Unofficial Leo Kottke Web Site. Kottke Network. Guestbook Entries (Aug.97-Dec.97).

Leo Kottke Guestbook

Entries for August 1997 to December 1997

I first saw Leo in concert at Waldorf College in Iowa about 1972, when I was a 12-string-playing music student. Over the years I lost touch with both Leo and with music playing in general. Then last Oct. My wife and I saw Leo in concert in Scottsdale, AZ. I came home, took my 12-string out of the closet and started in again. Now I've added a 6-string and have finally learned to play "Ojo" - from the "Eight Songs" book.
What amazed me, though, about the Scottsdale concert was that Leo was playing songs I heard him perform 25 years ago - "Louise," for example - and "Eight Miles High."
Now I'm spending my tme trying to catch up to leo's career (I'm in the process of buying all his CDs) and I'm enjoying his music more than ever.
Thanks for a great web site, Bruce.
And Leo, thanks for all the great music and the inspiration.

Nick Worth

Taylor, AZ USA
Thursday, December 04, 1997 at 12:35:57 (PST)
In memory of Michael Hedges, who died tragically
at such a young age, I will be taking the Kottke website
off-line until further notice.

Bruce
Bruce Head (Webmaster)

Thursday, December 04, 1997 at 10:51:40 (PST)
This is from Michael Hedges's Nomadland website....

This is beyond painful for me to have to pass on, but Michael died in an automobile accident
over the weekend. It appears his car skidded off an embankment during a rainstorm over the
weekend and was not found until late Tuesday evening. I wish I had something else to say,
but going in and out of tears is about all I’m good for at the moment. I’ll try to update
everyone on the latest news, where to send condolences, etc., but right now I’m having
trouble seeing the screen through all these tears.

Michael is survived by his mother, sister, two brothers, two sons from a former marriage,
and everyone else who loves him. Michael’s family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations
be sent to:

Children of Michael Hedges Fund
Bank of America
228 North Main Street
Fort Bragg, CA 95437

I would like to encourage evryone to share their feelings at the Time to Talk discussion
forum. I think Michael would like the idea of his fans supporting eachother, sharing grief,
and happy memories.

Michael meant more to me than I can ever say. I loved him and I miss him. He was the
truest individual I’ve ever known. I really can’t come to grips with the loss. I hung out with
him after what was his final concert a few weeks ago and he was happier than I’d ever seen
him. I’m not a praying man, but I pray these words that he sang are now true for him:

Heaven is all around,
translated into sound

Paul Lackner

Madison, WI USA
Thursday, December 04, 1997 at 08:45:46 (PST)
Has anyone heard anything about Michael Hedges' death?
Jan Cohen

Keene, NH USA
Thursday, December 04, 1997 at 02:55:33 (PST)
I really enjoyed Leo's concert in St. Louis last Spring, a very relaxing evening. I hope he soon returns for another concert.
Tom Skyles

Fenton, Mo
Wednesday, December 03, 1997 at 18:23:19 (PST)
Update on new Kottke web site: it will be up and running
in the next two weeks! Stay tuned!
Bruce Head (Webmaster)

Tuesday, December 02, 1997 at 07:57:19 (PST)
Leo hasn't been to town (Rochester, NY) in several years. My girlfriend and I are wondering if maybe his car broke down. If this is the case, we will gladly pick him up in Toledo if he can manage to hitch a ride that far. Just hope he dosen't freeze off his feet again.
Jim Balmer

Brockport, NY USA
Sunday, November 23, 1997 at 16:54:47 (PST)
I feel kind of depressed, having seen the BEST concert of my life, and I'm only 16. I don't have anything else to look forward to now. Thursday night I went to see Leo at the Grand Emporium in K.C. We got there a few hours early, and Leo walked in and sat down at the bar. Since we were about the only ones there at the time, I got to talk to him for a while. Leo had arrived early because HIS guitars had accidentally been shipped to Connecticut, so he was trying some guitars from the local guitar shops. Just seeing him do that was more entertaining than any opening-act I've ever seen. Even though he didn't use his own guitars or any pickups (he wasn't satisfied with the pickups on the borrowed guitars), the show was amazing. Especially since our seats were only about 8 feet away from Leo. After he got used to the guitars, I think he was really relaxed since the Grand Emporium is such a small, comfortable place. He did a lot of singing that night, and was in a very humorous mood. It was more than just music-it was Leo's personality shining through, instead of a lot of flashy lights.
Brian Robinson

Olathe, KS USA
Saturday, November 22, 1997 at 22:25:39 (PST)
Did anyone else notice the note in the guestbook on Nov.17 from Cal Hand? If you are out there Cal, nice of you to drop in. Maybe you could share some good Leo stories with us since you obviously know him way better than any of us.

We'll being seeing his show nest Friday in Woodstock, IL. I'll post a review of some sort afterward.

Jim
Jim Chelsvig

South Elgin, IL USA
Saturday, November 22, 1997 at 21:02:53 (PST)
Ok Ashley, "the kristina" will once again tell how to find the irc chatroom.
First you need to download a program called mIRC (find it on the web), then
once you connect to a dalnet server, type /join #kottke and you will be
in the kottke channel. I need input as to the best times ppl can meet there as
we have a hard time connecting. Any ideas? Please email me, anyone who
is interested in times to meet there, and thanks. P.S. I'm on EST time.
Kristina

Amherst, MA USA
Friday, November 21, 1997 at 15:43:12 (PST)
How 'bout a "Hard 40" law for stealing guitars(write your congressman). Looking forward to the Kansas City concert(tomorrow!!!) See me there at the Grand Emporium.
David Estes

Coffeyville , KS USA
Wednesday, November 19, 1997 at 20:01:21 (PST)
In the hope of developing some dialectic, let us discuss
"tingles" (only a suggestion), this topic was discussed on the King Crimson "elephant Talk" website and I found that it was excellent for re-discovering bits of tunes/whole tunes that one forgets about, We all have our fave albums, we may hate a particular album
but find we get a "tingle" from one note/phrase/whatever
it may even be nothing more than an interesting little production technique.
let's hear your tingles...(i hope this is ok Bruce, i wouldn't wanna use up any bandwidth or whatever the heck ya use up with these pages)
immediate tingles on my list are...the classical guitar solo at the end of "born to be with you", that real BENT low note...a g# i think in airproofing...you know the one, it makes my bowels leap up into my chest and makes me wiggle...hee hee hee
emmy lou's (*sigh*) backing vocals on "julies house".
and the slide solo's in pamela brown (especially the one from "live in europe") although that's not as tingly as the one from the montreax jazz video.
that's my two cents worth for the sec,
keep pickin'
##==OO
ps. where IS this kottke irc thing the kristina was referring to???
Ashley Hazelwood

london, uk
Tuesday, November 18, 1997 at 03:11:12 (PST)
in regards to entry by bob kent april 12 1997: mike and kit are Mike Justin and Kit McGibbon long since married and living in a rural community south of Minneapolis.
cal hand

minneapolis, mn
Monday, November 17, 1997 at 08:16:33 (PST)
I stand corrected by ashley regarding my comments about who plays what best. Let me back tranck
and say I prefer Leo's version of Last STeam Engine to Fahey's.

Thank you ashley.
Bruce

Saturday, November 15, 1997 at 08:46:15 (PST)
I'm absolutely flabbergasted by your technique and musical feeling. You're my big hero! I'm looking forward to your appearances in Holland next year. I have recorded a CD using a Leo Kottke Taylor. Hope to hear/see you soon, Richard
Richard vd Bos

Rotterdam, Holland
Thursday, November 13, 1997 at 15:21:39 (PST)
Great website and a worthy tribute to the Master.
It is a great mystery to me, as I am sure it is to all Leo fans why he is not more famous, particularly in the UK. I hope he tours here again soon for it is with enormous envy that I read what a great time you North Americans are having at his concerts.
By the way, the version of 'Vaseline Machine Gun' on SIMS is too slow and not a touch on the 6 and 12 String Guitar version.
Roy

Dundee, Scotland
Thursday, November 13, 1997 at 13:21:49 (PST)
Dave,

In response to your question below, I can't comment on the value of the recording...it really depends on
what you can get from the highest bidder. In terms of how you can go about selling it, the mythical new &
improved Kottke site will have a "bulletin board" where people can post Kottke items for sale. It's still
in the testing stage, I'm hoping by the end of the month to have the site up and running.

Cheers!

Bruce Head (Webmaster)

Thursday, November 13, 1997 at 09:30:35 (PST)
I have a copy of Leo's Circle Round the Sun in very good
condition. I gather this is a collector's item. Could someone please tell me how much it is worth and how to go
about selling it?

Thanks.
Dave
Dave Bradford

Madison, AL USA
Wednesday, November 12, 1997 at 10:42:10 (PST)
The guestbook has been off-line for at least a day due
to my error. It is now working. Sorry for the inconvenience.

Bruce
Bruce Head (Webmaster)

Wednesday, November 12, 1997 at 09:17:30 (PST)
bruce, i dunno if i'd go so far as to say kottke played last steam engine train better than fahey, sure he plays it faster, but as the barmaid said to the bishop..."speed isn't everything"
fahey wrote the tune, as we know, and because of this, i would say fahey plays it best, in the many forms he has played it.
Needless to say Kottke is my all-time hero, but you must grant that Kottke /fahey/Lang et al are legends who are beyond all of us, in their own way, as such i cannot say that basho is better than lang or fahey is better than kottke or the spice girls are better than chet atkins...ok i can say that.....
giggle
but they are all different, they each add their own emotions to the tunes they play, whosever the tune may morally belong to, i prefer kottke's version of last steam engine train to fahey's, yes, but i also prefer fahey's version/s of poor boy to kottke's, or for that matter fahey's version of busted bicycle is far more emotive than kottke's, kottke plays it faster, sure, and it's brilliant, but fahey adds the ...intangible quality of...what's the word..um, fahey.
they're all gods.
keep pickin'
##==OO
ashley

london, uk
Monday, November 10, 1997 at 05:14:32 (PST)
Jim - Guitar Player books has a John Fahey book with Last Steam Engine in it that gives you a good start on the tune. Leo plays it different (and better) but that will give you a start.
Bruce

Bagley, MN
Sunday, November 09, 1997 at 17:47:50 (PST)
Thanks for the links... I'm looking for good tablature music
for "Last Steam Engine". Any ideas? I have already purchased
all of Mark Hanson's Kottke tablature and have John Stropes,
"Eight Songs". I have learned most of these songs but I am
really interested in his early music from 6 & 12 Sting. I
have been a Kottke fan for over 20 years and learned to play
guitar because of his music. Thanks to anyone who can help.

Jim

Goshen, KY USA
Sunday, November 09, 1997 at 08:38:39 (PST)
Hey anyone out there trade Leo Kottke tapes in Dat format?
Have some incredible shows on my list for trade. They are
all soundboards from 1974-1995.Most of them are digital
soundboards from 1989-present.
Jack Weston

Mpls., Mn USA
Sunday, November 09, 1997 at 05:54:05 (PST)
Terrie - I would recommend you start with The Fisherman or In Christ There is no East or West (actually a John Fahey tune but Leo does it better) Buy the John Stropes book "Eight Songs" for The Fisherman. They both use simple chords. Stropes is at http://www.execpc.com/~stropes/index.html

Good luck!

Bruce

Bruce

Bagley, MN USA
Tuesday, November 04, 1997 at 13:16:24 (PST)
I heard "Jack Gets Up" on public radio one day but didn't have
the title, only Leo's name. I typed in "lint in the pocket" and found it.
I was so ecstatic I found it. I also heard one of his songs
I think about religion, but I don't have the title. Does
anyone know what song it is? Also, I bought a guitar. The
only song I know is Ghostrider in the sky. What Kottke tune
would be easy for me to learn and enjoy! Thanks, Terrie
Terrie

CA USA
Sunday, November 02, 1997 at 10:37:52 (PST)
We are eagerly awaiting a concert here in Kansas City in November -- it's been a while since Leo has been in KC, and I'm sure he'll be treated fine. This will be a family outing, because we are all fans in our family (and extended family). Hoping to see Lee, the cab driver, at the concert! My sons are 16 and 19, and they are hoping to get a close-up view and maybe a few quick words --
Anyone else out there going to the Kansas City Grand Emporium? See ya there.
Carolyn Robinson

Olathe, KS USA
Tuesday, October 28, 1997 at 19:05:09 (PST)
ANOTHER ENTHUSIAST DOWNUNDER, COULD SOMEONE PLEASE TELL ME WHER I CAN GET THE TAB FOR "WATERMELON?" THE REAL THING OR CLOSE TO IT OF COURSE AS THE ON IN THE OLGA HAS A FEW PROBLEMS IN IT. WITH ALL THIS MAIL SURELY THERE MUST BE SOME ONE WHO CAN E-MAIL ME SOME LITTLE ENSY WEENSY LITTLE BIT OF ITHMMM. PLEASE
tony saffioti

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Monday, October 27, 1997 at 17:41:25 (PST)
could someone please tell me where this kottke irc thing is and how to get there?
much appreciated.
also to all i have been in contact with re-vids and whatnot, i recently changed my isp, so if you could email me again that would be great as i've lost all email adresses.
thanx
ashley hazelwood

london, uk
Sunday, October 26, 1997 at 07:12:08 (PST)
it's alright bruce, we all still love you.
##==OO
ashley hazelwood aka thrak

london, uk
Saturday, October 25, 1997 at 05:16:28 (PDT)
Even further to my comments below, I've determined the problem with the CGI
scripts was due to my browser, Netscape 3.03, and not the scripts or the
OLGA server. There appears to be a bug with the Netscape 3.02 and 3.03 though
I'm not sure what it is or why. But if you experience a problem using one of the
programs on this site that may be the reason.

Bruce Head (Webmaster)

Friday, October 24, 1997 at 17:35:03 (PDT)
Further to my earlier post: neither the search form
nor the add-a-link page are working properly. Sorry
for any inconvenience. I'll let you know when I've
fixed the problem (once I find out what the problem is!)
Bruce Head

Friday, October 24, 1997 at 07:50:18 (PDT)
I'm having some problems with my CGI scripts right now
so not all areas of the site are currently functional.

Bruce Head (webmaster)

Wednesday, October 22, 1997 at 13:31:26 (PDT)
I have been tracking through "Standing In My Shoes" thinking, "This should be on the radio ... THIS should be ..." So, what GIVES?!?!?!?!? Are the gods of radio so deaf that they cannot hear the impending millenium approaching?!?!? I don't understand -- I know I'd be playing this on my station, day and night, night and day, in the morning, in the evening, ain't we got fun ...

Anyway, I see that the poetic pigs and paper sox are becoming scarce here ... Still plugging away in Tulsa; where IS everybody, anyway? I keep asking you guys to come out, but it's like no one knows where Tulsa is. I'll be taking names and addresses, and mailing detailed maps to each and every one of you!!!! Be prepared!!!!!

God Save Leo Kottke (from poetic pigs and paper sox)
David Fitzjarrell

bRoKeN aRrOw, oK UofSofA
Tuesday, October 21, 1997 at 20:46:04 (PDT)
I believe "song for `night of the hunter' is the ultimate statement in guitar music. God bless you mr Kottke.
petey

Sunday, October 19, 1997 at 20:44:23 (PDT)
Looking for the tab to Sonora
Tom Turbeville

Waimea, HI
Friday, October 17, 1997 at 21:04:13 (PDT)
Its been 25 years now that I've been listening non-stop to Leo Kottke's music.
Hes given me more enjoyment than any other artist (of any kind) by far. I've seen
him in concert several times and sat on stage once, real close, amazing! Got to
shake his hand once too. How does he do it? How does he do it?
Chris Schinell

Darien, CT USA
Thursday, October 16, 1997 at 21:03:41 (PDT)
Leo's nickname to those in the know is "Sleep King"
Dave

Salem, MA USA
Tuesday, October 14, 1997 at 01:53:23 (PDT)
Do we have any other LK fans in the North East of England ?. I have been a keen fan for 20 plus years, ever since I heard his superb guitar work on a late John Peel show in the 70’s.
I would welcome any other LK fans getting in touch with me
Questions 1. This web site mentions videos, what are they and where do I get them from ?
2. When will LK visit the UK / North East next ? ( dates please ).
This site makes excellent reading, well done to all involved

Happy days

Mike T

Mike Taylor

Durham, NE England
Monday, October 13, 1997 at 03:01:46 (PDT)
g'day all, a couple of things, first if ya love kootke, give peter lang a listen, "lycurgus the wolf driver" is excellent, or more recently, "american stock-a guitar collection" are all brill, he's unfortunately overlooked by a lot of guitarists...a shame, "when kings come home" is just wonderful, as are most of his pieces. second, does anyone have any observations on rickie lee jonses "traffic from paradise"?, i think it's some of the most tasteful playing from kottke i've ever heard, although everything is tasteful... third, "power failure" from chewing pine has to be the most "ahead of it's time" piece i think i've ever heard, that piano...man, that kicks...as it does in "don't you think"... fourth, anyone have any observations on cal hand's "the wiley butler"? kottke's session work at it's worst, or maybe it's his revenge for Hand's playing on "ice water", although pedal steel works beautifully on "born to be with you". fifthly, (?) i saw kottke for the first time in 1984, i think, anyway, i was broke and flew to another state, to see him (from tasmania to melbourne) and as i was very poor, i couldn't afford a t-shirt that was for sale at the concert..that's right a kottke t-shirt...i've been tormented ever since, i would be eternally grateful and would even swap a mint copy of circle round the sun for a t-shirt of that or indeed any other kottke tour. that's it... keep pickin' ashley. ##==OO
ashley hazelwood (aka thrak)

london, uk
Friday, October 03, 1997 at 05:42:12 (PDT)
Hi gang,

In case anyone might be interested, another artist who was recording on the Tacoma label around the time Leo was is Rick Ruskin. He is a very skilled fingerstyle guitarist that I think most of you would enjoy and he has a new CD out called " Words Fail Me". In addition, he has copies of the original Tacoma releases on vinyl, some cassettes, and an excellent teaching video that uses split screen to show both hands. The CD is excellent as is his playing. I've been playing his arrangement of "Teddy Bear's Picnic" for over 25 years. Contact Rick via e-mail at liondog@isomedia.com for info on the above merchandise. If you're looking for some good guitar music you should check this out.
Jim Chelsvig

South Elgin, IL
Wednesday, October 01, 1997 at 09:40:18 (PDT)
Comments on Pepperdine concert 9.27.97...
thoroughly enjoyable (as always). It was a true treat to hear "morning is a long way home".Also included was a tune not yet released "snorkel". (I think he called this "the milking song" durning a concert at the gean autry auditorium a few years back for the radio station ksca... but i digress.) Leo mentioned that he just finished reading a book titled "Touched with Fire" by Kay Redfield Jamison reguarding manic depressive illness and the artist temperament. Run out and get your copy today ... sincerly mark billy
Mark Billy

Pasadena, CA USA
Sunday, September 28, 1997 at 16:57:38 (PDT)
Comments on Pepperdine concert 9.27.97...
thoroughly enjoyable (as always). It was a true treat to hear "morning is a long way home".Also included was a tune not yet released "snorkel". (I think he called this "the milking song" durning a concert at the gean autry auditorium a few years back for the radio station ksca... but i digress.) Leo mentioned that he just finished reading a book titled "Touched with Fire" by Kay Redfield Jamison reguarding manic depressive illness and the artist temperament. Run out and get your copy today ... sincerly mark billy
Mark Billy

Pasadena, CA USA
Sunday, September 28, 1997 at 16:57:34 (PDT)
First off, I wanted to say that the music of Leo is by far
the greatest guitar music ever. And I am truely grateful
that he is around to give all his fans the enjoyment and
fullfillment that he gives me.
Now on to my little story. Last Feburary (97) I was auditioning
for Millikin University into their guitar program. After thinking
about what I should play, I decided on two pieces; a standard jazz
piece and Leo's own Mona Ray. Well, as you probably guessed I was
accepted into the University, but that is not all, along with the
acceptance I was awarded a scholarship. The scholarship was the
highest amount the University could give to a music major. This
just goes to show that not only can Leo give endless hours of listening
enjoyment, but can also get you into school and have them give you money.
(With a little practice.) So thanks to Leo for writing such beautiful
music, that got me into this fine institution.
Sincerely,
Tyler Kennedy
p.s. I met Lee the cab driver at the show in St.Louis, and he really
is a really nice guy-he'll even play you Leo if you get in his
cab.
Tyler Kennedy

St. Louis, MO Poland
Saturday, September 20, 1997 at 15:58:04 (PDT)
Having been a fan for a number of years, I was really lucky to catch
Leo live at an Acoustic Special at Humphrey's by the sea in San
Diego. Loudon Wainwright was also on the bill !! Well worth the wait
Nick Morris

Salem, MA
Friday, September 19, 1997 at 18:20:45 (PDT)
1973...Eureka Springs Ark. bluegrass festival...it rained for two solid days...I was a 15 year old, guitar playing, Kottke fanatic...woke up, drenched to the bone in a soggy sleeping bag, under a foot bridge to a bright eyed Leo playing "Busted Bicycle"...the sun came out and I had my 50th piece of corn on the cobb for breakfast. Hey, it's still workin' on me.
David Kean

Los Angeles, Ca USA
Sunday, September 14, 1997 at 17:57:43 (PDT)
I am going to get to see/hear Leo LIVE!!! next month and I am sooo psyched! In the meant time today, September 11, 1997, is his BIRTHDAY. Maybe if we all wish him Happy Birthday with our collective mental energy he will hear us and know!

Happy Birthday, Leo!

Robbi Freisem

Mountville, PA USA
Thursday, September 11, 1997 at 06:52:28 (PDT)
Well, Greetings, all, from the town of Sir Leo's Birth, where, until
recently, I did the local folk show on my college station-WUOG.
Being, for so many years, moved and reminded of a beautiful identity
through Leo's magic, and "realness" I appreciate the fab site, Bruceski.
Search engines have somewhat failed me in the past in locating
leo sites. I am trying to add info to the InternetMovieDataBase
on Leo, and was trying to remember the name of his "on the road"
special..help me out here, folks...Oh, Ill go look it up, I think
there's an order form in "My Father's Face". Anywho, take care
and THANKYOU MR. KOTTKE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Loveya.
Smith Harrison

Athens, GA USA
Wednesday, September 10, 1997 at 16:11:14 (PDT)
Great web page Bruce! Leo's gang should take notice and put you on their staff :-)
Would anyone like to trade live Leo tapes? Send along your list.

One of the things I love most about Leo is his humour, he makes me laugh to no end!
Ever his "killing a chicken" story?

looking forward to seeing him again but it the current schedule isn't to promising :-(
see ya
Ed
Ed Luskey

Mississauga, ONT Canada
Wednesday, September 10, 1997 at 01:18:39 (PDT)
I TRULY appreciate all of the responses I have received concerning the "Vaseline Machine Gun"/"Machine #2" query, however, I think I have the picture!!!!! Thanks to all who responded.

On the other hand I must agree that the music scene is somewhat devoid of actual talent -- if Hanson, Green Day, Hole and Jewel (God forbid, if I have to hear her song "You Were Meant For Me" one more time [I call it "The Ballad of The Grand Slam Breakfast"] I will SCREAM!!!) are what we have to look forward to, I think the A&R guys at the major labels are looking up their own butts. I try, I REALLY TRY, to be open-minded about such things, because I think all music should be heard and has some value, but when it all becomes the same thing over and over and over and over, it becomes redundant and inane and the value is diminished until there is no value at all. There are many talented musicians in this country alone who could use a real break, and who could expand the musical horizon; many of these work regular jobs by day, and play, mostly for themselves, at night. Come on, guys, search out some REAL talent, not just some new "hair act".

Whoa, who WAS that masked man?!?!? Wow, I didn't know I had it in me (boy, it feels GOOD to have it out of me!!!)

For those who may have been keeping up, I am STILL playing bookstores and the like in Tulsa, trying to move up in the world of music. So, if you ever get to Tulsa, look me up, usually on Tuesday nights. I'm getting quite a following (not counting the geese -- they listen to ANYTHING) and hope to expand my influence and my audience. It is a slow process, but, then again, my wife keeps saying I'm slow, so I guess they go hand-in-hand.

Thanks, again, for all of the information. Keep on supporting Leo Kottke -- the best guitarist of this century, this millenium, the next millenium, etc. I just hope that Captain Kirk has enough common sense to pilot the Enterprise to inter-stellar adventures accompanied by "Vaseline Machine Gun" and "Ojo".
David Fitzjarrell

Broken Arrow, OK USA
Tuesday, September 09, 1997 at 21:12:05 (PDT)
I TRULY appreciate all of the responses I have received concerning the "Vaseline Machine Gun"/"Machine #2" query, however, I think I have the picture!!!!! Thanks to all who responded.

On the other hand I must agree that the music scene is somewhat devoid of actual talent -- if Hanson, Green Day, Hole and Jewel (God forbid, if I have to hear her song "You Were Meant For Me" one more time [I call it "The Ballad of The Grand Slam Breakfast"] I will SCREAM!!!) are what we have to look forward to, I think the A&R guys at the major labels are looking up their own butts. I try, I REALLY TRY, to be open-minded about such things, because I think all music should be heard and has some value, but when it all becomes the same thing over and over and over and over, it becomes redundant and inane and the value is diminished until there is no value at all. There are many talented musicians in this country alone who could use a real break, and who could expand the musical horizon; many of these work regular jobs by day, and play, mostly for themselves, at night. Come on, guys, search out some REAL talent, not just some new "hair act".

Whoa, who WAS that masked man?!?!? Wow, I didn't know I had it in me (boy, it feels GOOD to have it out of me!!!)

For those who may have been keeping up, I am STILL playing bookstores and the like in Tulsa, trying to move up in the world of music. So, if you ever get to Tulsa, look me up, usually on Tuesday nights. I'm getting quite a following (not counting the geese -- they listen to ANYTHING) and hope to expand my influence and my audience. It is a slow process, but, then again, my wife keeps saying I'm slow, so I guess they go hand-in-hand.

Thanks, again, for all of the information. Keep on supporting Leo Kottke -- the best guitarist of this century, this millenium, the next millenium, etc. I just hope that Captain Kirk has enough common sense to pilot the Enterprise to inter-stellar adventures accompanied by "Vaseline Machine Gun" and "Ojo".
David Fitzjarrell

Broken Arrow, OK USA
Tuesday, September 09, 1997 at 21:10:51 (PDT)
Having admired and enjoyed the eloquent music of Leo Kottke for the past 30+years,
I want to express my continued but eternally renewed enthusiasm and joy at hearing
his music which, each time I hear it, no matter how many times I hear it, it washes over
me like Baptism and my spirit is rekindled with reawakened fire.
Blessings on Leo, he is the love of my life because he is the music.

Darla LeMere

Martinsburg, wv USA
Tuesday, September 09, 1997 at 11:31:15 (PDT)
I recently saw Leo live for the first time, after being a fan for some twenty-five years and listening to many studio and live recordings. To
say the least, I was awestruck. He is truly a unique and phenomenal guitarist, which I already knew, but the live performance only reinforced
my feelings. I even shook his hand afterwards and got his autograph. What an evening! I can't wait to see him again!
Harvey Hill

Kilgore, Tx U.S.A.
Monday, September 08, 1997 at 14:01:19 (PDT)
In reference to my posting of August 30, I would like to formally
apologize to Patty for appearing to infer that she was "taking credit"
for the kottke irc channel. That was never my intention AT ALL. Patty
has supported me 100% in my endeavors to get the channel going
and she never tried to take undue credit. I made the comment
simply to clear up email confusion as to who started the channel.
Who started the channel is irrelevant anyway--WE NEED CHATTERS!
Please everyone come and chat! :))

Kristina

Amherst, MA USA
Sunday, September 07, 1997 at 10:38:15 (PDT)
My name is Rick Kottke, I am some relation to Leo but I'm no
t sure how. I really wish i could meet him.
Rick kottke

schellsburg , pa USA
Saturday, September 06, 1997 at 16:00:38 (PDT)
I'm looking forward to seeing Leo perform at a taping of PBS's SESSIONS tonight! I got lucky enough to have the opportunity to see him in a very small, intimate venue.

I invite all to visit my latest website, which is promoting the 30th anniversary reunion of the 1967 March on the Pentagon. The Vietnam War is over, but World Peace is still a valid issue. We wish to commemorate and continue the spirit of '67 by holding a Concert/Rally on Oct. 25-26 at The Pentagon. Visit our Website, and plan on joining us in Washington. Also, we are seeking Volunteers to assist in the staging of this historic event. E-Mail us for info.

Luv,
Yer Mutha
Mutha Theresa

New York, NY US
Tuesday, September 02, 1997 at 07:04:19 (PDT)
We all have a gift, Leo discoverd his and made many people thankful.
Todd Anderson

Brooklyn Park , mn USA
Saturday, August 30, 1997 at 21:02:01 (PDT)
Hi gang, first of all I want to clear 2 things up. I am not Carol Love, the woman who wanted
to do the "birthday sock" idea for Leo; and second of all, Patty did not start the IRC channel,
I did. There now that I have gotten that off my chest, I would like to remind you all about the
#Kottke irc channel in DALnet. We are trying to figure out good times for folks from
all over to meet there. So far we are trying Thur and Sun nights at 9 (eastern time).
Please try to join us and/or email me with times you think would be good for group chats.
Feel free to email me if you have questions or comments. :)
Kristina

MA USA
Saturday, August 30, 1997 at 12:47:31 (PDT)
The fingerstyle guitar instrumentalist/singer/songwriter, John Danley, has a new mailing address for his recently released CD entitled Postponing The Worm. This CD contains eleven guitar instrumental tracks and one hilarious vocal piece called Alone Again. John's guitar playing draws on a diversity of influences, including Michael Hedges and Leo Kottke. Mr. Danley tours throughout the southeast and is working on various projects with fingerstyle guitar playing. If you would like to own one of John Danley's latest CDs ...they are $15 plus $1.50 for shipping costs made payable to John Danley at 1336 34th Street South #2 Birmingham, AL 35205. For more information contact Avant Gardens Music Publicity at (205) 320-1989 in the U.S. ,or leave a message at: leocat@mindspring.com
A Priori Records

Birmingham, AL United States
Saturday, August 30, 1997 at 12:09:42 (PDT)
RESPOSES TO RESPONSES: i) re kottke's voice. what IS the problem, Kottke's voice is ALWAYS perfect, for the style he plays no other voice would ever do it as well, it's wonderful. I have turned on more people than i care to count to leo, and NO-ONE has ever disliked his voice. ii) re SIMS. the first time i heard the new album i loved it to death, sure the drum machine wears ya down a little, and i was disapointed by his decision to bring in chet atkins, a particularly over-rated guitarist (duck, weave, jab-jab..) it seems rather trendy for guitarists to want to do duets with atkins. but all in all it's a very worthwhile album, world turning is lovely and the new versions of his oldies are great, i was disapointed that he didn't record flattened brain (can anyone else imagine a mellotron in that?) iii) re circle round the sun & 12 string blues. as much as i adore CRTS, it's not an album, as is 12SB that Mr Kottke would want re-released, it's historic, and esoteric and there lies it's appeal, as John Fahey once said about Port Arthur "what i found is it's not so esoteric once you get there". Anyone who has either of these albums, and i admit i'm still dying to get a copy of 12SB, realises why they were deleted, and never re-released, we lucky ones, and i think i speak for us, shudder at the thought of it being re-released as the value of them would drop, i think the list price for CRTS is US$350 and 12SB is about $400,they are a prize to cherish, i know i searched 20 years for my copies of CRTS, and found 2 in 12 months, different pressings too! having them re-released would spoil it for us SELFISH ones.(LOL) anyway, that's my rant, love you all, keep pickin'
ashley hazelwood

london, uk
Friday, August 29, 1997 at 01:59:53 (PDT)
Responses to various comments below:
1. I think the version of "Machine No. 2" on Mudlark is the best, with drums and bass.
2. "Vaseline Machine Gun" on 6&12 String Guitar became "Machine No. 2" on Mudlark, and back to "Vaseline Machine Gun" on The latest release.
3. Leo plays the sitar- who'd've thunk it?!?
4. The new album does take getting used to- it is much more thickly layered than any previous release, and his voice is the most tolerable, very smooth.

Anyone who can offer up some way of distributing "12-String Blues" and "Circle Round The Sun" will be my hero. I'll settle for a tape of Furry Jane. I'll pay costs for either. I think Bruce should make ONE exception and digitize the whole darn thing and post it.

Thank you Bruce, Thank you all, Thank you Leo.

Joe Hewes

White Plains, NY USA
Thursday, August 28, 1997 at 20:02:31 (PDT)
g'day all, say can anyone enlighten me to the date (possibly late 70's)that leo played the montreax jazz festival, i recently acquired the 1 hour+ performance on vid (excellent+++) but can't figure out when it was, also have a vid of him at the adelaide arts festival with joe pass paco pena and john williams as well as 2 good copies of circle round the sun and home and away if anyone would like to swap vids. god that was a long sentence, sorry. i've seen leo about 10 times, each time was great, the best gig , however, was at a tiny little club in melbourne, "the continental cafe", very intimate i could smell his breath, (table right up front), i also met him about 15 years ago, he was a gentleman and a scholar.very encouraging to a young fingerstyle guitarist. that's my lot, great site, keep pickin'
ashley hazelwood

london, uk
Wednesday, August 27, 1997 at 08:17:45 (PDT)
Hello Bruce!

I would like to add my congratulations to your long list of compliments
on this fabulous web site! It truly is an incredible resource for hard
core LK fans and aspiring fingerpickers.

In terms of your contest, I offer "beantime.com" as my nomination. I
know it doesn't grab you like "goosefarts.com," but it picks up on one
of my favorite LK tunes! (I must also admit to really liking
mudlark.com, which I know would make Kristina happy.)

I've been working on Leo's music (off and on) since the mid 70's and would happy to
correspond with fellow guitarists, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic
area.

Bruce, thanks again for your great contribution!

Hank Alinger

Columbia, MD USA
Friday, August 22, 1997 at 20:40:49 (PDT)
I've seen Leo in concert on two occasions & have been listening to him for 20+ years. YIKES! Never has there existed such a technically precise musician. I constantly sit wide eyed with jaw dropped when I listen to his music. He is truely amazing. What he does goes far beyond my comprehension. Glad to see this site exists. Question : His music is hard to find in stores & since all of my vinyl was destroyed recently, I am in need to replace my collection. Where else can I find his music ? Any response is appreciated. Please contact me at TMPNOE4$aol.com.
Thanks,
Tim
Tim Pierce

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, FL USA
Friday, August 22, 1997 at 13:13:42 (PDT)
I've seen Leo in concert on two occasions & have been listening to him for 20+ years. YIKES! Never has there existed such a technically precise musician. I constantly sit wide eyed with jaw dropped when I listen to his music. He is truely amazing. What he does goes far beyond my comprehension. Glad to see this site exists. Question : His music is hard to find in stores & since all of my vinyl was destroyed recently, I am in need to replace my collection. Where else can I find his music ? Any response is appreciated. Please contact me at TMPNOE4$aol.com.
Thanks,
Tim
Tim Pierce

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, FL USA
Friday, August 22, 1997 at 13:13:32 (PDT)
I've seen Leo in concert on two occasions & have been listening to him for 20+ years. YIKES! Never has there existed such a technically precise musician. I constantly sit wide eyed with jaw dropped when I listen to his music. He is truely amazing. What he does goes far beyond my comprehension. Glad to see this site exists. Question : His music is hard to find in stores & since all of my vinyl was destroyed recently, I am in need to replace my collection. Where else can I find his music ? Any response is appreciated. Please contact me at TMPNOE4$aol.com.
Thanks,
Tim
Tim Pierce

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, FL USA
Friday, August 22, 1997 at 13:13:32 (PDT)
This is an absolutely great page! I'm a very big fan as
well as a musician. This page has so much information and
so many resources on Leo and its helped me find information
on how the master of the acoustic guitar plays. I even went
to see him in concert this summer thanks to this page.
Please keep it up and running. I don't know if I can live
without this page.
Matt Truumbell

Houghton , MI USA
Thursday, August 21, 1997 at 08:54:30 (PDT)
Naming the Kottke site after little ol' me???
Gee folks I'm not sure I deserve this honor! ;)

--Kristina (aka Mudlark, founder of the #kottke irc channel)
Kristina

Amherst, MA
Thursday, August 21, 1997 at 05:51:21 (PDT)
Hello.
I am thrilled to find this page and am sad that leo will not be playing in New York ity on this tour. I am a recent fan, and in a way was introduced to him by Rickie Lee Jones because she is my favorite singer and on Traffic in Paradise, she thanks him and he plays on the album as well.I firsy heard Pecuialroso when I was in Fairbanks, Alaska, playing Caliban in Shakespeare's The Tempest. The sun never went down and I spent many nights listening to Leo in the sun.
Doug Lockwood

NY, NY USA
Tuesday, August 19, 1997 at 11:22:09 (PDT)
Well, I kinda like the "goosefart.com" concept, after all, the words do come from Leo Kottke himself....and you must admit.....it is an eye catcher and a rib tickler!

But if it class and sophistication is what we are looking for here....(I thought Leo liked to laugh), than" Mudlark.com" will do just fine.

Some interesting colors passing through the old Route 6-12 these days!

And just to bring this all back home, thought I'd mention how great Leo's Anthology is....the liner notes that accompany each song are quite interesting.......nice to read Leo's take on each song presented.....and as always, the music "'stirs to the soul".

Patty
Patty

Bucks County, Pa USA
Tuesday, August 19, 1997 at 05:05:09 (PDT)
Bruce:
You must be working much too hard.
Relax a little, don't get swept up
in those brisk winds.
The trees that bend with the wind
are the ones that grow the tallest.
Take the dog for a walk, relax a little.

And no, those of us in OZ are
not too fond of goosefart.org.

Dorothy

Kansas
Monday, August 18, 1997 at 19:12:52 (PDT)
Hmmm...between suggestions to send paper socks to Leo on his birthday and poems from pigs, things are getting just a little bit too weird here in Kottke-land.

I suggest we all take the following advice: knock our heels together three times and say "home sweet home" and maybe we'll be back in Kansas again.

P.S. Remember, send me an e-mail with a name for the new Kottke web site and you may win a personal concert in your kitchen with Leo Kottke (well, I can pick any prize I want since we're not in Kansas anymore, are we?). The front-runner to date is "goosefart.org". Runner-up is "mudlark.org".

Keep those suggestions coming, or else the flying monkeys will come and get you.
Bruce Head (Webmaster)

Monday, August 18, 1997 at 19:02:52 (PDT)
For the TAB PIGS sans Bruce:
Thanks for the compliment, suspecting me to be the Woody Leo and all,
but just to let you know I'm
wayyyyyyyy to busy workin' on the net,
to be playin' on the net.

:0

Jeannine

Peterborough, Ontario Canada
Monday, August 18, 1997 at 19:01:35 (PDT)
To Bruce....from his Tab Pig buddies....

ODE TO WOODY

T'was a day in mid-Summer, our minds were like seives
The Pigs heard from "Leo", and wondered "what gives?"

Scottke said "Cap'n, one *helluva* trick"
Then swore it was Dean, and stepped on his dick

Hey Suz wasn't buying it, he's way too smart
He smoked out Bruce's server, and smelleth'd a fart

The Pigs all weighed in with ideas that were keen
Prince Phil cleverly suggested it might be Jeannine

First you were Bruce, then you were "Leo"
What shall we call you? Oh my oh meo

Your joke was the best, a *helluva* goody
By Cap'n's suggestion, your handle is "Woody"

And just for the record, we want you to know
We've all been on to your scam, for a week or so

Oink! Oink!
Tab Pigs

Monday, August 18, 1997 at 12:21:55 (PDT)
I'd like to trade audio/ video tapes of Leo with anyone who
would like to. Additionally, if any one out there has an
original copy of 12 String Blues to use as a master, I'm
willing to organize a CD-R "tree." Why wait for someone to
put it out? We'll all be buying it again anyway.
Ric Dube

Seattle, WA USA
Saturday, August 16, 1997 at 17:25:16 (PDT)
Where do I start concerning the great (but [sadly] the widely unheard of) Leo Kottke? I was first enlightened to his music my freshman year at New Mexico State, when I got 6 and 12 String guitar and it has forever changed the way I look at the instrument.
In my five-year guitar playing life, he has been the single most influential artist in my own music. I or anyone else could never emulate his music exactly, because music like his comes from deep within the soul, and I believe no two souls are even remotely alike. I have made strides to capture that special energy that music such as Leo's has, to the point that my guitar-playing friends have nicknamed me "leo." To me there is no greater compliment. His origionality gives me inspiration to create my own masterpieces, and it is my dream to someday influence young guitarists as Leo (as well as other artists) has influenced me. After all, money and fame are great when you're alive, but when all is said and done it is the music that (hopefully) lives forever.
I also wonder how it came to be that good music...I mean REAL music (such as Leo's, for example) got pushed into the shadows by crap like Green Day, Bush, Silver Chair, the Hansen Brothers, or practically anything that gets played on the radio these days. Sure, a select few good bands like Pink Floyd and Dave Matthews Band are played on the radio, but they are the exception to the rule. I guess there are just too many closed-minded fools out there who wouldn't know good music if it hit them in the face. It's good to know that some of us know what's up. I ask you to remember my name (even though I don't expect you to) and look for my album (in 5-10 years). Peace, fellow Kottke fanatics! Also, I love getting Email.

Paul

Paul Coder

Las Cruces, NM N.Mex, USA
Friday, August 15, 1997 at 03:22:25 (PDT)
MLB:
Maybe we should try to make it to Malibu
for the September concert date?
Sweetie
S

Thursday, August 07, 1997 at 15:49:32 (PDT)
Leo's the best. I saw him play for the second time in as many months on Sunday, August 3rd at The Birchmere in Alexandria VA.
I took my 3 year old daughter who really loves his music. She was awake for at least an hour before passing out during one of Leo's
slower songs. I was fortunate to be able to meet Leo after the show and he was very obliging in having his picture taken with
my daughter. Thanks Leo! Hope you return to Princeton next year. Your show with Iris Demente was great but I'd prefer that you
didn't share the stage with anyone! Your sense of humor is great.

LA 8/6/97
Lee Atwater

Hamilton Square, NJ
Wednesday, August 06, 1997 at 09:34:20 (PDT)
Cant wait for the show in St Augustine FL, been about 2 years since i saw him
at the Arts Kilnn in Lexington VA WOW WOW WOW what a show that was
What a huge influence his music has had on my life, nver thoughmusic like his could
affect someone in such a way!!

Let me hear from any Leo Fans out there!!

Doug W

Jacksonville, Fl 32259
Sunday, August 03, 1997 at 20:07:29 (PDT)
For fans of acoustic guitarist Michael Hedges,
check out his new and improved fan-run web site
at the URL below (http://www.nomadland.com).

It's awesome!

Bruce
B.A. Head (Webmaster)

Friday, August 01, 1997 at 07:10:43 (PDT)

Comments or questions about Leo's web site? Send mail to webmaster@guitarmusic.org.