alanti:
dedBuNNy:if you read what I wrote, I didn't use the phrase 'better than' anywhere.
No you didn't, you said "but he's certainly not in the same class as any of the above as far as playing ability and mastery of the instrument."
Yep, and I'll stick to that. Class, as in the level of mastery of knowledge the instrument, not better. Better is not really a word I like to use talking about music or musicians. I mean were the Spice Girls better than the Pussycat Dolls? That could be too close to call (LOL)
When talking about things like cover bands or tribute bands, musicians who basically just copy others, sure definitely better can be used there I think, cuz ya, there are some who for sure are better than others.
Rory is great, listened to him for years, like I said I listen to almost anything and everything.
Jeff Healy was an excellent musician, and a really nice guy. I live just outside of Toronto, been to his club many times as well as places like the 'Elmo', seen some great acts through the years
Many years ago I had a friend who won a contest that was sponsored by MuchMusic and Steve's Music in Toronto, SRV was playing in town, the winner got the change to jam with him. My buddy, a drummer, got to sit in and play with those guys for about an hour or so. I tagged along, cuz I mean ya who wouldn't. Even in the 'state' SRV was in back then, he was a really nice guy and a gas. Watching him just noodle around before and in between songs etc, man you really got a feel for just how much the guitar was a part of his body, certainly his soul that's for sure. Great guy.
Of all the musicians I've ever seen up close in a 'playing' situation, the most awe inspiring and demoralizing at the same time (from the Bass player side of me) was Alain Caron. If you don't know who that is, just look him up. If you're a Bass player proceed with caution, even watching video of the guy can be discouraging. LMAO! The guy really is on a level all his own.
Music is music - As long as it moves you and gets you movin' it's aaaaall good man !