Talking Guitar

“Over the course of his esteemed career, Jas Obrecht has amassed a unique collection of interviews with seminal guitarists pivotal to the study of popular music. Talking Guitar shows, in its subjects’ own vibrant words, how both the artists and their work fit into the big picture of American culture. A must-read for those interested in the behind-the-scenes of some of our greatest music.” — Holly George-Warren, author of A Man Called Destruction: The Life and Music of Alex Chilton

“Based on extensive first-person interviews and exhaustive research, Jas Obrecht’s Talking Guitar transcends guitar playing, uncovering the lives of the guitarists themselves. Obrecht once again shows that he is one of our leading contemporary music writers.” — Brett J. Bonner, editor of Living Blues magazine

“The electric guitar has become such a staple of every genre of modern music that we take it for granted — like running water, refrigerators, or, indeed, electricity itself. Jas Obrecht gives us a new appreciation for the instrument’s history and development, and even more so for the way it’s been used and taken in new directions by some of the greats, both those who are well known and others who should be. This book is a joy to read.” — Jim DeRogatis, cohost of Sound Opinions and author of Let It Blurt: The Life and Times of Lester Bangs, America’s Greatest Rock Critic

“This book offers rare depth in its insights, both from the author and from his interviewees. Every piece evinces a carefully cultivated focus: Stevie Ray Vaughan on Jimi Hendrix, Barney Kessel’s take on Charlie Christian, Ry Cooder’s analysis of the techniques and styles of Blind Willie Johnson and Tampa Red. Some of the conversations (with Gatemouth Brown, Nick Lucas, and others) enrich our appreciation for the instrument’s history so much that they are simply priceless. Jas Obrecht combines a scholar’s rigorous research with a natural-born storyteller’s sense of narrative arc and understated drama. His passion for the subject matter is restrained, yet palpable on every page. No matter how many guitar history books you’ve read, you want this one.” — Tom Wheeler, University of Oregon, editor and author of seven guitar books.

“Talking Guitar: Conversations with Musicians Who Shaped Twentieth-Century American Music clearly shows why the guitar is the instrumental spine of blues, rock and roll, and rock music. Jas Obrecht’s brilliant interviews with musicians who crafted the guitar’s voice in these traditions are a treasure beyond words. Talking Guitar is a classic that every music lover will cherish.” — William Ferris, author of Give My Poor Heart Ease: Voices of the Mississippi Blues

“An absorbing collection of conversations with guitarists from a wide swath of the musical map, these chronicles will appeal to a broad readership, not only to those who strum.” — Library Journal

“For music fans, especially those with an affection for the guitar, it’s essential reading.” — Booklist

“Compelling and insightful.” — Vintage Guitar