39 (EST) I have and old McKinney/Rice capo. It's awesome. Does anyone know if Tom is still making those? Does he have the patent?thnx Merle Columbus, oh, OH - Thursday, April 01, 2004 at 13:35:05 (EST) Tony uses a McKinney capo. I know Phil Elliot makes the McKinney style and so does Bill Stokes, but I would use Phil Elliott only because he is better and faster about getting it out to You. I have had mine on order from Bill Stokes for 3 years, so if Your reading this MR. Stokes, just forget it, as I will be dead by the time You get it to me. Here is Phils web link...www.elliottcapos.com Steve - Thursday, April 01, 2004 at 01:59:13 (EST)