Presence. That's what Steve Miller said makes a great performer in a fascinating interview from the Sweetwater studios.
And, I just smiled...as when I describe seeing his long overdue return to Madison a few years ago, I always share how comfortable he was in his skin. I mean, he just effortlessly leaned back and luxuriated as he played his hits in the town in which he spent his college years. Beyond the hits, it was his presence that won us all over.
In another conversation with Dan Rather, he said a song has to hook you in the first 4 seconds. And, other than the album version of "Fly Like a Eagle," the vast majority of his hits follow that rule.
Speaking of, there is an amazing track that features a conversation between a young Steve and his godfather Les Paul that sets up what became a sensational career.
On this Music Friday, it's one of the earliest live videos of the kid who didn't think he had a voice.
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