Doc Watson is one of the roots of my Folk Music library. The other night, I listened to one of my favorite Doc Watson albums, Elementary Doctor Watson. Doc was an important part of the Folk Music revival of the 60s. From Wikipedia:
Biographical Information
Arthel Lane “Doc” Watson (March 3, 1923 – May 29, 2012) was an American guitarist, songwriter, and singer of country,and gospel music. Watson won seven Grammyawards as well as a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Watson’s fingerstyle and flatpicking skills, as well as his knowledge of traditional American music, were highly regarded.
Blind from a young age, he performed with his son, guitarist Merle Watson, for over 15 years until Merle’s death in 1985 in an accident on the family farm.
I forget which I bought first The Essential Doc Watson or Elementary Doctor Watson. It appears that The Essential Doc Watson was released in 1973, Elementary Doctor Watson was released in 1972. The Essential Doc Watson was a collection of his recording on the Vanguard label. And Elementary Doctor Watson was his first recording on the Poppy label. And after almost 50 years I don’t think it matters which one I bought first!
Elementary Doctor Watson
Through the years, Elementary Doctor Watson has always been a go to album when I’m feeling a little down. Somehow hearing Doc singing “Going Down the Road Feeling Bad”,which is the opening track of the album, makes me feel better. Then comes a nice cover of Tom Payton’s “The Last Thing on My Mind” and I’m feeling better! Finally I’m ready to do the ”Freight Train Boogie”. And I’m ready to listen to the rest of the album with a smile on my face!
The bottom line is Elementary Doctor Watson is a terrific album. Through the years I have never lost the awe I have whenever I watch Doc play the guitar. I never could manage to play it at all and he does it blind! Simply amazing!!
Two of my other favorite Doc Watson albums are guitar albums with Doc and Merle, Lonesome Road (1977) and Doc and Merle Watson’s Guitar Album. (1983). Note to Self listen to both albums!
All total Doc recorded 38 studio albums and 16 live albums. There have also been 23 compilation albums of Doc’s music. Check him Out!
Links for the Further Exploration of the Music of Doc Watson
Doc’s Guitar (site dedicated to the guitar and music of Doc Watson
Wikipedia
AllMusic
Discogs
Here’s “Going Down the Road Feelin’ Bad” from Elementary Doctor Watson
