Inspiration

Since the late '60s two dominant voices have continued to inspire and help me in music. The first is Roy Orbison. The first time you hear that haunting voice of Roy’s you cannot help but be hooked. Bruce Springsteen said it best when he introduced Roy in ’87 upon his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He said he spent a career trying to sing like Roy and NO ONE can sing like Roy but Roy. I had the pleasure of seeing him perform live twice, once in ’87 at the Valley Forge Theatre in Pennsylvania and again in August of ’88 at Wolf Trap in Washington, DC just before he left us. I sat in the second row and he sang 10 feet in front of me. I saw him close his eyes and sing "Crying". I can only guess where he went when he sang that song. The man, his voice and his music continue to inspire me daily. There is not a day that goes by that I am not listening to his music.

The other incredible voice of the 60’s that stands way above the crowd that had a big influence on me and still does is Gene Pitney. Gene racked up over 15 top ten hits between 1960 and 1966. His soaring voice continues to bring chills in amazement as he hits those high notes. I had the great fortune to meet Gene and have him perform at my 50th birthday party.

What does one say about having one of the best guitar players in the world as one of your very best friends? I met Bucky Barrett three years ago in Nashville and we have been best buds since.

Getting to know him is like getting to know Roy. Gentle, sincere, “what you see is what you get” kind of guy. Grammy award winner, inducted into the Rockabilly Hall of Fame in 2003, studio musician of the year for five years straight, recorded on 1600 albums. His musical ability is genius and it is awe inspiring to watch him play.

Then there is the great Tom Jones. I have had the pleasure of seeing Tom perform live at least 40 times that I recall. His stage presence, power, and vocal control are incredible. He commands a presence as soon as he walks on stage that is second to none. There is only one Tom Jones.

My dad shared his love for music with me by teaching me to play the guitar as a young teenager. What incredible memories of singing and playing together. I am sharing that love of music by singing with my boys every day. They know the words to every Roy Orbison song and they continue to inspire me. They don’t judge, they simply take the gift and enjoy it. My only hope is that they remember these times as I do with my dad. Thanks Dad!