TommyShow

 Last night I saw Tommy Emmanuel perform at the Mesa Arts Center, my first show since seeing The Black Keys in November 2019, and a wonderful show it was.  If you ever have the chance to see him perform, do so.  One of the great acoustic guitarists and a sterling showman, the man knows how to put on an entertaining concert.  He even played my favorite tune of his, Lewis & Clark, during the encore.

Tommy grew up in Australia, is self-taught and cannot read music.  His idol was Chet Atkins with whom he later recorded, playing several of his tunes last night.  He plays a mixture of originals and songs by other artists, including a Beatles medley (While My Guitar Gently Weeps, Day Tripper, Lady Madonna).  He also uses the guitar as a percussion instrument and in one song made it sound like a harp.

Below is a clip from a few years ago of Tommy drumming and then performing Mason Williams' Classical Gas.  Last night when he played Classical Gas he segued into it straight from The Beatles medley.

The enthusiasm, fun, and energy he brings to the stage could be felt throughout the venue and what he does with a guitar is amazing.

The Mesa Arts Center's acoustic design makes it one of the best venues to listen to music.