Scotty Moore

First and most importantly, it is a humbling statement that Scotty Moore was my friend!  Long before I knew his name, I knew that sound! I could pick out his guitar licks on records that didn't even list his name on the jacket (expanded internet listings now give me confirmation). When I was ten, my mom took me to the big city library where I boldly asked the reference librarian who was playing the electric guitar behind Elvis. When she provided an article from a magazine that outlined some of the sidemen that backed "The King", I had heard his name for the first time. Fast forward to the 2002 NAMM Show in Nashville when Gibson asked Scotty to come by their booth. I was there and arranged not only an interview for our Oral History Collection but a question and answer segment at the show (see image). Scotty was incredible. He was just as nice as could be and didn't want people fussing over him (I held back as much as I could). Over the years we talked on the phone, exchanged long letters, and met up whenever he was in Nashville during the week of the trade show. I cherish each moment I had with Scotty because he broke the rule of "be careful if you meet your heroes." He was everything I hoped he would be! Scotty passed away on June 28, 2016, leaving an incredible body of work and influence. When I read the various tributes to him in print and online I feel so blessed to have known him and to have learned from him. I won't ever forget him.

Circa 2004: phone rings...

"Hello it's Dan."

"Hey Dan at NAMM, it's your buddy Scotty Moore."

I still get goosebumps thinking about that moment.

Rest in Peace Scotty.

Dan Del Fiorentino
NAMM Music Historian
dand@namm.org