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GROWING UP IN THE 50's

Born in 1948 in Annapolis Maryland, I was there to witness the birth of rock 'n' roll. I was just a kid when Elvis made his TV debut. I watched as the girls screamed and actually fainted. I wasn't sure what power Elvis had over women, but I knew whatever it was, I wanted it. I was inspired by the music of Elvis and imitated his music and his moves. No matter how much I wiggled or shook, something was missing. At age 9, I got a guitar for Christmas from my aunt Olivia. It was a 3/4 size Silvertone by Harmony. I didn't have a clue how to play it, but it was the best gift I could ever dream of.
Then came Buddy Holly, and Chuck Berry and Rock 'N' Roll had really taken off. I never learned to play that guitar, and traded it for a bicycle about 3 years later. In 1959 my Dad retired from the Navy, and we moved to Mobile Alabama. This was quite an adjustment for a city boy. I made new friends, and some of them played guitar. These guitars were different, they were electric. I had to have one. When I was 14, my Mom surprised me with a brand new Danelectro and a small amp. It was on that little Danelectro that I learned to play. There were no guitar lessons. I learned from a chord book and what I could get my friends to teach me.
By 1964, Elvis was yesterday's news. The Beatles had taken over the pop scene, and Country music is big in the south. I am thankful I was exposed to the great country music of the Sixties. Once country music gets into your soul, you can't get it out.

Seventh Grade Music Class

I will never forget when my 7th grade music teacher made the entire class sing a solo and she picked the song. When it came my turn, I was frozen with fear. I wanted to crawl in a hole and die. I thought that song would last forever, but when I finished, I was amazed at the number of compliments I got from my classmates. It wasn't long after that, my teacher invited me to try out for the Junior Chorus which was made up of 7th and 8th graders. To make a long story short, I tried out and was picked. Singing in a group was not nearly as frightening as singing solo and helped build my confidence in singing before an audience. I have learned to stay within my vocal range. I have heard good singers get in trouble straining to reach highs or lows that are out of range. Been there, Done that!

RETIRED FINALLY!

Effective July 1, 2002 I officially retired from my job with the County. I suffered a back injury resulting from an on the job auto accident in 1998. I had back surgery in December of 2001, and had completed my first week back on the job when I was involved in another auto accident on March 1, 2002. This time I was struck from behind. Since this accident, I have lived in constant pain. I have had physical therapy and it didn't help. The doctor's don't recommend surgery. I live on narcotic pain medicine, and have become a zombie. Unable to get a disability retirement from the county, I took an early retirement which only pays 40% of what I was making. I wouldn't wish this on anybody. It's nice to sleep when the rest of the world is fighting the Rat Race.
I'm finally retired but don't have the energy or motivation to enjoy it. The only enjoyment I get, is playing music two nights a week. There is no money involved. It's voluntary. I have had people tell me: "You should get a band together" It's a little too late in life for that.
The Man Up stairs (see guest book)
has informed me that it's never too late, which got me thinking. I would consider forming a band to do private parties, bull roasts etc. I have no desire to play in bars. Finding a group of dedicated musicians who share common interests, and are willing to practice is the hard part.

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