Talkin' Guitar: The Story of Young Doc Watson

Doc Watson was one of the most influential folk and bluegrass musicians of the 20th century. He was born in 1923 in Deep Gap, North Carolina, and lost his sight at the age of two due to an eye infection. Watson learned to play guitar as a child, and he quickly developed a unique and innovative style. He was known for his lightning-fast flatpicking and his soulful vocals.

Talkin' Guitar: A Story of Young Doc Watson

by Robbin Gourley

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	39555 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	40 pages

FREE

In the 1950s, Watson began to perform professionally. He quickly gained a following, and he soon became one of the most popular folk and bluegrass musicians in the country. Watson performed at Carnegie Hall and the Newport Folk Festival, and he recorded dozens of albums.

Watson's music was a blend of traditional folk and bluegrass, but he also incorporated elements of blues, gospel, and jazz. He was a master storyteller, and his songs often reflected the experiences of the common man. Watson's music was both uplifting and heartbreaking, and it spoke to the human condition in a way that few other musicians could.

Watson's career spanned more than six decades. He received numerous awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and the National Medal of Arts. Watson was also inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Bluegrass Hall of Fame.

Watson died in 2012 at the age of 89. He left behind a legacy of music that continues to inspire and entertain people around the world.

Early Life

Doc Watson was born Arthel Lane Watson on March 3, 1923, in Deep Gap, North Carolina. He was the son of sharecroppers, and he grew up in a poor and rural environment. Watson lost his sight at the age of two due to an eye infection.

Despite his blindness, Watson developed a love of music at an early age. He learned to play guitar from his father, and he quickly developed a unique and innovative style. Watson's guitar playing was characterized by his lightning-fast flatpicking and his soulful vocals.

Career

In the 1950s, Watson began to perform professionally. He quickly gained a following, and he soon became one of the most popular folk and bluegrass musicians in the country. Watson performed at Carnegie Hall and the Newport Folk Festival, and he recorded dozens of albums.

Watson's music was a blend of traditional folk and bluegrass, but he also incorporated elements of blues, gospel, and jazz. He was a master storyteller, and his songs often reflected the experiences of the common man. Watson's music was both uplifting and heartbreaking, and it spoke to the human condition in a way that few other musicians could.

Watson's career spanned more than six decades. He received numerous awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and the National Medal of Arts. Watson was also inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Bluegrass Hall of Fame.

Personal Life

Watson married Rosa Lee Carlton in 1947. They had three children together: Merle, Nancy, and Eddy Merle. Watson was a devoted family man, and he often spoke about the importance of family and faith.

Watson was a kind and gentle man who was always willing to help others. He was a role model for people with disabilities, and he showed the world that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.

Legacy

Watson died in 2012 at the age of 89. He left behind a legacy of music that continues to inspire and entertain people around the world. Watson was one of the most influential folk and bluegrass musicians of the 20th century, and his music will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.

Here are some of Watson's most famous songs:

* "Black Mountain Rag" * "Shady Grove" * "Sitting on Top of the World" * "I Am a Pilgrim" * "Deep River Blues" * "The Ballad of Ira Hayes" * "Will the Circle Be Unbroken"

Watson's music has been covered by a wide range of artists, including Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and John Denver. His music has also been featured in numerous films and television shows.

Watson was a true American icon. He was a gifted musician, a devoted family man, and a role model for people with disabilities. His music will continue to inspire and entertain people for generations to come.

Talkin' Guitar: A Story of Young Doc Watson

by Robbin Gourley

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	39555 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	40 pages

FREE