Rural Thoughts

Doc Watson passed away today. He was in that class of musicians that is in a special class of talent. He was just an incredible instrumentalist. I remember listening to his recordings when I was first learning to play guitar - back when I was in my teens and early 20s. I was just blown away listening, trying to figure out how he moved his fingers that fast. I felt the kind of admiration and astonishment that one feels for heros. That feeling has never gone away.

I know that Doc had some real hardships in his life - everything from losing his sight to losing his son. After a number of wonderful recordings that he and his son Merle made, it was very heartbreaking to learn that Merle had been killed. I'm sure for Doc it was a pain that he never got over. But he still kept playing.

I saw him live one time at the Ryman during his Doc and Dawg tour. It was an incredible concert. He is an artist that has had an incredible influence on me and many others. Doc, rest in peace and know that you were loved, admired, and appreciated for what you contributed to this life.