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Although you wouldn’t guess it, there is a common thread that links The Beastie Boys, George Harrison, The Eagles, Willie Nelson, Carly Simon, Jerry Garcia, and Bob Dylan. A link other than fame, of course.
His name is David Bromberg.
Known as the “Godfather of Americana,” Bromberg is a master, multi-instrumentalist, who spans and blends the genres of bluegrass, folk, gospel, blues, and rock ‘n’ roll.
At thirteen-years-old, Bromberg borrowed his brother’s guitar and taught himself to play it while sick in bed with the measles. This unlocked a passion and talent for playing stringed instruments, and Bromberg has since mastered the fiddle, dobro, and mandolin, in addition to the guitar.
Bromberg began his musical career in the 1960s, watching and learning from folk artists in Greenwich Village and studying under the legendary Reverend Gary Davis. Soon he was performing alongside the artists who inspired him, backing the likes of Jerry Jeff Walker, and playing guitar on countless records for musicians such as Willie Nelson and Carly Simon.
Eventually Columbia Records signed Bromberg, thereby launching his solo career beginning with his self-titled debut in 1972. From there his career sored, and musicians such as George Harrison and Jerry Garcia were playing and collaborating with Bromberg on his own albums.
However by 1980, Bromberg made a decision to step back from life as a touring and recording artist, thus beginning a roughly 25-year hiatus. However, he remained influential. In fact, it was during this time that the Beastie Boys released “Johnny Ryall,” which sampled a guitar riff from Bromberg’s song “Sharon.”
By 2007, Bromberg was ready for his comeback. He launched back into the scene with his single “Try Me One More Time.” He began touring again and soon released “Use Me,” an album that in many ways embodies Bromberg’s story as a musician. It is a collection of collaborations with Bromberg’s many talented friends and musicians.
Bromberg is currently on tour with the David Bromberg Quintet and will be rolling into Isis Music Hall, Saturday, February 9 at 8:30PM. The show is an opportunity to see a music legend–one that you may have never heard of, but almost certainly have heard.
Tickets are $35 in advance and $40 day of show. Guests interested in pre-show dining options are invited to make reservations at Isis’s onsite restaurant Kitchen 743. Visit www.isisasheville.com for more information or call Isis at 828- 575-2737 to reserve your tickets today.
