I was fortunate enough to see Mike perform (solo) in Orillia, Ont. Can. a few years ago and was amazed as he kept the audience of about 300 spellbound for 45 minutes and they wouldn't let him leave the stage. He's from the same hometown as Mike Weir, Brights Cove, near Sarnia, if I'm not mistaken. He also does a lot of work for the northern kids, Inuit, etc. Musical instruments and instruction. Quite a fella. ---------- If it ain't got harp - it ain't really blues!!!!
Last Edited by on Sep 25, 2009 7:24 AM
He did a seminar before the concert and was handed a hohner bluesband out of the box and played every note in the scale. Every bend, every blow bend and overblows. I don't know if he plays customs or not. He sure doesn't need to. ---------- If it ain't got harp - it ain't really blues!!!!
I dig Mike. I've meet and played with him quite a few times and it's always been fun. Yes he's overboard and a "powerhouse" player but he's creative and innovative in ways that aren't apparent in the video.
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"The truth may hurt for a little while, but a lie hurts forever."
As far as I know he is self taught, started as a teenager. Joined a bluegrass band because he didn't know any better. (according to him). He would drive the 12 hours down to the Grand Ol Opry to do a gig, get paid $48 and try to get a gig for the trip home to try to pay for gas. If the segment from the Opry was televised he would get a bit more. ---------- If it ain't got harp - it ain't really blues!!!!
I wasn't that crazy about the Orange Blossom. I thought was a bit jumpy. But it was awesome to see somebody have the balls to play that song and not do McCoy note for note!
---------- www.elkriverharmonicas.com
Last Edited by on Sep 26, 2009 9:28 PM
