Lonnie Johnson, additional thoughts...
Added 2019-10-12 19:49:57 +0000 UTCIt's hard to believe almost two weeks have passed since the last update and Rev. Gary Davis November is right around the corner. I hope most of you have gotten the chance to look through "Got the Blues for the West End." I had a realization this morning that although Lonnie's 12 string and its special stringing is very critical to his tone, the piece is still VERY enjoyable to play on a six-string guitar. Take it slow, breathe some emotion into it, and really enjoy those bends.
Regarding the origins of Lonnie's unique 12 string, Todd Cambio of Fraulini guitars wrote a very convincing piece suggesting that Lonnie's guitar was built by the Acosta family in San Antonio, Texas. Give the article a read here: https://fraulini.com/2017/07/lonnie-johnsons-mysterious-12-string/
The idea that Lonnie got this guitar in San Antonio matches up perfectly with my spreadsheet showing the recording dates and the guitars I think he used. He recorded several titles on the 6 string on March 13, 1928 in San Antonio. His very next recording session with Duke Ellington in New York on October 1, 1928 featured his new 12-string guitar.
Attached to this post is a photo of Lydia Mendoza with her Acosta built 12 string in 1936.
Comments
Dave, it appears you became a member 13 days ago, and the materials you are looking for were posted on the first of the month, as is my intention every month. You will have to cancel yourself I can not do that as far as I'm aware.
Andrew Lardner
2019-10-16 21:22:43 +0000 UTCit seems to have music for Got the Blues for the West End - - - it that it? Interesting writeup. Still need to cancel my sub. unfortunately because of financial issues. will keep in touch.
dave danze
2019-10-16 18:24:45 +0000 UTCPlease cancel my subscription thru Patreon. Was promised sheet music, yet have received NOTHING. It's been very close to a month. I am within the cancellation allowed zone. Sorry it didn't work out.
dave danze
2019-10-16 18:19:16 +0000 UTC
