April 19, 2008
willie
My favorite Willie Nelson story is of the young harmonica player who wanted to be in Nelson's band so much that he'd drive to shows just for the chance to sit in on stage.Nelson liked the guy's soulful sound and figured the leader of their struggling group had hired the harmonica player. After a few nights, he asked what the harp player was being paid. When the bandleader said, "Nothing," Nelson declared, "Double his salary!"
The musician was Mickey Raphael, who's been at Nelson's side for nearly 35 years, as much a fixture in their live show as the Texas flag that unfurls each night -- and the story tells a lot about the good-natured, carefree approach that has helped make the singer-songwriter a widely beloved figure. He turns 75 on April 29.
more from the LA Times here.
Posted by Morgan Meis at 08:47 AM | Permalink
Comments
My late Mother, Helga Marie Paulsen Abbe, the second child to an amateur violinist Norweigan immigrant Father, a Danish immigrant Mother, who played piano at home and church in St. Paul, Minnesota, majored in English at the U. of M., taught high school, and earned a library of science degree from the U. of Wisconsin, whose older brother majored in Civil Engineering at the U. of M and younger brother almost became a professional violinist and played in the Minneapolis Pops Orchestra but died prematurely of a brain tumor, and never had any remote connection with country music, loved Willie Nelson and my late father had to defer to her wishes every week when she watched his show on television years ago. I love his music too and always try to take a tape or c.d. of his songs with me in the car.
There is something very special about this very special singer and entertainer. Perhaps it is that when one listens and watches him, one has the feeling that he is not seeking to fool anyone with smoke and mirrors. It is the true person of Willie Nelson one is hearing.
Posted by: Winfield J. Abbe | Apr 19, 2008 5:41:53 PM
one time i was blessed to be allowed entrance to the sanctum sanctorium of The Bus up in Clear Lake at a very low-key show. I'd seen him before a few time, and he enthusiastically welcomed me with a spliff the size of Rhode Island. I saw Brownie up close and spit in the harmonica with the band for awhile. Sweet... Willy--if you know how loved you are you shall be released!
Posted by: MissVolare | Apr 19, 2008 7:22:55 PM
I used to eat breakfast at Charlies in Paia (North Shore Maui) frequently when living in Haiku (Willly had a place in Spreckles). Willy ate their frequently also, but , although a fan, I never wanted to intrude into his private space, as everyone was enthusiastic to engage with him. He helped the community through a few benefits, and was generous. We both were getting into our cars (mine a beat up old Taurus) and Willy initiated the "hello" and the smile--
I thing he had appreciated the space some of us gave him.
Posted by: Dave Ranning | Apr 20, 2008 10:56:23 AM
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