One guitar you don't see often on my channel is my "Partscaster" Telecaster Relic. In this video, I give it some of the attention it deserves. I also provide several playing demonstrations, and follow them up with a tribute to "The Humbler", Danny Gatton.
Also known as "The Telemaster", Danny Gatton sadly committed suicide on October 4, 1994 by self-inflicted gunshot in his farmhouse garage, exactly one month after his 49th birthday.
Danny Gatton was a highly versatile guitarist known for his mastery of various styles, including blues, rockabilly, jazz, country and rock. His eclectic approach to the guitar, coupled with his exceptional technical ability and innovative techniques, set him apart as one of the most influential and respected players in the world of music. Here are some key aspects of Danny Gatton’s style of guitar playing, along with notable songs that exemplify his skill and versatility:
Blues: Gatton had a deep understanding of blues music and could effortlessly channel its raw emotion and intensity through his guitar. Songs like “Blues Newburg” and “Blues on the Half Shell” showcase his impeccable blues phrasing, soulful bends, and expressive playing style.
Rockabilly: Gatton was also a master of rockabilly guitar, drawing inspiration from pioneers like Scotty Moore and Cliff Gallup. Tracks such as “Redneck Jazz” and “Cruisin’ Deuce” highlight his ability to blend rockabilly rhythms with intricate guitar solos and fiery licks, all delivered with his trademark twang and swagger.
Jazz: Gatton’s jazz influences were evident in his sophisticated chord voicings, fluid improvisations, and complex harmonic arrangements. Songs like “Harlem Nocturne” and “Quiet Village” demonstrate his command of jazz standards, as well as his knack for infusing them with his own unique flair and interpretation.
Country: As a native of Nashville, Tennessee, Gatton had a deep appreciation for country music, which he skillfully incorporated into his playing. Tracks such as “Fingerpickin'” and “Sun’s Gonna Shine in My Back Door Someday” showcase his mastery of chicken picking, hybrid picking, and other country guitar techniques, as well as his ability to seamlessly blend country elements with other genres.
Instrumental: Many of Gatton’s most memorable performances were instrumental compositions that allowed him to showcase his technical prowess and musical creativity without the constraints of vocals. Songs like “Elmira St. Boogie” and “Blues for Phyllis” highlight his virtuosic guitar playing, innovative use of effects, and adventurous improvisational spirit.
Overall, Danny Gatton’s style of guitar playing was characterized by its versatility, innovation, and sheer virtuosity. Whether he was tearing through blistering solos, delicately fingerpicking intricate melodies, or laying down soulful blues grooves, Gatton’s playing always left a lasting impression on listeners and fellow musicians alike, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Closing Clip Credit: The Humbler - Danny Gatton - Feature Documentary • The Humbler - Danny Ga...
✅ Subscribe to Sean McCabe Rocks here:
/ @seanmccaberocks
✅ Share this video with a KZfaqr friend:
• An In-Depth Look at my...
✅ Spotify Artist Page:
open.spotify.com/artist/6g4RU...
✅ Apple Music Artist Page:
/ sean-p-mccabe
✅ Facebook Page:
/ seanmccaberocks
✅ Website:
seanpmccabe.com