>> > >>Eric Clapton: "Little Walter was a very, very powerful influence on me. >> > >>There was something in his attitude that gave me access because he >> > >>didn't seem to have much skill in any area, even the harmonica.... >> > >> > >> > No controversy. He's wrong.
>I wonder what the harp player for clapton on his latest 'blues' CD thinks of that statement?
If Jerry Portnoy has heard that quote I bet he's still scratching his head. There's no question in my mind either, Little Walter was a master, attitude wise, and skill wise. He was an incredible inovator. One of the sure signs of his prowess, is how how easy he makes it sound. Clapton should know better. I'm sure he's aware that a good guitar player makes it look and sound easy. He ought to be able to apply that logic to harp players as well. We may want to consider that hidden in this slam may be a back handed compliment ie: The man did a lot with a little. Little Walter was not a speed freak. He sometimes filled big spaces with just a few notes and he made it sound perfect. Rather than smack his audience in the face with dazzling pyrotechnics and relentless awesome harp gymnastics, he laid out an easy groove with a little swing and class. Perhaps this is what Clapton is referring to as "attitude". Why he dosen't see the SKILL in that attitude is beyond me. One final comment, if Clapton made this remark 10 minites after a show, or anytime on the road, or on the way to catch a plane, I for one forgive him in a second. In those moments, people say any old bloody thing. Let Rollingstone make a big deal about it . Don't hang the man for an unthinking remark.
-Rod-
-- Rod Thomas email: sk~te.com Illustrator phone: (617) 449-0480
