Ben Keith: Recording and Touring w/ Neil Young for 35 Years and Producing Jewel's First Album
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- Опубликовано: 13 окт 2024
- This clip was shot in 2005 at Masterlink Studio's here in Nashville, TN. I was lucky enough to be invited to the Prairie Wind sessions with Neil Young. I was also lucky enough to be able to interview one of my favorite steel guitar players, Ben Keith.
Everything that Ben did was amazing but for me, the work that he did with Neil Young is off the charts. I could listen to "Old Man" 24/7.
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Ben Keith is the reason I got into pedal steel guitar.
My favorite musical moment ever recorded is his playing on Neil’s “Albuquerque”
Thanks for watching Ed...Joe
Great tune
Ed Campbell, I got Ben to autograph my program from an ‘85 or 6 concert in OKC when they were with The International Harvesters.
Saw him outside their bus, and hollered his name. He walked the 40 yards to the fence (chain link), to talk to me. Sighted my program, as I told him “You’re Steel on Albuquerque, was the most Beautiful I’d ever heard..He just smiled and said “Thank you”.
I also got Neil’s autograph on the same program. I’d seen a roadie or the bus driver out checking the luggage compartments of the bus for something. I hollered “Hey man, I hAve something here for Neil. He came that same distance, and I sent an arrowhead I’d found on my property, and a grizzly bear claw, from an old bearskin rug, before my friend’s mom trashed it.(killed in California, in 1912, by her grandfather. By this time it was shedding all its hair, from the rafters in their garage. I wish I’d had the sense to keep the whole rug, but it was 1970, and I didn’t realize the value of it. We were just cleaning the garage, and she said”trash it”. But I saw the claws, and cut all of them off)
Anyhow, my 9 year old son and I were standing by that same fence, just behind the stage, when Jackson exclaimed, “Dad, Look,, there’s Neil !”
So I look and see Neil and his driver, scanning the onlookers, and then the driver points at us, and here comes Neil. By this time, we were 60 yards or more away, but he came straight to us, and asked if I was the one who sent the bearclaw, and arrowhead. I said yes , and he thanked me, saying that was really cool. I rolled up my program again, stuck it through the chain link and asked him to sign, which he did.
By this time, there were a dozen or more people surrounding myself and Jackson. Brielle acknowledged none but me, turned and went back to his bus.
That program is a prized possession. I got Ben Keith’s , and Neil Young’s autographs. Was able to talk to each, one on one. Long story, but True! 😊
Just discovered Ben on Gram Nash's cds thanks for the interview.
@@anoldmannameddave7455 Long, but great story. Thank you for sharing it!
In the Movie Mr. Keith is talking about, “Neil Young Heart of Gold”, there is a song called “It’s a Dream”. When Neil is singing about the Red River flowing and swirling, Ben Keith plays a beautiful passage on his steel guitar that perfectly represents that image of the river. It is incredibly moving to hear a musician who is so sensitive to the lyrics being sung. This particular artistic embellishment transcends musicianship into the realm of surrealism. Mr. Ben Keith is sorely missed.
Thanks for sharing this Scott....Best, Joe
Ben Keith was a master, a nuanced, sensitive player -his work on Old Man was divine, I can talk about it for a long time.
Thank you for watching our videos Michael..... Joe
Brother Ben has been such an integral part of the Young sound
Hi Chuck… yes Ben’s tasteful steel fillers paint the perfect for Neil’s stories… best, Joe
Ben is mentioned in Neil's book Special Deluxe with deep respect ! No one else can do what Ben did! Ben had a inner drive that connects to Artist style/ creativity and he does it as balance harmony! No computer software ! Pure human Spirit that Ben gave to music industry! Well loved and missed by all!
That just blew me away, Joe. I knew of his history some, but a homemade steel and self taught?? Phenomenal musician and gentleman!!
His playing thru the years with Neil was awesome. One of my favorites is that Old Ways album.
I have my Dad's old records and I know there's a Hawkshaw LP and a Faron Young LP in there I'll have to dig out and listen to.
Btw, I recently ordered a Ben Kieth Tribute cap.
Long Live Long Grain - his contributions to music will never die.
Thanks once again, Joe!!
Thank you too Rick.... Joe
I had to edit my Long Grain comment. Ben didn't play much on Old Ways, because he was Co-Producing. Ralph Mooney plays pedal steel on most of that album. 😳
All of the live stuff on the "A Treasure" album is all Ben.
This is definitely among the best channels on RUclips.
Thanks for watching beets....Joe
Another great post , Joe. It's no wonder that Ben was Neil's favorite. Thanks a ton.
Thanks Dave...Joe
Terrific interview, how fortunate for you to have gotten Ben’s history on tape! I’m always amazed, that so many of the greatest musicians or producers had no or very little formal training, yet they seem to excel in spite of it! I’m guessing that if you don’t know the “rules”, your creativity has no bounds! Thanks Joe!💫
I think there’s a lot to what you just said Larry... That was my thoughts on how the Beatles did what they did. They felt they could do anything they wanted due to the fans told them they could. Best...Joe
Almost all the musicians I have ever played with, played by ear.
Great interview, Joe. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It amazes me how down to earth and, often, actually humble the really great musicians and artists are. The interviews you've produced with them over the years are truly treasures.
Thanks for watching Bill... Joe
Love Ben Keith. I had the honor of meeting him by chance here in Nashville - at Green Hills movie theater when I took my son to see Neil Young's "Greendale" back in '03. We had seen the tour earlier, and were interested in seeing the film version. Ben was there in the theater with the woman who played Grandma in the movie - can't recall her name. Anyway, after the movie was over, I realized who they were - talked with him out in the parking lot, and he gave me his opinion of the movie. He was such a tremendously talented musician, and quite a nice man.
Glad to have seen BK live in San Diego w/ Neil Young...great concert!
Thanks for sharing your story..Joe
Immortal twang of Harvest!!!!
The Prairie Wind film at the Ryman is one of the most beautiful performances ever captured on film and Ben was such a big part of it. What a wonderful and varied career he's had. Thanks for the upload.
Thanks Marlon... Joe
Neil always sounds great and writes a great song - to this day - but, with Ben Keith in the mix - goosebumps. Those unexplainable moments of music that seem to pierce you through the heart. Accompaniment that isn't about showing off but about revealing the soul of the song. The last note of "Deep Forbidden Lake" - a single note that, while probably unwritten, HAD to be there. To me, only one of those guys is famous, but they're both geniuses.
I have to admit that I became emotional when I turned the corner at the museum and was suddenly looking at Ben's pedal steel, still adorning a sticker from, I believe, Neil Young's Time Fades Away tour. (Not to mention the little bottle of hot sauce!!) To think that I got to see Ben play that on-stage... wow.
I know I'm not the only younger player who sees people like Ben as masters and appreciates the chance to finally learn their stories. Thanks, and Happy New Year to Joe and the museum staff!
Thanks Greg... glad you visited the museum... Neil put that hot sauce bottle on the steel when he was at the museum when he inducted Ben into the hall for me. Best...Joe
My stepdad played steel guitar in the late 60s and early 70s with a local band here in Ft Worth Texas. He too was self taught and “idolized “ a local guy, Maurice Anderson, who played on some records. I’m sure my dad watched Ben and some other steel players too to learn. I’m sure there are some fantastic jam sessions in heaven with all of the musicians and singers up there. Thanks for capturing history for us music lovers, Joe.
Thank you again Mike...Joe
What struck me most is this man's humility.
As always, I (as well as many others) come for Joe's interviewing style. Based in common courtesy I'd say. 👍
Thanks Teresa.... best...Joe
Love love love hearing and learning about songs and the people who created them. It'll never happen again like this.
Thanks again for watching BD...Joe
Awesome video thanks for sharing. I'm happy that you are sharing the older videos. Maybe we get a chance to see performers that are no longer with us. Plus the younger people will get meet performers they wouldn't have ever seen. Stay well and safe my friend. God bless you and your family.
Very kind of you Tommy.... Joe
Great interview Joe. Like you, I love Bens steel on not just Old Man, but the whole Harvest album. I just love how his steel cries in the background on those songs. It sends shivers up my spine. Harvest is one of my favorite albums.
Thanks Deke.... Joe
A great in depth interview with an underrated legend of pedal steel. I’ve been studying his style for a few months and didn’t know a lot of Ben’s history aside from the Faron videos.
Great job Joe. Thanks
Thanks for watching Bo......Best....Joe
Btw Steve Hinson now owns that Emmons steel in the old photo of Ben and Neils band
I really enjoyed that, and enjoy your channel. And Ben Keith is yet another person who seems like he was so down to earth.
Thanks very much.
Thanks gat2.......Joe
These interviews are great. Thanks for putting up. I've been to the museum, it's awesome! I still play a Strat I bought from Chambers in Murfreesboro many years ago.
Hi J.... thanks again for both shopping Chambers Guitars and supporting the museum too... happy New Year...Best, Joe
Well you & these interviews are amazing, I said it before & I’ll say it again, you bring out the best in people. Love this guy ...
Thanks Jr.... I really appreciate you saying that... best...Joe
Thanks, Joe. Great interview. Ben Keith seemed like such a nice guy. Too bad he passed away. - Tim
He was a very nice guy. Thanks for watching Tim……..best, Joe
Old Man is a favorite of mine too Fantastic interview Thanks so much
Thanks Nelly.... I’m a lot like you;)....Joe
@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum One look at my life & you know it's true:)
Played half of Harvest before meeting that guitar player beside him or Neil.
That sort of blows my mind.
Thanks for watching Roger... kinda blew my mind too:).... Joe
@@MusiciansHallofFameMuseum How does that work ? Were they all too stoned to notice a new player suddenly in the room ? I can't imagine walking into a studio and starting playing on a session without meeting the others ! Reminds me of the organ on "Like a Rolling Stone" story.
I think Ben was asked to be on the session but they started early and when he arrived he just kinda took his seat and fell into the mix. I could be wrong but I think that’s what happened.
Thanks again for watching...Joe
Great Interview Joe ! It’s Wayland. 👍
Thanks for watching Wayland...Joe
Just when I thought it could not get more interesting,,,,Joe these are gold and I really dont know how ANYBODY could give this a thumbs down,,,,or ANY of these fantastic videos,,,, I cant imagine the amount of time,effort and talents of ALL that are involved in the production of these tutorials,,,, My compliments to ALL involved !!!! Lastly,,,I strongly urge everyone to go to the Hall of Fame Museum while in Nashville,,,,it makes the place in Cleveland look silly,,, Thanks Joe,,,hope to see you soon !!!!
Thanks TS... Best...Joe
RIP Ben Keith. This clip is pure gold, is there more? I recall the release of Harvest in 1972 with great clarity. It’s possible that it was the first time I noticed steel guitar on a recording. I would have been 19 then. I play a bit myself now snd use the Jerry Byrd C6 tuning on my National acoustic tricone. I was fortunate to hear Ben play live with Neil Young twice in 6 months here in Halifax just before Ben passed. Respect!
Hi. GA.... thanks again for watching . This is all the video I have with Ben. I wish I had more but we were interviewing on studio recording time and Neil was next. Thanks again...Joe
Joe, I've listened to plenty of songs and artists 24/7.
I'm hoping that you and yours are safe , happy and hopeful in this next new year.
Thank you Rob... I appreciate it. Sincerely, Joe
Amazing, thanks Joe!
Thanks for watching S H… Joe
Neil Young is an American treasure...thanks for this
Wow, such an incredible story. This gentleman followed his instinct and went for it. Cannot imagine today being able to get through all the BS of the music business to show you have talent to a big name artist. He did the right thing at the right time. Also shows that encouragement alwas plays a big part on people with natural talent. As always a great interview.
Thanks Rene... best...Joe
Another great interview Joe. I don't know how I found your channel but I'm glad that I did. I look forward to your next entry.
I’m glad you found us too.. best....Joe
I saw Ben Keith with Neil in Hamburg and Horsens in 2008. That was great especially when they did "Words (between the .........) I will never forget :-)
Fascinating!!!
So many wonderful stories.
Thanks Ed.... I appreciate your supporting our videos.....Joe
Very talented fellow to be sure, wonderful work with Young...
I met ben twice. Great man
Another wonderful interview!
Thanks for watching Gary.....Joe
I'm so often fascinated by creativity. What musical or artistic traits did he show before high school and his first guitar? You gotta think those juices were perking from the beginning.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts John....Joe
Amazing
Yet another terrific interview Joe! I Also watched your interview with Reggie Young. It amazes me that talented musicians like Ben & Reggie were self taught. I really love these interviews. However, it's a real downer knowing that they are no longer with us. Very sad..........
Thanks again for watching Steve...Joe
Another great interview Joe 👍🏻😎
Thanks David...Joe
I put a SUPER like!
Man of steel
Must be something in the water down there in Bowling Green, Kentucky, sure cranked out some good'ns.
I'd seen his name all over records, just never knew who he was. I just ordered a lapsteel and a set of C6 strings. We'll see if I can figure it out. Thanks so much!
Thanks for watching.... good luck with it Craig..... Joe
Another great interview and video. I had never heard of Ben Keith before this interview, now I will have to look on my old Neil Young albums and identify the songs he played on so that I can give them a listen. I was also delighted to here that at one point he lived in Alvaton, Kentucky which is where I live. I settled here with my family after I retired from the military.
Thanks for watching DB...Best, Joe
I watched my dad play the Hawaiian guitar when I was about 7 yrs old. He sold it to get an acoustic 6 string guitar. He worked night shift so I learned to play it when he was working. Now, almost 60 yrs later, I bought my first resonator. Here we go!
Thanks for sharing your story James...Joe
Wow.. what a humble fellow he worked with Ringo and didn't even mention it. Did he not passed at Neil Young ranch back in 2010.. Thanks Joe..
Hi blue... yes he passed at the ranch. If you watch the interview with Spooner Oldham you’ll see video of him singing around the piano out there. Best, Joe
Love the history. (As I'm sure that I've said a dozen times or so!) 🎶
Thanks again Buzz... Joe
Ben Keith interview, very rare, I also could listen Old Man 24/7 mainly because of the haunting steel guitar but also because of the banjo. Ben used the Twin Reverb, anybody knows what Fx pedals he used?
Thanks for watching Robbert.... Joe
Another classic Joe!! PLAY LOUD!!
Thanks again Minister... best...Joe
NS 10s in the studio! (I have a pair too for my 3rd monitors.)
Great interview Joe. I’ve been a fan of Neil Young since he first popped on the scene. What can you say about Joe Mavis. One monster guitar player. It sounds like Ben is one monster guitar player too.
Thanks for watching Jim... Best...Joe
ha! excellent!!
Hi Andy... happy New Year... hope all’s well... Joe
Watch Ben play guitar on
" Cowgirl In The Sand"
Live at Red Rocks Colorado on RUclips.
Was all of Ben Keith’s playing in C6 ?
you reckon you could get Jewel to come by the house, bring her guitar and sing the National Anthem?
Dear Joe
Hey Joe, I hope you get a chance to read this. My wife Marcia and I met you in the early spring of 2007 (or maybe it was a year either way) the first winter we were empty nesters and took our first trip south since we were kids. I don't think the Musicians Hall of Fame had been open very long. We had no idea how to navigate Nashville so we'd rented a half ton and were driving around. Marcia and I played in bar bands and for weddings at that time and I'd always been a small time working musician so I was not going to get all goo-y about music stars but when I found the Musicians Hall of fame I turned into a little girl. We entered the building and were sheepishly nosing around and then you appeared out of a dark corner to visit. You seemed surprised that we found the place and asked where we were from and such (were from Saskatchewan) and you asked how we heard of the place. I'd read (internet) that someone was putting The Musicians Hall of Fame together but wasn't even sure if it would be open yet so when we were driving around I spotted the sign and hit the brakes hard.
After visiting with you (we'd just missed the start of a tour so) you showed us around a bit. I was awe struck by ever thing. I knew a lot of the history but to see all the memorabilia of all my heroes that I only new about from years of reading album jackets as a kid was really something.
We had loads of fun in Nashville and everyone was so nice but the highlight of the trip was The Musicians Hall of Fame. (well, we did get to sing a song at the Ryman using their prop guitar so that was cool also)
I wanted to mention that every Sunday morning we have a big breakfast and watch this channel. I can't tell you how much of a treasure it is to us. Working musicians are different than stars (although the stars are working musicians also) and a lot of the talent never gets realized by a lot of the public and I know that is the premise for your organization, it's just that, well, good on you and all the people you work with.
Marci and I will be having sausage, eggs coffee and watching you this do interviews this Sunday morning. It's such a good way to start the day.
Sincerely
Todd And Marcia Greenwood
Saskatchewan
Canada
toddstudio@sasktel.net
ruclips.net/channel/UCvEsmxcHKfTRIN4F9sjPKyQ
Hi again Todd and Marica,
Thanks for this nice email. That seems like another lifetime ago now so much has happened with the museum since then. I’m happy you guys are doing well and really appreciate you watching the videos. If you have a chance to visit Nashville again please stop by the new museum. Again it’s really nice to hear from you.
All the best,
Joe
Where's Bob Dylan hall of fame story??!! Bob Dylan along with Johnny Cash put Nashville on the map! Let's never forget!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Jerry... I assume you’ve seen our Bob Dylan Nashville videos. If not check them out. Thanks... Joe
He looks like cross between Andy Griffith and Henry Winkler, lol.
~ I can't believe that Whitney Houston is in the Rock 'n' Roll Hall Of Fame yet The Guess Who isn't?!!! Then what's the point of calling it the Rock 'n' Roll hall of fame? 🤷🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️🇨🇦
Hi Sigman.... thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts..... yes... regardless of anybody else that’s in the Rock Hall it does seem strange that bands like The Guess Who have not been inducted yet. What a great band ,great songs , great singer. Best...Joe
He's an enigma to me. Always been there behind the scenes and always noticeable when he's Not there. I could listen to his stories for days! Thanks again Joe!
Thanks John.... Joe