Mike Johnson sitting in with The Whites

[Danny Mitchell]

This got me off to a good start this morning....

Everyone involved is taking it so easy, nice

[Ken Byng]

I have watched this clip in the past Danny, and Mike plays that solo with all of the control and smoothness that you would expect. The added bonus is that the legendary Leon Rhodes is on lead guitar. Leon used to be in Ernest Tubb's Texas Troubadours back in the 50's and 60's, and did many a solo in harmony with the brilliant Buddy Charleton on steel.

I was in touch with Mike this morning as I hope to meet up with him next month when I go to Nashville.

[Danny Mitchell]

I was not aware of that, Ken That man (Leon) must have some great tales to tell

Your impending trip sounds amazing. If, when chewing the fat with the godlike Mr Johnson, you could enquire what his opinion is, regarding the high end modelling amp (Kempsey or Fractal, maybe?) I believe he used on his recent tour with Reba. It would be great to hear his thoughts. Apologies for my presumption

[Ken Byng]

I'm afraid that I beat you to it Danny. I spoke to Mike at the O2 back in March, where he was playing with Reba. Indeed he was using a Kemper modelling amp, which had sampled his amplification sound through his normal rig and emulated it so he could play straight into the PA. He seemed happy with that set-up, and indeed Kemper sponsor Mike and provide the equipment foc. I can say that out front Mike's tone was what we have been accustomed to hear.

I just hope that Mike's band 45 RPM will be performing at the Station Inn when I'm at Nashville. They are just superb. I will text him when I fly into N/ville in early Sept. Certainly if any members on this site have any questions that they would like me to put to Mike - just fire away.

[Danny Mitchell]

Thanks for that info, Ken. I guess this is the way things will be for touring musos; modelled amps, in ear monitors etc. A potential downside could be an overall sound homogenisation, as happened in the 80's and 90's with the proliferation of SSL desks.
I had the pleasure of hearing the opposite of that scenario last night at Glasgow's own Grand Old Opry; a decent vocal pa, with wedges and a touch of kick drum in it, and that beefy backline of Peavey, Fender and Peavey The band was Cimarron with Granpaw Gamble on the steel, sweet Old Skool without a doubt but when it's done right you canny whack it.

As for a question for Mr. Johnson; as he is now a player, up there on the mountain top, that is a/thee source of inspiration for so many: was there one player, above all, who fired him up, as a young picker? Total fanboy question