Speedy West facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Speedy West
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Wesley Webb West |
| Born | January 25, 1924 Springfield, Missouri U.S. |
| Died | November 15, 2003 (aged 79) Broken Bow, Oklahoma |
| Genres | Country music |
| Occupation(s) | Record producer, guitarist |
| Instruments | Pedal steel guitar |
| Years active | 1947-1981 |
| Labels | Capitol |
| Associated acts | Jimmy Bryant |
Wesley Webb West (born January 25, 1924 – died November 15, 2003) was a very talented American musician. Most people knew him by his nickname, Speedy West. He was famous for playing the pedal steel guitar. This is a special type of guitar that uses pedals and knee levers to change the sound. Speedy was also a record producer, which means he helped make music recordings.
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Who Was Speedy West?
Speedy West was born in Springfield, Missouri. He became one of the most important steel guitar players in country music. He helped shape the sound of many songs. He was known for his quick and smooth playing style. This is likely how he got his nickname, "Speedy."
Starting His Music Journey
Speedy West started playing music when he was young. In 1947, he began using a special new instrument. It was the second-ever pedal steel guitar made by a man named Paul A. Bigsby. This was a big deal because it changed how the steel guitar was played. Speedy was the first country steel guitarist to use this new type of guitar. Other famous players, like Bud Isaacs, started using it in the early 1950s because of Speedy.
Playing with Other Stars
Speedy West often played music with another great guitarist named Jimmy Bryant. They even had their own duo and made music together. They were also part of the main band for Capitol Records. This meant they played on many songs for famous singers.
They played for artists like Tennessee Ernie Ford. Speedy and Jimmy also recorded with musicians who were not with Capitol Records. They worked in Los Angeles, California. Speedy West was very busy during his time at Capitol Records. He played on more than 6,000 recordings!
Working with Pop and Country Legends
Speedy West didn't just play country music. He also played on pop records for huge stars. These included singers like Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby. This shows how talented and versatile he was. In 1960, Speedy also played on and helped produce the very first song for country music legend Loretta Lynn.
Later Life and Legacy
Speedy West had a stroke in 1981. After this, he could no longer play his pedal steel guitar. But he still loved music and stayed connected to it. He continued to go to steel guitar conventions. These are big meetings where steel guitar players gather.
Speedy's health slowly got worse over time. He passed away on November 15, 2003. Speedy West left a lasting mark on music. He helped make the pedal steel guitar popular. Many musicians today still look up to his playing style.
Images for kids
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Speedy West playing his pedal steel guitar.
