The Extended Play Sessions with Chris Smither

Chris Smither has been creating music for over 50 years. At the age of 70 he has now begun to reflect back on a rich body of work that paints the human condition with broad strokes, rich hues and delicate precision. He is an artist in the truest sense of the word and a gifted and brilliant self taught guitarist. His performance on The Extended Play Sessions was one of the most memorable.

[@edmundmcgowan8449]

"If I were young again I'd pay attention." Wise words. Beautiful collection of songs here.

[@markcarlisle6073]

I have never heard, or heard of, Chris Smithers. I can't imagine why. He is simply amazing. He can bend notes like no fingerpicker I've ever heard, all while keeping his perfect timing and expressive playing style. The foot tab drumming is a wonderful accompanyment. At age 74 and after a long haitus from the instrument, I recently got a really fine guitar. It is the greatest device for relaxation, release and escape. I well know that all I have to do is pick it up and magic will happen. That alone is not enough to get me to open the case. It is the memory of a player I saw about 20 years ago while I was cutting through Balboa Park in San Diego on my bike. It was a Sunday afternoon and I was on my way to see an old friend exhibit his current, award winning, en plein air paintings, just south of the Park. I was going to zoom right past the fountain, museums, great outdoor pipe organ and the scattered individual musicians with their instruments out and cases open. Then the sound of Los Lobos chords caught my attention. Not stopping, I glanced to my side to see a seated guitar player doing a fine rendition of "Will the Wolf Survive." I skidded to a stop to watch, because his performance was so completely unique. When he finished I asked him if he would mind if I video taped him doing another song. He agreed. Dodging pedestrians I sped back to my car to get my camcorder and some cash. I grabbed my Sony DCR PC-100 and all the cash I had (a few singles and some quarters) and hurried back. He immediately began playing "Good Morning Aztlan" just as I raised my camera. I recorded the entire song, dumped my poor offering in his case. Then we chatted for 20 minutes or so. We found a lot to talk about. He was a local and I'd lived in San Diego since I graduated high school. That's when my Dad decided to move from northern Indiana to 4 blocks from the Coronado Municipal Golf Course, for his retirement. My current guitar was a pretty nice Japanese made Takamine 12-string which I wasn't playing very often. Robert changed that forever. All the time he was playing I kept wondering how he was able to change strings, because he had no arms. He used an open tuning and played with his feet. Eventually our chat turned to my guitar playing. He asked if I had a guitar. I said, yes. He asked what kind. I told him and he said he was sorry that I hadn't brought it because we could have played together. I (honestly) explained that I was not really very talented but he said that it would make no difference since it was all about straightening one's brain out with music. Then he nailed me. He asked me when I last played my guitar. I was embarrassed to admit that it had been so long I couldn't give a precise day or date. He shamed me in the kindest possible way by gently reminding me that I was not going to get any better, or improve my enjoyment, if I wouldn't even pick it up. The impression of that man overcoming the absence of both arms to busk in the Park sounding so good has stuck with me longer than the mini-DV tape of his playing. Back in Santa Barbara, where I worked as a Peer Counselor at a Wellness Center, I showed that tape to dozens of people. All were as amazed as I had been. It was lots of fun to tell people the story, which sounded far fetched, and then plug my camcorder into the Center's big screen to validate my yarn. Unfortunately, I loaned the tape to a co-worker who begged so long and hard to "please, please" let him make a copy that I finally relented. He swore he would return it in 2 days. He did not. Since that day in the Park, the more reluctant I feel about picking up my guitar, the more compelled I feel to do just that, becuse of Robert's tenacity. I have played less and less as the years passed and I can't say I've improved very much, but Robert's example continues to nag at me to pick the darn thing up. I would surely like to learn something close to Smither's finger style, but I'm going to keep on playing, regardless, because even though I may not sound so great my Larrivée Jumbo sure does.

[@christianhintz7725]

I have seen Chris play live about a half dozen times... it's a shame he never received the fame that he just deserves. Great guitarist, great lyricist, and a nice humble and decent man to speak with. Can't wait to see him again in concert. His talents should go down with Jim Croce, Harry Chapin, and others of that caliber.

[@davetighe]

Gonna definitely go and see him if he comes to the UK.

[@emmccord398]

@CHRISTIAN hintz I have to agree with you 100% ! I could listen to Chris, Verlon Thompson, and Roy Book Binder all day ! Music just doesn't get any better than that ! Wish I had been able to see Chris as many times as you ! Would love to see him live ! He is amazing !

[@formercanadiancitizen4756]

I think he’ll get that deserved recognition, he’s way toooooo good not to

[@rochellearellano7135]

Amazing virtuosity

[@wolfstar10]

This is really great music. I am 76 and never heard Chris before, but I'm glad I ran across this now.

[@jaxareback311]

I swear this mans talent stops me in my tracks.....and the Universe becomes very small...!!

[@njdave2007]

2:56 Link of Chain 8:37 Leave the Light On 15:24 Shillin for the Blues 22:58 I Don't Know -> No Love Today 30:46 Hundred Dollar Valentine 39:20 Help Me Now

[@BobbyDPresents]

When I go deep within my own thoughts Chris Smither is always playing in the background. I will never tire of the wonderful music he has created. I have witnessed the joy of his live performances on numerous occasions in and around the Northampton , Massachusetts area. He is a very special musician/performer and story teller!

[@grumblekin]

The fact that I have lived almost 40 years and just heard of Chris Smither in the past couple of those is disheartening. There were so many life events to which his songs would have been the perfect companion....or consolation. The good news is that I get to discover his entire catalog for the first time!

[@hionthemountain]

DITTO

[@MalinBring1]

I'm 62 ....

[@MrMichael4445]

Just out of the service in1970, I was back in school and learned the word Homunculus in Intro Psych... Within a week heard song with that same title! Went out and found his very first album. Been a huge fan ever since!

[@rileyhoffman6629]

I'm approaching 70, an old hippie/academic and I learned about him just last year. A lifetime w/o Chris!!! Almost tragic...

[@formercanadiancitizen4756]

I was thinking the same thing 👍👍👍

[@TR-if7yr]

I'm lucky to have been in Wilmington Delaware for 30 years now and witnessed the evolving blues scene. David Bromberg's move to Wilmington helped significantly. I got to see Chris at the Arden Guild Hall.

[@ryanmccracken7247]

Incredible. Love everything about his music. Brilliant songwriting, astounding guitar playing, & a great voice.

[@rafhenlow]

I am 69+, love music & I have never heard Chris's music before. How come someone this great isn't played more!! I cannot stop listening to this artist & will be purchasing some soon, have to ration myself.

[@tomroberts5497]

Heard him first in the late ‘60s at the Main Point outside of Philly. Great then and better since.

[@dreamwell2020]

When someone has gotten continually better at what they do for five decades, that's a big encouragement - for anybody, no matter what they're up to.

[@michaelchevalier9777]

Beautifully put

[@timberdogz]

I go see Chris play whenever he is in my area... It never gets old...always a great evening!

[@donnacasey4255]

Ditto. I've seen him 100x or more , from Berkeley to Chicago. Always great. Such an amazing storyteller, songwiter & guitarist.

[@boomboombettina]

I first heard Chris play when I was working at the Gaslight on MacDougal Street in Greenwich Village. I must have been 21 years old at the time and I feel privileged to have seen many great artists perform at such an intimate venue. I loved his music right from the start and still love it. He has a unique sound and it's a pity that he never became more widely known, but then there are many artists that never attained great fame but made up for it in longevity. Tracy Nelson is another in that category.

[@codybluetarp]

Yeah, Chris Smither's music is a perfect example of how difficult it is to explain for him something that can only be explained in retrospect at any one time. Which makes it even more challenging, and therefore a ways more along in his lyrical unification with the down home, timeless, back front porch songs. Blues.

[@TheMillstone1]

One of my all time favourite artists, never tire of his songs.

[@pammorton7448]

I just love this guy! Saw him here in the Netherlands a few years ago and spoke with him. He's just a lovely soul and a great musical talent!!!

[@joehyde9176]

This guy is a genius - looking forward to seeing him in Leicester this year.....a real treat.

[@cliffcampen4033]

May have commented on this video before but Chris is my favorite musician and I like a lot of great musicians. Love to hear him talk as well as perform.

[@TheHommedefer]

That was EXCELLENT! I first heard "Leave the Light On" on Folk Radio and was mesmerized. I'll be looking for a concert day near me because he's exactly the kind of musician I'd love to see live.

[@lanecohen-countryfolkandbl3803]

He is one of my favorite folk singers! I like old time folk music from the 1940’s! I like Chris Smither! My most favorite singer is Tom Rush! I am going to see Tom Rush in concert in Spring 2023 for the 2nd time in my life like I saw him in concert in Fall 2021 2 Octobers ago!

[@johndunbar4391]

All of the above and below. A true original. my very great pleasure to have stumbled across him.

[@fernsuess5253]

I've had the good fortune to see Chris Smither three times, each in a wonderfully small venue. I never tire of his voice, toe tapping and brilliantly human lyrics. Look forward to seeing him again...and again.

[@twoyoots8417]

We have been following Chris Smither's music for years... then had babies and drifted away from all folk music for a while, no time... and are finding our way back. He is at the top of his game. We are lucky to live in the same state, so he plays near us often. Chris, you are way better than those listed in the previous post. The light's still on, and we're still showing up. Your music opens our hearts. Please, keep singing.

[@deirdredonovan4571]

Wow, that was awesome! What a guy, and what a musician!!

[@stress10100]

Chris is very stimulating to me as a 69 year old guitarist and vocalist. Mostly influenced in Dylan, Lennon, Paul Simon and Neil Young, Chris has helped to broaden my scope - in appreciation for lyric and open tuning, as well as fingerpicking. I have added No Love Today to my repertoire! This EP is great, and gives you his breath and fondness for sharing the craft.

[@kentowens2179]

Great guitarist, great performer, great songwriter! Glad to discover Chris! How'd I miss him for so long? Love the tone of the guitar.

[@tonihendrix6211]

Have listened to him for years, love him and agree with comments he needs to be better recognized. OK movie directors...let's get Chris some songs on the big screen - I know I play a movie in my head when I hear his songs

[@kip4966]

absolutely. Aside from being a ridiculously good guitar player, his lyrics are epic and timeless

[@Scotsgrey13]

I was late to the party, not having heard this song until 2015. Great song and performer!

[@nosowisewoman]

i never tire of hearing his singing and guitar-playing. i'm so glad i've been able to see him on stage more than once, too..

[@hoatattis7283]

wHAT A GUITARIST ONE OF THE BEST

[@lesleymoore1699]

I bought your first record when you were still playing on Charles Street in Boston - The Turk's Head - the Loft - still sounding really GREAT, Chris.

[@awbyh626]

Love Chris Smither.

[@fossworking]

You needed me and a few other admires in your audience. It would have made a difference my Friend. Thanks Chris.

[@sayeed_hasan]

In 2006 I got to know Chris Smither's music just by chance. And I know I will never forget the man and his versatile talent.

[@demiayres8813]

used to listen to him at Jack's on Mass Ave and Club 47 in Cambridge - his sound has just gotten better and better

[@AcousticMecca]

Great ...Just Great !!!

[@guydesrochers7699]

Alan Pat, unfortunately the real gems in music are often relegated to obscurity while mediocrity gets the limelight. Chris Smither and Ralph Towner are perfect examples of virtuosos of their craft that do not get the recognition they deserve.

[@alandavies987]

Cannot fault your every word. How true it is. However, doesn't this happen in all walks of life; particularly the arts, be they music, painting or literature? Think of Van Gogh, and how he died in abject poverty, though his works are now some of the most expensive in the world. Music is no exception. There is more talent busking out on the streets than filling fesivals or concert halls. I have no answer to it all.

[@Teddyb1939]

Chris is just brilliant,

[@dhsumana407]

Many thanks Bill for this offering and of course Chris

[@bigbyhastings]

Wonderful! ❤

[@michaeladdiego7786]

57 and heard of him until last night on PBS.

[@ronj9448]

+Michael Addiego Interesting how we find artists that are not in the general media. I was introduced to him from Homespun Tapes which sold two DVDs of him teaching how to play his songs on guitar.

[@LeeMitchellAcoustic]

Magnifico!!!

[@ludicrousspeed2824]

I've seen Chris play he is outstanding and a real person that luckly never was hollywooded he would have been dead years ago.

[@nashvegasnow]

Alcoholic or nonalcoholic Chris is a voice Alcoholic or nonalcoholic Chris is a master at a certain style of fretmanship he has made his own that i cant do Chris, no matter when i choose to hear, listen, to him and his music and lyrical irishmanship Blows my mind and is one of my Rides Children, Chis is all this Bruce Cockburn wrote once I have this thing I must give you today It only lives when you give it away Chris is that Thank you Chris

[@davidgoldin5759]

Chris was fortunate in that he had a great father and mom.

[@Musixland]

I love this man

[@BlakeNix]

So good.

[@formercanadiancitizen4756]

Love your music Chris, can’t believe I just discovered you a few months back

[@mertozelmusic]

Such a soulful singer, guitar virtuoso, great songwriter

[@shakespearouac]

oh yeah. i've known him over 30 years as a fan and a lick-stealer, but in my own aging i've found that what was the magnet all along was what is shown here, in this best-ever soul-showing session. i'm very grateful for your upload.

[@Umbrial333]

Thumbs up!

[@knip80]

enjoyed that...thanks

[@bernarddover1442]

Class

[@accelerateddragon]

I wonder if he remembers me stalking him at Dogwood Center in Fremont MI 20 yrs ago. LOL, He was all like, "hey, how did you get back here?" I really just wanted an autogragh but neither of us had anything to write with, so I invited him to jam with us after the show.... he never showed, lol

[@zachsmither8377]

from a smither glad to see a smither doing something awesome

[@leonarda6529able]

Seen Chris in Brookfield ! What a musician & talent

[@BaktaBak3]

As a fellow musician...... enjoyed this very much. Thanks for posting. :-)

[@Gwyhir]

Excellent :-)

[@jonathans.1448]

Chris is coming to the 2018 Newport folk Festival sharing the little Museum Stage with Matt the Electrician. Although I'll have to pass up on hearing the talented Jenny Lewis or Colter Wall, who are performing on other stages at the same time, I'm gonna be sure to hear the national treasure Chris Smither.

[@graemejohnston5118]

Saw him in Houston Texas then again in Aberdeen Scotland at The Lemon Tree. Introduced my Scottish friends to him and got a signed CD which is now a treasured possession.

[@brianholly8654]

Just fantastic. Please tell me Philly is on the list for another visit soon!

[@denissmith5800]

Hope he"s back in Australia soon!

[@twoyoots8417]

"Shillin' for the blues..."

[@ellendsoderstrom8509]

Pleasedtomeetyou,I'M SMITTEN.

[@WhiskerWhippers]

There’s just one destination you better be on time…

[@ZYX84]

December 1, 2021, SOS do you copy I need you to come and get me… I want to come home now, I’m tired!

[@adanacman666]

is there no justice in this world???why is this artist so unknown,its just SO wrong!!!!!

[@pennesandbeck7973]

The sling on his thumb---I've never seen that before. Is it arthritis-related?

[@mijlaid]

It is a white plastic thumb pick. Used a lot in blues, bluegrass, country and folk. If you look carefully his also using two chrome finger picks.

[@jonolver7014]

on his left hand he puts that brace on late in the show - I'm totally guessing that's one of those things we old folk use for support as our bodies break down before our spirit does. likely its tendonitis

[@deecanuck5514]

Well. If you don't have a crush on Chris Smither, I'm not even sure that I can help you. 😂

[@gryphonprojects]

What brand of guitar is he playing?

[@jaredsteele8506]

Collings

[@francisx.rosica2152]

Great music with the exception to the silly Trump adds interrupting his amazing performance

[@TR-if7yr]

OK Chris, born in 44 so actually its 21 left to go. I'm not sayin you must change the song's lyrics. Just sayin 21 left to go! You can do it.

[@donnacasey4255]

Um, it's SHILLING for the Blues, not Chilling.

[@perryscott2983]

Grammarly is propaganda.

[@perryscott2983]

Grammarly is annoying propaganda,