Unconventional Technique (Show It To Me)

lar · #1 12-27-2018, 11:38 PM

Scroll to 5:00 in the video below:

For those who aren't familiar with Richie Havens, he was the opening performer in Woodstock in 1969. His technique is definitely unique - and works for him.

I thought his alternate style might be of interest.

fazool · #2 12-27-2018, 11:52 PM

He is playing in open tuning and simply barring the strings, with his thumb.

bluesfreek · #3 12-28-2018, 06:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fazool

He is playing in open tuning and simply barring the strings, with his thumb.

Yes but what a thumb!

Guildman · #4 12-28-2018, 07:06 AM

The Ritchie Haven's signature Guild D40 was my first upper end guitar. Only sold it after getting a D28.

varmonter · #5 12-28-2018, 07:22 AM

He needed those double pickguards.

Ludere · #6 12-28-2018, 07:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by varmonter

He needed those double pickguards.

I was thinking the same thing.

...

zombywoof · #7 12-28-2018, 08:23 AM

I guess there are some young 'uns who never listened to Richie. He played with a fury that always reminded me of Leadbelly without the bass notes and runs. Another guy who can really dig in is Alvin Youngblood Hart.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQUaEWIXtCQ

lar · #8 12-28-2018, 06:03 PM

I love to see unconventional technique. Thus I changed the title to see what else is out there.

And I'll add another one:

Here is Wes Montgomery. He strums and plucks with only his thumb. All his fingers just sit on the soundboard:

Scroll to 1:20
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MOm17yw__6U

islandguitar · #9 12-28-2018, 10:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lar

Scroll to 5:00 in the video below:

For those who aren't familiar with Richie Havens, he was the opening performer in Woodstock in 1969. His technique is definitely unique - and works for him.

I thought his alternate style might be of interest.

I was lucky enough to be at this concert and shortly after his set, got to meet him and chat for a few minutes. As a huge fan, I have to say I was emotional in meeting this man and legend! He was incredibly gracious and we talked and laughed about the old "Blues Bag" where he used to play on Cape Cod.......and a little on his tuning/technique. He is truly missed after his sad passing a few years ago......such a towering force!
As with this concert set, he nearly always opened with Along the Watchtower. What's mesmerizing and you have to be there to see it......it's as if the guitar takes over his being and soul and he goes into this altered space when playing this song and others. I get chills watching it even now. Thanks for sharing this clip! Rest in Peace, Richie Havens.

Bax Burgess · #10 12-29-2018, 08:39 AM

The extra pounds in ring weight has helped him achieve a whole 'nother tone. He's not just digging in, he's excavating.

Martie · #11 12-29-2018, 09:06 AM

This never fails to bring a smile to my face...

https://youtu.be/Tx4cRw6TIIg

godfreydaniel · #12 12-29-2018, 12:39 PM

Check out the guy playing with John Hiatt. He uses his thumb like Haven’s but he’s playing lead:

https://www.jambase.com/article/john...urday-sessions

lar · #13 12-31-2018, 12:24 AM

Rumor has it this guy played a right handed guitar left handed upside down:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjwWjx7Cw8I

frankmcr · #14 12-31-2018, 12:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lar

Rumor has it this guy played a right handed guitar left handed upside down:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjwWjx7Cw8I

And he got so frustrated he actually set his guitar on fire!

Tsk tsk tsk.

Silly Moustache · #15 12-31-2018, 04:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lar

Rumor has it this guy played a right handed guitar left handed upside down:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjwWjx7Cw8I

Rumour? I think there is plenty of evidence.