Happy Birthday, Doc

One of my favorite musicians was born on this date. Doc Watson turns 81 today.

Born in North Carolina as Arthel Lane Watson, Doc Watson is one of America's finest guitar players. He's best known for his acoustic guitar flatpicking. I suppose people think of him as a bluegrass artist but it's a disservice to restrict him like that.

I've had the pleasure of seeing Doc and his Gallagher guitar perform in concert three times. Both Doc and Merle played at the first concert I saw. That was in St. Louis. I've seen him perform in Washington at the National Theater along with the Seldom Scene. What a show that was. The last time I saw him was at a little club in Baltimore where I sat not 6 feet in front of him. If you've not heard him play, Doc Watson's Guitar Album might be the place to start. His signature song - if he has one - might be Tennessee Stud.

He's a definite American Treasure.
K-