How to Play a Telecaster

On Second Album, Tele evangelist Roy Buchanan raised Leo's creation to new heights.

- JIM CAMPILONGO

ONE OF MY favorite moments as a Roy Buchanan fan was his late-night performance of Willie Nelson's "Night Life." Roy interpreted Buddy Emmons' steel-guitar voicings, played unique jazz lines, and commanded beautiful ii-V progressions. I listened like a voyeur with jaw agape, sensing Roy was playing entirely for himself. I also recall seeing him during bleaker times, in his post-Polydor, pre Alligator Records era, with an audience of about 20 people as he sang a blues using improvised lyrics: "I used to make $100,000 a year, and now I have to play a place like this..."

When I'm asked, "What are the best Roy Buchanan albums to get?" I always answer, "His first two." That's the Roy Buchanan I love.