An Undeniable Legacy
In this 1950s press photo, Garland is shown playing a session with an Gibson L-7 outfitted with a
Charlie Christian single-coil. |
Today, Garland family members duke it out
on various websites and forums, arguing
about who cared for Garland the most, who
has the most accurate version of the story,
and so forth. It’s a sad situation for any
family. So perhaps the best way to gauge the
reality of Garland’s impact is through the
perspectives of the musicians he influenced.
“He’s one of the most talented musicians I
have encountered in my career,” says Burton.
“His obvious enthusiasm for whatever music
he was playing was inspiring to everyone
around him. I’ve always thought that was one
of the reasons he was so popular in Nashville
and why everyone wanted Hank to be on
their sessions. His very presence seemed to
create a buzz among the musicians, whether
it was country, rock, or jazz.”
Bradley recalls that it wasn’t just Garland’s
skill that put him in such high demand—it
was also his personal warmth. “He was an
exceptional guitar player. We have people
who play fast now, but we don’t have anyone
who plays the lines he played. They’re very
schooled, but they don’t have the swing and
the tone and the feel that Hank had. He was
one of a kind. He was miles ahead of us, and
we’ll never catch him. But all the guitar stuff
aside, he was just a great, great friend.”
Ultimately, the varying recollections and
legends regarding Hank Garland dissipate
like mist in the morning sun. Because the
reality of his musical legacy is indisputable:
It’s on records, on tape. It’s in yellowing
session pages decaying in Nashville office
buildings. Ignore the controversy, the allegations,
and just lose track of time while
listening to songs like “Sugar Foot Rag”
or “Move.” In those melodies, the speedy
licks, the warm tone, you’ll find the true
measure of Hank Garland.
Special thanks to Bear Family Records
for their assistance with this story.