Rock & Roll Meets Bluegrass & Bob Dylan. You Ain't Goin Nowhere. The Byrds & Earl Scruggs Circa 1971

I am very proud of this clip taken from the feature length documentary that I made with Earl Scruggs and his sons Randy and Gary with musicians including Doc Watson, Bill Monroe, The Byrds, Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and others.
The Byrds were an American rock band formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1964. The original lineup consisted of Roger McGuinn on lead guitar and vocals, Gene Clark on tambourine and vocals, David Crosby on rhythm guitar and vocals, Chris Hillman (visible in my clip) on bass and Michael Clarke on drums. The Byrds' sound was a distinctive blend of folk, rock, and psychedelic influences, characterized by their signature 12-string Rickenbacker guitar, intricate vocal harmonies, and creative experimentation.
The Byrds first gained commercial success with their debut single "Mr. Tambourine Man," a cover of Bob Dylan's song, which topped the charts in 1965. This song, along with subsequent hits such as "Turn! Turn! Turn!" and "Eight Miles High," helped define the folk-rock genre and made the band a hit.
The Byrds had a unique sound:. Their fusion of folk, rock and psychedelic music set them apart from their contemporaries .
They had powerfully written songs. They wrote original material like "I'll Feel a Whole Lot Better" and "Chestnut Mare”.
The Byrds distinctive three-part harmonies added a layer of depth and complexity to their sound that set them apart from other rock bands at the time.
The Byrds' association with the growing counterculture movement of the 1960s helped them gain a devoted fan base and contributed to their overall popularity.
Earl Scruggs, the renowned banjo player and bluegrass pioneer, began exploring collaborations with musicians from other genres in the late 1960s and early 1970s, primarily to broaden his musical horizons and reach new audiences. His interest in working with artists like The Byrds, Bob Dylan, and Joan Baez came from a desire to experiment with different musical styles and find common ground between bluegrass and contemporary popular music. This was a bold move for Scruggs, who was known for his traditional bluegrass roots.
The result of Scruggs' quest to collaborate with these artists was my 90 minute primetime television documentary "Earl Scruggs: His Family and Friends," which aired in 1972. It showcased Earl Scruggs playing banjo with well-known musicians such as The Byrds, Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Doc Watson and others. Here is the link: • Earl Scruggs Made This...
In my documentary, The Byrds and Earl Scruggs performed a version of the traditional song "You Ain't Going Nowhere," which had been popularized by The Byrds on their 1968 album "Sweetheart of the Rodeo." The collaboration between The Byrds and Earl Scruggs showcased a unique blend of their rock and bluegrass influences, further demonstrating the band's versatility and willingness to explore different genres of music
These collaborations were significant for several reasons:
They introduced Earl Scruggs to new audiences who might not have been familiar with his work in bluegrass, increasing his popularity and expanding his fan base.
They demonstrated the potential for cross-genre collaborations, proving that musicians from different backgrounds and styles could come together to create unique and exciting music.
The collaborations helped to bridge the gap between traditional roots music and the contemporary sounds of the era, further blurring the lines between genres and showing that music could be a unifying force.
They inspired future generations of musicians to explore collaborations outside their respective genres, paving the way for countless cross-genre collaborations in the years to come.
I would like to acknowledge the advertisers who by placing their ads on this video, help support my effort continue to present clips from my films to my subscribers and others. They include The Bob Dylan Center and the Halcyon Gallery Bob Dylan.
David Hoffman Filmmaker

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Here is the complete film with so many musical icons - kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZ3RlqR5ZdKJqc0

[@lordeagle100]

Good evening to you Sir. Has anyone done an in depth interview with you??. You seem to have had a bit of a storied life!!! Just wondering. Thank you for your content✌️

[@joelhenderson5404]

David thank you very much. I new Earl I've been involved and played bluegrass all my life. Earl was a good and genuine man and he didn't like people being ugly to other people I'm not surprised he didn't like the way you were treated that's Earl. Loved him dearly!

[@Rashmon]

Thank you for this incredible piece of living history.

[@flyoverkid55]

Thanks so much for allowing us [ boomers ] a look back at a moment in time when we believed music could change the world.

[@davidskirk7355]

these are profound insights into the past that are so important, thank you!

[@graciescott8034]

Sounds like Earl's attitude was one of quiet dignity...could use more of that today.

[@songwriteramericanfree1957]

This Video MADE MY DAY GREAT AGAIN 😂

[@mikemaxwell1801]

Dignity don't get Instagram likes bro.

[@okcantbelieveit294]

For Paws . You forgot commonsense. It got up and went a long time ago.

[@Rick_Cleland]

Kids have no respect!

[@geraldobrien7323]

Country stars, at least at that time, knew where they came from, and were more down-to-Earth. Rock stars, on the other hand, thought they were God’s gift to humanity.

[@stumped1013]

Crazy how Clarence White's name isn't mentioned in the description or video... Dude is one of the most influential bluegrass guitar pickers ever, died young with limited video footage. Was shocked to see him be in this video yet not be mentioned anywhere.

[@MetalGuru965]

So few people really know about Clarence White. He would have taken his place with the greats had he lived. It was cool to see him playing that B bender Tele.

[@warrenbutterfield4208]

It is amazing how “the white Jimi Hendrix” (Clarence) Gets overlooked a bit in this video’s intro. In the early description I didn’t hear anything about him but recognized him immediately and his terrific skills. He’s certainly an influence on a lot of people who will never come near his level of talent and expression. I believe he was kind of a quiet guy and didn’t draw attention to himself. However Roger McGuinn said after Clarence joined the band all these young guys would come to the shows and lineup over on the side where Clarence was playing… Much like the rest of us all trying to figure out how he was getting those wild notes flying off in different directions at once. He was a pioneer with the B-bender. Jimmy page had one too at least for the first Zepplin album On his Dragon telecaster. The device would react with his second hi string… The ‘B’ When he would push down on the body of the telecaster and it’s strap while playing . It was a mechanical device routed into the guitar to put a defferential stretch on the string…..somewhat like a whammy bar on a pedal steel. You bend notes with your fingers one way the device bends the string another or on its own when open. Little practice and you can do some dramatic beautiful effects with it. ‘Chestnut Mare’ is a good example. If you dig up the Nashville West album by the band of the same name you can hear Clarence early on and get a really good read of where he was going to go with his licks. That’s a terrific record to listen to if you can find it it’s been re-issued. McGuinn seems a little out of it in this video and then you hear maybe the reason why toward the video’s end. I’m sure he has this on his regrets list. He’s not a nasty person but the chemicals were in abundance back then… Just like today… Absolutely to no one’s advantage. I’ll leave it at that. Meanwhile Marty Stuart Now owns the actual telecaster that Clarence had. It was purchased from his wife and estate. For the record Marty Stuart has put it to good use with his extraordinary band and this is a great instance of a legacy instrument falling into the right hands for once. Marty uses it with great respect in his shows and has some flat out tributes to Clarence with it. Get off your butt and go see him if you can.

[@nilsdesperandum]

@@warrenbutterfield4208 I've called my white telecaster Clarence...

[@JWF99]

@@warrenbutterfield4208 Hi Warren, hey "thanks" for sharing the info. I really appreciated learning every bit of that! 👍✌

[@hbwhitmore878]

Also a very early use of the Gene Parsons invented B bender by Clarence

[@erichart2093]

Earl was not only incredibly kind but also brave. He was one of the only bluegrass musicians to speak out against the Vietnam War.

[@jeffharrison1277]

That's exactly right,Eric Hart.Alot of folks today probably don't remember that.That damn war sucked.

[@privatedetective6516]

God Bless him for that.

[@JDCUSA]

@Eric Hart Well, I won’t hold that against him.

[@truddy3971]

jetpowercom Just like president trump!

[@bobbywoods684]

@jetpowercom Wonderful. Did you accomplish anything real in your life besides registering decent? You're extremely left then and now displayed by your sly anti-trump reference and anti-trump subscription.

[@topixfromthetropix1674]

I worked for a sound company in Atlanta and worked with Lester and Earl about 6 or 7 times over a ten year period. Aside from being exceptional gentlemen, they had an amazing ability to remember names of people they had previously worked with. A class act- NO DOUBT.

[@jiveturkey9993]

"If you were a soul he was going to be a soul right alongside you" That was beautifully put.

[@chrispaul7849]

Exactly, what a class act, earl ... typical spoiled punk/pot head musicians! great video and anecdote.

[@jiveturkey9993]

@@chrispaul7849 they definitely didn't have the maturity and wisdom to live up to their proclaimed philosophy. Not many young people do to be fair to them, however I bet you most of them still don't live up to their philosophy and they're all in their seventies now.

[@5critters]

Yep, I used to be a longhaired hippie type myself, and met so many in that scene who outwardly were into proclaiming the peace - love - equality - working toward utopia idea. But underneath it all, once you really got to know them, they just turned out to be self-centered jerks, no better than anybody else. Fakes, hypocrites, and actors in other words.

[@hivuhomes]

But if you were an ass-soul he would pack up and leave.

[@NavvyMom]

@@hivuhomes LOVED that comment!

[@JacquesJakeFrechette]

I think the Sons singing was just fine

[@petperthecommenter3364]

actually I thought it was better then rogers

[@scottmclennan6114]

I agree. I think he sounded great.

[@bradcarroll3719]

For sure! It even complemented Rogers soft, low, rhythm type voice very well. It was probably the fact that it took some of the limelight off of himself for a bit that bothered him.

[@kingarthurup]

An issue of differing styles.

[@younglock5499]

I thought he sounded like Neil Young.

[@mtom2237]

I met Earl Scruggs as a ten year old bluegrass fan. He was a fine Southern gentleman with grace and dignity. He was with his sons at the Fillmore West. The generational difference is amazing. These Sixties rebels thought they were so cool throwing off decorum. The truth is they were arrogant and selfish fools. Utah Phillips said great talents no excuse for bad manners. Class act Earl Scruggs. Thank you for this piece of history.

[@davidwilliamsphoto]

I have a feeling that one of the reasons that McGuinn never got anywhere with Sweetheart of the Rodeo was his attitude. This kind of behavior. Only a couple of months after this Earl Scruggs was so impressed by another group of young hippies wanting to connect in Nashville that he introduced them around. That is how the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, a bunch of long haired hippies from the West ended up recording with Doc Watson, Merle Travis, Mother Maybelle Carter, Roy Acuff, and so many more. Without Earl's help that album never happened. Makes you wonder what would have been the fate of the Byrds if they had been a little more humble.

[@f5mando]

@@beaksofeagles Let's also remember Clarence White.

[@larrylevy3962]

One of the great albums: Will the Circle Be UnBroken. Still have my LP.

[@davidwilliamsphoto]

@@larrylevy3962 I have the first Circle album on cassette, vinyl, and CD. My very first CD was the Circle 2 record. So much great music.

[@timhitt9541]

@@larrylevy3962 so they did an entire album together?

[@mickknight6963]

Very possibly the best bluegrass recording ever made, too....."Will The Circle Be Unbroken Vol 1" None better. Have listened to it since its release and it just gets better!

[@Paul_Wetor]

My best friend in the 1970s was a Bob Dylan fanatic, so we drove 30 miles to see this movie because Dylan was in it. We were disappointed that Dylan was there and gone right after the movie started. But I loved the movie because it introduced me to bluegrass music, and I later bought the soundtrack. It is chock full of great music by legendary performers. Thank you, David Hoffman!

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you Paul. We went a long way to film Bob and he sang a song and then just stopped. He was very difficult to work with. No surprise to you I'm sure. Davidoff Mike

[@dianwilson4840]

@@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker I thought the mention of Dylan in the title was because he wrote this song, not because he was in the video. I'm sorry the youngster "stars" were rude to you

[@Kelnx]

I got my love for the music from my family. Grandpa used to play sometimes with Bill Monroe and at times Lester and Earl when they all made it into that area of the country. Became a family thing at some point. But I got heavy into punk as a kid between the 80s and 90s and it took me a while to work back to bluegrass and picking up the banjo and haven't put it down since.

[@stratplayr6997]

Great video - interesting note that the Telecaster that Clarence White is playing here is now owned by Marty Stuart - it's his #1 electric guitar. Earl Scruggs' grandson Chris is the current bass player in Marty Stuart's band, The Fabulous Superlatives. Cool how these connections go back many years.

[@firdausHITMAN]

seeing them all sing the chorus to you aint going no where is a thing of beauty. thank you David for bringing it to us. eternally grateful buddy

[@georgescarlett2320]

One of the greatest moments of my young life was after seeing my first concert at age 10. Yup, Lester Flatt, Earl Scruggs, and the Foggy Mt. Boys at Jack Witchi's Sportatorium in N. Attleboro Mass. Woooie, what a show! After the crowd had filed out, I was still mesmerized in my seat when a stage hand called out to me, "hey kid, ya wanna meet Earl"? So, naturally I replied, "Earl who"? Then it dawned on me, and I shouted out "You Bet mister". He took me backstage to a dressing room where Earl was showing a young man some Banjo lics. I was seated right in the middle of those Mastertone banjo heads, where I proceeded to enjoy 'Heaven on earth'!!! After about 20 min. or so, a big white hat poked through the door, and under it was Lester Flatt himself! He asked Earl if he was going to the after show party whereupon Earl replied "No Lester, you know I'm not much for that kinda thing", Lester just said "I know Earl, I just had to ask". That was the gentleman he was. By the way, I couldn't help but notice that Earl's hands shook like a leaf until they touched the Banjo. I guess they were so anxious, and full of energy that they just couldn't help it? What a precious memory. Gb g

[@user-fn8xz6ke9z]

Lucky you. I'm from Northampton and have seen some good bluegrass band but never great Earl Scruggs

[@kylegriffin7872]

Damn, it's good to hear Earl was so kind. True mountain music from an honorable mountain man. Keep it going brother

[@jgfreer8322]

Earl Scruggs .. a gentle, gentleman - class and pure talent. I’m glad he had your back

[@banjosforbreakfast6086]

Not mentioned in the commentary is the great guitarist, Clarence White! At the opening, Clarence is playing Doc Watson’s guitar part to “Nothing to It” from the album, “strictly instrumental“ by Doc Watson, Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs. Then Clarence switched to his famous fender telecaster (now played and loved by Marty Stuart) for “you ain’t going nowhere”. Clarence was the father of Southern Rock and the contemporary bluegrass guitar style we associate with Tony Rice. Clarence’s brother, Roland, at this time, was playing mandolin for Earl’s ex partner, Lester Flatt. It makes me sad that Roger tainted the session so that Earl decided to end it. Just think of the music between the two great masters, Clarence White and Earl Scruggs, that might have been. Thank you for your work as a young man documenting this incredible meeting, and for sharing it with us on KZbin. What a treasure!

[@JanJohanssonmusic]

Great comments, Banjo for Breakfast...

[@lydiaanderson3462]

@Hello Banjos how are you doing

[@j.goebbels2134]

OMG, I don't know how you leave out of the introduction Clarence White, one of the greatest innovators of bluegrass flat top picking (turned rock guitarist for the Byrds) in the history of forever. This music has his signature syncopation style all over it.

[@blaisemacpherson7637]

Wasn't he the guy who rigged up the first b bender

[@j.goebbels2134]

@@blaisemacpherson7637 Yup

[@curbmassa]

@@blaisemacpherson7637 I think it was his idea but it was Gene Parsons who built it for him. `54 Telecaster.

[@broncobrian2344]

@@blaisemacpherson7637Yes the Byrds drummer Gene Parson’s dad was a machinist. Gene did the modifications at the shop. Marty Stuart now owns that B bender. They did a Sweetheart of the rodeo tour a few years back. I saw them in Austin. You can find it on KZbin

[@blaisemacpherson7637]

@@broncobrian2344 90s country owes him a great debt and doesn't even know it.

[@smilingdog2219]

With respect to everyone who was part of this jam, keep in mind this is Davids memories. The point is that there was a collaboration in trying different instruments and styles. Very cool video David and thank you for holding onto to it and sharing it.

[@michaelalbro6856]

A man and his camera, he sure preserved a lot of history.., thank you David!

[@paulg444]

you know, thinking about it, this does not surprise me. Young guys become rock stars, they are not grounding in the basics of human decency and they get arrogant and full of themselves. It was more the rule than the exception. The blue grass guys could really play, very talented but most of them, since they really saw very little commercial success, kept themselves grounded in reality. Scruggs had made it big time, but he was that rare soul that could see things clearly. We love you David Hoffman, your life has made a huge difference through all of these videos and the stories behind them.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you Paul. David Hoffman - filmmaker

[@fernforwood3989]

Paul G You’re making a lot of assumptions based on one guys second hand story about what happened on a day fifty years ago?

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

@@fernforwood3989 Fern: I am a bit confused by your comment. My story is not second-hand. I was there. It's first-hand. David Hoffman - filmmaker

[@fernforwood3989]

David Hoffman I was talking about Paul. He only heard what you said. I have to say, for something that happened so long ago, I can’t understand why you would bring it up in public & trash the guy now. My interpretation is that you wanted to point out what a class act Scruggs was, not trash Roger McGuinn. But so many of the comments on here are about trashing McGuinn & many others-just general meanness & spite. It’s been over & done with for a long time. Why not leave it be? Some might call this gossip.

[@MarlonDeanMcQueen]

I know for sure that Clarence White was a humble, sincere man.

[@chuckw6370]

that was one of the most eloquent & satisfying AND DESERVED "F U 's" delivered 40 years later , I've ever seen. 🖐💌to you and Earl

[@petersinger9049]

I'm most impressed of all by David Hoffman's commentary, like a gateway to a whole new world.

[@lydiaanderson3462]

@Hello Peter how are you doing

[@dendijohn]

You can hear everything! It is an EXCELLENT example of recording live acoustic string instruments. The wonderful sweet tone of the instruments and the clarity of the mix blows me away.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you. And we only used a single microphone.

[@williamworrell178]

True. A very strong point about what makes this a gem.

[@randomdestructn]

@@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker I think you're misremembering. There are at least four microphones visible in the recording.

[@bernie4268]

I think this is Almost the best version of this track EVER though the Byrds original off “Sweetheart” is pretty flawless. Thank you Lord for music. It gives us hope in troubled times.

[@SR-jd6qe]

What a legacy they left us. Clarence White and Earl Scruggs.

[@dpatrick5164]

It's called Southern Hospitality. You don't ever mistreat a guest. It doesn't matter if he's a pauper or a king. He's got a seat at the table like everybody else.

[@msh6865]

@Roger Edgerton nothing"make believe" about it. If you aren't from the South, you wouldn't understand.

[@Bluebelle51]

@@msh6865 bless his heart

[@msh6865]

@@RedPillSurvival you must have confused the south side of Chicago with the real South. Again, if you aren't from the South you just wouldn't understand.

[@Bluebelle51]

@@RedPillSurvival I never had that trouble

[@msh6865]

@@RedPillSurvival I was born in the south, lived here all my life and wouldn't live anywhere else. Everytime I find myself north of the Ohio River I'm counting the days till I can get home. Where people are friendly and generous, they aren't triggered by every little thing they perceive as a injustice, and common sense is still plentiful.

[@SSHitMan]

Roger was probably just having a bad day. I first saw him play in late 1995 or early 1996, it was a great show. I sent him an email saying how much I liked it (the email address was on his web site) that same night and he actually wrote me back, which I didn't expect at all! And he certainly appreciated the opportunity to play with Earl Scruggs, he's an alumni of the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago and still supports it to this very day. I'm sure Roger regrets how he treated you that day, maybe he'll see this clip and reach out.

[@petesacco3255]

There is no excuse for being rude to a legend like Earl Scruggs

[@timhitt9541]

@@petesacco3255 I dont think he was rude to Earl only the director

[@robertlagan8441]

@@timhitt9541 correct

[@SSHitMan]

@Mr. Vigilante Roger McGuinn of The Byrds.

[@JoeKoOhNo]

I think Roger first learned how to play a banjo and then learned guitar.

[@marktomlin5484]

Just unbelievable the talent . Scruggs was such a gentlemen. A southerner.

[@cockeyedoptimista]

Old school.

[@tablature6121]

Have seen the whole movie, Dave, and would highly recommend to anyone interested in the music of that time. Very well done. Your comments about Earl really reinforce my long held opinions of the man -- a true gentleman in every respect, on stage and off. His consideration for his fellow musicians is reflected in his banjo book, where he emphasizes the need for the aspiring banjo picker to always play so as to compliment the other musicians' playing, not compete with it. His stage presence, which he was innately aware of despite no formal training, and his playing reflected that, as well. A most uncommonly generous, humble, and extraordinarily talented man. Thanks for this.

[@bricaaron3978]

*"...where he emphasizes the need for the aspiring banjo picker to always play so as to compliment the other musicians' playing, not compete with it."* I have always understood that this is true for every instrument in a band, including vocals. Great music comes of collaboration, not competition.** ** This is between _band members,_ not between bands.

[@tablature6121]

@@bricaaron3978 True, but a banjo picker most especially needs to be mindful of that fact. The reason is because the inherently loud volume of the banjo can easily overpower that of other instruments, especially in an acoustic string band setting such as in bluegrass bands. That's the reason Earl put great emphasis on it. He also said not to play note for note what others play or sing when it's "their break." Play something complimentary to their break instead, if you play anything at all. He made it analogous to 2 people telling the same story: if they both say the same thing it adds nothing to the story. BUT, if both add their own unique contributions to the story, it makes it all the more interesting.

[@bricaaron3978]

@@tablature6121 You're being more specific. I've never even tried to play a banjo, but what you say makes sense. In other words, what the banjoist strives to do is the opposite of what the bassist and drummer together strive to do.

[@tablature6121]

@@bricaaron3978 You make a great point. While there is usually no drummer in a bluegrass band (yes there have been some, even with Earl when he split with F&S and played with his sons in The Earl Scruggs Revue, and even Raymond Fairchild and the Osborne Brothers, et al.), but it is ALWAYS the bassist who sets the timing and maintains it consistently in a bluegrass band. And it is usually the banjoist, ironically so, that throws everybody's timing off. LOL But only if his playing is off time and loud. Better to play rather subdued than "loud and proud" -- what you're hearing in your head may not be what you think you're playing timing wise--better to listen to what others are playing and play along Played banjo for several years now (played 2 gigs today), and my advice to aspiring banjoists: you will only be "in the spotlight" playing lead about 5 or less percent of the time, the rest spent playing what's known as" backup," i.e., backing up other players when they're in the spotlight. Focus on backup as well as lead, and in that regard, focus on Earl--no one did it better or more tasteful. Thanks for pointing out the banjoist not being responsible for timing in a group setting (responsible for being out of time? OH YEAH!) -- been there, done that. LOL

[@carolhunt9825]

I have always loved Gary’s voice. It is such a unique and pure sound.

[@GodseyKnives]

Mr. Scruggs was proud of his sons you could see it in his face while they were playing.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

So true. David Hoffman - filmmaker

[@angusgale2522]

David Hoffman I actually thought Gary’s singing was fine. Maybe my ear is off.

[@1LOCKNLOAD]

@Angus Gale I thought it was fine too. Whether it was or not, he's young and trying to make it as Roger was at some point. At times you could see Roger cut his eyes toward Gary with what looked like total disdain. I hope Roger was stoned out of his mind, because that kind of treatment is uncalled for by anyone with a clear head.

[@drivinsouth651]

@@1LOCKNLOAD Strungout drug addicts are usually @$$#*!e$!

[@rickeybullington68]

Yes he was .

[@46reno]

Roger got shown up by Earl’s Son’s singing. I didn’t know he sang that well. I met him a couple of times but he always seemed shy.

[@timhitt9541]

was he ever in a band?

[@sunnieemerson6814]

I liked it on here too. didn't know he had 2 sons. I met randy once...was taken by his cuteness, 75. but I was shy then.

[@46reno]

@@sunnieemerson6814 Earl actually had 3 Sons. One died quite some time ago.

[@mardijohns]

@@46reno Tragic story.

[@mikebanks4935]

Earl was just country folk. I got to see him once, and that was a privilege.

[@lydiaanderson3462]

@Hello Mike how are you doing

[@chrisbarnes8867]

“Well Dave, Isn’t it about time for lunch”

[@burdettward8605]

I love that!

[@squareonere-run1583]

I saw just now that you quoted the same words as I. In saying as much, Earl showed what "cool" really is.

[@infiad1275]

I wonder where they actually went for lunch? So much good food in NC. Sorry, I'm hungry. :)

[@davidbresett2098]

Priceless.

[@user-fn8xz6ke9z]

catfish, pulled pork, sweet tea and Columbian Gold

[@maxwellfan55]

Well David the bottom line about all this that you DID manage to get these priceless recordings, however difficult, however intimidating it must have been on occasion. Sure, some folks are uneasy about a camera thrust at them and tragic so much has been missed on that account. But without your persistence and resolve we would never had known the magic of this and all the other great stuff you have recorded. Your praise of Earl Scruggs is spot on, a gentle guy from a humble background who shared his talent to bluegrassers and country players the world over. His very words and advice I pass on to banjo students today, which is....be yourself in music, create your own sound! Sincere thanks, and good job my friend.

[@tylerbrandon460]

Well said.

[@laurielanford1126]

thank you Dave!!

[@bradleyhacker7684]

I feel this would be a good place to add that if this was around 1971 then this would have been a very busy and aggravating time for Roger and his band. Three albums in a little over a year plus touring, honestly i don’t know what you expected

[@Shari225]

@@bradleyhacker7684 Courtesy, for one.

[@kenmicallefjazzvinylaudiop6455]

Great story. Thanks for filming it in spite of McQuinn.

[@banjoist123]

Still amazed that anybody ever got this on film. Thank you so much, David. This is what got me playing 40 years ago.

[@lydiaanderson3462]

@Hello Jim how are you doing

[@sweettina2]

My two favorite musical worlds just collided! Beautiful! Earl was a good man, known to my family, the salt of the earth. I'm so sorry you were mistreated, but, it's just like divine intervention sent one of their best to stand by you. That itself is as beautiful as the song. God bless you, Mr Hoffman, I love your videos.

[@dejoker3376]

I was around 4 years old when this was filmed but the really cool thing about this is that I know who Earl Scruggs and the Byrds are thanks to my parents.

[@rubensalazar9619]

I was only 6 myself. I remember very well in 1st grade the teacher would wheel in a T.V. and the class would watch the splash down and retrieval of Apollo astronauts. Those 3 gigantic orange and white stripe parachutes were the coolest thing to me.

[@va.syndicate2ndam862]

You can find literally anything on KZbin. Love this

[@lydiaanderson3462]

@Hello How are you doing

[@lordofthemound3890]

The more I hear and read about Earl Scruggs, the more impressed I am. We all know him as a giant of the banjo, but he was also a giant of a man.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

So true in my experience. David Hoffman filmmaker

[@kerrylattimore2684]

I liked how Earl was dressed so nice.

[@jennifersman7990]

Let’s not forget Clarence White

[@yolauskriff3144]

legend

[@jamiemcmunn4325]

exactly gone too young! Got to love that b bender! Marty Stuart owns that guitar now but you likely already know that!

[@patsutubehortchan]

Slightly before my time but well within my scope. What do I need to listen to to hear the essential Clarence White?

[@timhoovermusicman]

@@jamiemcmunn4325 yes I did know that and I heard Marty play it many times on his show and also last August 27th at the Oregon state fair when he toured with Steve Miller .

[@jamiemcmunn4325]

@@timhoovermusicman nice!

[@mahdesian]

Thank you for your insights and kind words about Earl Scruggs.

[@talon2pro]

The music is PURE American folk music, played by good folks!

[@TheMick26]

Hey David.🖐 I'm really loving these stories from behind the scenes. We all have the great fortune of you not only being there, back then, to record these true gems doing what they loved doing, but even more so, being here to tell us about it today. Thank you kindly for sharing your treasures with the world, otherwise they would just be beautiful moments lost in time.🙏 Much love and respect from North Carolina. Have a wonderful day, sir.

[@Turboy65]

This is a remarkable moment of pure musicianship, crossing gaps in ages, styles, and attitudes. Despite all the genres and all the different kinds of instruments in music, ultimately we share the same twelve notes. Amazing things happen when great musicians SHARE them.

[@brothersoffaithbluegrassgo598]

Earl was a true master!! I started playing banjo at 50 and I had no clue what I was getting into. I also appreciate Earl's focus on the boys, and his support for you as well. He deserves great credit for that. Thank you David for preserving these videos!!

[@JanJohanssonmusic]

Thanks, for having documented so many aspects of history during your career - your body of work is monumental and of highest importance for the understanding of our history. It breaks my heart that Clarence White - who was killed the following year at age 29 - was not mentioned in this clip. As usual, when it comes to the Byrds, Roger McGuinn is the one getting the most attention while the vastly superior musician, Clarence White, is totally ignored. He is one of the most influential guitarists we have ever seen both in bluegrass and country rock... CW is as legendary among Telecaster players as he is in Bluegrass music and although it's almost half a century since his death, his recordings continue to inspire a world-wide audience... Doc Watson and a teenaged Clarence had first met in the early 60's at the Ashgrove in LA. There are some recordings of the two from Newport Folk Festival 1964 on Doc Watson's Treasure Untold on the Vanguard label.

[@kathyflorcruz552]

What a fantastic story. Thank you, Mr. Hoffman. The music - brought tears to my eyes.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you Kathy. David Hoffman - filmmaker

[@michaela.660]

David Thanks, you salvaged a piece of history that otherwise would have been lost to the hills and your professionalism shows, even through having to deal with the ego and bias. Photography is catching a moment in time !

[@kupsingh]

Great footage, truly amazing musicians! Despite getting treated like crap by Roger McGuinn, you managed to capture a great musical moment.

[@timhitt9541]

but he thanks him at the end.

[@teddy292929]

Hearing how much of a kind man Earl was honestly makes me tear up. An amazing musician and an equally amazing man. I'm so thank full that you share these wonderful stories about each clip, it really adds a beautiful extra layer of context.

[@Mrsournotes]

Thanks for the video. Big Earl fan and Byrds too. I see one of my favorite flatpickers, Clarence White picking the electric.

[@jeloeb]

Thank you. Another fantastic clip from that great documentary on Earl Scruggs. You Ain’t Going Nowhere is a classic cut - and Clarence White is playing his b-bender guitar for that cool sound. Which reminds me - Clarence White!!! A master taken away from us way too soon. I love the first tune, Nothing To It, where we get to hear some great pickin’. Clarence is out of the shot for quite a bit but It sounds like he took one of the leads.

[@jysmtl]

The great Earl Scruggs had a lot of experience dealing with arrogant musicians from his time with that band from Kentucky.

[@lapdawg60]

"...that band from Kentucky." Love it

[@Oscoe63]

Correct - Bill Monroe would probably be considered the David Crosby of his day LOL, so Earl learned how to deal with that BS long before this jam session.

[@davidchase-lopes8413]

This a great clip. Part of that Byrds' line up features Clarence White, himself a bluegrass ace. Hé sadly passed away about two years later. Thank you for sharing ! Also wonderful to see Roger McGuinn playing his 12-string Rickenbacker 370.

[@granada025]

I would like to have seen Clarence get a shot at lead on this.

[@MrPhilfridge]

Clarence was posthumously elected to the Bluegrass Hall of Fame in 2016. He deserved that as much as anyone seen here.

[@laurencopenhaver5366]

Earl Scruggs 12 notes a second. Nuff said

[@AgentZ7]

A rare spectacle into histories seemingly lost moments.

[@ironseabeelost1140]

When I wish to see how we were at another time, Some will hate me for saying this, look at the Library of Congress. They've been sending knowledgeable people for over a hundred years record, photograph, interview the people of this land and us.

[@sdubon7800]

Hey Dave...thanks for sharing these priceless films with us! Wow. As another “survivor” of those days., it’s really great to take a backward look via your artistry. I’m glad to know Earl was the bigger man, truly grounded, a mensch, if you will. And recognized this in you. Peace & health to you.

[@gregoryhussey6477]

I think it was the Red Hot Chilli Peppers guitarist once said in an interview " It is foolish to mock the sincere"

[@DrTech-pw2cu]

Most folks from the Carolinas do not suffer fools or disrespect, that is true to this day, but even more so back in the 1970s.

[@sloppyjoe6243]

@The NIFB Jesus Wow, YOU are the one full of hate!

[@wesleyreaves3136]

@The NIFB Jesus I'm sorry your race card has been denied, do you have another form of argument Mr Atheist. 😒🙄

[@DrTech-pw2cu]

@The NIFB Jesus No, after that.

[@wesleyreaves3136]

@The NIFB Jesus That's all been settled, and glory to God it's all been corrected. Mans mishaps and mistakes cannot be blamed on God, unlike atheism, which is a rebellious choice and on judgement day every knee shall bow, and every tongue shall confess that Jesus is Lord, even yours.

[@ricmcusa]

@The NIFB Jesus All white people are racist according to you and you kind. Why dont you go ask the people that sold your ancestors these questions?

[@davidellis5141]

Nice footage. This has historical value. Great to 👀 generations cross , like this , Bowie & Bing & Elvis Costello with Burt Bacharach. A mutual respect & admiration. Awesome !

[@abidinginchrist3139]

Earl Scruggs was a brilliant & legendary picker but more importantly, he loved the Lord. What a lovely story & amazing footage! Thank you so much!

[@hni7458]

Thank you kindly dear Mr. Hoffman for uploading this historic piece of music, and indeed of kindness between individuals. Well done indeed!

[@Denisellen]

Wow, a special moment. Glad to hear about Earl Scruggs' support of you.

[@pamr4040]

I had the Earl Scruggs Revue album, "Live at Kansas State" when it came out, with this song included on it. I loved their version, along with all the other songs on that album. Earl and his boys were/are impressive instrumentalists as well as vocalists...🧡

[@lonewolf82007]

Wow! Incredible side story and recording! Nice job on that Dylan tune too!

[@joecurmaci5880]

I'm coming back to this video again I can't believe you've been and witness the things you have and had the intelligence to document when nobody ever thought of that God bless my friend I love your films

[@jimlambrick3248]

The had a musical demonstration on The Beverly Hillbillies with Flatt and Scruggs and it was amazing. Such musical agility.

[@jamestalley2838]

Those days and that type of talent we shall never see again.

[@rogerfarraghersr1884]

. . It's there; but, "it's just around the corner", if you can find it ?

[@jenniegem5338]

I love that story. I appreciate when people stick up for what is right !

[@Hive5Bees]

Thank you David - Mr Scruggs was a hero of mine and so thrilled to hear that his conduct was as excellent as his playing

[@LarryPerkins78]

Yes sir, Earl was a fine man indeed...never had a better friend than that one. Thanks so much for sharing this and all your fine work, Mr Hoffman

[@barry1705]

Thank you for your recording this. A great piece of music 🎶 history, for the listeners of the future.

[@jeniferjackson1454]

Thank you, David for capturing those songs and for your story about Earl Scruggs and his high standards as a human being! Love it.

[@CindyPurses]

Roger got a little too big for his britches. When I saw the Byrds at Middlesex County College in 1971, Clarence White, Skip Battin, and Gene Parsons came out and spoke with fans. I asked each one for their autograph and they were very gracious. But where was Roger McGuinn? He stayed in the locker room. I found him sitting on a bench between the lockers playing solitaire. He didn't come out to mingle with the others. After hearing how poorly he treated you, I think perhaps he felt he was too good to come out to chat with anyone and snubbed his fans. My brother and I especially enjoyed speaking with Clarence White. Clarence was very meticulous, yet never a snob. As talented as he is, he was very humble. You did a great job filming this video. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you so much for sharing it with all of us out here! Well done!!!

[@user-fn8xz6ke9z]

Being a musician myself I am unfortunately well-acquainted with the "musician attitude". Big egos ruin bands, and the Byrds were a classic example of this, especially regarding McGuinn and Crosby of the original lineup. While I respect the talents of such people and may even be a big fan of their music this attitude displays a general lack of gratitude toward their fan base. I believe as did one of my musical heroes Buck Owens, with his famous yet humble admission that "IT TAKES PEOPLE LIKE YOU TO MAKE PEOPLE LIKE ME", at the end of so many live performances. Afterall, those people buy your records and flock to your shows. It's a question of loyalty.

[@GenXstacker]

The story is twice as good as the music. I LOVE the Byrds, and I LOVE Bluegrass...but never the twain shall meet. Musically they just don't go together. The footage and story however are incredible. You captured two legendary musical forces, but also two generations that were polar opposites in many respects--the WW2 generation and the hippies/baby boomers that questioned everything.

[@amesadamson]

Wonderful film! Again! Earl is just an illumination of the joy of music!

[@Brockspapa]

Another fantastic short film. Loved it. Don't care for disrespect or rudeness either. I'm an old North Carolina boy.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you Bob for your comment. If your resources allow, I would sure appreciate your using the THANKS button under any of my videos including the one you have commented on. It is something new that KZbin is beta testing and would mean a great deal for my continuing efforts. David Hoffman filmmaker

[@therammusic]

Clarence White's intro is so sweet on the second song. Love that B-Bender. Pretty awesome commentary at the end.

[@lydiaanderson3462]

@Hello Ram how are you doing

[@MyNextShotWontMiss]

We're so lucky to have people like you, David, that captured this for us and to tell us the stories we wouldn't otherwise know.

[@MyNextShotWontMiss]

@@fancychannelname Wow you're so edgey

[@rundbaum]

makes me think of what the experience was like being there & i can hear the extension in their music . . .

[@artbrookey3341]

Roger McGuinn started young in life playing a banjo, bluegrass. He plays his 12 string Rickenbacker the same way, all 5 fingers picking..best 12 string artist out there

[@michaelmattichiii1595]

You left out very rude to David.

[@LindaCasey]

As an old hippie musician myself, I thoroughly enjoyed this jam session. Thank you very much.

[@timhitt9541]

Old hippies never die they just trip away...

[@passionforlust]

Earl was class and I can accept everything you said as truth. Thanks for capturing a wonderful moment in time. As for the Byrd's bad behavior, while their music may be very good, they themselves are lacking in way what you and Earl have so clearly, thanks again!

[@bennybartek1810]

Love the "rest of the story" knowledge. Too bad it ended like it did, but some folks are just negative. You gotta stay positive in a negative world or you'll go nuts trying to understand why some folks do what they do... To put it another way, you can only control your words and your actions, so do and say what you want to be remembered for...

[@Freedom69128]

Cool story...the Byrds were one the first groups I followed as a young person. Thanks for sharing...

[@boomer99kay]

I grew up and live now just a couple of miles from where Earl was born and raised. There is also the Earl Scruggs center in nearby Shelby NC. Lots of old memorabilia there. Thanks for sharing this historically important video.

[@stevenkoehler6018]

Wow-Such a great story. That’s great the way Earl stuck up for you. Really amazing what you accomplished as a filmmaker & cultural historian.

[@stevenkoehler6018]

Btw-I hope that McGuinn & Co. learned something from that experience

[@davidedgar2818]

This has a great meaning to me. I knew a sound tech that worked for the Byrds. I also have a great respect for Earl Scruggs too , he had music in his heart. It was felt by so many people.

[@RUNNOFT71]

I come back to this video about once a month. I just love the music these boys are making!

[@roomtempchillipepperspeppe112]

Earl Scruggs will always be one of my hero’s just for his sheer openness. He was always willing to be open to new ideas and bring bluegrass along with them. That’s a very admirable trait you don’t often see. Truly a great man that deserves every musician and listeners respect.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

So true. Thank you. David Hoffman filmmaker

[@davidedgar2818]

This is a priceless piece of music history, THANKS✨✨✨✨🌟

[@EddieWinebauer]

Another beautiful video with a beautiful sentiment at the end.

[@thomasromano9321]

A great melding of generations, folk rock and bluegrass melding, and it sounds GREAT!!

[@patearl4036]

What you had to say following the music was very point on. It speaks to differences between men and boys..Hmm? Bless you, David.....We have followed your work for a while now....you are truly and obviously, a man who loves what he does and you do it well. Earl's class and southern gentlemanly manners would never have allowed him to show anything but integrity and respect. Times they are a-changing Mr. Hoffman. I want to thank you as my family and I always search for and look forward to as well as enjoy your every video! They are sentimental and very interesting. We admire the deeper meaning....always. Much regards, Pat Earl and family....Ont.Canada.

[@josephanderson7237]

A very special documentary. Thanks for doing this. I’ve listened to the sound track of this documentary hundreds of times. Love it.

[@wiregrasstunes]

I’d say Clarence White was the glue that was holding these two groups together for the session. As someone said, he had way steep cred in bluegrass. What you hear in the clip is what you got when The Earl Scruggs Review toured the country around that time. Clarence is probably playing some of the hot licks on the first tune, and he’s got the B-Bender prototype guitar making those steel sounds on the second. Interestingly, Randy goes lick for lick with him on acoustic. Yay, Randy!

[@jkellywwip]

No doubt!!!! Where is his mention mcguinn not in same stratosphere

[@jkellywwip]

My opinion, earl was there not for Roger but because of clarence White

[@wiregrasstunes]

Clarence’s versatility allowed him to jump over a line and fit in with the Byrds. Who knows what Roger was up to. I seem to remember from those days that artificially using up your happiness left only the ups and downs of your actual personality to engage people. The Revue, to me, was Earl wanting to learn from his boys where new music would take them. It was in the environment of the Circle Album, where the generations met. At one point in the 70’s, if you had access to the Circle Album, you were alright.

[@ryancoke7409]

I didn't really notice that until you pointed it out. Those are some very fine bends he's doing on that acoustic. Who needs a B-bender when you can make that sound? Nice playing.

[@maksim_erin]

I absolutely love this video and the song it shows. I've stumbled across it about 10 years ago and it remains among my favorites. Earl's playing is what I love best of all: straight arpeggios without great speed yet so solid and sounding groovy.👍