What Is Hip?

["Steve Leigh" <stleigh@ibm.net>]

Hi Hammond Friends,

Collectively, we have some very diverse tastes in music, no question about 
that. 

"Hip" - to some people - has to be Booker T.  Certain words apply to his 
playing that don't fit the "busier" (or more capable, if you like that word) 
players.  He's restrained, tasteful, not-too-filling, simple, elegant.  

Although I respect the ability of players like Jimmy Smith, Joey D, John 
Medeski, et al, I relate to and feel the most comfortable listening to (and of 
course, emulating) players like Booker, Billy Preston, or Leon Russell.  Maybe 
it's because these players are a supporting -part- of the music I listen to, as 
compared to being the -focus- of the music.  Even when they ARE the focus.  Or 
maybe because they are/were session players, fitting in to some very diverse 
soundscapes.  

Whatever the reason, my two cents worth of "hip" definitely leans to Booker.  
I've been listening to and playing MGs music since they first were released, 
back in the 60s, and I'm STILL not tired of them!


Steve Leigh
stleigh@ibm.net
Canine Training - Lutz, Florida