Damn. One of the all-time great pickers has died. Jerry Reed, recording artist and author of many great tunes, including the Elvis Presley classic Guitar Man, died today of complications from emphysema. His Eastbound and Down, from his film Smokey and the Bandit, was a staple of many Lee Rocker shows. I feel fortunate to have several Jerry Reed recordings at my immediate disposal, and will be honoring Mr. Reed listening to some mighty fine pickin' and a-singin'.
One of my cherished 45s from my youth was Jerry's hit When You're Hot, You're Hot. He often displayed a great sense of humor through his music.
Unfortunately, yes. I just read the story on Yahoo! news. He was 71.
Actor-Singer Jerry Reed dies
US movie trailer voice-over artist Don LaFontaine also died today. He had become something of a celebrity in recent years, willing to poke fun at his instantly recognizable voice. Those trailers that always started out "In a world..." that was Don. He was only 68.
I don't mean to hijack Jerry Reed's thread. His death is the loss I will feel the most. But I'm already cheering up. Amos Moses just came up on my iPod. Just Saturday, I heard a car with Eastbound and Down blasting from its stereo and a smile instantly came to my face.
In a World... Where there's no Jerry Reed, we still have his musical legacy.
10-4 Snowman-billy
tappenfeat
Posts : 48 Join date : 2008-02-07 Location : New Jersey USA
US movie trailer voice-over artist Don LaFontaine also died today. He had become something of a celebrity in recent years, willing to poke fun at his instantly recognizable voice. Those trailers that always started out "In a world..." that was Don. He was only 68.
Subject: Re: RIP Jerry Reed Wed Sep 03, 2008 10:49 am
I had a very brief encounter with Jerry Reed during my days in Nashville (1996). I used to go see the Sounds (minor league baseball) on Sundays; and while waiting for a cheeseburger at the concession stand I heard a distinctive voice behind me say, "My boy, my boy, we gettin' stomped tonight!" I didn't have to turn around to know who it was. Jerry Reed was a part owner of the team; and apparently enjoyed cheeseburgers too. It was one of those moments where you get less than one minute to say everything you want to say and try to not sound like a dope. I thanked him for the great music and mentioned fond memories of sitting with my dad watching a tv series he had that enjoyed a very brief run in the late 70's (?). Very funny show that was probably just a summer replacement. He was very kind, friendly and appreciative. I regret not thinking to talk baseball with him - must be tough to own a team whose best players are immediately taken away by the big league club. I must admit that throughout the entire brief conversation the only thing that ran through my head was, "You're Jerry Reed!" A friend from NY called to tell me about his passing. Seems Jerry had fans everywhere; and will definitely be remembered.