Danny Gatton *A Master with a Telecaster* Sadly His Life Ended Way Too Soon!

[@RiverDocs]

If you enjoyed this video you might also like this one on Roy Buchanan! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWe5pmt-jK6ci5o

[@clayjones8890]

Thank you so much! He was god on the tele! Hands down!

[@mikebiglane7764]

I met Danny in the early 70's. He had a repair shop near the University Of Maryland. We just walked in one day and he couldn't have been more hospitable. He showed us his work area where there were pickguards being made, some kind of pickup winder made out of sewing machine parts and a bench where he pointed out a neck rest that he ,with a twinkle in his eye said he had"borrowed" out of one of Roy Buchannan's guitar cases. I would get so excited everytime I got to see him and his band perform and to this day have such cool memories. It was surreal ,almost like out of a really cool book or movie of a legand. My friends and I felt like we were all part of an incredible secret because we had such up close and personal access to our guitar idol. He was also an amateur arrowhead collector, one hell of a hot rod car restoration expert and could play pedal steel,banjo and fiddle or anything with strings in my opinion. He would tell cool stories about famous musicians he had met and played/jammed with. I listen to his music to this day with a smile on my face having been to the smoky bars and outdoor events that only a sorted group of fans had the honor of attending. They say Genius can also be a curse, Danny never showed his pain to any of us , his fans, I miss him , his corny jokes and those unworldly licks that would drop jaws , and weave incredible melodic lines through his music. Peace

[@RiverDocs]

Awesome story Mike! You know I started this channel for lack of something to do after I retired. And reading yours and other's stories here have just made this so enjoyable for me. I get so many posts now days it is hard to keep up with them all. Thanks so much for sharing this and for watching the video!! Mucho Appreciated!

[@michaeltobin643]

What a great story, you sir are blessed! I do understand those sentiments, as I'm blessed as well with a similar relationship with a guy that is also a stunning guitarist. He's quite humble, and scoffs at any comparisons to the respected guitarists that he covers in his work with some local bands here in town, but he never ceases to amaze me in how he's not just able to capture their feel and energy but also expand on it in his own unique style. He's a gift, and I've been sure to let him know how much that means to me to be acquainted with him. Especially as we grow older...he's got a few years on me, and I'm not looking forward to a time when he's no longer willing or able to perform publically anymore, because it's still that energy from the crowd that feeds it, and helps raise his level of playing to those heights. Thanks for listening, and thank you Otis for one of the best tributes to "The Humbler" that I've seen.

[@mikebiglane7764]

@@michaeltobin643 Thanks for your kind words. I feel lucky as you do to have had access to someone on that level that cared enough to know his fans and share cool stuff. Cheers

[@richardroskell3452]

What an amazing memory. Thanks for sharing it. I can appreciate that you never saw a 'down' side to Danny. I'm totally not trying to diagnose him, but I'll mention that there are forms of depression that a person is born with. They tend not to recognize the depression because it's their constant, base-line state. People with that affliction may compensate for the depression by outwardly trying to look 'normal', or even like the life of the party. But underneath there is a troubled soul that even close friends may not be aware of. I hasten to add that may not have been Danny. I'm just speaking from personal experience.

[@howabouthetruth2157]

Brother that was an incredible story and thank you for sharing your firsthand, personal experiences with Danny Gatton, I truly enjoyed it, and I can tell how special your experiences were and still are. As a lifelong guitarist, I never had the opportunity to attend any of his live shows. I didn't even learn about Danny until a friend played a VCR tape of Danny playing all by himself. I can't recall how old the video itself was at the time, but I watched & listened for the very first time around 1991. I was absolutely floored. Then I watched or listened to anything I could come across that featured Danny performing. I was truly bummed out to learn that he took his own life. But even before that, I was totally perplexed as to why he wasn't known worldwide. The man truly was ( and still is ) one of the greatest guitar virtuoso's who ever lived. And he damn well DESERVES to be known worldwide as such.

[@bartpike441]

Danny was one of my dearest friends when I was about seven or eight he started me on bass. He also taught my brother Brett who unfortunately passed in 1986 at the age of 18 in the tragic accident. I miss Danny everyday.

[@RiverDocs]

Danny sure seemed like a special guy. Sorry about your brother man. Appreciate you watching the video. Thanks.

[@richardroskell3452]

Deeply sorry for your loss, both for your brother and Danny. May you find peace and strength.

[@ufcfan3940]

Sad story and cool story

[@tomwolfe6924]

Did you live on Elmira St. ? I did and we got a kick out of his Elmira Street album when I found it about 10 years ago and bought it. He was great.

[@bluesman97]

One of the most underrated musicians ever. He Never got the recognition he deserved.

[@paultaylor2391]

In my not-very-humble opinion, Danny Gatton was far and away the best guitarist that I have ever heard, or heard of. His versatility was absolutely mind-blowing. After the first time that I ever heard him, in the DC area in the 80's, I did everything that I could to see every single performance of his in the area until I left DC. I have told my kids this story MANY times, but once I saw him end a song with 6 or 7 verses, each verse in a completely different style, with absolutely zero hesitation between styles. As far as I could tell, not a single bad note in any of the styles. It is extremely difficult to leave me speechless, but his ability did. I never had the pleasure of meeting him, but, on-stage, he always seemed like a down-to-earth, humble, and friendly guy that just plain enjoyed playin' the guitar. RIP, Danny. You are missed greatly.

[@glennchristie2316]

Your comment “Says it all.”

[@patjudyproctorstein8127]

I heard and saw Danny in person twice in the mid 70's . I was so mesmerized and so lucky I got to sit on the floor DIRECTLY in front of him, not 4 feet away. I swear I have never seen or heard anyone so absolutely amazing, I have seen the GOD of guitar! I have seen in person almost all the guitar greats, and Danny is the BEST!

[@lukeaway]

Danny never did the same show twice. Nobody went home early, even in a small club in the middle of the week. He didn't like to fly on airplanes. So that left him colleges and small festivals around DC and Charlottesville. He gave guitar lessons and tinkered with cars. Incredibly nice guy.

[@RiverDocs]

Well said. I agree that Danny didn't like to travel. He really enjoyed being home with family, his cars and music. Super nice guy, Thank you for watching and you comment!

[@kevindean1327]

He must have really been attached to the Maryland area because he could have been at the very top of the ladder in Nashville as a session guy and still played his own gigs. That would have been a lucrative ride without compromising too much.

[@HairHoFla]

I'l l vouch for that...being from the DC area...got to see Danny a lot of times...all great times....and Danny had a very extensive repertoire

[@badhairdaave]

I saw Danny play at a parking lot of a 7-11

[@dougpoynter1884]

@@kevindean1327in fact the song Nashville Cats was written about Danny…there’s a KZbin video where John Sebastian explains what motivated him to write the song. It was after seeing a young Danny Gatton playing in a lounge.

[@edburner6258]

Danny Gatton and Roy Buchanan two best Tele players

[@sebatianalvarado7171]

roy and srv 2 best guitarists seen live .. pity never seen danny ..

[@gpwcowboy]

Saw Danny in Georgetown (crazy horse?) Saw Roy at the crossroads in bladensburg. Never got to see Roy Clark but he lived in davidsonville, md.

[@RMoore-zt7zs]

I agree with your comment about Danny Gatton and Roy Buchanan. Two of the greatest who were virtually overlooked by the masses.

[@davidallen346]

Tragically both guitarists shared the same fate

[@GrocMax]

Add Terry Kath to that Master of the 'Caster list somewhere.

[@mymixture965]

No matter how good you are, if you don't fit in, there is no live for you. This is sad, but it will never change. I admire Dannys playing, always an inspiration, a true artist and one of the best ever.

[@MacawAviculture]

Danny Gatton was a man of honor and principle. He refused to sell his soul to those in control of the music industry. Sadly their control limits what we hear on radio and television. All of us have never heard thousands of others with the skills of Danny Gatton. Thank you for taking the time to research and make historical videos like this, you provide a wonderful service for those of us that grew up with the best music ever recorded, produced, and offered to the world. I do often wonder, what we have missed, and how the thousands of other Danny Gatton's we have never heard play could have influenced the quality of our lives.

[@RiverDocs]

Well said. Thank you!

[@mkeneke7412]

This video is simply perfect. I have been a fan of Danny Gatton since the 70s. Grew up in the Maryland suburbs just outside of the District. I saw DG play at numerous venues and never once failed to be

[@Beaupcrepair]

Sound like my story. I grew up in DC area, mostly around Wheaton/Glenmont area and saw Danny a number of times around the area. I'll never forget his Heineken slide work. Around that same time, like me, you too might have also had the privilege of seeing Roy Buchanan with his band the Snakestretchers who also were around DC area in those days. Those were the days.

[@stvstreett]

ive been playing for 45 yrs. really never having many eureka ! moments. since discovering Dannys guitar playing a couple of weeks ago, and studying his style. ive improved 10 fold . amazing !. im very grateful to have found him. and i grew up in the baltimore DC area !

[@ShapuhiFilms]

I love your videos. Your delivery is so heartfelt. It’s like a favorite uncle telling a story that draws you in and takes you back in time.

[@RiverDocs]

Thanks I appreciate it. And thank you for watching the videos and your comment!

[@cameronlee9233]

The very first time I ever heard Danny Gatton he became one of my very favorite players. I listened to him constantly and still do. I find it so hard to believe he wasn’t really well known and well liked.

[@mafajiz]

I live in Costa Rica, where country music is not known and appreciated. I heard Danny for the first time, when a friend lent me a recording and a piece of his came., I can´t believe, was amazing. Later my wife's brother moved to the USA to join the army, So as soon as I could, I begged him to find me Danny's music, He got a cd, one of the first. So I wrote the address that came on the back cover and I was able to get, what He had produced, at that time, around 1998. Later I was getting others more, I´m proud, because,maybe I think maybe... I'm the only one here who has like 12 cd's of Danny., including one by Arlem Roth, with a beautifull version of Tequila, the jazz record with Francesco at organ, and a double concert cd. Simple, I love the Danny Gatton music; the passion and soul with which he plays, his muscular intelligence, his ability to improvise, his knowledge of styles, scales, riffs and rhythms. It's hard for me to understand how God gives that talent to an artist and doesn't give the general public, the ability to listen to or value that art. I would like one day to be able to visit his grave and shed a few tears at his grave and raise a prayer for him, but above all, thank him for the joy he gave me, listen to his guitars and his music, God bless him. I'm waiting to see the last documentary, about his life. (English is not my language, so sorry for any mistake). How can get The Humble?

[@RiverDocs]

Well spoken. I'm sure Danny would be happy to read your post!! Try looking on facebook for "Danny Gatton The Humbler" There might also be a webpage by that name to search for. I'm sure you can get the information you are looking for. Thank you for watching and your comment!

[@billblessington3912]

This was outstanding. Your comparison to van Gogh was something I never thought of but I think you’re absolutely correct.

[@RiverDocs]

Thank you!

[@michaeltait7368]

Friggin awesome player. Nobody will ever be like him Truly a one of a kind

[@brucedeleon9505]

Danny is too awesome. Even living here in Hawaii located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean I heard Danny Gatton. His guitar licks was unmeasurable. I remember watching a video tutorial he made and I’ve learned from it even though I play Rock guitar. I know a lot of people and guitarist who know his music. Thanks Danny. You’ve inspired us and you’ve help guitar playing be immortal as your own style and music.

[@bradsmith7311]

Danny Gatton had the beautiful ability to lay something down like a chord progression that would burn through my heart and bring me to joyful tears...Bedazzled forever

[@mixermantim]

As a guitar player I want to thank you for making such a great production. What your doing is changing the path of many. I’ve never heard of this great player that deserved more than he received. Thank you again

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome. More people need to know about Danny Gatton. Another like him I have a video on is Roy Buchanan. Great guitar player, with unique tone. Died way too early. Not very many has heard of him either. Very few views on that video. Thanks for watching.

[@BenjaminGonzalez-wv3cy]

There are still many Guitarists that play great, but don t get the recognition they so deserve. Those backup players deserve to be given recognition...

[@rocketpepper8880]

Great job!! Danny changed my life. It really is a sad story. I was thinking about this, when he had his electra deal then they dropped him due to record sales. At that time Bill Kirchen had a record deal and was touring a lot. And many other middle aged musicians playing there music. I’m wandering if maybe Danny had stayed on the road like these other guys, things would have been different. iDK. He just could not get it going. It’s such a shame. I view him as the greatest guitar player of all time!!!! Thanks for keeping his name alive!!

[@RiverDocs]

Thank you for the kind words and for watching the video! I think we both feel the same way about Danny. Just trying to keep his name out there so others can learn about him. He deserves it!

[@GeorgiaBoy1961]

Danny was one of those guys who loved music, but hated the music business, if you take my meaning. That was his curse, right? We know this because how many less-talented musicians end up making it big, while someone so special toils away in obscurity for most of his life. It's wrong at the cosmic level, but what can one person do about it? I just wish he'd gotten some help when he was down-and-out, instead of choosing the "solution" that he did. So many people loved him - albeit from afar - I wonder if he knew that? In a way, his very versatility killed any chance he had of making it big in country music or another style, for that matter. Modern radio (this was still pre-internet, remember, as it was just starting to take off in 1993) was/is very segmented and straight-jacketed as far as format, programming and playlists are concerned. If you are a country performer, there's a niche for that. If you are a rock-and-roller, there is a niche for that; and so on. But what modern radio DJs, station managers and record executives/A&R men don't know how to handle is someone who can play jazz, rockabilly, rock-and-roll, blues and country all in one show, or even in one song! Which is what he did. Danny was just being true to himself, being who he was musically. Even though he was not per se a "jazz artist" - all the time, I mean - he wore other hats, too - he was a lot like the bebop guys in that he seemed to say this is me and this is my music. Come along for the ride if you like, if not - well then see you around. True to their music even if it costs 'em the audience at times. The other problem great instrumentalists face is that most casual music fans want vocals in their music. The guitar-heads and music critics - sure they love virtuosity - but Joe/Jane Sixpack wants vocals. Their eyes glaze over if there is too much instrumental work. And most fans, their attention span is long-enough for a song of 3-4 minutes, tops. They want their music served up in that fashion, how they are used to getting it. Other fans, they're willing to be challenged a bit more - maybe they warm up to someone like Gatton. But it is for sure a numbers game. The great Scotty Anderson - who is still alive and kicking, thank goodness! - has much the same problem: He's a musical genius of the kind which is so rare, but he plays for peanuts compared to big-name acts, even though he can play rings around them. That's sort of the bottom line about the 'biz today. In many ways, it stinks for people like Danny and Scotty, but it is what it is.

[@rogerstone521]

Best electric guitarist of all time. Hands Down!!

[@blackrainbowfiresword177]

I saw Danny play a set with Robert Gordon,he basically got a standing ovation after every solo, I have never seen that before or after,..... just one of kind. Great share,Otis, ty!

[@RiverDocs]

Danny was something special for sure! Thanks for watching!

[@kidcopper7941]

The music he played with Robert Gordon was out of this world. I think one of the best rockabilly bands ever. Robert Gordon was scheduled to play in my area recently I was looking forward to seeing him. I would have liked to tell him much I enjoyed the collaboration. He show had been rescheduled. I recently found that he passed away. He did what he does to the very end. RIP.

[@RCHeath]

The greatest musician I’ve ever seen in my 42 years of playing

[@incidentalist]

I don't see how anyone, "couldn't understand Danny Gatton"... I mean, pick up a damn guitar and try to play what he did... dude truly was the Humbler, RIP Danny!

[@elloco6332]

Thanks for doing this. Danny was to me one of those rare cats that come along once in a blue moon, from outer space no less. A true inspiration, like a Beck.

[@RiverDocs]

Danny was a one of a kind for sure. Thanks for watching!

[@sebatianalvarado7171]

or his DC buddy .. roy buchanan ... who was a few yrs older ..

[@richardroskell3452]

I'm assuming you mean Jeff Beck? If so, yeah, Beck and Gatton have many similarities. They were close in age. Even though they grew up in completely separate music scenes, they pioneered many of the same playing techniques. They both had a love of Telecasters, and were proficient in many different genres of music. They could do swing, jazz, rockabilly, rock, you name it. They both loved hot rod cars. Most importantly, both artists avoided the commercial music scene and went their own ways. We were blessed that Jeff had all of that and carried on into a ripe old age. We were blessed by Danny too, though he was taken far too soon.

[@richardroskell3452]

Jeff Beck on a Telecaster, Tokyo 1999: kzbin.info/www/bejne/lWTUc6aMj9B8jrM

[@douglasiceman1382]

Saw Danny play live twice! We were in awe at his talent...

[@johntsakanikas886]

Gatton was the best bar room guitarist I ever witnessed , His ability to rise to the occasion was his strongest suit the sheer ferrel tenacity to rip the frets off when in a dual with other players is where his competitive nature shined the brightest , music isnt a competition ? Yes it was with Danny on stage , He had that , Oh yeah ? Take that , put that in youre eye , He had swagger on the neck no one could beat the guy at his gig .

[@RiverDocs]

Well Said!!! Thanks for watching!

[@waynepimentel1680]

Got to see his band live in Providence, RI. So lucky now that I look back on it.

[@johnnicoline7632]

One of the nicest guys and incredible players ever. Was floored that day when I saw it in the news.

[@LoveBandit1000]

Grew up in NOVA and saw him about 15 times thanks to my best friend who turned me onto him. I'll NEVER forget those shows...or this video. Thanks!

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome. Thanks you for watching!

[@allankesatie]

Just discovered his music, shame I never heard him before but glad he bestowed his gift to the world. Great little documentary

[@RiverDocs]

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@waveegravee]

You had to love the musical alchemy that occurred between Danny and Buddy Emmons. Together, they were a galaxy for the ears.

[@danielosullivan3110]

Always love this guy 💕 I have nothing but smiles when he's playing thanks great video ☘️🥂🚬

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome!!

[@tiahuanaca]

Loved coming across this tribute. Subscribed! I found it after watching a shout out to Jack Pearson via Rhett Shull's channel. I was introduced to Gatton when I walked into a bar in Manassas, VA in 1996. Rick Whitehead trio with John Previti and Barry Hart. Each of them blew me away as the real deal on their respective instruments and as a trio. I believe that Rick stepped in for Gatton on various gigs after his passing in 94. I know that the three of them have performed various times at Gatton tributes. I somehow was able to persuade Rick and Barry or John (One of them couldn't join that day) to play as an opener for my wedding. This thread is about Danny, but I need to add Rick Whitehead to the list of guitarists that TheGattonmaster mentioned below. Another unsung serious guitar slinger! Danny was truly the real deal and unequaled.

[@RiverDocs]

Thank you for your comment and thank you for watching. I'm glad you enjoyed the video!

[@Berndaddie]

Thank you for doing this bio on Danny. I'm from the DC area and was blessed to have seen him live in the early 80's all over town. Cowboy Jazz was one of my favorite outfits of his. He was simply a gem and a ton of us adored him. I can remember when I heard of his passing. It stopped me in my place. It's still sad. Thanks again.

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome. You know this is one of my favorite videos I have done. I knew it would not get a lot of views like some of the other videos of better known guitarists I have done, but I didn't care. I did this because I wanted to keep Danny's name out there. Especially for the fans like you! I'm glad you enjoyed it and thanks for watching and commenting!

[@davidwalker5054]

Danny was like Django neither of them knew what they were going to play .they just pulled their solo,s out of the air they both had that rare ability to play anything that came into their heads instantly no matter how fast and complicated and they could do it flawlessly

[@patbrennan6572]

Thanks for sharing this story and letting me know about all the greats I wasn't aware of. Danny sure was one of those unknown greats.

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching!

[@JohnTLyon]

I first heard Danny at the first Adams Morgan Day back in the mid-70's. I was playing with a band called "The Brothers," Danny & the Fat Boys were on after us. Long story short, Danny's Gibson ES-335 got knocked over by the wind and cracked the head stock, so I lent him the Les Paul Recording Model I was using. I didn't know him, had never heard him, but hey, fellow guitarist, right? That day, my jaw hit the floor and it's been there ever since. You could see that he loved what he was doing, and he was a master. He became a regular at Adams Morgan Day in DC. I was hooked and was at the last AdMo Day show before he died. Your comparison to Van Gogh was as close as any... Danny was a guitarist's guitarist. I'll sure miss him.

[@RiverDocs]

Great story John!! Thanks for sharing it. You said "Danny was a guitarist's guitarist" This is pretty much how I feel too. Danny took a bunch of styles he learned and molded them into his own style of playing. I just loved watching him play live. He never ceased to amaze me! Thanks again for your comment and for watching!

[@JohnTLyon]

@@RiverDocs I just found your site and will be watching regularly. Thankyou for your excellent coverage. PLAY ON!

[@WGBader]

Here he is at Adams Morgan Day, 1989: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jIbbiKNuh9WYgNU

[@AceNothing-oe3mi]

I practice some of his stuff every day. I slow it down to try to get the feel of it. Stumbled across him playing a version sleep walk and was blown away.

[@RiverDocs]

Yeah he does a good job on that song. Thanks for watching and your comment. Appreciate it!

[@kevinhuff2001]

Thank you for this. I met Danny at the Sheldon here in St. Louis in the early 1990s. It was an amazing experience... He let me play his ES-295 in the Green Room. I was there with a friend of mine who passed away only a couple of years later. Danny passed away only 11 months after we met. I will never forget that night.

[@mkeneke7412]

be amazed by his skill. And i am not a musician. His story and his life need to be celebrated. Thank you for doing that.

[@RiverDocs]

You're very welcome. I am a fan of Danny myself. Thank you for watching and your comment.

[@chasetower6773]

Danny is One of a Kind. Hell, GG Allin is One of a Kind. We saw Danny in Tennessee and He Blew the Doors off the Joint. He is Missed . 🎸

[@billydeewilliams9104]

I miss GG..

[@sydnordrive]

This was a very sweet and thoughtful video, thank you. It reminds me of how sad it is to not have my hero on the planet anymore. It was a life-changing thing to see him play for the first time in 1984 in a little bar in DC (i was 20). It was with the fat boys, actually, and they backed him up so well. All of us were of course happy for him when he started to make a name for himself, but for me the ultimate experience was to see him in a little club with those musicians, when he didn’t feel any pressure and was just having a good time. Anyway, thank you again for the video.

[@RiverDocs]

You're very welcome. I am glad you enjoyed it. I always enjoyed watching Danny play. He never ceased to amaze me. Thanks for watching!

[@jimmyfrombrooklyn8550]

Great video! From all I’ve learned about Danny, he was a free thinker and his approach just couldn’t be turned into the kind of fame we as guitar players associated with his kind of talent. Also heard he was a hot rod guy too- as is Jeff Beck! Thanks

[@RiverDocs]

Yes Danny loved fast cars. I believe he traded one of his old telecasters for one later on. Thanks for watching!

[@MikeBlocker-e8k]

Danny was one of the best guitarist ever to walk the earth.......Period..! Nothing more can be said.. Thanks Danny..!

[@RCHeath]

He actually only had two lessons before his teacher gave up trying to teach him anything. So proud to own Dan’s famous phone book garage door. It’s truly priceless.

[@RickNathey]

You have good insight and I think you're spot on! If he could have held on, by now for sure he would have achieved the acceptance that he longed for. He's my guitar hero, and there will be imitators, but he was called "The Humbler " for a reason! RIP DG!

[@atak171]

That was the BEST video on Danny I’ve seen and I think I’ve seen them all (or almost). You try to tell people how great he was and they just don’t get it, for the reasons you explained so well. For the most part, the people who understand how good he was are the best musicians in the world, no secret to them. It’s a sad story to be sure, but we know….

[@RiverDocs]

Thanks John. I appreciate it. Glad you enjoyed the video. Hope you subscribe to the channel.

[@dannylopez9129]

Enjoyed your video and like the comparison to. Van Gogh. Danny was in a league of his own, a true trail blazer. I could watch him play all day..

[@RiverDocs]

Thanks for watching. Appreciate it!

[@nathanadampiper3717]

When I first heard Danny, my jaw dropped to the floor! Just simply incredible.

[@RiverDocs]

Yea he was sure something. Thanks for watching!

[@jwoodrff]

I discovered him from truck stop cassette bions in the early 1990's. I loved his music an I traveled across the country.

[@dougb5807]

Roy Buchanan another underappreciated soul.

[@mgpmbass3616]

New subscriber here. Great video! I'm from the same county as Danny. He was one of the coolest people you could ever meet.

[@rp9760]

Met Danny outside Max's On Broadway, in Fells Point Baltimore. I extended a hand and he said he couldn't shake. He had coated his nails with super glue. But he did sign my copy of 88 Elmira Street. Inside Max's I was right at the stage. It was like he was playing in my living room. I have pretty much everything that came out on CD. I do lot of streaming these days on my commutes. Hoping hard that more of his music makes onto the platforms. Qobuz (Hi-res) would make a great home for Danny's music.

[@RiverDocs]

Great story. Thanks for sharing!!

[@michaelcollier5164]

Very interesting. Well told. I thought that Danny created some video music lessons. I would be great to review them. thank you.

[@RiverDocs]

Thank you. Glad you enjoyed. There are a few good videos of Danny doing a lesson. Here is one. Enjoy! kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKLUk3mjnLR5ftU

[@johnturner1042]

I'm just mesmerised with he's playing a true genius

[@HoustonRoad]

Great story. Man those Telecasters near the end of the video are worth a ton. Now I too know about Danny Gatton! Thanks

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@bradbundy1471]

I had a couple of albums but mostly cassettes of Danny. I was at a small record store and they were playing some of his songs. As a musician ( Drummer) i just had to ask the guy who it was. I was blown away! I played his stuff for my fellow musicians and friends and no one had heard of him but became big fans right away! We were Heartbroken when we heard of his death. When we found out how we just couldn't understand it. RIP Danny. Thanks for your awesome Talent and music. 🎸 🎼🎼

[@bobbybush5030]

Thank you for doing this video about Danny, especially the early days and his parallel comparison to Van Gogh as genius'. I grew up in the MD/DC area (lived in PG County and later in Montgomery County) and started working in the area as professional musician starting the 70s. I used to frequently stop in to Zavarella's Music in Crystal City and Washington Music Center (Chuck Levin's) tio say hello, buy strings, etc. Many a time when stopping in to Zav's, I'd find Danny Gatton sitting in the back room, playing guitar and talking with Phil Zavarella and his dad, and my good friend and fellow musician Frank Nedry. He would sometimes share the latest mod he was working on for his guitar or amp, and we'd all sit there blown away by his idea! I actually first heard Danny when he was playing at the Crossroads in Bladensburg. It was around 1975, and I had been playing bass for a few years, and when I wasn't gigging, I would find myself going out to different venues to hear the musicians everyone was talking about. That night, I heard Danny play several songs that I had yet to hear anyone play, and was instantly mesmerized by his virtuosity and his apparent ease of playing. He killed Harlem Nocturne! Many years later, I saw Danny at Tornado Alley with his band, and they were great! An agent that had been booking Danny asked me to stop by so he could introduce me to Danny, because he had heard that Danny was looking into possibly retooling his band and might be looking for a different bassist. The fact that I could sing (pretty well) may have been part of the attraction, but I had been working hard to make a name for myself around town as a bassist. Well, I was fortunate enough to get introduced to Danny and chat with him for a few minutes, but because I arrived about 15 minutes before they went back on for their last set, that was as far as it got. And that was just about a year before Danny passed. I will never forget receiving a call from my friend Frank Nedry at Zav's that Danny had passed away. RIP Danny Gatton. You will never be forgotten by the rest of us mere music mortals. Legend.

[@RiverDocs]

You're very welcome. Glad you enjoyed it. Thank you for watching and leaving such a great comment. I did this video just because Danny seemed to be an unknown except to a few musicians around. He was so creative I just couldn't believe even today he isn't known by most players. Thanks again!

[@JeffreyDopp]

DC was a great music scene then with Danny, Roy, Bonnie, Emmy Lou, Little Feat, Liz Meyer and friends…etc. You and I may have crossed paths back then. The Childe Herald, Cellar Door and that club down on M street. Gotta love DC tele!!

[@bt7919]

Danny was one of a kind, and I'm proud of his authenticity. He's the telemaster in my book.

[@229adven]

Danny is simply the best. A genius on the guitar. Few even come close

[@Kevin6059]

When visiting DC, I went to the Bayou in Georgetown. No idea who would be playing, and I never heard of Danny. After that night, I was obsessed with finding as music of his music as possible. My jaw was on the floor all night. Sadly he took his own life just weeks later.

[@anitahamlin2411]

I am glad to be one of the few aware of his genius.

[@thisisblakemillermusic]

Thank you for posting this

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching!

[@Docsjeff]

Influenced more top tier players than people realize.I bought one of his teaching videos and it helped me tremendously with my rythm playing. I think back to that video everytime I start playing what he taught me. Really sad that he was so depressed.That happens to a lot of really good musicians.

[@russelldesigner2682]

You are amazing. Keep going. You are the best.

[@RiverDocs]

Thank you Russell I appreciate it. I don't intend to stop :-)

[@russelldesigner2682]

@@RiverDocs Come over and you will love it. Trust me.

[@ozbluesman]

As a longtime fan , your video touched me. Thank you for your insight. For me, Danny was the greatest guitarist of all time. However, the point at which your disillusionment becomes intractable, then it leads to deeper despair. With sometimes dire consequences.

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching!

[@christophervolas7523]

the first time i heard danny was around 1986 my parents had a tape called redneck jazz it was a copy no name of the musicians that played on it i was blown away by the guitar and pedal steel playing around that time guitar player had the albulm cruisin dueces advertised, i bought that and became a fan ever since.

[@edgardocarrasquillo9]

Thank you. It is sad that there are many excellent musicians like him.

[@BrianKlobyGuitar]

Danny was a true inspiration.. one of kind and amazing :)

[@RiverDocs]

He sure was. Thanks for watching!

[@kidcopper7941]

Great bio. I wish that it included his work with Robert Gordon who recently passed away. The combination was one the greatest rockabilly bands I have listened to. Danny was one of the greatest & most amazing guitarist I have ever listened to. I have listened hundreds of the best. His music is unforgettable.

[@kennethskaggs2832]

I truly believe that any Dedicated Guitarist on this Earth has been affected in some way or another by Mr. Danny Gatton. I loved how you compared him to Van Gough ! I wish I had the opportunity to have seen him however, I have heard some stories of him around the D.C. and some of his Legendary Shows ! Thank you for sharing this to the World !

[@RiverDocs]

You're very welcome. I really dig Danny and his guitar playing. Thanks for watching!

[@coreymihailiuk5189]

I was fortunate enough to have seen Danny Gatton a few times here in Toronto. We had the opportunity to chat before a gig at the Horse Shoe Tavern and Danny was incredibly generous with his time. He even left me in the dressing room with one of his Gibson guitars that apparently had once belonged to Scotty Moore who played with Elvis. A player like Danny is as rare as a field of four leaf clovers. The day that I heard that he had taken his own life was just devastating. It will be a very long time before we see another like him.

[@RiverDocs]

Danny was a very down to earth guy. Thanks for watching!!

[@lacorrida]

I saw Danny live at the Montreal jazz festival in 1992. I never heard of him before ,the moment he started to play , this is problably the best guitar player i ever saw in my life. This is where i started to enjoy country guitar. So sad , passed away in 92...

[@davidtrehearn9025]

I first heard Danny on the American music shop Playing with Albert Lee and Vince Gill.I was very saddened to hear of his death at the time, from Albert lee's son Wayne.Who managed our local music shop in London.Danny possesed great natural talent and from all I have read and heard in interviews came across to me as a modest and approachable guy I feel sorry for his family and close friends especially his wife and daughter.Depression can be a hard thing to live with,and from personal experience,not everybody understands what a person goes through.I believe that God will resurrect those who have died,and bring them back when he has made the earth a peaceful place in the very near future.Thanks for the opportunity to speak about one of the finest guitar players of his generation

[@RiverDocs]

And thank you for your great comment. I do appreciate it!

[@Hottub111]

Great stuff . Love Danny’s playing

[@RiverDocs]

Thanks...Me too!!

[@bluedoc8275]

Fabulous! Thank You!!

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome. Thank you for watching!

[@micahzwern7768]

I was fourtionate enough to catch Danny Gatton at the troubadour Los Angeles. His playing was spectacular!! A brilliant multi stylist and his picking hand was mesmerizing must give a holler to his entire band as well played wonderfully. I only wish I could have seen him more often in D.C His creativity and expansion on a motive was in constant development Unlimited ideas for playing Similar to a master chess player. Thank you for this beautiful video

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome. Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for your comment.

[@andrewschatz3259]

I was there too, something I'll never forget. He seemed so happy on stage. I was so shocked when I heard he took his life later that year.

[@bluglass7819]

I used to watch his instructional video tapes for 5 minutes and practice that for 2 months before watching 5 more minutes.

[@shawnooweldsparks4202]

🥰👏 Thanks for making this

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome. Thank you for watching!

[@drayve8590]

You did say a lot of your opinions in this video. BUT, that cool with me! Great job, as always. I’ve really been enjoying these videos of yours!

[@RiverDocs]

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed. I will add an opinion on most videos I do. Gives us something to discuss at times. Thanks for watching!

[@andrewstricklin182]

I saw his set from Austin City Limits late one night on reruns on channel 9 back in the early 2000's and was blown away by his playing. You said it very well, Master of the Telecaster!

[@RiverDocs]

Yea he was smokin' on that show!! Thanks for watching!

[@bretweinraub]

lucky to have live in NOVA '90-'94 .... I could walk to Club Soda for a good bit of it; first time I went in there to see the Gatton band there was ~10 people in there.

[@seanfitzpatrick7878]

I think you're right on the money about Danny. I didn't know him personally, but i was lucky enough to see "The Humbler" a couple of times when I was a young budding guitarist. I started playing as a preteen and my father, who was a trumpet player and one who dabbled in guitar playing introduced me to Danny's music. After a year or so, when i started actually sounding half decent, my Father took me to a couple of his shows and we got to meet him backstage once. He came across as an uncomplicated, nice man. However, there was nothing uncomplicated about his playing. Witnessing his command of the guitar changed my life.

[@whollyhyperion]

So sad, u deserved so much better Mr. Gatton. RIH brother. Thank you so much for doing him justice with this awesome Video, River Docs.

[@MacawAviculture]

Music critic Richard Harrington said, "Danny can play anybody's music. Nobody can play Danny's music."

[@danahardin9342]

Just recently discovered Danny Gatton. Couldn't believe what I was hearing. I now know where all my guitar heroes learned from. Jeff Beck, Eric Johnson and many more. He was truly a tortured artist, like Van Gough. He was way ahead of his time. Thank you for this video.

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome. Good to hear more people are finding out about Danny. Thanks for watching!

[@pnwrocker1965]

Really love your video insights :)

[@RiverDocs]

Thanks! Appreciate it and appreciate you watching the videos!

[@rx7surfer420]

Well I'm late the 1st time I heard Danny was in 1991, and I was hooked. He is the most amazing guitarist I've ever heard . It's really sad that he's gone

[@outtathyme5679]

I saw Mr Gatton at the “old” 930 Club in DC circa 1982/3. He was a local legend

[@erichhitchcock3368]

Thanks for doing this. The photos were a nice touch. I'm not much for doublenecks...but that one made me want one. One player I was so happy I got to see before his death was Allan Holdsworth...another genius.

[@howabouthetruth2157]

This was a beautiful body of work you put together about the late great Danny Gatton. I truly enjoyed it and thank you. I was born in '62, started playing guitar by age 12 or 13, and I'm almost ashamed at the fact I had never even seen or listened to any of Danny's performances until about 1991, when a friend/neighbor broke out a VCR tape of Danny playing all by himself. By this time, I had already been gigging all over east/central Florida, and as a working guitarist/singer/blues harp player, I was absolutely floored by Danny's incredible playing on that VCR tape. After that, I would watch or listen to anything I could stumble across featuring Danny Gatton. Sadly, I never had the opportunity to see any of his LIVE shows. Most likely due to living here in Florida. Then I was truly bummed out to learn that he had taken his own life. Because the late great Danny Gatton damn sure deserved ( both then and now ) to be known worldwide as one of the greatest gunslinger guitarists who ever lived. Can anyone even imagine how much sonic ground he could've covered, had he remained a session man in Nashville? You can bet the farm he would've easily became the most sought after session man.............no doubt in my mind.

[@RiverDocs]

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it. Danny was special that's for sure.

[@howabouthetruth2157]

The pleasure is all mine my friend. I just now "re-subscribed" to your channel. I know darn good & well I had subbed your channel months ago.......but for some reason. This has happened to many youtubers & their subs. That's youtube for ya. Merry Christmas to you & yours!!!@@RiverDocs

[@tedgibson5960]

insane to be THAT talented!! you are right you gotta play what the crowd wants to here!!

[@drewwilson145]

Great video Thankyou

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome!

[@cherrypickerguitars]

Danny Gaston is why I began playing a Tele, and I still almost exclusively use Teles. Peace

[@slickfixit]

I never heard of him until your video. Thank you for keeping things alive

[@RiverDocs]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching!

[@zeppelinfan9360]

No argument here in regards to "Danny Gatton" as the top Electric guitarist of all-time. Name one better. 🎸☮️💕

[@claytongillaspy8847]

Only Lenny breau comes close or is possibly better than gatton and Scotty Anderson is no slouch either a killer tele player like Danny!

[@brendaborgosano8422]

13:40 13:40 I really enjoyed this. Not enough said about him. I started playing guitar around 12 years old. I grew up in a house where Duane Eddy, Elvis and many artists of the 50's and 60's were playing in my living room constantly (excluding the British Invasion (Beatles included) my Father was not a fan. My inspiration was Eddie Van Halen. My Dad could definitely appreciate his talent and guitar skill but couldn't relate so much to the music. I asked him" who would you recommend I listen to other than the artists you've already introduced me to"? His reply, Danny Gatton. I listened to his version of the Sun Medley Mystery Train and was blown away. My Dad was also who told me of Danny's passing and sadly my Dad is gone now too. I'm so grateful to have had my Father's musical influences. So many great guitar players, including Danny Gatton. May they rest in peace knowing their legacies are still inspiring us. 13:40 13:40