Happy Hour Harmonica Podcast

Hermine Duerloo, Laurent Maur and Alexandre Piret join me on episode 150, for a retrospective on the great Toots Thielemans. Toots was born in 1922 to humble beginnings, in Brussels, Belgium, where his parents ran a cafe. His first instrument was an accordion, which he started playing at age three and showed great promise. He took up guitar and the chromatic harmonica around the age of sixteen. He then went on to tour Europe with Benny Goodman in 1950 before moving to the US in 1951 where he landed a seat in the George Shearing Quintet, mainly as a guitar player, but also playing some songs on chromatic. Toots made his first solo albums from the late 1950s, including the iconic Man Bites Harmonica. From the 1960s Toots was in great demand as a session musician, recording with many giants of the music industry, such as Bill Evans, Paul Simon and Billy Joel. He also made some notable musical collaborations, including with Jaco Pastorius and Quincy Jones, and recorded on numerous film and tv scores, such as Midnight Cowboy and Sesame Street. Toots had such a long and glorious career that it’s hard to do it justice, but this episode attempts to highlight some of the key moments from the undisputed giant of the chromatic harmonica, and one who has inspired pretty much every chromatic player that has followed. Links: Compilation of interviews with Toots put together by a Belgian DJ Nico Kanakaris: https://www.mixcloud.com/bluenote71/toots-thielemans-100/ Articles on Toots from Roger Trobridge's The Archivist site: http://www.the-archivist.co.uk/tag/toots-thielemans/ Videos: The story of Toots Thielemans by Steven De Bruyn: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ar7CnZS0m0k With Paul Simon in 1975: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8v2j4lJJZY&list=RDq8v2j4lJJZY With Billy Joel in 1983: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Te0DB86-wY&list=RD6Te0DB86-wY Three Views of a Secret live with Jaco Pastorius: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yBhoDaS5SKQ&list=RDyBhoDaS5SKQ Toots Thielemans 100th Anniversary Official Concert: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4hqApO5BH8 Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Episode 149 is the third compilation of the ten minute question answers from episode 112 to episode 148. Not every episode had a ten minute question, as there’s been quite a lot of retrospective episodes in this batch. So there are 27 episodes covered here. I hope you enjoy listening back to this collection as much as I did putting it together. And if you if you missed any of the episodes included then be sure to check them out. I’ll introduce each person before they respond to the question: “if you had 10 minutes to practise, what would you spend that ten minutes doing”. Links: MillionPodcasts Top 100 Music Interview Podcasts : https://www.millionpodcasts.com/music-interview-podcasts/ Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Hank Shreve joins me on episode 148. Hank started playing harmonica at age eight, and that has remained his true love despite learning various other instruments. He explains how his drumming background shapes the rhythmic feel of his harmonica playing, and how blues opened the door to everything from Latin influences to funk. Hank reflects on opening for Paul DeLay, working with Curtis Salgado, leading The Hank Shreve Band with his father Bill on bass, and broadening his musical output across albums like Loosen Up, Trouble, and That Way. He also discusses teaching at festivals, exploring jazz standards, winning several music awards, and the importance of always making the audience want to dance. Links: The Hank Shreve Band: https://www.hankshreveband.com/ Howard Levy’s Rhythms of The Breath tuition books: https://levyland.com/book-rhythms-of-the-breath Zack Pomerleau playing rack harmonica with drums and guitar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ke3XUN8agbA Hank's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/hank.shreve The Hank Shreve Band Band Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HankShreveBand/ Music Masters Teaching Studio: https://www.musicmastersstudio.com/teacher-roster/hank-shreve-guitar-and-drum-lessons-eugene/ Videos: Hank’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/hankshreve Mike Moothart: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ls6ZxhIU_es&list=RDLs6ZxhIU_es Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Santiago Alvarez joins me on episode 147. Santiago is a chromatic player from Buenos Aires, who has dedicated himself to the folk traditions of Argentina, including writing a thesis on the history of the Argentine chromatic harmonica under the guidance of his mentor Franco Luciani. Specialising in tango, he explores the close musical relationship between the chromatic harmonica and the bandoneon. Santiago has recorded with numerous Argentine artists, released his own album in 2019, performs widely across Latin America and Europe, and teaches internationally, including recently at The World Harmonica Championships at Trossingen in 2025. He has also created an online harmonica course for Argentine music. Links: Contact Santiago at: armonicasantiago@gmail.com Santiago’s Argentine Harmonica Course: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BiBYGXPf3/ Santiago's thesis on Argentine chromatic harmonica: https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1V_gnxR5abozV8DMCgDchYZvqtzzqxsjf Profile on World Harmonica Festival website: https://worldharmonicafestival.de/artist-profile-santiago-alvarez/ Harmonica FEN festival profile: https://harmonica-fen-festival.com/artist/santiago-alvarez/ Videos: Santiago’s Argentine Harmonica Course teaser: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUSki-oljnI&lc=UgzKGo6ZbqoJ-RmJhKx4AaABAg A portrait of Santiago: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTClyulss-0 Tanino Duo: https://www.youtube.com/@taninoduo/videos Celtic Connections with Tanino Duo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kuL_-npUniQ Argento Trio: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKUTufuT1EE&list=RDeKUTufuT1EE New trio with piano and bass: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCjG3mjq-yA&list=RDYCjG3mjq-yA Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Ryan Hartt joins me on episode 146. Ryan is a harmonica player, vocalist and songwriter from New England. After completing musical studies, he headed to Los Angeles in the late 1990s to immerse himself in the blues scene, learning from West Coast swing heavyweights, including sitting in with Rod Piazza. He returned to the East Coast in 2000 to form his long-running band Ryan Hartt and the Blue Hearts, releasing three albums along the way. Ryan has now put out his first solo record, Be About It! , showcasing plenty of expressive harmonica along with his songwriting and vocals. Links: Ryan’s website: https://www.ryanhartt.com/ Bandcamp: https://ryanhartt.bandcamp.com/ Videos: https://www.ryanhartt.com/video/ Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Josh King joins me on episode 145. Josh hails from Charlotte, North Carolina, and picked up his first harmonica at just six years old. By the time he was eight, he’d found an incredible mentor in the legendary James Cotton, after boldly sneaking into Cotton’s dressing room at a show. That chance encounter turned into a lasting mentorship, with Josh joining Cotton on stage numerous times during his teens. In 2025, Josh brought his talents to a national audience as a contestant on American Idol. While the spotlight was on his singing and piano playing, it was the harmonica that gave Josh his distinctive edge. Today, he continues to create and perform new music, keeping the harmonica right at the heart of his sound. Links: Josh’s website: https://www.joshkingmusic.com/ Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialJoshKing Videos: House of the Rising Sun: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgiGWD9cOWI Playing Hoochie Coochie Man with James Cotton age 10: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blBAqb_jyn0 Rolling In The Deep on American Idol: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-3dWlkR7q0 Hopelessly on American Idol: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=np8YhQM6kjk&list=RDnp8YhQM6kjk&start_radio=1 Playing with Buddy Guy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WcV04BKOdc0 Playing with Tommy Emmanuel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G353LZWD52E Singing US national anthem in 2013: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FCLnN1384Y Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Shane Sager joins me on episode 144. Shane is from Boston. In his early teens, a hand injury forced him to give up drumming, so he turned to the harmonica and never looked back. At Berklee College of Music he studied drums, as harmonica wasn’t offered, but left after two years to focus fully on the harmonica, studying with top teachers — especially Mike Turk, who helped him shape his chromatic playing. In his early twenties Shane performed with Sting, later joining his touring band in 2019 and going on to travel the world with him for six years. He now continues to perform and record with various acts and has a couple of albums of his own coming out soon. An avid writer, he publishes on Substack and released his first harmonica book, Beyond Breath, in 2025, with two more in the pipeline. Links: Shane’s Substack: https://shanesager.substack.com/ Shane's book 'Beyond Breath': https://tinyurl.com/5heaf9tw North Carolina Harp Fest: https://www.ncharmonica.com/ Videos: Shane’s YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0_bbSLOzrEFkvFCWiPvWahu0O_PQpoOx&si=XPeZ_DtDCvHdjf1n Shape of My Heart with Sting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jPFdg4CNss&list=PL0_bbSLOzrEFkvFCWiPvWahu0O_PQpoOx Playing with Sting at Carnegie Hall: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0AW8uIFxeAk&list=PL0_bbSLOzrEFkvFCWiPvWahu0O_PQpoOx Playing with Sting at Time’s Square: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=se1HT8F2c2k Sting and Stevie Wonder playing ‘Fragile’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPjj8edvjgM Shane playing at SPAH 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldhIDlz5TeA Bill Barrett playing Sunny Side of the Street: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_EW85IYO3w Liam Ward interview with Shane: https://www.learntheharmonica.com/post/sting-harmonica-player-shane-sager-interview Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Kyle Rowland and Kenny Neal join me on episode 143 for a retrospective on James ‘Mr Superharp’ Cotton. Born in 1935 on the Bonnie Blue plantation in Mississippi, James Cotton received his first harmonica from his mother and learnt by ear, captivated by Sonny Boy Williamson II’s King Biscuit Time broadcasts. From nine to sixteen he lived with Sonny Boy, then played with Howlin’ Wolf before holding the harmonica chair in the Muddy Waters’ band for twelve years. Striking out solo in the late 1960s, he spent the next forty five years releasing acclaimed records and delivering explosive live shows, powered by a tireless work ethic and boundless energy. He earned two Grammy Awards—one with Muddy Waters and one for a solo album—and garnered further nominations. A lifelong devotee of the blues, he gave back generously in his later years and became like family to those closest to him. Links: James Cotton website: http://www.jamescottonsuperharp.com Discography: http://jamescottonsuperharp.com/discography/ Kenny Neal’s website: https://kennynealmusic.com/ Kyle Rowland’s website: https://www.kylerowlandblues.com/ James Cotton and Seydel harmonicas: https://www.seydel1847.de/jamescotton Videos: Bonnie Blue documentary trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lidw_qH1D4Q Seydel James Cotton tribute with lots of photos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQJrI0oioKE&list=RDKQJrI0oioKE Complete This Order song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e09HOfVB21g&list=RDe09HOfVB21g Kyle Rowland with The James Cotton Tribute Band in 2022: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZfajGFBE74&list=RDLZfajGFBE74 A ten year old Josh King singing Hoochie Coochie Man with Cotton: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blBAqb_jyn0&list=RDblBAqb_jyn0 The James Cotton Band Live at North Sea Jazz in 1983: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2CVvNe0OpZY&list=RD2CVvNe0OpZY Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Victor Puertas joins me on episode 142. Victor Puertas grew up just outside Barcelona, discovering the blues in his early teens, splitting his passion between harmonica and keyboards. At 18 he traveled to the US and had the chance to meet his idol, Gary Primich. Back home, Victor formed The Suitcase Brothers with his brother Santos, who had given him his very first harmonica at age 13. For over 27 years the duo have been exploring acoustic country blues, with their latest album, a tribute to Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee, earning recognition from the Piedmont Blues Preservation Society. Victor continues to perform in the duo as well as with other bands, where he showcases his deep love of the blues. Links: The Suitcase Brothers: https://suitcasebrothers.com/ The Suitcase Brothers albums on Bandcamp: https://suitcasebrothers.bandcamp.com/ Victor Puertas & The Mellow Tones on Bandcamp: https://victorpuertasmellowtones.bandcamp.com/music Videos: The Suitcase Brothers performing live at the FEN Festival, Berlin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EH6115tQ6WU&t=3s Victor Puertas & The Mellow Tones: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oooYZqq_J7g Harpin’ By The Sea workshop on Gary Primich: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kC63Zz-tDAE Playing with Steve ‘West’ Weston: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rCkKFRJOIM&list=RD3rCkKFRJOIM Konstantin Reinfeld at the Seoul International Harmonica Festival 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yi73OEN_ZxI Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Yoonseok Lee joins me on episode 141. Yoonseok is from South Korea where he first took up the tremolo harmonica. He discovered the chromatic when he heard Sigmund Groven playing at the Asia Pacific Festival in 2004, and started taking lessons with Sigmund. This culminated in Yoonseok studying at the Norwegian Academy of Music in Oslo with Sigmund as his professor. Returning to South Korea in 2020, he enjoys a successful career as a freelance chromatic player, and returns to Norway to teach at a yearly harmonica summer camp. Yoonseok has released two albums so far, with many of the pieces arranged by himself, and also songs he has composed for the chromatic harmonica. Links: Yoonseok's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/yoonseok.lee2/ Linktree: http://linktr.ee/yoonseokl Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yoonseok_hca/ Buy Harmonica Recital album: https://baro7.com/products/yoonseok-lee-2nd-album-harmonica-recital Videos: Yoonseok's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoonseokLee_HARMONICA A young Yoonseok playing tremolo harmonica: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1CYScJ3VO4 Playing James Moody’s Toledo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78ezOpAGh98&list=RD78ezOpAGh98 The Good, The Bad and the Ugly: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Py62lXF0Xiw Moonlight music video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EiF2o0WSIuQ Playing with a harpist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RM4v1qc4s1w Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Liam Ward joins me on episode 140. Liam is from the north west of England and first took up the harmonica in his late teens. His youthful zeal turned into his career when he chose to become a full-time harmonica player over becoming a school teacher. Liam plays in numerous bands, including his own band, two duos and in an Oasis tribute band. In addition to the harmonica he also plays various jug band instruments including the musical saw, washboard, spoons and the Irish bones. Liam runs one of the most popular online tuition sites: LearnTheHarmonica.com, which he started in 2014. He is also a regular workshop leader at harmonica camps, teaching at the EuroBlues week and the Hohner festival in Trossingen in 2025. And he has recently been selected as the face of the Hohner Blues Harp. Links: Liam’s website: https://www.liamwardmusic.com/ Online harmonica school: https://www.learntheharmonica.com/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/liamwardmusic The World Harmonica Festival (Hohner): https://worldharmonicafestival.de/ Videos: Learn The Harmonica YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Learntheharmonica Liam’s critique of his first recording with Lonesome George: https://youtu.be/JNZvs2Mm-mk?si=Jlo-OCWmR4G4rkGP Lyndon Anderson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGwAnYpxWT0 Oasis Supernova Tribute Band: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JDqWIuwKbQ Liam playing the Fat Tone amp: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ilXKHh2r6I Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Tom Ball, Peter ‘Madcat’ Ruth and Michael ‘Mudcat’ Ward join me on episode 139 for a retrospective on Walter Horton. Walter was likely born on April 6th, 1918, in Horn Lake, Mississippi. He probably made his first recordings in 1939 with Little Buddy Doyle but it wasn’t until the early 1950s that he started recording regularly. After making some early cuts under the name Mumbles, he made numerous recordings as a sideman in the 1950s, including the blues harmonica classics Easy and Walking By Myself. Walter enjoyed a resurgence on the back of the blues boom in the 1960s, touring the US and Europe and playing with various bands including the Willie Dixon Allstars, Fleetwood Mac and Johnny Winter. In the 1970s he made some more albums under his own name, including with the Johnny Nicholas band, and also appeared on the Grammy winning Muddy Waters album, I’m Ready. Big Walter played up until his death on December 8th, 1981, and was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame the following year. And without doubt left his legacy as one of the greatest blues harmonica players of all time. Links: Discography by Stefan Wirz: https://www.wirz.de/music/horton.htm Information on Big Walter: https://www.encyclopedia.com/education/news-wires-white-papers-and-books/horton-walter Bob Corritore photo gallery: https://bobcorritore.com/photos/big-walter-horton-photos/ Videos: Hard Hearted Woman, States Records: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89P8ZMfTHfk Solo recording from Germany: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6RkAlhX7fg Walter ‘appearing’ in The Blues Brothers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUUyFrHERpU Walter Horton discusses using his hands in Ronnie Earl’s apartment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KX0Eu5Lqexc Playing That Aint It & Down Yonder with Ronnie Earl: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FghNW94YUaM&t=90s Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Richard Sleigh joins me on episode 138. Richard is from Pennsylvania and is a renowned harmonica customiser, player and teacher. He tells how his great uncle Bill inspired him to pick up the harp, before discovering Irish music during his travels in Europe. We hear about his first album Steppin’ Out, his recording with Dennis Gruenling, and his love for the Clifftop Appalachian festival. Richard also shares the story behind his involvement with the MB30 harmonica and his customisation collaboration with Joe Filisko. Plus, we talk rack harmonica, teaching, and how he’s been “hot rodding” harmonicas for over 30 years. Links: Richard’s website: https://hotrodharmonicas.com/ Hot Rod Your Harmonicas - The Movie: https://hotrodharmonicas.myshopify.com/products/hot-rod-your-harmonica-videos Richard’s Ultimate Foundation Harmonica Course: https://www.ultimateharmonica.com/p/the-ultimate-beginner-harmonica-course Other harmonica customiser interviews: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com/categories/harmonica-customiser/ Videos: Paddy Fahey’s Reel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lkMs4utYpE Cousin Sally Brown: https://youtu.be/5VaYV1CGwo4 Cuttin’ Out with Dennis Gruenling: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYm8_EGaUqU Help Me played on a rack tuition video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-U4PRMY18Y Blues Harp Bugle tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbQMrNByJR4 Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Fabrizio Poggi joins me on episode 137. Fabrizio plays blues, folk and spiritual music. Hailing from near Milan, he took some time to find his way with the harmonica but since then he has performed at Carnegie Hall and been nominated for a Grammy. His first band was Chicken Mambo who played New Orleans music on their early album releases. Fabrizio traveled around the US where he made lots of friends and great strides with his musical development. This culminated with the making of an album in 2013 where the Blind Boys of Alabama and Charlie Musselwhite make an appearance. Fabrizio then teamed-up with Guy Davis where their second album together, Sonny & Brownie’s Last Train, was nominated for a Grammy in 2018. Links: Website: https://www.chickenmambo.com/eng/ Biography: https://www.chickenmambo.com/eng/biography/ Discography: https://www.chickenmambo.com/eng/discography/ Juba Dance album with Guy Davis: https://guydavis.bandcamp.com/album/juba-dance Videos: Italian Folk Band: Fabrizio Poggi e Turututela Miniera: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnhwOfCjrpU Harpway 61 album song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nx-Reyl3ZuI Playing live at Carnegie Hall with Guy Davis: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joe1mRWMLwc TV appearance with Guy Davis: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzlcccMDPFM Fabrizio live: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkqHNcATQ3A Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Giles Robson and Jim Basnight join me on episode 136 for a retrospective on Alex ‘Rice’ Miller (aka Sonny Boy Williamson II). Information on Sonny Boy’s early life is sketchy. Sonny Boy was likely born in 1912 and had a hard upbringing working on a plantation before becoming a travelling musician. Arriving in Helena, Arkansas, he found fame performing on the King Biscuit Time radio show before making his first recordings with Trumpet Records at age 38 in 1951. Sonny Boy made his classic cuts for Checker Records (a subsidiary of Chess) in 1955. He then toured Europe in 1963/64, becoming a celebratory in England and having a huge impact on the British Blues Boom. Returning to Helena, where he died in 1965, Sonny boy is one of the true giants not only of the harmonica but also the blues, with his charismatic vocals, songwriting and enigmatic charm. Links: Giles Robson: https://gilesrobson.com Jim Basnight: https://www.jimbasnightmusic.com/ Extract from Bill Donohue biography: https://www.furious.com/perfect/sonnyboy.html Chris Strachwitz remembers Sonny Boy: https://arhoolie.org/chris-strachwitz-remembers-sonny-boy-williamson/ Bob Corritore photo gallery of Sonny Boy: https://bobcorritore.com/photos/sonny-boy-williamson-ii/ Sonny Boy discography: https://sonnyboywilliamson2.blogspot.com/2013/08/sonny-boy-williamsons-chronological.html Macie J Blues blogspot on Sonny Boy: https://sonnyboywilliamson-maciejblues.blogspot.com/ Videos: Possibly the late Chris Strachwitz recordings of Sonny Boy: ‘Last Sessions’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLco7ZmxqUs&t=10s Concert from the Jazz House, Wiesbaden, Germany, November, 1963: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGGR5l4zOzw&t=1s ‘Solo Harp’ album, from German photographer Stefanie Wiesand: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6RkAlhX7fg Robbie Robertson recalls meeting Sonny Boy shortly before he died: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90-O6c20PLk The grave of Sonny Boy, with comments from Giles Robson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-XQwpBTGRI Bye Bye Bird in Europe: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZArN9y5qZc Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

John Sebastian joins me on episode 135. John had considerable chart success in the 1960s as part of the folk rock band, The Lovin' Spoonful, who were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the year 2000. John was also inducted into the songwriters Hall Of Fame. Probably better known as a singer songwriter and guitar player, harmonica was John’s first instrument, inspired by his father, also called John Sebastian, who was a renowned classical harmonica player. And we discuss some of his father’s music and how this inspired his son to take up the harmonica. John started out playing harmonica in a jug band before his success with The Lovin' Spoonful, before he then enjoyed a solo career and some notable recording sessions, not least as the harmonica player on The Doors song, Roadhouse Blues. Links: John's website: https://www.johnbsebastian.com/ John’s children’s book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Jbs-Harmonica-John-Sebastian/dp/0152400915 Review of Jug Band DVD by Todd Kwait: Chasin' Gus' Ghost: https://driftwoodmagazine.wordpress.com/2011/03/16/dvd-review-chasin’-gus’-ghost/ Videos: John Sebastian senior live performance of Villas Lobos Harmonica Concerto: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2EO0SUraGQ Playing ‘Thedy’ on chromatic with the New Rhythm Blues Quartet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1f9IGhcGiQQ Harmonica duet with Annie Raines: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kmPOnRUDZAE John’s Homespun Blues Harmonica course: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIVWaVSOoLE John’s appearance at Woodstock in 1969: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rBXL7FaPod4 Liam Ward interview with John and a lesson from Liam on how to play Roadhouse Blues: https://www.learntheharmonica.com/post/roadhouse-blues-harmonica-john-sebastian Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Ronnie Schreiber joins me on episode 134. Ronnie runs The Electric Harmonica Company, producing the Harmonicaster, which is an alternative to the traditional harmonica microphone, using guitar style pick-ups to create “the first practical true electric harmonica”. Ronnie first came up with the concept some thirty years ago and has been developing it in earnest over the last ten years. Ronnie tells us the story of how he developed the idea, from the need to use steel reeds, the custom harps needed and the availability of pick-ups to use with the harmonica, and some of the harmonica players who have supported him through his journey. We discuss the advantages of using a pick-up with the harmonica, such as having a different sound to the traditional harmonica microphone, and the feedback resistance it brings, as well as some of the challenges of using the Harmonicaster. Links: Harmonicaster website: https://rokemneedlearts.com/harmonicaster/wp/ The Frank Harmonica mic developed by Ronnie: https://rokemneedlearts.com/frankmic/ Harp-l post introducing the Harmonicaster: https://groups.google.com/g/harp-l/c/_ETwuJvbRRA Brendan Power playing some Irish music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rx8kVBjAL4 The Turbo Harp: https://turboharp.com/ Dyna-mic: https://www.dyna-mic.com/ Videos: Harmonicaster YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@harmonicaster8106 Ronnie overview of the Harmonicaster: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FzbYxwKLPR4 Jonah Fox YouTube review of the Harmonicaster: https://rokemneedlearts.com/harmonicaster/wp/ Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Kim Field joins me on episode 133. Kim’s 1994 book ‘Harmonicas, Harps and Heavy Breathers: The History of the People’s Instrument’ was the first book released on the history of the harmonica. And Kim has recently written the book: The Blues Dream of Billy Boy Arnold , telling the story of Billy Boy in his own words. Ever on the lookout to meet and learn from the great players, Kim shares the time he spent with Deford Bailey and also when he played on stage with Walter Horton. Kim has been in several blues bands, and a country band, and has just released a new album with his latest band, The Perfect Gentleman, featuring Kim’s harmonica, vocals and songwriting talents. Links: Kim’s website: https://www.kimfield.com/ Harmonica Northwest weekend, Oct 23-26, 2025: https://menucha.org/programs/harmonica-northwest Kim’s life in music: https://www.kimfield.com/my-life-in-music Harmonicas, Harps and Heavy Breathers: The History of the People’s Instrument book: https://www.kimfield.com/harmonicas-harps-and-heavy-breathers PT Gazell review of Don’t Need But One album: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ModernBluesHarmonica/permalink/10162253953062225/ The Blues Dream of Billy Boy Arnold book: https://www.kimfield.com/the-blues-dream-of-billy-boy-arnold Videos: James Cotton playing Blues In My Sleep live in 1967: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgS6FG2rtas David Waldman: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eD8EArw7peM The Slamhound Hunters band - Lawnmower: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjr6YLKKmqY Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Tom Ellis joins me on episode 132 for another look into the life and career of the legendary Paul Butterfield. Butter gained access to the Chicago blues scene at a young age when his lawyer father carried out pro bono work for some of the musicians there. The black blues musicians took a paternal interest in Paul’s musical development, none more so than Muddy Waters who knew Butter from around the age of sixteen. Butter later returned the favour after having made his own name. He gave something back to Muddy by recording the Fathers and Sons album with him in 1969, followed by a second album with Muddy, The Woodstock album in 1975. Tom then goes on to tell us about how Butter changed his sound during the middle part of his career with the release of the two Better Days albums in 1973, producing possibly the first Americana albums, and seeing Butter having developed into a more nuanced harmonica player. Links: Tom article on Substack platform: https://ellist.substack.com/p/down-by-the-river Article on the Super Cosmic Joy-Scout Jamboree concert (Father and Sons): https://bobsblog73.wordpress.com/2015/04/16/super-cosmic-joy-scout-jamboree-april-1969/ Fathers and Sons album blog by David Hawkins: https://paulbutterfield.blogspot.com/2014/03/37-fathers-and-sons.html Butter on the Woodstock album blog by David Hawkins: https://paulbutterfield.blogspot.com/2016/10/61-muddy-waters-woodstock-album.html Videos: Mannish Boy in Last Waltz concert: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGG-oBrmzbQ Butter on Midnight Special: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZhfIOuiPe4 Bonnie Raitt live with Butter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZOdeROUz2U Playing Why Are People Like That on David Letterman show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDvdTabtRN0 Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com

Rick Estrin and Nathan James join me on episode 131 for a retrospective on James Harman. James ‘Icepick’ Harman was born in Anniston, Alabama in 1946. After moving between various locations, including Florida, New York, New Orleans and Chicago, he settled down in Southern California in the early 1970s where he established himself in the vibrant blues scene there. Harman was a formidable song writer and had his own unique view on life which he delivered through his powerful singing voice. His harmonica playing was highly accomplished but he didn’t get too bogged down in the technicalities of the instrument, just playing it to great effect. Harman released numerous albums under his own name from the 1970s to 2019, and also recorded with other artists, including three albums with ZZ Top. Links: Nathan James website: https://www.nathandjames.com/ James Harman appreciation: https://bluesjunctionproductions.com/an_appreciation_of_james_harman Playing with ZZ Top: https://billygibbons.com/2016/10/james-harman-mystery-man-zz-top-band/ Videos: James Harman Tribute Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cf-z0fByTsM James Harman interview from 2013: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SkbDA4jpB_c Grit Soup with Rick Estrin and Nathan James: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7x1BajhVfc Albums on YouTube: Thank You Baby: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_xc_lneR8c Extra Napkins: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVwrq57PM-Q Strictly Live in ’85: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XR1OEhF6Hr0&list=PLSzXohOP-AmcgBdbKmj-DNYiP6CfPTGUY Black and White: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_0qUrM_XBw Liquor Parking: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fL9y1bydpCI Didn’t We Have Some Fun Sometime album intro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1WhxC8Q1ro Podcast website: https://www.harmonicahappyhour.com Donations: If you want to make a voluntary donation to help support the running costs of the podcast then please use this link (or visit the podcast website link above): https://paypal.me/harmonicahappyhour?locale.x=en_GB Spotify Playlist: Also check out the Spotify Playlist, which contains most of the songs discussed in the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5QC6RF2VTfs4iPuasJBqwT?si=M-j3IkiISeefhR7ybm9qIQ Podcast sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by SEYDEL harmonicas - visit the oldest harmonica factory in the world at www.seydel1847.com or on Facebook or Instagram at SEYDEL HARMONICAS -------------------------------- Blue Moon Harmonicas: https://bluemoonharmonicas.com