The Art of Gospel Guitar: Exploring El McMeen's Innovations and Influence

In the annals of gospel music, the resounding chords and soulful melodies of the guitar hold a profound significance. Among the countless guitarists who have graced the genre, El McMeen stands as an iconic figure, a pioneer whose innovations and influence have indelibly shaped the art of gospel guitar. Through his mastery of slide guitar and fingerpicking techniques, McMeen brought a distinctive sound and emotional depth to gospel music, captivating audiences and inspiring generations of musicians.

Art of Gospel Guitar

by El McMeen

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	14299 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	81 pages

FREE

Early Life and Influences

Born in 1924 in Birmingham, Alabama, El McMeen's musical journey began at an early age. He was introduced to the guitar by his father, a Baptist minister, and quickly developed a passion for the instrument. McMeen's early influences included blues and country music, which he absorbed from local musicians and radio broadcasts. These diverse musical experiences would later contribute to the unique blend of styles that characterized his gospel guitar playing.

Slide Guitar Mastery

McMeen's most distinctive contribution to gospel guitar was his mastery of the slide guitar technique. Inspired by the Hawaiian guitarist Sol Ho'opi'i, McMeen devised an innovative approach to playing slide on the electric guitar, using a glass bottleneck to create ethereal, shimmering sounds. He developed a highly expressive style, combining rapid-fire licks, soulful bends, and intricate melodies. McMeen's slide guitar playing became synonymous with gospel music, particularly in the Southern tradition, and his techniques continue to be emulated by countless guitarists today.

Fingerpicking Virtuosity

In addition to his prowess on the slide guitar, McMeen was also a skilled fingerpicker. He developed a unique thumb-lead fingerpicking style that allowed him to play complex harmonies and syncopated rhythms with incredible dexterity. McMeen's fingerpicking technique was heavily influenced by blues and ragtime music, and he incorporated elements of these genres into his gospel guitar playing, creating a distinctive and captivating sound.

Collaborations and Influence

Throughout his career, McMeen collaborated with some of the most renowned names in gospel music. He was a longtime member of The Famous Ward Singers, a legendary gospel vocal group, and also performed and recorded with artists such as Mahalia Jackson, The Staple Singers, and Reverend James Cleveland. McMeen's innovative guitar playing had a profound impact on the sound of these groups, adding a new dimension to their music.

McMeen's influence extended far beyond his immediate collaborations. His unique techniques and expressive style inspired countless guitarists, both within and outside the gospel genre. He became a mentor to a younger generation of musicians, sharing his knowledge and encouraging them to explore their own musical paths. McMeen's legacy continues to live on in the countless musicians who have adopted his techniques and incorporated them into their own styles.

Awards and Recognition

El McMeen's groundbreaking contributions to gospel guitar have been widely recognized and celebrated. He received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including a Grammy Award for Best Gospel Album in 1979. In 2000, he was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, a testament to his lasting impact on the genre.

El McMeen's artistry and innovations have permanently altered the landscape of gospel guitar. Through his mastery of slide guitar and fingerpicking techniques, he infused gospel music with a unique blend of soul, beauty, and complexity. His contributions continue to inspire and influence guitarists worldwide, ensuring that his legacy will live on for generations to come.

Art of Gospel Guitar

by El McMeen

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	14299 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	81 pages

FREE