I was listening to some old Buck Owens today and noting how much Don Rich contributed to the distinctive instantly recognizable sound of the Buckaroos... his distintive harmonies plus his guitar and fiddle work. I don't know if I'd want to hear much of him singing the lead, but he certained shone as a sideman. Having done a bit of sideman work myself (as most of us do from time to time) I can appreciate talent like that.

A few other great sidemen:

Willie P. Bennett with Fred Eaglesmith (the best thing about Fred's band was Willie's contribution IMO, except that I also like Willie P.'s solo work too--even moreso). Saw Willie P. play simultaneous DIFFERENT leads on harmonica and mandolin, then come flawlessly out of it into a high harmony behind Fred who I'm not sure knew how good he had it.

Red Shea and Dick Haynes (guitar and bass, respectively) with Gord Lightfoot in his best days in the late 60s & early 70s... the classic trio always works.

Ditto for Mike Taylor and Dick Kniss with John Denver.

And Dwight Yoakam owes a lot to lead guitarist/producer Pete Anderson for his success too.

Colin Linden (played with lots of greats) is my hero. If I see his name on a recording as producer, I know I'll love it.

Then, of course, there's Curly Boy Stubbs...



So, what sidemen do you like? Put together your dream band.