The British Steelies Society

Being a lap steel player I consider myself very lucky. I play traditional lap steel styles as well as pedal steel licks. Oh yes - and I am sitting on the beach in the sun doing it with an 8 string lappy plugged into a line 6 pocket pod and headphones on. Well I was in the summer. Now don't some of you pedal steelers wish you could do that.

Not taking the mick out of pedal steelers cos I am one too, but lap steel does have it's advantages.

Not all luck Mick, you have worked hard to get to the standard you are at.... you are a good advert for plank player's and pedal guitar....

Thanks for that John. Yes I must admit that since discovering the plank I can't leave it alone. My George Boards 8 string sits permanently on the kitchen table for sudden ideas and my National set up in the shed. I must say I am really liking the National and milking it for all it's worth. I am gradually getting my sound from it. I really like Buddy's sound but when someone asked him how he got it his reply was "You may as well put a ring through your nose and be led around". A bit harsh but he does have a point. I take my inspiration from all of them. lap and pedal and with youtube on I hear something and immediately have a go.

I just looked back - the first outing for the National was May 2015 at Duloe. Had not had it long so played one tune. Thats when the interest started.

I have not gone as far as Buddy, Curly Chalker and Joaquin Murphey and taken it to bed yet - but you never know.

It's bloody good fun. Keep an eye on my Soundcloud page as more is coming.

Lucky, indeed

I originally wanted to learn pedal steel until I reasearched and realised what was involved.

I stuck to lap steel and now have three . I'm very happy to just plonk along on either the 8 or 6 string. Maybe one day I'll invest in a pedal steel but right now I haven't the time or space to dedicate to give it the justice it deserves.