As a performer he was an engaging and exceptional showman. Sometimes music has a tendency to be boring due to an artist's - or a band's - quest for perfection in the recording studio and playing in concert. While Rory was a perfectionist (which has its own ramifications), I believe the music he created on stage had a sense of danger, passion and improvisation that engaged each member of his audience.
His continual search to be effective, sincere, and the use of improvisation and spontaneity, bolstered his performances in ways that the mediums of record, or film, can never fully capture. However, Rory's music and performances captured on film continue to shine with truth, integrity and warmth.
If I had one word to describe Rory's personality, output, and 'live' shows, it would be "sincerity". Rory was born with a considerable gift for music, guitar playing, performing and touching the lives of fellow human beings. There have been - and will continue to be - great musicians' who grace us with their gift, vision, craft, and I respect their genuine differences. I still feel Rory's music and guitar playing deserves a wider audience. New listener's will be intrigued by the music Rory left behind, and the performances caught on film.
The tribute video below contains photographs of Rory's Fender Stratocaster on display in Dublin; interior & exterior shots in Donegal - close to Rory's birthplace of Ballyshannon - and Central Park, N.Y.
"Out on the Western Plain" - traditional arrangement by Ronnie Kerrigan - vocals & acoustic guitar (August 1995).
2 comments:
Rory Gallagher: the greatest blues/rock guitarist ever!
Hi Milo,
At his peak Rory was better or, at least, the equal of any other guitar player who has graced this earth. I'm just glad I was born at the right time to witness many of his live performances with Taste and as a solo artist with his own band.
Thanks for passing by and posting comment.
Take care,
Ronnie
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