Chickenbone John, Musician: Just Hit It, See What Happens (S3 E13)

Kites and Strings

This episode feature a lovely chat with United Kingdom-based musician, guitar builder and Godfather of the cigar box guitar, Chickenbone John. He brings an amazing amount of passion to his art, but where others may manifest their passion in details, finish and being technically spot on, John's passion is seen in the multiple ways that he makes music accessible to others (players and guitar builders). In short, John is in full support of and prefers your learning three chords and letting the music come from the heart, rather than engaging in flashy, technically-perfect runs up and down the fretboard. Similarly, no need for high polish and fine woodworking when you join the cast of thousands who have entered one of his guitar making workshops. It's totally DIY baby!
He's also made so many guitars himself, and of course they are beautiful instruments with style and functionality, which is what prompted show host, Steve, to make sure one was on his list for Christmas this year, and we are making sure to air this show in time for folks to maybe consider putting a very cool stomp box, a six-string cigar box guitar, and/or one of his most popular three-stringers, in a loved one's hands this holiday season. Even those who are brand new will be able to learn the very easy open-string tuning approach to learning a whole host of holiday tunes. Rest assured, John has ample tutorial videos for one to soak in all that is needed to build and play cigar box guitars.
Chickenbone John's Website: https://www.chickenbonejohn.com/
Chickenbone John's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ChickenboneJohn/videos
Here's how you can find Kites and Strings out there in the interwebs.
Kites and Strings Website: https://www.kitesandstrings.com/​
​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kitesandstringspodcast
Twitter: @Kitesandstrings
Instagram: @Kites_and_strings
email: [e-mail]
Kites and Strings' theme music is by Harrison Amer, and in this episode, we featured several musicians playing the cigar box guitar which were found on YouTube playing songs that are in the public domain (see links below). Our logo-design is by Cole Monroe at Blue Stag Creative.
In the Pines: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llIq2WtOJ58
(performed by Jos Maesen)
St. Louis Blues: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKsZR086VTk
(performed by Red Dog Guitars)
House of the Rising Sun: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4S--9ru6wlo
(performed by Nando Mason)
John Henry: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOUdAnM-_y0
(performed by Julien D)

This episode of Kites and String's was produced and edited by Steve Ploum at Turning Stones Counseling, Inc.