The Doc is blind by the way.
For those of you who dig the Piedmont fingerstyle of the North American East Coast here is traveling bluesman Jim Bruce showing you how to play the Doc Watson version of Deep River Blues. Jim makes his living traveling and playing on the streets of Europe.
You can find out more about Jim Bruce and his guitar playing travels here and here where he showcases some great ragtime techniques and Blind Blake songs.
Jake – I remember sitting on my apartment floor in Washington DC. in 1964 listening to this song over and over trying to figure it out. The thing about it that Doc’s playing makes unique is the combo finger & flat picking, at which he was a master. great song, great player!
Hey Lee,
Good on ya. I completely agree with your appraisal of Doc Watson’s unique style. He absolutely nails this tune with so much style and he’s only using his thumb and finger. Yes, it’s incredible.
It was great Lee, I’ve got some old cassettes of Doc. Gotta dig them out and play them again. Keep the good stuff coming!