Rory Gallagher *Guitarist/Vocalist* Underrated

[@chrismcdonagh688]

Number 1. Saw him live in 87, absolutely the best guitarist I've ever seen, and he took time to talk to fans and sign autographs after the gig.

[@johnianknox1629]

I have seen The Eagles, The Stones, Deep Purple, Eric Clapton, Nazareth, Bad Company to name just a few over the years, people ask me what was the best concert I had attended, easy, RORY GALLAGHER 1976 Glasgow Apollo, absolutely mesmerising.

[@anyoldorion]

Same.. Liverpool in the 70’s..Amazing gigs

[@vincentboyce107]

I was at that very same gig and I totally agree with

[@markschnittman1137]

I was lucky enough to have seen him in the mid eightites. He was incredible -- a force of nature. I was dead center, front row. After the show, we hung around the stage exit door, hoping to get a glimpse of him as he was leaving. He stopped and talked with us for close to 15 minutes, signing autographs and just hanging out like a regular guy. I'll never forget that show, and I've seen hundreds. He was the real deal.

[@larrywatson9059]

Rory was a singer, musician, songwriter, producer and the best there is,was and will be.

[@clouddog2393]

Saw Rory many times during the '70's . The man was a virtuoso guitarist , a good singer and a great showman who always put 100% into he's performances . Also the complete opposite of the stereotype Rock star . Self effacing and humble and all round decent bloke . He along with Hendrix is my all time favourite guitarist , a musician who should be remembered as a great bluesman .

[@petervandervlies6427]

Right on, cheers 👍👊😁

[@leinbachman9688]

Me, too . Rory was the greatest I ever saw.

[@jeromefoltz9291]

I was lucky enough to seen him in a small hall in York Pa, one of the best concerts I ever saw, I was fan from then on

[@kathyodomirok510]

Tory was the greatest rest in peace brother you still alive in our hearts we loved you still do

[@patrickbrowning7755]

Saw him in Dayton, Ohio at Hara Arena. Actually saw him at least twice between 73-79. He was EVERY thing you could pray for in a guitar player. Sing his ass off, play slide, acoustic, and a great band. What a talent!!!!

[@MrPearceFlannery]

Rory was peerless.. Nobody even came close. Legend!

Amén.

[@RCHeath]

Except Danny Gatton.

[@jmxssb]

I believe that SRV is also a legend

@@jmxssb I agree too.

[@bbb8997]

​@@jmxssbone trick pony is exactly what vaughan is all about

[@brettgarsed]

Rory rates #1 in my book. By far, as great a singer as he was guitarist/songwriter/performer/bandleader. I've been a fan since 1976 after seeing him on The Old Grey Whistle Test and it changed my life. RIP the great Rory Gallagher.

[@walkonhotcoals1277]

I’ve seen them all. The best showman I’ve ever seen is Freddie Mercury. The best guitarist I’ve ever seen is Rory. I saw him on the up and on the down about 10 times. It didn’t matter if he was playing to thousands or hundreds he blessed the music not himself. He was special. I remember touching his guitar during a performance and then him seeing me reach for my girlfriends hand he stayed there long enough so I could guide her hand to touch it to. Me and my now wife talk about it to this day. That was the last time I saw him. He was the GOAT.

[@arturocroce7742]

anybody who grew up in the late 1960's and the 70's knows that Rory was famous, and had the best live show. he did it his way.

[@barbwatkins3676]

My absolute privilege to see Rory live in Australia in 1975 and 1980. Two of the best concerts I've ever seen. Dynamic, peerless - superb guitarist, harmonica player extraordinaire and brilliant vocalist. Just an all round amazing musician. Irish Tour is still my favourite album. Still greatly missed. His unique talent will never be equalled.

[@TheChrisheath7]

@@barbwatkins3676 Also a more than competent alto sax player, although I don't think he played it after Taste split.

[@ShaunStClair-nx3xy]

I attended one of Rory's concerts when he toured Australia back in 1980, and he was on fire! Dynamic and with a style of his own. I rate him in the top 10 and unfortunately, he doesn't receive the recognition which he deserves

[@vincentlussier8264]

I love Rory Gallagher more than any other blues rock player even Hendrix! He kicked your ass off the planet!

[@danwebb4418]

Rory, one of the only artist to continue to perform in Northern Ireland during the troubles back in the 70s. He was dedicated to his fans..Rory was not into the glam and glitter or the fame of rock n roll, his only love was for the music and for his batterd strat and his fans, he always had a healthy respect for other musicians. I attended a JJ Cale concert back in the 70s and Rory sat a couple of seats away from me, we met JJ Cale after the show and Rory also stayed to meet up with JJ , the conversation with JJ was mainly about his old Harmony guitar..I'm not sure if JJ knew who Rory was or knew his music, but it was a good meeting with two of the greats..A Million miles away, but your music still lives on. Rory Gallagher ,musician and gentleman rip..

[@RiverDocs]

Awesome story. Thanks for sharing!

[@seanoconghaile9546]

Yep. Ulster Hall early 70s,right in the middle of the war.

[@statesofmindtoday2160]

Yes and with his old VOX AC30 Amp sitting on 2 chairs behind him with a mic taking it through the PA system for extra oomph. I also remember the warmup band Anno Domini playing two encores with their Bo Diddly style songs. @@seanoconghaile9546

[@dougreed2257]

I'm sure jj cale wud know who he was,if not,that would be shocking,eric clapton may not have mentioned him to his friend jj? Because he'd have to.admit Rory was better than himself?just a thought🤔

[@redflamedragon9229]

I never heard of Rory until around 2 years ago. I live in Mississippi and the radio stations that I listened to in the 70's didn't play his music. I discovered Rory here on KZbin. I was blown away!! I wish I had discovered his music way before I did. I agree with you 100%, thanks for sharing!!

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome!

[@johnmagee810]

I walked into Cork city Hall Christmas 1974 aged 14 for my first ever rock concert. Rory Gallagher back in our home town. Almost 50 years later I will never forget the thrill of that night. It was electric in every sense. Rory live was simply unforgettable. That gig became a seminal part of the legendary Irish Tour ‘74 double album and Tony Palmer’s eponymous film. Arguments about who is the GOAT miss the point: it’s not just about technical wizardry - but about connecting with a live audience and creating artistic magic. And that was R. Gallagher - a great guitarist and a great artist.

[@foghornleghorn8651]

He would be rated #1 by a whole lot of us!

[@deanfackrell488]

He’s right up there with the best of them. Phenomenal guitarist and performer

[@mikephalen3162]

I was in the Army, stationed in Germany, when a barracks mate bought Rory Gallagher's "Against the Grain" LP at the base store. Being of Irish descent, I was automatically interested. After I listened to the entire album, Rory became one of my favorite artists. After the Army, I enrolled in college and worked part-time at a record store, where I found his Taste LPs and his first solo albums, plus the compilations "Sinner & Saint" and "The Story So Far." I saw Rory live only once, during the Fresh Evidence Tour, in a small club in Tempe, Arizona, with just a hundred people there. Got to shake the man's hand as he left the stage. My three favorite albums are "Rory Gallagher," "Deuce," and "Against the Grain."

[@KarenRauscher]

I fell in love with his music when I first heard "Irish Tour 74" in February of 1976. Then I picked up "Against the Grain" for my birthday in March. I got chills listening to his amazing, nearly impossible way of playing. But fell head over heals hearing him sing. What a voice! The soul that pours out of him just tears me up. I got to see him at the Santa Monica auditorium in 1976. I was somehow allowed to sit on the edge of the stage for a few songs without anyone bothering me. I was right in front of him, he was wearing his green Chuck Taylors (they looked just like them if they weren't) and a green and white trucker style cap of which he gave to me. I saw him 7 more times all over the place in California. I have been to dozens of concerts and though a few have gotten close, NO ONE put on a live show like him. I still feel a giant hole in my heart since he's been gone. I sincerely feel as if a piece of me died

[@martinjackson4783]

Beautiful piece, thanks. I was a fan from when I was a 16 year old hearing Blister on the Moon for the first time...was also getting into Blues and bought the first Taste album so hearing his take on the blues was eye opening too. Started seeing him live in1970 just before Taste split and then whenever he was in our town ( Birmingham , Uk) we would be there to enjoy every time like it was the first time. I guess we took it a little for granted and didn't really appreciate what we had been part of until he'd gone. My favourite period was the 4 piece years '72 to '78 , what a band that was ! Seen a fair few live acts in my 71 years , but no-one ever really came close close to Rory...still buying things like the Duece 50th anniversary issue and for live the fairly recent Check Shirt Wizard set is superb and listening still brings a tear to the eye now and then....

[@thomasmcculey7942]

I saw him at Chuy's on Mill St in Tempe in '89. Unforgettable!

[@garywells9478]

I never saw him either, much to my regret. Rory was an amazing guitar player. There's no one better.

[@heinztania9393]

Rory has always been an overwhelming hurricane onstage.Sweet Monster..... Incredible....Phenomenal.....

[@willemdefouw3605]

Thank you Sir for the homage of a great musician but most of all a great person. My last concert of Rory was in the Paradiso in Amsterdam. He was already In bad health. It was in 1995. My childhood was dominated by music from Rory. In my imagination I was the greatest fan🤣. First time I saw my hero was in the time the album photo finish was launched. My brother called me in the morning in 1995 to tell Rory died. I was very sad and stayed that for a long time. He was and is still my hero. I still see myself listening to the live in Europe and Irish tour album as loud as possible. Rory put me to guitar. He for always be my number 1. There is no one that had to much energy on stage. I’ve seen him 7 times in my life. Thanks for your great homage to a fine man a real star.❤If you want to listen to some of my music go to Soundcloud and look for Willem de Fouw. It’s a verity of music but also Rory influenced me in playing the guitar.

[@RiverDocs]

You're very welcome. Glad you enjoyed the video. I will check your music out!! Thanks for watching!

[@MalinkiMalinki]

I was PRIVILEGED to see Rory 8 times! It is ludicrous that Rory is not ranked higher in some Lists; easily a Top-Ten-Guitarist-of-all-time and absolutely my personal favourite! The thing I loved most about Rory is that he JUST PLAYED... He was such a consummate musician that he JUST PLAYED whatever was in his heart and head, so he never played the same song the same way twice; always improvising and innovating! His performances were always amazing; typically he would start strong, take an acoustic mini-break, and then power on even stronger. His energy just went up and up and up and his concerts always ended in encores. Rory's concerts were always jaw-droppingly amazing and awesome! My favourite tracks would be 'Tattoed Lady', 'Follow Me' and the poignant 'Walking Wounded' where he laterly was clearly in pain and, as always, let his music do the talking! Rory was also an under-rated lyricist as well as a stonking vocalist and musician. I love his Dashiel Hammett Detective-inspired body of work with 'Continental Op' being another favourite of mine! 👍🙂 An unusual memory of mine, but one which absolutely speaks of Rory THE MAN is when he performed on 9th December 1984 at a Charity 'Concert for Ethiopia' at the Usher Hall in Edinburgh, with Rory headlining the Gig. A number of different artists performed, including John Martyn. I watched in amazement at the end of the Concert as at the back of the stage an obviously drunk and aggressive John Martyn was trying to get onstage to play along with Rory and a bouncer was trying to stop him. At one point John Martyn took his guitar by the neck and was threatening to hit the bouncer with it... Rory however calmly saw what was going on and clearly motioned to the bouncer that it was OK and to just let him come onstage. The clearly 'Stage-Struck' (sic!😊) John Martyn was then as happy and gentle as a puppy and played with (his hero?) Rory and they sang into the same mic... Rory Gallagher; awesome Guitarist and obviously awesome person too! 👍🙂

[@jacquelinecarter2019]

He was my hero. I saw him live in Dundee, 1972. I was only 15 and ge blew my mind.❤❤❤

[@cherrypickerguitars]

For me, Rory, who’s a fellow countryman (prior to my emigration to Canada), is in the top 10 - probably top 5. I had the opportunity to see him twice (and I went! lol). I love the Irish tour live record, too, and I’m very fond of Deuce as well as Tattoo. I got into him in the early 70’s and he was one of my very first “favs”! He felt like my personal guitar god, as so few of my friends had ever even heard of him! Great posting! Peace

[@RiverDocs]

I rate him pretty high myself. Thanks for watching Cherry Picker!

[@Saffy-yr8vo]

Agree, talent will out and having lived thro the 70’s I’d place Rory first or second top ever. Clapton poor by comparison but Hendrix and Page up there too.

[@WisconsinWanderer]

I have to agree Rory was so good live sadly I did not have the opportunity to see him live “like some people “😉 Rory was a good dude didn’t have a big head like some and he played like it was his last gig! Thanks for your quality work.❤☮️

[@andrewbuchanan6130]

I was very fortunate to have attended two of his concerts when I was just out of high school . he has to be one of the most innovative and soulful guitar players I have ever listened to !

[@davefloyd9443]

As Jeff Beck said: "Regardless of anything else, Rory has us all on pure, unadulterated energy."

[@MoroccanMelody]

Rory had it all - searing guitar, brilliant lyrics and vocals. He was the greatest as well as a wonderful human being. Sorry I never saw him. Great video. ❤️

[@RiverDocs]

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@MrSheymie]

What a talent. Not just a rock and folk guy either. We grew up in his main home town of Cork, where he was rock royalty and one of us. Some of his quieter songs on his early albums are magical and sound liek they were inspired from somewhere beyond us. They are also recorded beautifully. Check out 'I fall apart' and 'I'm not awake yet'. His live peak was in my opinion Irish Tour 1974. His albums in late 70's are more rocky and are still great

[@oeokosko]

It was the "Live! In Europe" album that first got me into Rory Gallagher and I got in in a big way. My favourite albums are that one and his first three studio albums, the eponymously titled "Rory Gallagher", "Deuce" and "Blueprint". I first saw him live around the time of "Tattoo" in Liverpool and then a further couple of times in London Hammersmith and Manchester. I have every vinyl solo album up to the live "Stage Struck", a couple of Taste ones, the very early pre-Taste album and "The London Muddy Waters Sessions" and all the Taste CDs and solo CDs with original music plus several DVDs. I played the "Live! In Europe" record the other day and was surprised at how good condition it is in still considering I 'played it to death' when I was listening to vinyl. However, he was best live in the flesh so thank you KZbin for all these wonderful videos of his concerts.

[@fifteenstone]

I saw and met many Rory many times. A great and humble man. No ego. I named my only son after him.

[@elmolewis9123]

Saw Rory as the opening act for Fleetwood Mac (Welsh/Weston) and headliners, Deep Purple. In spite of him being the opener, I still remember being in awe of his performance. He was a major talent.

[@plantfeeder6677]

Saw the same lineup in Fresno. Rory blew us away so bad we booed Fleetwood Mac mercilessly. (No Weston, only Welsh. Wasn't Weston the guy that was messing around with Mick's wife?)Only Danny Kirwin would've prevented that from happening and he was long gone by April 1973. Oh Well! Rory was amazing!! So was DP!

[@Saffy-yr8vo]

Do you mean Ray Weston?

[@1291-i1k]

Rory Gallagher No.1 since 1972 for all times.

[@addieandleesfunplayaddiean7325]

The Greatest of all time!!!!!!

[@timwestcott361]

Got into Rory via Deuce album .. and his slide attack. Open the doors to the most dynamic live performer I've ever seen. Could play anything anywhere any time. And with such joy. Jacknife Beat.

[@zachmcglone]

As a kid i loved rory's music. He was a one of a kind that, to me, is on par with some of the most iconic names in rock n roll. His raw power, and 100 miles an hour approach is fascinating to watch.

[@janicebroom1612]

Boy did you miss out! He was a great performer, and I have never understood why his guitar playing wasn't more appreciated at the time. I saw him several times at Colston Hall, Bristol, he remains my favourite guitarist.

[@margaretbeckett4216]

Saw him a few times at the free trade hall Manchester always well worth it

[@stephenmonty3378]

Absolutely the best.GOD of the guitar.i saw him around 1980 in Australia.after 30 seconds a fellow standing next to me,turned and said.Who the hell is this guy?30 seconds and its already worth the money i paid to get in.i saw him throw that strat backstage,pull the lead and it came flying back in the air and he caught it and finished the lead break leaning over the crew in the front row,not missing a note.never seen anything like it since. RIP Rory..

[@randyschroeder1505]

1974 moved to San Mateo, CA my little brother's best friend David, his family owned Gallaher's Towing Company n remember them saying they had a cousin in Ireland that was a really good guitar player, Rory...I had moved back to Ohio w my dad n remember getting to pick a couple albums for Christmas at Sears (Pure Prairie League-Bustin' Out from Cincinnati, Rod Stewart-Every Pic...and Rory's CALLING CARD (None of you early discoverers give this album it's due) This was still the days when albums were the Whole Package, 'Calling Card', come on guys!!! Blues, Rock, Country-"Mile", Love-"I'll Admit You're Gone", and esp. "Edged in Blue"-Lead guitar intro, lead, lead fade= note bending at its BEST!, and his Dobro type inspired "Barley n Grape Rag" is a GREAT GREAT TOTALLY COMPLETE ALBUM...yeah was my first to turn me on to him but Come On!!!!! Huh?

[@kennethkuehl4270]

Saw him twice in Minnesota, second time was his last tour before he died. Truely great to see.

[@steelmob]

I tell everyone if we could go back in time to see any band we are going to see Rory Gallagher he is the best guitarist I've ever seen and I've seen them all Rory was amazing

[@vayabroder729]

Rory was the real deal and so straightforward and humble. I loved his lineup with Lou Martin on keys. Killer band!

[@jeanma500]

I had the immense privilege to watch him in concert in Switzerland many years ago and I can tell you he his not only an amazing guitar player, he was a damn good singer too.

[@TonyAcaster]

I saw him in late ‘72 at a small College gig, i knew him from Taste so I made sure I was up front. To this day I’ve never seen a better show (and I’ve seen the likes Clapton and Knopfler) he was a very modest guy, very approachable and he played for half an hour over his time. I will never forget his performance you could see he was simply enjoying himself, afterwards packing up, he chatted with anybody that wanted a word. A really all round nice guy. I’ve always rated him top 3.

[@dougdecloedt8450]

#3?

[@richeaton5752]

I was blessed. My first rock concert: May 19, 1973 East Tennessee State University (lol yeah, I'm old, but still above the dirt...) Rory Gallagher - ZZ Top 4 dollars It was about two months before Tres Hombres came out. (Dusty Hill's 24th birthday, I came to find out on his passing) It was Festival Seating and I managed to get about 15 feet from mic center. Rory Gallagher was pure fire right out of the gate, and his band was phenomenal. (particularly Lou Martin on his electric piano) Rory was amazing to see play and I think that he had as much fun as anyone. Then, Billy Gibbons and the boys came out. Back when they were the most badass blues rock band that ever was. Straw hats, jeans, no beards (but Frank. lol), and BG in a white tshirt w/ pack of Marlboros rolled up in the sleeve(lol). Needless to say, Rory and Billy made a big impression on a 16 yr old. Blues rock, slide guitar nut ever since. RIP Rory, Rod, Lou, & Dusty. Thank You! Keep Rockin' Billy, Frank, & Gerry

[@steveDC51]

You are not missing anything- you instincts are spot on. Massively underrated.

[@terrybarton1604]

Lucky to see Rory 3 times,twice in Belfast and once in London at Hammersmith. I've seen a lot of bands/artists having lived in London for many years,and I've yet to see a better live act.There just is no one and I mean no one to better him.Off stage as modest and humble a person you could meet.On it,like lightning in a bottle, awesome performer. As a guitarist the closest to a complete blues guitarist in all its forms you could get,just sublime. The Maestro ☘ 😎☠

[@Saffy-yr8vo]

He was nice looking too!

[@madDdog67]

Rory was one of the very few Irish musicians who'd play Belfast during the Troubles. That might not sound like much, but it was a very big deal back in those days. He did Christmas/New Year's show there, and always included Belfast on his Irish tours. He's got a plaque in Ulster Hall, and there was supposed to be a statue as well, but I don't think that ever happened.

[@RiverDocs]

I have read some about that. Not a good situation at all. Troubled times for sure but Rory went up there to entertain any way.

[@patcomer2660]

There was no guitarist better than Rory. His ranking in these lists is a joke, he should be always in the top ten. Rory never looked for commercial success he just wanted to play. He was as happy playing in front of 100 as he was in front of 100000.

[@VikingPadre]

He is in my personal, totally subjective, Top 5 guitarists, the only rock guitarist in my Top 5.

[@ferdberfle5069]

Hey RD! I'm one the "never heard of this guy!" group. I really don't recall hearing him before maybe 4 or 5 years ago. I listen to the Sirius XM Radio Deep Tracks channel a lot and he gets a fair amount of airplay there. Impressive guy! I saw an interview with I think it was his guitar tech. He said not only did Rory rescue his guitars from the ditch, but he had very acidic sweat and that partly caused the paint to come off his the guitar. The guy said he'd have to change the strings on Rory's guitar after EVERY show! His "acid hands" would cause the strings to corrode in very short order. Great doc, keep 'em coming brother!

[@RiverDocs]

The back of that guitar looks like a piece of driftwood. Thanks for watching Ferd!

[@tonyquinlan7341]

Rory No1 guitarist and an absolute gentleman especially to his fan's,i was lucky enough to have had a few beers with him.

[@danmusec5634]

Thanks for this! I looked at various links about his total album sales, and 30 million seems to be the number. He may have not found a ton of success in the States, but that's a great number of units sold.

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome Dan. Yea that is a pretty good number on sales considering he didn't have much backing behind him. Record companies kind of just put em out there and that was it. Thanks for watching!

[@Bootradr]

I've always liked Rory since I first heard him. He always looked a lot like Jimmy Page to me :-) I've collected a number of live concerts from Rory through the years. Most of them are the types that have been recorded by fans or soundboards that have kind of found their way out and are not commercially available. It was sad when he passed away in 95. Thanks for the great video! Brian in Fort Worth 🎶

[@paulDunn-h1c]

legend. if you have seen this man live. your blest.

[@georgeedward1226]

Coincidentally, I found a bunch of CDs out by the recycle bin recently and among them was a live recording of Rory Gallagher from his Irish tour in 1974. His playing and singing is off the charts amazing. I wish I had caught one of his shows back in the day. I don't recall him getting any FM Rock Radio air play at the time. Great video, as always.

[@shawnbruce6934]

I have no words for this.

[@matthewtayloryowieresearch1912]

I'm a musician born 6/6/1969 & started on guitar in '79 aged 10, I have eaten guitars for breakfast lunch & dinner all my life since then, and believe you me River Docs this is fair-dinkum... ANY decent guitarist worth his salt rates Rory Gallagher very highly indeed. He was a guitar killer, just a monster in various styles, and a gentleman always according to his bio (n.b. the vast majority of musicians are very humble down-to-Earth caring sharing people, the young muso's have big egos, if they survive to be adult muso's they are ego-free pleasures to converse with & superb company almost always... musicians that have played all their lives are to a fault a collective of beautiful magnetic comedic intelligent fascinating women & men - musicians, I mean REAL musicians have manners, respect others, polite loving souls one & all, you get the odd lunatic idiot arsehole bitch diva rock star act from some but this is rare & usually curtailed swiftly by peers in the most uncertain terms imaginable!). Music is a way of life for many and Rory Gallagher was a glorious shining example of it. I first heard him on our record player, dad had brought home another album, every Thursday without fail dad bought a brand new album on payday & amassed a encyclopedic collection of music with few rivals. How lucky fortunate & loved we were to have a home with music on the radio or record player pretty much permanently; if you came into our house & could hear no music nobody was home! This record was dark with red writing not very exciting to this 8yr old boy, rampant on the cover a long-haired denim clad electric guitar wielding bloke on it, I most recall Irish Tour it said... of what?.. the Wallabies? London Symphony Orchestra? the Easybeats? It was Rory Gallagher - Irish Tour. My father loved listening to vinyl albums nearly 3,000 we counted after his sad passing (ironically of a MRSA staph infection - like Rory!?. 15yrs ago.) When dad put Irish Tour on, dropped the needle & tweaked the volume to 11 - we all went completely berserk, it blew our tiny minds out, that guitar sound was pure magic!?. Rory Gallagher was the real deal - the touch timbre & 'feel' he had for music was rarer than hen's teeth - just otherworldly. My entire family & entourage of friends inlaws & outlaws, my 3 younger brothers & particularly myself were simply stunned, shocked, mesmerised by Gallagher's stratospheric ability & talent on guitar other instruments, but first & foremost as an entertainer. Gallagher may be seldom heard of & not famed these days, but he's as deadly as ever. Any decent guitarist especially blues players idolised Rory Gallagher - he'll never be forgotten. If you play guitar & look blankly huh? when Rory Gallagher is mentioned or remembered you are NO guitarist & even less a musician (you me carpark now is my unspoken reaction how can you not know Rory Gallagher my mind boggles at the pig ignorance - call yourself a musician???). To be ignorant of Rory Gallagher - I feel sorry for those folk, I pity them. They have no idea what they're missing. Gallagher wasn't ranked among Guitar's Top 100 Players for nothing - which the ranking numerically of is subjectively grossly flawed - my dad used to say Rory was Top 10 material all-day long, and I older now, concur. 🎸Cheers & thankyou for this video, curmudgeonly guitarcheologist wizened guitarcheopteryx & Member of the Official Order of Old Bastards (Australia).🎼 🤘Didyabringyabongalong Station, Central QLD, The Land of Oz.🦘

[@RiverDocs]

Ha Ha Thanks for watching and your comment Matthew!!! Appreciate it!

[@JohnOShaughnessy]

I saw Rory for the first time in the 60's in Kerry with the Fontana Showband. I also got to see him live again on the 1974 Irish Tour. I remember he played in Dublin too, in a cinema. He was a legend in Ireland. The thing I found most hard to understand was how an Irish guy like him got so good at the blues. My Dad liked blues guys like Leadbelly and Howlin' Wolf, John Lee Hooker, but he had lived for 25 years in the States, so I got to hear that as a kid. So many people gave credit to Rory. even Hendrix mentioned him.

[@orno8906]

The story goes someone asked Jimi Hendrix what’s it feel like to be the greatest guitar player and Jimmy replied “don’t know, you’ll have to ask Rory Gallagher”

[@MrDannyboyhall]

@@orno8906 was dick cavett that asked him the question who was the best and he said ask Rory he’s the best

[@orno8906]

@@MrDannyboyhall I believe it was Dick Cavett, who was a great talk, show host

[@oeokosko]

I gather he lived his early years within range of the radio broadcasts from a US airbase and used to listen to the blues music from there. That might be a Donal story, so take it with salt.

[@user-dh5bnafe4b]

​@@orno8906It's a completely fake story. Hendrix never said that on the Dick Cavett show or anywhere else.

[@sotiristsallis]

For me rory is the best among equals..musician guitarist person...rory is a piece of my heart....of our heart......

[@teejay2556]

I shook Rory's hand front of stage in Leeds UK around 1992.

[@anthonyc1883]

Fun fact: The Irish (and perhaps Rory himself?) pronounce Gallagher as GAL-eh-her. In other words, just eliminate the second "g" sound when you say the name. What a player. Thanks for this video.

[@antoonhermans8953]

The thing i remember the most after seeing rory live was his energy , i have seen a lot off bands ( bigs names /concerts and local bands doing pubgigs ) in my lifetime , but none had that energylevel rory had .

[@neil1390]

His live shows were legendary,gave it his all,every show!He was the real deal!

[@MarkDeSilva-p7i]

Rory. One of my favorites...TO THIS DAY ! I saw and met Rory in '85 and in 1991. The first was in Prov. R.I. the 2nd time was in Boston. Mass. He was polite, helpful ( I'm a guitar player and wanted some suggestions on what frets to install on my '63 Strat ) and not only was he good, I liked where he was coming from as well. Straight forward, undaunted and focused. I admire ANYBODY who was gonna play it the way he played it and not be deterred away from what someone else thought it should be played. He wished me luck with the frets, and I took his advise.

[@DanielArnold-sn9zn]

I saw Rory opening for Rush in Wichita in '83: incredibly loud, and incredibly brilliant!

[@RiverDocs]

I bet that was an awesome show. Thanks for watching.

[@joet3408]

Great video and great commentary! You obviously get what Rory was all about. A truly great musician that I connected with in St. Louis first back in 1974 at the Ambassador Theatre. Rory opened for Blue Oyster Cult and totally stole the show. I was completely blown away by his intensity and immense talent. He also had such a genuine spirit that made me feel like I was seeing my best friend. I have been a rabid fan ever since. And yes, I was at that show at Mississippi Nights and was very close to the stage. I got several people to join me as I kept shouting “A million miles away!” Until he finally played it! I have no idea why he hasn't been given more recognition. He sure as hell ranks higher than most. I had the good fortune to see him 7 times, including back when Rush opened for Rory. I always hoped I could meet him someday and express how profoundly he impressed me and how much I admired him and just loved his music. I agree with you on your album choices, but there are many gems out there. Nothing could ever top seeing him live. Thank you again for posting this.

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome. Glad you enjoyed it! I saw Frank Marino at the Ambassador many years ago. Great venue for music! Thanks for watching!

[@JoeTiedemann]

@@RiverDocs I saw Frank there also. I remember a delay issue with the drum setup and Frank preformed a solo song, maybe Buddy? Another great guitarist for sure!

[@raymondmitchell7582]

I've been a Rory Fan since the early seventies, I was lucky enough to see him live a few times. Rory was a true musician he was not in it for the fame and adulation, totally for the music but he loved his fans. I feel he did not get the recognition he deserved, through out his career, but the legacy he left is his testament. I have everything he's done, I listen to a lot of different types of music, but I always end up going back to Rory.

[@jamesoneill7362]

The greatest guitarist that I ever saw. Rory NEVER played a song the same way twice. The base of his songs were there and he would take them in many different directions. How his different bands kept up with him I don’t know.

[@goldiefish72]

Rory chose not to seek commercial success. He recorded the perfect album, with a great band, in a great studio with the best producer, but on hearing it, said "no", and had the tape wiped. His concert in Cork around 1987 he was home, and at his peak. His legacy remains, and the Donegal born man will always be a son of Cork. Wheels within Wheels is a posthumously released album where some of his more blues & acoustic output can be heard, including a duet with Lonnie Donegan on "Goin to my Hometown". Bela Fleck and Bert Jansch can be found on the same album, which speaks truckloads of his standing among fellow musicians.

[@horstbaur7797]

Thank you for a great channel. I first heard Rory on Live in Europe back in 1972 and it's one of my favourite live albums. I heard that some interviewer once asked Hendrix "How does it feel to be the best guitarist in the world?". Hendrix answered: "I don't know. Why don't you ask Rory Gallagher." Nuff said.

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome. Glad you enjoyed it!!

[@milosbrajkovic9855]

Live in Europe 72, one of the best live albums ever! Bullfrog blues, slide work unparallel,

[@Rat-Salad]

3.24s in that's the only time I've seen his guitar with the full compliment of paint. LEGEND

[@nicoledavis6238]

He would only EVER be number 1. Listen and weep. Greatest loss to the music world....and me. ❤❤❤

[@johncoogan2894]

I saw Rory in concert and studied him on stage more than a few times at gigs in Ireland. He was genial and definately ´´The Guitar Guru´´. The ``G man´´. I never understood why he did´nt have more acclaim but I don´t know if that was ever Rory´s aim, but he deserved more acclaim when alive. God bless you Rory and the band. Thank you so much for the experiences. Always in awe. 🎸🙏 Have to agree Irish Tour 74 is an all time great. I also love Taste ``Live at the Isle of Wight´´ . Met Rory outside a venue the Olympia in Dublin as a devoted fan and yes he humbly gave me a few words as I could´nt believe my luck. Thanks for putting this video together. Good man 👍

[@markcowling1275]

I was so lucky to see Rory twice. I think I was 16-17 he played a small venue in Toronto. Then saw him again at a rare concert on Toronto Island. I had a band in those days and we played at least a couple Rory tunes. We loved him !!! Great showman, greater guitarist. I feel very lucky to have seen him. Every now and then I pick up my guitar and play a Rory tune or two. Loved this day. It was a sad day and he passed way too young and had so much more to give. World’s greatest unknown guitarist we called him, tongue in cheek. We knew about and that’s special to this day !

[@barblessable]

I count myself as very lucky to have seen Rory live twice in late 70s , you really had to see him live to have any idea of how mesmerising he was , I had LIVE IN EUROPE and TATTOO albums and watched film of IRISH TOUR but seeing him perform was incredible ,that 3 piece band rocked ,the whole venue was bouncing , so sad he died so young when his liver failed, you call it what you want I call it MESSIN' WITH THE KID ,Thanks for the vid RD ,you did this great musician justice. p.s Hendrix was asked "so whats it like to be the best guitarist in the world? " he replied "I don't know ask Rory GALLAGHER". check out Ghost Blues documentary it's a must for Gallagher fans.

[@josephbanuelos2335]

Who's gonna B your sweet loving man when when l'm gone. MY FAVORITE SONG FROM RORY

[@barrywilson871]

Around 1968 I bought an orange colored polydor sample record with what's going on, on it , from taste live, hooked straight away I was 13 I'm a seasoned guitarist, and including Clapton , and wishbone ash that's what molded my guitar style. Saw Rory live in Auckland new Zealand around 76, Rory pulled his strat slowly across the stage , strings down to make these awesome chirping sounds, watched lots of vids on KZbin, never seen him do it , has anyone else?

[@RiverDocs]

Good comparison! I do think Rory was the better vocalist...But then again I am just a big fan of his. Thanks for watching!

[@dawnmoore4329]

Yes, he does this in the 1979 Montreux version of Shadow Play here on KZbin. Crazy performance!

[@johnlannigan7453]

He was the best.thanks a million for this. 😊

[@dlhdonn]

Sometime around 1980 I went to a concert and I think Charlie Daniels or ZZ Top were the headliners...but it could even have been April Wine. One of the opening acts was a new, single artist who had a hit at the time with a cover of a Roy Orbison tune. I really liked their cover of this tune. I can't even remember which Roy Orbison tune it was now! Around the same time, Don McLean had covered "Crying"...and this other cover was just as good as that. When the lights went down, the stage announcer let the crowd know that the opening artist couldn't make it, but they had secured a replacement act...."Ladies & Gentlemen, Rory Gallagher!" Now...I had heard of Rory Gallagher, and I'm positive I must have seen him on either The Midnight Special or Don Kirshner's Rock Concert at least once...but that was the extent of my knowledge of Rory Gallagher. My disappointment of the missing artist was dispelled about 10 seconds into the 1st song. As I try to remember other details of that concert, I don't even remember him having a back-up band. In my memory...and this may or may not be true...it was just Rory Gallagher. No drums, no bass, no keys, no rhythm guitar. It was also common to have two opening acts. I absolutely can't remember what band or artist filled that second slot either. That's the impact of having the good fortune to witness Rory Gallagher live. He's literally the only thing I remember from the entire concert! BTW...this was a stage of life where I had totally cleaned up my act and I didn't drink or smoke pot. I was about 20 years old, in great health and totally sober. Again, the ONLY memory I retain from that concert is Rory Gallagher!

[@Irish780]

You are completely correct to me he is the best and such a kind man

[@RickSmith-z6n]

One of my favorites, definitely agree with your top pick

[@ozzie-sk9dh]

The Edge was higher than Rory in the Rolling Stone list, but I’d bet he’s embarrassed about that. Keith Richards No. 4? Really? Thanks for a nice tribute to my childhood hero. Great pics.

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching!!

[@user-sk4bg6hr7p]

No comparison. The Edge v Rory. Who came up with that rubbish? I’m still in awe of seeing Rory’s live performances an incredible man, guitarist, performer. Doubt if there has ever been a better live performance.

[@TGriffiths-ve6nw]

Keith Richard's? Rory had a tryout with the Rolling Stones. 3 days I think. There was no way that was ever going to work out because Rory could blow the doors off Richard's and Richard's knew it. No way he was getting on the same stage with Rory. So,,,, no Stones for Rory. Rory was way too good to just be in a band with a little solo in a song once in a while. Rory had to take over whatever stage he was on. He just had to! No holding him back.

[@alseveron6558]

Hey, River Docs, great vid. I feel for you, missing your chance to see RG live. I feel the same way about missing my chance to see Hendrix at the Isle of Wight Festival, shortly before he died. I was, however, lucky enough to see Rory Gallagher twice: once in 1972 and once in 1980. The 1980 gig was absolutely mesmerising, because it was probably him at his best and the whole concert was so polished an perfect. I'm still in touch with his excellent concert mixer man. RG was pretty disappointed that he never made it big in the States. Looking forward to watching your other videos, as you've featured most of the same guitarists I've liked the most throughout my life.

[@RiverDocs]

Thanks..Appreciate it!

[@kathyodomirok510]

River docs your awesome

[@TheChrisheath7]

Saw Rory at the Dagenham Roundhouse in 72 when I was 16 or so. He was recording the Live in Europe album about then. The crowd carried him round the room on their shoulders at the end. In the UK, he was frequently referred to as the Irish Messiah. Rory never wanted be a "star", he just wanted to get the fxxk on with it. There was no BS with him at all. Lovely man, gone way too soon.

[@j.rustage3794]

Ditto below - seen The Who, Deep Purple, Clapton, Canned Heat, Bowie, Mott the Hoople and so many more. All memorable, BUT RG at the Glasgow Apollo (1977!) stands out above all the rest in my memory. With a guitar in his hands he was a force of Nature!! I have never seen such adulation of a guitarist as that night and he earned every bit of it. Had I caught a Hendrix gig as well my life woulda been complete!

[@MoMo-xb7nr]

I always heard about him. Nows the time to check him out. Thanks ❤

[@RichardGlenn-s5g]

I saw Rory 4 times in Southern California. At the last concert I saw of his I was so fortunate to meet him back stage after the show. He was the nicest guy. Very humble and easy to talk to. I told him my favorite song of his is "A Million Miles Away". As I played a little guitar I asked him if he would write out the chords for me. He put them on a napkin and he signed it. Now that he is gone this napkin is one of my biggest treasures!!

[@wilddjango]

i agree 100%! i saw him in Amsterdam 1974, the best concert I experienced !

[@duckpuddles]

Totally agree with you. I saw him live in Kings Lynn, Norfolk, England in 1970. We were in the old Corn Exchange, not the greatest venue. About 100 of us, mostly still uptight from our upbringing, no long hair and the most daring may have worn a hippy flower power tie. Rory just gave us his best and we sat there like stuffed animals, but inside we all really wanted to just jump up, shout and dance but were too hung up. I bought all his albums, eventually a Fender Strat and eventually a small band that was locally popular. My lead guitar work was heavily influenced by him, though not a patch on his skills. What he had in abundance was stage presence, something you cannot learn easily but something all great performers have. Here he is with Jack Bruce, Born under a BadSign, he had to be shown the notes by Jack at the start but then effortlessly does the filling and lead, same with Politician which has since been removed from KZbin kzbin.info/www/bejne/p3K5ZKadn52neqcsi=5ai7p4qk-yD1QZ1c

[@eddiemcguinness4391]

i got the chance to see him twice Liverpool stadium my bezzy guitarist ever and i got to shake his hand what a nice guy loved him to bits and he loved what he was doing

[@colmwatulikededazio973]

Yeah man , that homage was worth a thumbs up and comment . Rory though had Rh~blood which also had a high acid content as Rorys preformances guaranteed a profuse amoubnt of sweat which he claimed did most of the paint damage . However that is just trivia in light of the man himself ,who was born in a nursing home in Donegal in a small parish townland near BallyShannon called " ROCK" . It was written !

[@RiverDocs]

Thanks for the comment! Appreciate it!

[@davidmccarty6445]

One helluva guitar player.

[@georgemorley5926]

From Australia , the great Rory Gallagher , we loved him in Australia, seen him numerous times what a legend virtuoso guitarist he was R.I.P. Rory thanks for the great music , Peace from down under.

[@RiverDocs]

Appreciate you watching and your comment!

[@ghostdog7306]

I was a-teen rocker in Detroit... About mid-seventies his album calling card was getting airplay. I believe he warmed up for kiss, both shows were great. I have sought out Rory's music ever since, can't say the same for kiss. Hardly anybody I know has heard of him.

[@greghenderson4582]

I saw him play 4 times .....and I totally agree with your choice of his top 3 lps!!! I rolled my sleeves up like his and wore flannel shirts as a tribute !!!

[@homelessballoon]

Rory was a poet with a Strat in his magic hands!

[@227716689]

Rory is my favorite guitarist of all-time. I recently purchased "Blues" a 3 CD set of 36 songs. CD 1 is 12 studio songs, CD 2 is acoustic songs and CD 3 is live performances. Not a weak track on here .Released in 2019.

[@safiramusica]

I love Rory no need to say anything about his music, his playing. I was also sim pressed how humble hew was and I love that when it comes from someone like that! I get so emotional when I see him on videos! What a pure soul!

[@pathutton8751]

Such a lovely video...Rory certainly was the full package....it was so beautifully portrayed by you