Scotty Moore was one of rock and roll's most famous guitar players, in no small measure because he backed Elvis Presley from the very first record. Moore, 84, died on Tuesday at his home in Nashville. Memphis rockabilly musician Brad Birkedahl breaks down Moore's signature style for us.
Birkedahl, who still plays regularly on Beale Street, moved to Memphis to be closer to Sun Studio where, in 1954, Elvis and his bandmates Moore and bassist Bill Black recorded their first record. He says that Moore's subtle blend of styles -- jazz, blues and country -- formed the needed backdrop for a singer who would do the same with his voice.
Birkedahl also gives guided musical tours around Memphis with his company Rockabilly Rides. Moore's former house is on the tour, and so is University Cleaners at 613 N. McLean, where Moore worked in his brother's dry cleaning business before the fortunate rise of Elvis Presley.
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