An upcoming tribute show is being held to honor Link Wray on November 5, 2009. This show will fall on the 4th anniversary of Link’s passing. Hosted by The Redwood Bar in Los Angeles, Ca and organized annually by Burnin’ Mike Vernon of 3 Balls of Fire. Mike had played with Link at the Ponderosa Stomp in 2005. This marks the 5th occurence of the 13 Guitar Rumble. With previous events being held in Texas the first of which was a benefit for Hepatitis.
Headlining this event are Paul Johnson of Mr. Moto fame, Eddie Bertrand from Eddie and the Showmen both widely regarded as two of the most influential surf guitarists of all time. Dave Wronski and Dusty Watson from Slacktone, Pete Curry of Los Straitjackets, Dave Arnson from The Insect Surfers and Tony Fate formerly of The Bellrays.
In addition, performing will be author/musician John Blair of The Eliminators, Rick Holmstrom, Sylvia Juncosa, and Big Manny also will perform. Opening the event will be 3 Balls of Fire with Mike Vernon. Following an all guitar performance of Rumble will be King Fuzz himself Davie Allan and The Arrows. Davie is perhaps best known for his work on many movie soundtracks has recently released a recording titled Retrophonic which has reminded us all why he is The King of The Fuzz Guitar! In this writer’s opinion (and several others) Davie Allan and Paul Johnson are both worthy of consideration for rock hall induction as well as Link Wray. If the instrumental guitar ever gets the respect it deserves from them that is.
Making this event particularly interesting is that several of these musicians have cited Link as an influence on their playing. I’m sure that the respect for Mr. Guitar will be heard on stage. Just Think Link! as many of his finest recordings are performed by an all-star lineup of extremely talented and respected guitarists on Thursday November 5 in LA.
Join us in our effort to Induct Link Wray and sign our petition!
