Scottie "Bones" Miller
2008 Induction of Scottie Miller
"Blues Literature"
Introduction by John Hammer
Thank you Mickey. Esteemed members of the Greater Twin Cities Blues Music Society and distinguished guests; I am John Hammer, publisher of Blue Monday Monthly and host of Hammered By The Blues Sundays on KOWZ radio.
It is an incredible honor and privilege to be here with you tonight to acknowledge the achievements and accomplishments of all these local artists who have helped shape the blues music scene in our fair state.
When I received the call inviting me to induct my close friend and associate Scottie Miller to the Minnesota Blues Hall of Fame in the category Blues Literature for his instructional keyboard book Rock Keyboard: The Complete Guide with CD; I knew I was in trouble right away. I had not read the book nor listened to the CD. I never even caught the 'Cliffs Notes' cheat sheet on it and never saw the movie or television special.
Now I have known Scottie for quite awhile. I have always been in awe of his songwriting, his performances and the intimate way he connects with his audience. I know in my heart as well as in my ears that this man possesses a special star quality that is rare indeed. From the days backing Big John Dickerson and Blue Chamber, thru the jaw dropping performances at the International Blues Competition, I knew Scottie was a musical force to be reckoned with. His music has become a part of not only my soul, but of family, friends and the fans who are lucky enough to share some time with this amazing artist. Many of us have found only slight fault with his CDs....we simply cannot get them out of our CD players.
Scottie & John Hammer
Now music I know; and great music I cherish as do all of you. But knowledge of instructional manuals that imparts the secrets of this magic...not so much. But as I have shared with you, I do know Scottie and have the utmost respect for him as a songwriter, musician and all 'round damn fine human being. So, I felt a little research into Scottie the Author was in order.
Knowing how Scottie immerses himself in projects along with his knowledge and attention to detail, I had no doubt the structure and content of Rock Keyboard would contribute to the education, and inspire keyboard players of all skill levels. Published in 2003 by the respected and prestigious Hal Leonard Corporation, Rock Keyboard is a comprehensive and wide ranging introduction to the performance of rock music on the keyboard. One reviewer boasted that 'the book displayed a thoroughly peda-gog-ical thrust in it's approach. Wow, hadn't heard that term in awhile. It simply means that the way it's laid out effectively employs the Art and science of Teaching. This important tool breaks down the components of the desired traits. It provides an understanding of righthand skills, lefthand skills and baseline development. All the while it addresses the role of the keyboardist in 'comping' or accompanying the rest of the band as well as attaining confidence in soloing.
John "Blueshammer" Hammer
The materials provided in this complete guide introduces to it's students all the tools with copious musical examples and vernacular of 'vamps', 'pads', 'riffs' and 'licks' to enable them to build and develop their own original structure. This structure allows the 'student' to place their own style or signature around existing, or freshly composed songs. The book is laid out in eight chapters to thoroughly cover all styles and acknowledged genre's of rock music. It explores some of the origins that dateback to blues, boogie woogie, rhythm and blues as well as the politically incorrectly titled 'race' music. The accompaning CD has 99 all original examples played by a full four piece band including John Iden on bass, Mark Oday on drums and Paul Mayasich on guitar; each and everyone a respected and accomplished artist in their own right. This book contains a veritable wealth of material, providing instruction and inspiration to aspiring and journeyman keyboardists alike. In my estimation and opinion, those who not only create art and music, but also share and educate others with the basic tools of 'creation, performance and style' are shining stars who deserve our admiration.
Therefore my friends, It is only fitting and proper this evening, in this gathering of dedicated, if not rabid bluesers, that we honor this artist, musician and friend with induction to the Minnesota Blues hall of Fame for blues literature and his contributions thru mentoring to keep the music alive, one ivory tickler at a time.
Ladies and Gentlemen please don't be shy; give it up and show some love for Scottie "Bones" Miller.
This Page Last Updated: Friday, January 13, 2012
