Stevie Ray Vaughn Had a Talent You Just Cannot Learn

I am a firm believer in God given talents.  Some things are a calling.  Being an effective teacher, a pastor, or a nurse.  Perhaps some can be trained, but the best among them are, I believe, born to do that task, gifted with an ability and an affinity that you don't acquire by instruction.

Some musicians fall into that category, too.  Elvis Presley, Jimmy Hendrix, Al Hirt and SRV-Stevie Ray Vaughan.  I put Stevie Ray Vaughan in the category of guitar greats such as Carlos Santana, James Burton (lead guitar for Elvis from 1968-1977) and Hendrix.  Vaughan stated in an interview that he could not read music.  He was not trained.  He was self taught.  Influenced by brother Jimmie and a vast array of blues legends, I believe he cultivated a talent he was born with and grew it into a legendary sound that will stand the test of time.

50 years from now, I doubt many people will care or even remember Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus or Justin Beiber.  But the world will remember SRV.  His 1986 performance at Falls Fest is forever locked in my mind.  This video, from Austin City Limits, was shot less than one year before his untimely death in a helicopter crash on August 27, 1990.  Enjoy, share and admit it...you will be playing air guitar along with this video.

Rare and powerful interview with SRV on the release of 'Live Alive'-uncut and unedited