Ember,

My earliest memories are of making music as a family during the war years (the 40s ).

My eldest brother was away at war and music was a diversion from worry.

When my brother returned home, he taught me to chop rhythm on a mandolin because my hands were too small for the guitar.

I eventually moved up to guitar and, while still in HS, I was recruited into a locally popular standards band called The Arrowhead Trio as the "younger-folks" draw. My Everly, Buddy Holly and Elvis covers brought a younger following to our band ( which was actually 5 pieces ). Bookings were difficult for 5 pieces at the time but we were in great demand from Northern Minnesota to the Canadian border. We played several nights every week.

Perhaps my nearest brush with fame was my countless keggers and house parties with Bob Zimmerman ( Dylan ) in HS. I'm 2 months older than Bob.

Other than playing the logging camps and barn dances, our venues were generally first class.

Thanks for starting this topic. Some wonderful memories.

PS: I know that this will sound immodest so I seldom say anything.

During one of our house parties, and unbeknown to to Bob or myself, the personal secretary of a major talent scout, Jay Lourey ( sp? ) of Minneapolis, was in the audience.

About a week later, I received an invitation to go to Minneapolis for an interview. Bob didn't get invited.

I also remember teaching Bob that long, descending intro run by Luther Perkins in Cash' "Home Of The Blues".

Donny

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