Memories Of John

The John Hartford Stringband (Artist) | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Audio CD (May 25, 2010)
• Original Release Date: 2010
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Compass Records
• ASIN: B003GEDLGM
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #42,109 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)

Editorial Reviews

Memories of John.... Often a John Hartford fan asks me if I would be willing to relate a story about him. All too often, my mind draws a blank. It's not for a lack of stories, as there are plenty! Rather, I've started to realize that it's from the sheer amount of stories, experiences, lessons, and the friendship we had.

For many of you who got to know John, you are aware that he was a very down-to-earth and accessible person. He loved his fans and friends, and they loved/love him back. I won't go into a John Hartford biography here. Just suffice to say that he was probably the best overall entertainer who ever graced a stage, he was full of new and innovative ideas, and he loved music better than anyone I've ever met.

When I decided to make this CD, I was surprised at all the support we received. The musicians, people that loaned us gear we didn't possess, fans, and John's family all pitched in to make my idea a reality. In retrospect, it's easy to see that everyone involved wanted to help keep the memory of John Hartford alive and to present songs that represent John's music and character.

Finally, the schedules were all in place, and it was time to record. I loaded up my studio (along with some borrowed gear) and headed down to Nashville. Thanks to Matt Combs, we were able to use an empty classroom at the music school where he teaches. With the exception of three overdubs (Alison Brown, Bela Fleck, and Eileen Carson Schatz), all the recording was done "live-in-the-studio" in two and a half days.

Some of the songs I've chosen to include on this CD will be familiar to John Hartford fans, while others have rarely been heard outside of John's inner circle. The latter mostly consists of songs he wrote but did not get around to recording.

In producing this project, I have tried to stay true to my interpretation of John's music. In making decisions about certain things, it's been second nature to do what Tim suggests and ask myself, "What would John Hartford Do?"

The notes that accompany each of the songs point to the title of the CD(s) where you can find John Hartford's recorded performance.The website is a wonderful place to get to know more about John Hartford. There is even a great forum for people to exchange stories/ideas about him.

It is my sincere hope that you will feel John's presence in these recordings and enjoy the "new" songs that you might not have heard. I am honored that the String Band and guest artists trusted me with their performances. It was a humbling experience, and one that I did not take lightly.

We'll see you out there on the road soon!

-Chris Sharp

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A wonderful reminder of a great musician, May 25, 2010

By 

ed (Burlington, ON, Canada) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Memories Of John (Audio CD)

A terrific recollection of Johns work from an authentic group of connected musicians. You can feel his presence on all the songs. Singable songs that shouldn't be forgotten.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Absolute Best John Hartford CD!!!, June 6, 2010

By 

Debbie S. Clark (Marshall, NC) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Memories Of John (Audio CD)

If you liked John Hartford's music and style, this is the CD for you! A wonderful tribute to John by members of his band (Chris Sharp, Mike Compton...) who stayed true to John's style! This is truly a gem! Your collection will NOT be complete without it!

2 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Bought the CD at the Sation Inn, Nashville,TN, June 19, 2010

By 

KC Fitch (Winchester, TN United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Memories Of John (Audio CD)

Just saw them at the Station Inn in Nashville last night, and bought the CD, and haven't stopped smiling!!