I COULD JUST CRY, AS THIS IS THE FIRST TIME I HAD SEEN A ACTUAL VIDEO OF MY UNCLE WES...... I HOPE THE LORD LOVES HIS PLAYING IN HEAVEN, AS HE WASN'T TOO APPRECIATED IN THIS EXISTENCE..... I MISS YOU UNCLE WES!....
If you believe he was under appreciated in his lifetime you are sorely mistaken . He was and is still considered the man who changed guitar ..he influenced not only jazz players , but country , rock and blues ...his name is world renowned and there is no telling how many guitar players his playing launched. It is sad he died so incredibly young . I hope this helps change your mind he was and still is one of the greatests ever..
He was the Jimi Hendrix of Jazz for sure. Influenced his contemporaries and countless who came after, due to his originality and innovations. Not to mention the fact that his music is just plain fun to listen to! Loved Wes' music for 50 years and always will. It lightens the soul and makes me feel happy. His picture hangs prominently in my music room.
My Dad is 84 he says he only regrets one thing is his life and that was not seeing you uncle live when he had the chance. His version of california dreaming is the favorite record of all time, across all genres
Revisiting this talented guitarist here in 2024! His strumming was so unique, and his sound so calming and beautiful! And 56 years after his passing, he is still revered and appreciated!
Wes Montgomery was (and still is) one of the ‘Very Best’ guitar players in the world, he plays all kind of music just Tremendously. George Benson admires Wes Montgomery very much, as once in a while you might sense his way of playing is like the style Wes used to do. Just Amazing and ‘one of a kind’. 👍👍👍
This looked like such a great day for him. He looked truly humbled to be able to share his music. Imagine finding out that people would be watching this stuff decades later over the internet, for the first time.
One of my favorite and most inspirational jazz guitarists. I'm 19 and just recently got into jazz music and have been playing rock/metal guitar for 3 years now. I'm so happy to have come across this great musician! Very inspiring! Been learning some ragtime guitar and still pushing to learn... hopefully I can be as good as this guy one day!
I love Wes Montgomery, driving in the 60s easy listening stations or stations that had an easy listening time slot always had tons of Wes Montgomery songs playing.
i wonder if he knew that years and years later he'd be inspiring young guitarists everywhere to pick up their guitar and grind it out to become a great. he had to know.
guys like Wes don't clutter up their mind with weird thinking about vanity and pride , thats the reason they get good at it , purity of character and focus on whats important
Many jazz guitarist today owes a great debt to this genius. He was a great innovator like Coltrane was on sax. A true master. I was luck to see him in 1967 when I was starting Junior High
I hate to break it to a lot of you, but I've known people who knew him, and he wasn't as fake or as jaded as a lot of you. He was a genuine, and really sweet guy. He played this music because he wanted to and he liked it. It didn't take away from his Jazz playing. The smile wasn't fake. Nobody made him do this. We've become so jaded and phony "hip", that it's hard to imagine someone wasn't like that - especially when that somebody was WES MONTGOMERY!
Wes took providing for his family very seriously, so when the opportunity arose to do some recordings with greater commercial appeal than straight-ahead jazz, he didn't hesitate. Maybe that's why the man was smiling; for maybe the first time in his life, he was making decent money - the kind of money a performer of his stature ought to make. People tend to put down Wes' later music - but even the easy-listening sides done later in his career were done to high production standards, and maybe he didn't realize it, but Wes was helping to create a new genre of music - one which would grow and flourish after his death. I was only a boy when Wes died so I didn't have the opportunity to meet him, but I know a few people who did - and they echo your words about his being a really sweet person and very genuine. In closing, Wes had a wonderful attitude about life and music; he used to say "You know, I don't have to play" - meaning that as much as he loved music, it wasn't the only thing in his life or life in general.
I remember having that very album when I was about 7, the cigarette butts photo on the cover was very distinctive and "Windy" was my favorite on the album. I have no idea how I had the album or where it came from.
Wes performed popular music for perhaps the best of reasons - his duty as a father to provide for his family. He had a lot of mouths to feed and took his responsibilities seriously. His so-called "easy listening" hits were his first real taste of commercial and financial success. After leaving Riverside Wes continued to play jazz whenever the opportunity presented itself, such as his famed 1965 live date at the Blue Note in New York City and his European tour the same year. While doing more-pop oriented recording sessions and live appearances as well. Even the greatest of jazz artists - and Wes was amongst the very greatest of all - have to pay their bills.
My question is who thinks that he was "fake or jaded" to begin with? As for him going commercial with songs like "Windy," then hey, he did what was best for him. Bear in mind that musicians have to eat and pay bills like the rest of us. Personally, I like his commercial music better than his straight jazz, because when he played pop tunes, it allowed him to focus on what he did best: octave melodies.
Wes's tone was so clear, it almost sounded as if he were playing a percussion instrument. No fret noise, no sliding up and down the strings. He just...., well, he hit 'em with his thumb.
Wes had his innovative and somewhat idiosyncratic approach down to a science.His right-hand thumb had a corn or callus on the end, which projected out past the nail bed and allowed him to do up-and-down strokes. He also used a variety of glisses, hammer-ons, pull-offs, ghost notes, and other methods to give his single-line playing that flowing yet popping, Clifford Brown-like articulation so prized by jazz soloists. Very hornlike in his approach, even though he played guitar. And chordally, his approach was based as much on listening to pianists and big-bands as anything.
@ Lamont: Wes' playing had that popping Clifford Brown-like articulation so many jazz cats strive for - not surprising, since he listened to just as many horn players, pianists and organists as he did other guitarists. Lots of big band influences in his playing, too. Playing bebop on an archtop guitar with a pick is difficult-enough; playing it using your thumb instead of a pick is even more challenging. The number of people who have mastered this difficult art can be counted on two hands with fingers left over. And no one has surpassed what Wes managed to do. His technique was only a means to an end; in my view, he'd have been an all-time jazz great regardless of instrument. As Charlie Parker is for jazz saxophonists, Wes is for jazz guitarists.
This video really takes me back to my childhood. It reminds me of my dad (R.I.P.). This was one of his favorite albums. He'd play it on his reel to reel when he got home from work and my sister and I would dance around. :-) Thanks for this post. Wes is the best. So sad that he died a few months after this show was recorded. R.I.P. Mr. Wes Montgomery.
"Wes is STILL THE BEST." Who has ever matched his MASTERY of sensitivity of touch and the texture of his SELECTED CHORDS he uses to weave his TAPESTRY of CREATIVE solos. It's that God given--- "GOLDEN THUMB"--- that is UNIQUIELY IMPRINTED within him that puts him beyond reach. Wes has set the pace---to all others just running in the race.
Windy by The Association was the first 45-rpm single I ever bought back in 1967 when I was 10 years old. What a pleasure to hear it covered by Wes Montgomery.
Bought the Association album because of this song, still got it still play it. A boyfriend of my sister introduced me to Wes Montgomery back in the sixties this album in particular. A smoother sound would be hard to find.
Back in the late 1960s or early '70s, a girlfriend - who shall remain nameless - borrowed and wore out my Wes Montgomery 8-track tape including that song. We loved his muted sound.
Wes,March 6th should be a national holiday on your behalf.We revere you daily and may god love you .From your good buddy.!We thank you for your divine music and your greatness.! .
Perfect...and my favorite era of Wes---'65-'68. Yes, the 'commercial' years of his were his best...bane of society it will make me amongst 'jazz purists'. That's my story and I'm stickin' to it-
I love how he laughed at the "cut to the ad" applause and the compere joins in the joking with Wes. Wes thought "This made me $1000?" and his mate says "It's gravy man, enjoy it!" I think the compere was the happiest man in the world at that point in time; joking around with a man he completely admired and respected. If only such wonderful events would happen in our lives! Mine was with Corey Christiansen in Sydney Australia after an amusing seminar. Corey's a top guy!!! He sure loves his jazz!
Wes...the Godfather of jazz guitar. That album was one of the first jazz albums I bought, circa 1968. His rendition of the Beatles' Day in the Life is legendary. The ensemble including Herbie Hancock and Ron Carter added a kinda Miles Davis Quintet sound to the rhythm. One for the ages. Thank you brother Wes! Life is mortal, but your musical influences are indelible.
Wes was the teacher,,,the mentor,,the guitar genius,,the go to guy,, the Alpha the Omega,,,,the Haleys Comet of Jazz Guitar,,The Badass,,, The Champ,,, The model,,The Case Study,,,The guy who did things right,,The guy you always talked about ,,the guy you kept secret in you r pocket,,,the Guru the Svengali,,,the guy you always wanted to meet and emulate to have a beer with,,the genius guy who would show you how to get OVER,,the guy that made everything look so Goddamned EASY,,,the guy that would tutor you,,the guy who would show you THAT STUFF,,the guy you would listen to on the way home after the gig or a date on the 8 track,,,the guy you wished would have seen at the local jazz dungeon after 2 drinks and a cover charge, club but you never did cause you thought he was superhuman and would be around forever ,,,,having said all that ,,,we love you Wes and we miss you Wes ,,you left us too soon,,,DD
I am 50 year’s old I remember this song from being a kid growing up in the 70’s my dad played all types of great music around me mostly jazz I remember this because of the relaxing sound . Windy was the perfect name for this classic it takes me back to when I was kid again playing with my toys on a nice day back then and that’s how it was simple and people were nicer . Peace ✌🏾.
Years ago, I had a talented guitar teacher named George Pritchett who knew Wes Montgomery personally. George had GREAT admiration other fine jazz guitarists, and often spoke highly of Wes’ fluid, on-the-mark, soulful playing style.
Wes' "A Day In The Life" album was his first and only certified gold LP while "Windy" came close to hitting the Top 40 pop chart. Performing here on a prime time network variety show was icing on the cake. He had every reason to smile.
I totally applaud this cover. He finally made real money. When he was a "serious" Jazz hero('59-63), he still had to hold down his day job. Can you imagine? He only had one year of real money... in '68 he passed away from a heart attack. He was just 45. We're so lucky to have his work live on.
Beautiful! This is the first tiime I've seen Wes Montgomery play. What a historic performance. I didn't realize he passed away a year later in 1968 at such a young age. A great loss to the music world. RIP Mr. Montgomery.
@SuperCarver2011: In an interview, Orin Keepnews, Wes's producer at Riverside, says that Wes wasn't proud of those Jazz-Pop records that he was making, A&M pushed him in that direction due to the collapse in the sale of Jazz records in the later years of the '60s, Wes didn't fight it because all Jazz musicians were perplexed and fearful by the public's sudden loss of interest in Jazz, he was glad for the great increase in his income, but he looked forward to making straight Jazz records again.
All of Wes’ music was genuine. He started making more money when he became a bit more commercial - of course. His jazzy renditions of pop tunes like the one in this video were on point and anybody who didn’t have a Hole in their soul could enjoy them. But he was heard to tell more than one person, “You shoulda heard me when I was Really playing!” Wes, my Brother, you were Always Really playing! That cat was a master! His style was so complex and innovative, he was bound to make the occasional mistake. But he had a way of making his rare mistakes sound like he Meant to do that! He was The Man, and I’m Still learning from him!🎼🎶
Must be really tough to sit there and "lip" sync with a guitar. The man was superb and deserved a full, live, plugged-in opportunity. RIP, Wes, you took the instrument to a different level.
I have listened to Wes since the 1970's , before I went to Berklee in Boston in 1980. Not until RUclips, did I ever get a chance to see Wes , Django , and Joe Pass play. It is a special treat any time I can see Wes play. Although I snorted at his pop records as a young man and listened to the jazz records only , today I am grateful to hear and/or see Wes play anything. Wes could have played Twinkle Twinkle and I'm taking a look and listen
Not quite true. Wes started out in his early teens playing what they called back then "tenor" guitar, i.e., 4-string, then moved on to the 6-string guitar we're all more familiar with when he was about 19. Wes developed his unique style from playing the tenor guitar.
My father introduced me to WES MONTGOMERY's music. He would play his albums constantly since we lived in the same city where he was born and raised and lived within a mile from WES MONTGOMERY PARK. NAPTOWN considers WES to be the GREATEST JAZZ GUITARIST EVER!!❤
1967 - not a black face in the audience. I guess that was the way it was .... I wonder what Wes thought of that .... However you look at it, great guitar work by a master.
One of the great greatest entertainers guitar player that ever lived Wes Montgomery God bless you and your family on this New Year's Day 2001 thank you Wes for all the good lyrics you gave us and the good sounds God bless you
While his pop stuff is still technically brilliant, it's a shame he had to move to this style for commercial reasons. Check out his earlier albums. Use of octaves, block chords and melodic lines are gorgeous and have yet to be surpassed. A true jazz great.
+Ray Tortorella Why is it always bad when a jazz player puts out some pop stuff. I thinks it's great because it brings in new listeners to their music and may turn some of them onto jazz. That's what happened to me. I probably never would have discovered jazz had George Benson not put out Breezin. Because of him, I've purchased many albums of other jazz artists. I guess the only issue I would have is if a jazz player never put out another jazz album. That would be sad but I'd understand. They have to make a living too.
+Grant Sawisky Hey Grant, yours and Ray's exchange is one that I've had on numerous occasions; I'm a self-proclaimed jazz snob; and I admit for a long period of time my sentiments pretty much echoed Ray's. Most folk who consider themselves jazz purists really ostracized Wes Montgomery when he "crossed over" or "went commercial / mainstream". From Wes' perspective he was trying to feed his family, and I'll never down a man for doing that. I'm going through the same struggles now when I see how these young hip-hop artists sample so much of these great jazz icons -- I'll admit, it really bothered me (and still does sometimes, depending on how I'm feeling).I had my epiphany about 3 years ago. I was watching this wonderful documentary on The Story of The Blue Note Label --- probably the most famous jazz label ever --- especially when going back to the 40's and 50's. On this documentary were a number of outstanding interviews -- one was with the great jazz pianist Horace Silver ("Song For My Father"); Horace's opinion of these youngsters sampling the jazz greats mirrored yours to the tee. He said "they're showing respect to the masters, and if someone samples something from Herbie Hancock or Miles Davis, perhaps they will inadvertently discover someone like Art Blakey, or Dexter Gordon, or Grant Green; maybe they'll eventually become a fan of jazz". When Horace uttered those words I thought, if someone like Horace Silver can come to grips with these youngsters, then surely I can as well!
+K Jones Very interesting story. I often bristle when people dis George Benson. He did some pop stuff but now has come full circle and I'd say he is the greatest living jazz artist today. He does it all - guitar, sings standards, still can punch out the pop stuff too and still sound great. Anyone who say's he's given up his Jazz roots obviously doesn't know Jazz. I've seen him live 8 times and he can still rip it on the guitar. It's guys who crossed over that really should be praised because they're the ones bringing more listeners to Jazz. I don't how long it would have taken me to discover Jazz had it not been for George. I thank all those guys who crossover from any genre. I've discovered a whole lot of great music because of those artists who do.
+Grant Sawisky Man you are so right about George. The first time I saw him perform live was in the mid '70's (pre-Breezin'); he performed at Keystone Korner in San Francisco. I saw him again recently here in Atlanta this past summer --- he absolutely rocked the house! The crowd was on their feet the entire show; he played all his pop standards but also showed his jazz roots as well --- a phenomenal performer, still today!
I hear what you're saying and most everybody watching this already knows about Wes Montgomery and his great bebop chops - legacy. Here's a thought, when you listen to him play Georgia and only play one with Chorus in octaves, playing the most perfect guitar solo that can be played on one chorus! That says a lot about the Genius of Wes Montgomery. He took having to play shorter solos as a challenge and we all know he rose to the challenge better than anybody. I've been listening to Wes Montgomery since I was 14 and love every note he's played in every style he has played on throughout his career. A recording career that spanned around 10 years with albums in recordings he's left for all of us to study, soak in and appreciate - The joy of Wes Montgomery. The King of jazz_guitar.
Wes seemed like such a sweet gentle person. No ego. No flash. Just beautifully played guitar work that we were luckily able to have the technology to document for future generations to enjoy. I wished he lived longer
When the TV host says Wes started playing guitar at 19, that's not exactly true. Wes had been playing a 4-string guitar since he was 12, but didn't start playing a standard 6-string guitar until he was 19.
The "TV host" was Herb Alpert, the "A" in the label's name, "A&M". and successful trumpetist and more questionable as a singer. But his "This guy's in love with you" is kind of heartfelt...
Wes Montgomery(1923-1968) O bir taksi şöförüydü.. O bir fabrika işçisiydi.. O kalabalık bir aileye bakan bir emekçiydi.. O bir gün gitara tutuldu.. O gitarı ağzıyla da çalabilen, gitarının mektepsiz ilk virtüözüdür.. O döneminin efsane bir caz gitaristidir.. Ruhu yüce olsun!.. Asilhan Bilâl
saw Wes in 68 in Mpls. was 14. Also Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, George Shearing, Quincy Jones (Maiden Voyage with Mpls Symphony Orchestra,) Cannonball Adderly Herbie Mann. Mrs. Noreen Lincoln Jr. HS got me all those tickets. Went back stage to get everyone's autograph.
The host is Herb Alpert of Tijuana Brass fame. Co-owner of A&M (Alpert and Moss) Records. Herb had quite an ear for jazz as well (the album cover was an A&M release), Wes wasn't the only jazz artist A&M signed- Bossa Nova had a big place in then A&M stable from Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66 to the Samba master himself, Tom Jobim. From Jobim to The Carpenters, A&M had a varied and vast stable of talent- in a way it's own sound (or genre?). Had Wes not died so soon, I've no doubt Herb could have made him as big a star as anyone else at A&M- giving Wes quite a bit of room in material as well as arrangements. Interesting as Wes isn't plugged in though...
+Dennis Nichols If I'm not mistaken, Didn't Herb have a hand in the discovery and development of the "Carpenters?" You know, Karen and I think, Richard maybe.
His guitar isn’t plugged in because he is pantomiming. Almost everything on TV is pre-recorded. They do it for technical reasons. Even Super Bowl halftime is all pantomimed. Especially for live events on national or international television, they can’t take a chance on a technical glitch in the sound system. So even talented artists pantomime.
im so happy to hear AND SEE !!!!!! wes play this. i used to go into a pub in forest gate east london back in 84 because they had a 45 of this on the jukebox ..... then i would get drunk on snake bite . thats cider and lager with a dash of black current !!! then listen to wes again ..... great days .
yeah but look at the faces of those in the audience,,,to most of them they could be listening to Albert Ayler or Roscoe Mitchell...they don't be knowin nothin!
Just beautiful. And such wonderful rapport between Wes & Herb, who brought us The Lonely Bull, and This Guy's In Love With You, and The Carpenters (The A in A & M Records). What a magical time.
Bermuda's Kindley Field Air Force Base cooks always played his tunes for mid-rats when I was stationed there in '68. Awesome memories and even better at the time, with food!! Thanks, Wes! :)
Skilled musician, yes. The use of his thumb was not because "He could do it and nobody else could". It's simply because Mr Montgomery chose to play that way.
Because only one of Wes's talents was playing guitar. His most extraordinary talent was telekineses. What you are hearing isn't a recording, you are hearing Wes's brainwaves as he mind melds his guitar playing to an audience member. Technology in the early 1960s was so much more sophsticated.
His guitar is plugged in, he might be playing along to the record and since this was in a theater the band and orchestra could have been in the orchestra pit.
They couldn't even plug him in? This was just a mimed playalong to a recording? What Poor Wes had to do to fulfill his A&M contract...plus the orange cream tux. Nice to see he could at least laugh at it all at the end.
On this day in 1967 {November 19th} Wes Montgomery's instrumental covered version of "Windy" entered Billboard's Hot Top 100 chart at position #85; and four weeks later on December 17th, 1967 it peaked at #44 {for 2 weeks} and spent 11 weeks on the Top 100... It reached #48 on Billboard's R&B Singles chart... Was track seven on his eighteenth studio album, "A Day in the Life", and the album peaked at #1 on Billboard's Jazz Albums chart and #2 on Billboard's R&B Albums chart... Earlier in 1967 on June 25th the Association's original version peaked at #1 {for 4 weeks}... John Leslie 'Wes' Montgomery passed away on June 15th, 1968 at the young age of 45 {heart attack}... May he R.I.P.
this is just how you respectively listened to greatness in 1967. better than having a crowd full of drunk assholes on their cellphones or trying to have a conversation over his playing.
Insert. I believe yo totally. Wes created a style music no one had ever heard before. I have the utmost respect for Wes. I love every song he’s ever played. His music was endearing to me as a teenager that loved jazz. When I first heard Wes I was blown away. His guitar spoke to my heart of music
Wes himself would have described this tune as musak. He must have hated this. He was the best jazz guitar player at the time but commercial imperatives, greedy producers and recording executives took over. The music hence turned gimmicky. Awful
Actually, Wes didn't hate this music at all, if for no other reason than the fact that for the first time in his life, he was making a decent living and getting paid well. He frankly admitted to critics and fellow musicians that this new music wasn't jazz; he knew that from the start when he agreed to work with Creed Taylor and people like that. I love Wes' jazz recordings so much that it is sometimes hard to listen to him play pop, but I temper that emotion with the knowledge that it meant a great deal to him as a man and as a father to take proper care of his family.
Herb Alpert's contention that Wes didn't start playing guitar until he was 19 isn't exactly true. He actually started playing guitar at 12, but it was a four-string instrument. He began playing the standard 6-string at 19
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I COULD JUST CRY, AS THIS IS THE FIRST TIME I HAD SEEN A ACTUAL VIDEO OF MY UNCLE WES...... I HOPE THE LORD LOVES HIS PLAYING IN HEAVEN, AS HE WASN'T TOO APPRECIATED IN THIS EXISTENCE..... I MISS YOU UNCLE WES!....
If you believe he was under appreciated in his lifetime you are sorely mistaken . He was and is still considered the man who changed guitar ..he influenced not only jazz players , but country , rock and blues ...his name is world renowned and there is no telling how many guitar players his playing launched.
It is sad he died so incredibly young .
I hope this helps change your mind he was and still is one of the greatests ever..
He was the Jimi Hendrix of Jazz for sure. Influenced his contemporaries and countless who came after, due to his originality and innovations. Not to mention the fact that his music is just plain fun to listen to! Loved Wes' music for 50 years and always will. It lightens the soul and makes me feel happy. His picture hangs prominently in my music room.
My Dad is 84 he says he only regrets one thing is his life and that was not seeing you uncle live when he had the chance. His version of california dreaming is the favorite record of all time, across all genres
Remember the good times. Be proud he was and is a LEGEND!
Wes Montgomery is and was legendary!
Wes Montgomery is the reason I continue to attempt to play jazz. His genius is unparalleled!
actually Wes Montgomery is the reason why I never attempt to play jazz
Me too....
His genius may be unparalleled but his octaves sure aren’t.
Kenny Burrell ode to 52nd St.
His genius is unparalleled? Have you ever listened to Joe pass?
Revisiting this talented guitarist here in 2024! His strumming was so unique, and his sound so calming and beautiful! And 56 years after his passing, he is still revered and appreciated!
❤❤❤
Wes Montgomery was (and still is) one of the ‘Very Best’ guitar players in the world, he plays all kind of music just Tremendously.
George Benson admires Wes Montgomery very much, as once in a while you might sense his way of playing is like the style Wes used to do. Just Amazing and ‘one of a kind’. 👍👍👍
This looked like such a great day for him. He looked truly humbled to be able to share his music. Imagine finding out that people would be watching this stuff decades later over the internet, for the first time.
One of my favorite and most inspirational jazz guitarists. I'm 19 and just recently got into jazz music and have been playing rock/metal guitar for 3 years now. I'm so happy to have come across this great musician! Very inspiring! Been learning some ragtime guitar and still pushing to learn... hopefully I can be as good as this guy one day!
I love Wes Montgomery, driving in the 60s easy listening stations or stations that had an easy listening time slot always had tons of Wes Montgomery songs playing.
i wonder if he knew that years and years later he'd be inspiring young guitarists everywhere to pick up their guitar and grind it out to become a great. he had to know.
I wonder if he knew how bad of shape the music industry would be in.
Look at his face whenever he plays. He knew exactly what he was doing.
I doubt he thought of it that way much though
guys like Wes don't clutter up their mind with weird thinking about vanity and pride , thats the reason they get good at it , purity of character and focus on whats important
Many jazz guitarist today owes a great debt to this genius. He was a great innovator like Coltrane was on sax. A true master. I was luck to see him in 1967 when I was starting Junior High
Dam, that’s too cool you saw him live
I hate to break it to a lot of you, but I've known people who knew him, and he wasn't as fake or as jaded as a lot of you. He was a genuine, and really sweet guy. He played this music because he wanted to and he liked it. It didn't take away from his Jazz playing. The smile wasn't fake. Nobody made him do this. We've become so jaded and phony "hip", that it's hard to imagine someone wasn't like that - especially when that somebody was WES MONTGOMERY!
Wes took providing for his family very seriously, so when the opportunity arose to do some recordings with greater commercial appeal than straight-ahead jazz, he didn't hesitate. Maybe that's why the man was smiling; for maybe the first time in his life, he was making decent money - the kind of money a performer of his stature ought to make. People tend to put down Wes' later music - but even the easy-listening sides done later in his career were done to high production standards, and maybe he didn't realize it, but Wes was helping to create a new genre of music - one which would grow and flourish after his death. I was only a boy when Wes died so I didn't have the opportunity to meet him, but I know a few people who did - and they echo your words about his being a really sweet person and very genuine. In closing, Wes had a wonderful attitude about life and music; he used to say "You know, I don't have to play" - meaning that as much as he loved music, it wasn't the only thing in his life or life in general.
I remember having that very album when I was about 7, the cigarette butts photo on the cover was very distinctive and "Windy" was my favorite on the album. I have no idea how I had the album or where it came from.
Great response, he doesn't need to justify any aspect of his career to the 'Jazz Police"!
Wes performed popular music for perhaps the best of reasons - his duty as a father to provide for his family. He had a lot of mouths to feed and took his responsibilities seriously. His so-called "easy listening" hits were his first real taste of commercial and financial success. After leaving Riverside Wes continued to play jazz whenever the opportunity presented itself, such as his famed 1965 live date at the Blue Note in New York City and his European tour the same year. While doing more-pop oriented recording sessions and live appearances as well. Even the greatest of jazz artists - and Wes was amongst the very greatest of all - have to pay their bills.
My question is who thinks that he was "fake or jaded" to begin with? As for him going commercial with songs like "Windy," then hey, he did what was best for him. Bear in mind that musicians have to eat and pay bills like the rest of us. Personally, I like his commercial music better than his straight jazz, because when he played pop tunes, it allowed him to focus on what he did best: octave melodies.
Wes's tone was so clear, it almost sounded as if he were playing a percussion instrument. No fret noise, no sliding up and down the strings. He just...., well, he hit 'em with his thumb.
Wes had his innovative and somewhat idiosyncratic approach down to a science.His right-hand thumb had a corn or callus on the end, which projected out past the nail bed and allowed him to do up-and-down strokes. He also used a variety of glisses, hammer-ons, pull-offs, ghost notes, and other methods to give his single-line playing that flowing yet popping, Clifford Brown-like articulation so prized by jazz soloists. Very hornlike in his approach, even though he played guitar. And chordally, his approach was based as much on listening to pianists and big-bands as anything.
@ Lamont: Wes' playing had that popping Clifford Brown-like articulation so many jazz cats strive for - not surprising, since he listened to just as many horn players, pianists and organists as he did other guitarists. Lots of big band influences in his playing, too. Playing bebop on an archtop guitar with a pick is difficult-enough; playing it using your thumb instead of a pick is even more challenging. The number of people who have mastered this difficult art can be counted on two hands with fingers left over. And no one has surpassed what Wes managed to do. His technique was only a means to an end; in my view, he'd have been an all-time jazz great regardless of instrument. As Charlie Parker is for jazz saxophonists, Wes is for jazz guitarists.
This video really takes me back to my childhood. It reminds me of my dad (R.I.P.). This was one of his favorite albums. He'd play it on his reel to reel when he got home from work and my sister and I would dance around. :-) Thanks for this post. Wes is the best. So sad that he died a few months after this show was recorded. R.I.P. Mr. Wes Montgomery.
golden memories ! do ya still have that tape machine ?
@@bobsaturday4273 Yes, & I’ve just rebuilt it. It’s a Sansui SD-7000 reel to reel.
My dad used to go to clubs in Indiana and got to see Wes live many times! What an awesome musician!
Paul Rudd never ages.
Six months after this show he was gone. The audience shot is just weird. Amazing musician. Thank you for the post.
wes smile is the best part of this song
I played this album of Wes over and over.....great memories.
"Wes is STILL THE BEST." Who has ever matched his MASTERY of sensitivity of touch and the texture of his SELECTED CHORDS he uses to weave his TAPESTRY of CREATIVE solos. It's that God given--- "GOLDEN THUMB"--- that is UNIQUIELY IMPRINTED within him that puts him beyond reach. Wes has set the pace---to all others just running in the race.
Windy by The Association was the first 45-rpm single I ever bought back in 1967 when I was 10 years old. What a pleasure to hear it covered by Wes Montgomery.
WINDY war Association und umgekehrt. Jetzt ist WINDY für mich auch Wes Montgomery.
Klasse!
Bought the Association album because of this song, still got it still play it. A boyfriend of my sister introduced me to Wes Montgomery back in the sixties this album in particular. A smoother sound would be hard to find.
Herb Alpert and Wes Montgomery, two dope ass musicians
U dumb Ass u wouldn't know real music if it licked u on the mouth.
He left us to soon.
One of the greats.
One of the purest and naturally gifted musicians of all time........
Hands Up❤❤❤🙏🙏🙏
Thanks Wes for the happy feeling!
Great Jazz
How are you doing today?
Back in the late 1960s or early '70s, a girlfriend - who shall remain nameless - borrowed and wore out my Wes Montgomery 8-track tape including that song. We loved his muted sound.
Wes,March 6th should be a national holiday on your behalf.We revere you daily and may god love you .From your good buddy.!We thank you for your divine music and your greatness.! .
Perfect...and my favorite era of Wes---'65-'68. Yes, the 'commercial' years of his were his best...bane of society it will make me amongst 'jazz purists'. That's my story and I'm stickin' to it-
I love how he laughed at the "cut to the ad" applause and the compere joins in the joking with Wes. Wes thought "This made me $1000?" and his mate says "It's gravy man, enjoy it!" I think the compere was the happiest man in the world at that point in time; joking around with a man he completely admired and respected. If only such wonderful events would happen in our lives! Mine was with Corey Christiansen in Sydney Australia after an amusing seminar. Corey's a top guy!!! He sure loves his jazz!
Wes...the Godfather of jazz guitar. That album was one of the first jazz albums I bought, circa 1968. His rendition of the Beatles' Day in the Life is legendary. The ensemble including Herbie Hancock and Ron Carter added a kinda Miles Davis Quintet sound to the rhythm. One for the ages. Thank you brother Wes! Life is mortal, but your musical influences are indelible.
Wes was the teacher,,,the mentor,,the guitar genius,,the go to guy,, the Alpha the Omega,,,,the Haleys Comet of Jazz Guitar,,The Badass,,, The Champ,,, The model,,The Case Study,,,The guy who did things right,,The guy you always talked about ,,the guy you kept secret in you r pocket,,,the Guru the Svengali,,,the guy you always wanted to meet and emulate to have a beer with,,the genius guy who would show you how to get OVER,,the guy that made everything look so Goddamned EASY,,,the guy that would tutor you,,the guy who would show you THAT STUFF,,the guy you would listen to on the way home after the gig or a date on the 8 track,,,the guy you wished would have seen at the local jazz dungeon after 2 drinks and a cover charge, club but you never did cause you thought he was superhuman and would be around forever ,,,,having said all that ,,,we love you Wes and we miss you Wes ,,you left us too soon,,,DD
I had a moving and stirring conversation years ago with Wes' brother Buddy .
He said : " My brother Wes was a sweet , a NICE GUY " !
That truly was an amazing performance, he was just perfectly on point with the guitar playing.
I really love this gentleman's music! I listened to him when i was a kid and still love to hear him play. Thank you for the post.
This is the Man I Most admire,Whos music was and Still is Worthy of My Time ❤A Voice In The Mall 23 Sept 2023
I am 50 year’s old I remember this song from being a kid growing up in the 70’s my dad played all types of great music around me mostly jazz I remember this because of the relaxing sound . Windy was the perfect name for this classic it takes me back to when I was kid again playing with my toys on a nice day back then and that’s how it was simple and people were nicer . Peace ✌🏾.
This pop tune's child's play for Wes. His octave playing and the way he strums is still the standard of the day. Thanks for the video upload.
That is my favorite album by Wes. I learned 2 tunes from that album that really helped me in my jazz chops. Wes was a beast!
Years ago, I had a talented guitar teacher named George Pritchett who knew Wes Montgomery personally. George had GREAT admiration other fine jazz guitarists, and often spoke highly of Wes’ fluid, on-the-mark, soulful playing style.
Wes' "A Day In The Life" album was his first and only certified gold LP while "Windy" came close to hitting the Top 40 pop chart. Performing here on a prime time network variety show was icing on the cake. He had every reason to smile.
what a treat to see this great man play!
I totally applaud this cover. He finally made real money. When he was a "serious" Jazz hero('59-63), he still had to hold down his day job. Can you imagine? He only had one year of real money... in '68 he passed away from a heart attack. He was just 45. We're so lucky to have his work live on.
We are so lucky to have this performance from "The Hollywood Palace" TV show. Wes died of a heart attack at age 45, just 6 months after this aired.
Beautiful! This is the first tiime I've seen Wes Montgomery play. What a historic performance. I didn't realize he passed away a year later in 1968 at such a young age. A great loss to the music world. RIP Mr. Montgomery.
@SuperCarver2011: In an interview, Orin Keepnews, Wes's producer at Riverside, says that Wes wasn't proud of those Jazz-Pop records that he was making, A&M pushed him in that direction due to the collapse in the sale of Jazz records in the later years of the '60s, Wes didn't fight it because all Jazz musicians were perplexed and fearful by the public's sudden loss of interest in Jazz, he was glad for the great increase in his income, but he looked forward to making straight Jazz records again.
Oh that was incredibly awesome
Magnificent
How are you doing today?
I am okay, thank you for asking.
@@wendyyvettegreenwell9212 You’re welcome, how long have you been listening to Wes montgomery ?
thank you,i have never seen the great wes till now...george benson and those since, owe him...simply great!!!!
All of Wes’ music was genuine. He started making more money when he became a bit more commercial - of course. His jazzy renditions of pop tunes like the one in this video were on point and anybody who didn’t have a Hole in their soul could enjoy them. But he was heard to tell more than one person, “You shoulda heard me when I was Really playing!” Wes, my Brother, you were Always Really playing! That cat was a master! His style was so complex and innovative, he was bound to make the occasional mistake. But he had a way of making his rare mistakes sound like he Meant to do that! He was The Man, and I’m Still learning from him!🎼🎶
Must be really tough to sit there and "lip" sync with a guitar. The man was superb and deserved a full, live, plugged-in opportunity. RIP, Wes, you took the instrument to a different level.
its live Wes not synced
Wes passed away 2 months after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 😢 Neither one will ever be forgotten. What they meant to the world is priceless.
I have listened to Wes since the 1970's , before I went to Berklee in Boston in 1980. Not until RUclips, did I ever get a chance to see Wes , Django , and Joe Pass play. It is a special treat any time I can see Wes play. Although I snorted at his pop records as a young man and listened to the jazz records only , today I am grateful to hear and/or see Wes play anything. Wes could have played Twinkle Twinkle and I'm taking a look and listen
A tip of the hat to Wes Montgomery, very sensitive melodic gifts, smooth and soulful.
Breaking Bad production team sure knows its music.
they sure do, everyone knows it's wendy
He has started the guitar at the age of 19....taught by himself...he worked during the day and played during the evening.
Not quite true. Wes started out in his early teens playing what they called back then "tenor" guitar, i.e., 4-string, then moved on to the 6-string guitar we're all more familiar with when he was about 19. Wes developed his unique style from playing the tenor guitar.
this man is trhe greatest guitarist period no thumbs down.
My father introduced me to WES MONTGOMERY's music. He would play his albums constantly since we lived in the same city where he was born and raised and lived within a mile from WES MONTGOMERY PARK. NAPTOWN considers WES to be the GREATEST JAZZ GUITARIST EVER!!❤
One of my favorites since I was a teen. This audience though....robots perhaps? :o
He is one of my all time favorite
How are you doing today?
1967 - not a black face in the audience. I guess that was the way it was .... I wonder what Wes thought of that .... However you look at it, great guitar work by a master.
That doesn't look like a typical venue he'd perform at, afterall his band isn't even there, he's having to play to backing track
@@omairsh8 Yeah TV 1967,I was in 1st grade
this clip makes me happy !!!!!!!!!!!
One of the great greatest entertainers guitar player that ever lived Wes Montgomery God bless you and your family on this New Year's Day 2001 thank you Wes for all the good lyrics you gave us and the good sounds God bless you
While his pop stuff is still technically brilliant, it's a shame he had to move to this style for commercial reasons. Check out his earlier albums. Use of octaves, block chords and melodic lines are gorgeous and have yet to be surpassed. A true jazz great.
+Ray Tortorella Why is it always bad when a jazz player puts out some pop stuff. I thinks it's great because it brings in new listeners to their music and may turn some of them onto jazz. That's what happened to me. I probably never would have discovered jazz had George Benson not put out Breezin. Because of him, I've purchased many albums of other jazz artists. I guess the only issue I would have is if a jazz player never put out another jazz album. That would be sad but I'd understand. They have to make a living too.
+Grant Sawisky Hey Grant, yours and Ray's exchange is one that I've had on numerous occasions; I'm a self-proclaimed jazz snob; and I admit for a long period of time my sentiments pretty much echoed Ray's. Most folk who consider themselves jazz purists really ostracized Wes Montgomery when he "crossed over" or "went commercial / mainstream". From Wes' perspective he was trying to feed his family, and I'll never down a man for doing that. I'm going through the same struggles now when I see how these young hip-hop artists sample so much of these great jazz icons -- I'll admit, it really bothered me (and still does sometimes, depending on how I'm feeling).I had my epiphany about 3 years ago. I was watching this wonderful documentary on The Story of The Blue Note Label --- probably the most famous jazz label ever --- especially when going back to the 40's and 50's. On this documentary were a number of outstanding interviews -- one was with the great jazz pianist Horace Silver ("Song For My Father"); Horace's opinion of these youngsters sampling the jazz greats mirrored yours to the tee. He said "they're showing respect to the masters, and if someone samples something from Herbie Hancock or Miles Davis, perhaps they will inadvertently discover someone like Art Blakey, or Dexter Gordon, or Grant Green; maybe they'll eventually become a fan of jazz". When Horace uttered those words I thought, if someone like Horace Silver can come to grips with these youngsters, then surely I can as well!
+K Jones Very interesting story. I often bristle when people dis George Benson. He did some pop stuff but now has come full circle and I'd say he is the greatest living jazz artist today. He does it all - guitar, sings standards, still can punch out the pop stuff too and still sound great.
Anyone who say's he's given up his Jazz roots obviously doesn't know Jazz. I've seen him live 8 times and he can still rip it on the guitar.
It's guys who crossed over that really should be praised because they're the ones bringing more listeners to Jazz. I don't how long it would have taken me to discover Jazz had it not been for George. I thank all those guys who crossover from any genre. I've discovered a whole lot of great music because of those artists who do.
+Grant Sawisky Man you are so right about George. The first time I saw him perform live was in the mid '70's (pre-Breezin'); he performed at Keystone Korner in San Francisco. I saw him again recently here in Atlanta this past summer --- he absolutely rocked the house! The crowd was on their feet the entire show; he played all his pop standards but also showed his jazz roots as well --- a phenomenal performer, still today!
I hear what you're saying and most everybody watching this already knows about Wes Montgomery and his great bebop chops - legacy. Here's a thought, when you listen to him play Georgia and only play one with Chorus in octaves, playing the most perfect guitar solo that can be played on one chorus! That says a lot about the Genius of Wes Montgomery. He took having to play shorter solos as a challenge and we all know he rose to the challenge better than anybody.
I've been listening to Wes Montgomery since I was 14 and love every note he's played in every style he has played on throughout his career. A recording career that spanned around 10 years with albums in recordings he's left for all of us to study, soak in and appreciate - The joy of Wes Montgomery. The King of jazz_guitar.
Why don't we have real musicians like this today?
We do, you are just wearing nostalgia coloured glasses...
Wes is unique, all the greats are, but try a little Madison Cunningham....
Wes seemed like such a sweet gentle person. No ego. No flash. Just beautifully played guitar work that we were luckily able to have the technology to document for future generations to enjoy. I wished he lived longer
One of my favorite Montgomery tunes. Always a joy to hear.
When the TV host says Wes started playing guitar at 19, that's not exactly true. Wes had been playing a 4-string guitar since he was 12, but didn't start playing a standard 6-string guitar until he was 19.
The "TV host" was Herb Alpert, the "A" in the label's name, "A&M". and successful trumpetist and more questionable as a singer. But his "This guy's in love with you" is kind of heartfelt...
flungingpictures
Nice to know, even though it has nothing to do with my point.
flungingpictures Oh, Herb can't sing. But, being a wind player, he can certainly phrase.
Wes Montgomery(1923-1968)
O bir taksi şöförüydü..
O bir fabrika işçisiydi..
O kalabalık bir aileye bakan bir emekçiydi..
O bir gün gitara tutuldu..
O gitarı ağzıyla da çalabilen, gitarının mektepsiz ilk virtüözüdür..
O döneminin efsane bir caz gitaristidir..
Ruhu yüce olsun!..
Asilhan Bilâl
selamlarrr
I take a lott of love from the music and the man✌️ over the years his music has past through my life"done me no harm🌈🤟😎❤️
saw Wes in 68 in Mpls. was 14. Also Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, George Shearing, Quincy Jones (Maiden Voyage with Mpls Symphony Orchestra,) Cannonball Adderly Herbie Mann. Mrs. Noreen Lincoln Jr. HS got me all those tickets. Went back stage to get everyone's autograph.
The host is Herb Alpert of Tijuana Brass fame. Co-owner of A&M (Alpert and Moss) Records. Herb had quite an ear for jazz as well (the album cover was an A&M release), Wes wasn't the only jazz artist A&M signed- Bossa Nova had a big place in then A&M stable from Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66 to the Samba master himself, Tom Jobim. From Jobim to The Carpenters, A&M had a varied and vast stable of talent- in a way it's own sound (or genre?). Had Wes not died so soon, I've no doubt Herb could have made him as big a star as anyone else at A&M- giving Wes quite a bit of room in material as well as arrangements.
Interesting as Wes isn't plugged in though...
+Dennis Nichols If I'm not mistaken, Didn't Herb have a hand in the discovery and development of the "Carpenters?" You know, Karen and I think, Richard maybe.
His guitar isn’t plugged in because he is pantomiming. Almost everything on TV is pre-recorded. They do it for technical reasons. Even Super Bowl halftime is all pantomimed. Especially for live events on national or international television, they can’t take a chance on a technical glitch in the sound system. So even talented artists pantomime.
Back in the 60's they had these amazing invisible guitar cables. You just can't find them anymore.
im so happy to hear AND SEE !!!!!! wes play this. i used to go into a pub in forest gate east london back in 84 because they had a 45 of this on the jukebox ..... then i would get drunk on snake bite . thats cider and lager with a dash of black current !!! then listen to wes again ..... great days .
I’m still happy to hear this , I really miss the Wagon and Horse’s pub . Near where Ronnie Lane lived btw
This is a great song. I love this video of a true great musician that lived before my time thanks for posting this color video.
Wes playing Windy is no different than Coltrane playing My Favorite Things or Miles playing Someday My Prince Will Come.
how do you make a million dollars from jazz? Start with 2 million and lose half of it
I've always said that if I lose my day job I've got my jazz career to fall back on.
yeah but look at the faces of those in the audience,,,to most of them they could be listening to Albert Ayler or Roscoe Mitchell...they don't be knowin nothin!
HA! Nice one...truth.
Spending it on heroin
ur an idiot too
Just beautiful.
And such wonderful rapport between Wes & Herb, who brought us The Lonely Bull, and This Guy's In Love With You, and The Carpenters (The A in A & M Records).
What a magical time.
Drop dead gorgeous. This guy is my favorite guitarist.
The inspirator of George Benson!
Ron Jenner rip one of the best!
And the Major Influence of Lee Ritenour, Ronny Jordan, Norman Brown, Zachary Breaux, Jeff Golub, Mark Whitfield/ more.
He makes playing all those octaves look easy. I was expecting more noodling, but you know what?? He didn't have to!
James C , maybe it’s like what Joe Pass said “just play the song man.”
Loved This Song!
Bermuda's Kindley Field Air Force Base cooks always played his tunes for mid-rats when I was stationed there in '68. Awesome memories and even better at the time, with food!! Thanks, Wes! :)
2:30 sounded like he was about to bust out the jeopardy theme song
+Nate watson haha
I think he was. he started laughing xD
LOL
that lifeless crowd is staight up creepin me out
this man is a legend. very humble and always with his family and his music..
Wes did more with his thumb then most can do with Four fingers and a thumb pick.The man was a supreme musician.
Skilled musician, yes. The use of his thumb was not because "He could do it and nobody else could". It's simply because Mr Montgomery chose to play that way.
Are those people real or what?
robot
kennyorrow
I went to school with you i believe.
yes they're the pumpkin cult and Wes is their leader
yes, it's rare to see the priestly robes worn in public like that, outside the temple.
Was that Herb Alpert?
+Charles Moorman Yes.
man was definitely readin from a script. ass at acting...kickass at trumpet.
Wes was on his record label, A&M.
Correct, and produced by Creed Taylor
I adore his sound. Always have, since I was an 8-yr. old listening to "Bumpin'" Thanks for this!!
gotta love that suit!
Theres no doubt of wes's talent, but why is his guitar not plugged in?
Because he's not actually playing this song. It's a record; it's not a live performance.
It's battery operated...
Because only one of Wes's talents was playing guitar. His most extraordinary talent was telekineses. What you are hearing isn't a recording, you are hearing Wes's brainwaves as he mind melds his guitar playing to an audience member. Technology in the early 1960s was so much more sophsticated.
He also had an invisible band and orchestra =)
His guitar is plugged in, he might be playing along to the record and since this was in a theater the band and orchestra could have been in the orchestra pit.
They couldn't even plug him in? This was just a mimed playalong to a recording? What Poor Wes had to do to fulfill his A&M contract...plus the orange cream tux. Nice to see he could at least laugh at it all at the end.
Chumley Shaver ...I'm sure Wes was happy that he was getting paid
Yes and knew he was getting paid for the pleasure of his presence. Classy and dignified man.
His guitar is plugged in. You can see at 2:34 if you look very closely.
He's def LIVE/playing, a slight melody flub in there, and then he quotes that game show wait-on-answer melody at the end, funny. Brilliant!
On this day in 1967 {November 19th} Wes Montgomery's instrumental covered version of "Windy" entered Billboard's Hot Top 100 chart at position #85; and four weeks later on December 17th, 1967 it peaked at #44 {for 2 weeks} and spent 11 weeks on the Top 100...
It reached #48 on Billboard's R&B Singles chart...
Was track seven on his eighteenth studio album, "A Day in the Life", and the album peaked at #1 on Billboard's Jazz Albums chart and #2 on Billboard's R&B Albums chart...
Earlier in 1967 on June 25th the Association's original version peaked at #1 {for 4 weeks}...
John Leslie 'Wes' Montgomery passed away on June 15th, 1968 at the young age of 45 {heart attack}...
May he R.I.P.
FANTASTIC. Old Herb is still playing the hell out of his trumpet and loving Lani--what more could a guy ask for!
The audience doesn't have any soul.
In the 1960s you were supposed to be cool, never show your emotions... ;)
oh
eric ramsey This was also the period where Blacks weren't respected
this is just how you respectively listened to greatness in 1967. better than having a crowd full of drunk assholes on their cellphones or trying to have a conversation over his playing.
eric ramsey off
97 reggetoners dislike a song :v(sorry for my english)
www.google.com.mx/search?q=reguetoneros&client=ms-android-motorola&prmd=ivn&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj98erEp5nSAhVr0oMKHZAXDzkQ_AUIBygB&biw=360&bih=512#tbm=isch&q=reguetoneros&chips=q:reguetoneros,g_1:puerto+rico&imgrc=j_JXL42An9TLiM:
gu4t4f4c Somebody who likes Reggaeton, a form of "music" with no redeeming qualities that I am aware of.
this is class. Thanx for this jewel.
Insert. I believe yo totally. Wes created a style music no one had ever heard before. I have the utmost respect for Wes. I love every song he’s ever played. His music was endearing to me as a teenager that loved jazz. When I first heard Wes I was blown away. His guitar spoke to my heart of music
Wes himself would have described this tune as musak. He must have hated this. He was the best jazz guitar player at the time but commercial imperatives, greedy producers and recording executives took over. The music hence turned gimmicky. Awful
Actually, Wes didn't hate this music at all, if for no other reason than the fact that for the first time in his life, he was making a decent living and getting paid well. He frankly admitted to critics and fellow musicians that this new music wasn't jazz; he knew that from the start when he agreed to work with Creed Taylor and people like that. I love Wes' jazz recordings so much that it is sometimes hard to listen to him play pop, but I temper that emotion with the knowledge that it meant a great deal to him as a man and as a father to take proper care of his family.
If Wes Montgomery learned how to play the guitar at the age of 19, I should fucking be a good if u started at the age of 13
Herb Alpert's contention that Wes didn't start playing guitar until he was 19 isn't exactly true. He actually started playing guitar at 12, but it was a four-string instrument. He began playing the standard 6-string at 19
Montgomery Family was in music in first childhood . Wes had exceptional
musical " ear " .
Listened to him for years and I have most if not all his albums What style!!! Bumpin' on Sunset is my favorite!!!!!
I saw him at the UC Berkeley Jazz festival Spring 1968 and he died that summer. I even met him because I was working back stage.
This is a great quality clip of Wes Montgomery. I am really glad I stumbled upon this.
Raised on this music! Still beautiful...
Good music is always good music 🎶
WES WAS AN AWESOME TALENT! LOVE THE WAY HE STAYS COMPOSED AS HE MAKES PURE MAGIC WITH HIS GUITAR….
He makes this guitar sound great in any style of music.