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DFW

(54,330 posts) Sat Oct 24, 2015, 05:28 PM Oct 2015

8

R I P Bill Keith

One of the greatest banjo players ever. Rarely as celebrated as traditionalist Earl Scruggs or innovator Béla Fleck, Bill Keith was respected in musical circles both for his technique and for his innovation. He used to play "Auld Land Syne" just using his tuners, not even touching the frets. Always modest about his virtuosity, he was always willing to play and share with unknowns and strangers. A great American musical "voice" was silenced yesterday. Marcel Dadi's piece dedicated to him was called "Billy The Keith:"

Sort of a breakdown, Keith harmonizes with himself on an amazing overdub.

Dadi himself perished in TWA flight 800. He was France's top "picker" in his day (e.g.

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R I P Bill Keith (Original Post) DFW Oct 2015 OP

He was one of the original members of The Jim Kweskin Jug Band. greendog Oct 2015 #1

When he played in Bill Monroe's band he was known as "Brad" Keith. greendog Oct 2015 #2

greendog

(3,127 posts)

1. He was one of the original members of The Jim Kweskin Jug Band.

Reply to DFW (Original post)

Sat Oct 24, 2015, 11:08 PM

Oct 2015

greendog

(3,127 posts)

2. When he played in Bill Monroe's band he was known as "Brad" Keith.

Reply to DFW (Original post)

Sat Oct 24, 2015, 11:14 PM

Oct 2015

Bill Monroe wouldn't allow any of his band members to use the name Bill.

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