A new, old, idea! Drag B.E. to one of the big steel conventions. He doesn't even have to play. Just line up several of his comrades from the past and present and have an hour long B.E. roast on stage??
On another subject...I think it would be a good idea for him to write a book about his life, goals, thoughts, the good, bad and ugly. EVERYBODY is writing a book today. I'll buy one! Must be autographed though!
Dennis
I think that it might take longer than an hour to roast this guy.
I also think that anyone that has ever played on the road could write a interesting book. Plenty of material to draw from.
Every time I read one of Buddy's posts it makes me yearn to hear more from him. His autobiography would be a great read. A while back I e-mailed Ernie Renn and suggested he propose that idea to Buddy. He said he already did, but Buddy declined, as he didn't wish to relive many of his earlier experiences. (I think that's what he said) I sure wish he'd reconsider, though. Buddy's articulate, and a witty and perceptive writer. Maybe if more of us bug him.
Somebody must have read my mind. What about a video of Buddy playing and video tape the Roast. There are many, many players both professional and bedroom junkies who have the greatest respect for Buddy.
I'm sure most of us have skeletons in the closet that should stay there. He could probably use his boxing skills and slip a few skeletal knockout punches and still write a good book. I'm sure there would be alot of philsophical input that would benefit many young musicians. He could give his opinions on music and life through his own experiences. May be some things he would do different if he could do it over again. Anything he would say would be a positive influence, piece of advise, humorous reading and something that would sell at the steel shows and through the mail that can't be dubbed and handed to the next person. Each person's life can't be duplicated like a piece of music. The ups and downs make it valuable.
Dennis <FONT SIZE=1 COLOR="#8e236b"><p align=CENTER>[This message was edited by Dennis Detweiler on 14 January 2002 at 09:37 AM.]</p></FONT>
If there was ever a real man of steel, its Buddy Emmons. I agree a book is in order from the man who undoubtably made steel guitar what it is today. His book would be interesting to many more than just steel players, as are all the greats. What an interesting life he has lived.
I do some freelance writing and have thought many times about an Emmons book. If it tells the whole story it could be a great book with appeal outside of the steel audience. Buddy is probably one of the best writers here on the Forum and is certainly articulate enough to write it himself, if he chooses.
<SMALL> I thought Buddy was already "Well Done.</SMALL>
Anyone who has spent that many years slaving over a HOT GUITAR has got to be Well Done.
I've done some writing myself but that would be like doing a Bio on GOD and I'm not that presumptuous. With all of that music singing in my ears, I could never concentrate.
Red Skelton said he dreamt he had died and was walking with GOD when HE sneezed. He didn't know what to say to HIM !! I'd be about like that.....
Buddy, I wouldn't give a second thought about them skeletons In the closet. Anyone that's been Involved In this bussiness over three months has a few. Ol George "Lived To Tell It All" and thats a good book.
But If you'd prefer to leave them out, I don't see how It could not be a very iteresting book. Just about the early days would be good.
And then In the last couple of pages, you could tell us all how to great steel players.
I think your answer to that would be Practice, Practice, Practice.
How about Tom Bradshaw doing a biography on Buddy? Or help Buddy on an autobiography? I believe this book would sell a ton of copies and could be cathartic for Buddy?
Please consider.
Danny K www.dannyks.com
I don't think Buddy would have any trouble finding a reputable publisher. But it's not that hard to self-publish, there's alot of information out there on how to do it, and you can do it all from a desktop. If words are like notes, (and I think that they are) imagine the writing chops this man could possess.
I brought this topic up a couple of years ago and Buddy's response at that time was he had considered writing an autobiography but wasn't sure if he wanted to revive some bad memories. I appreciated his honesty about that...rj
Denny, you know besides hireing me for your
drummer back when, i think this might be the
best idea you've ever had, hahahahaLOL
to the man of tone. see you soon.