In the spring of 1977, my older sister did something to spark my love for the guitar ... it was my birthday; it was the first time I remember being spoilt as a child. My sister and I went together to the market in my hometown. She said I could have anything I wanted from the toy stall. Looking around I saw a ukulele which caught my eye. She purchased it for me and I was so elated, just fascinated by its sound. I spent lots time trying to make it sound like some of the tunes I heard on my father's radio - to the possible annoyance of my brother and sisters.
STARTING OUT
My first opportunities to play publicly was at my local church when a new pastor arrived with his family. Their son was already playing guitar at the time.
I developed a love for hymns. There was such a richness in the words they were portraying, always speaking of a better day/time, God’s goodness/grace etc.
I longed for the day when I could buy my own guitar, even though I did ask mom for one, but she didn’t see it as a priority at the time.
I eventually bought my first guitar, a left-handed Tanglewood strat copy in sunburst. I was very proud of it, even though it struggled to stay in tune. Fast-forward to now and I am proud to own a “small selection“ that I’m very happy with.
