“Ghost Riders in the Sky” is a timeless classic, instantly recognizable for its haunting melody and vivid imagery of galloping spectral cowboys. For guitar players, particularly those drawn to the evocative sounds of country and western music, mastering “Ghost Riders in the Sky” is a rite of passage. And if you’re seeking to capture that authentic, weeping steel guitar sound, look no further than Doug Beaumier’s viral rendition on the E9 pedal steel guitar.
Doug Beaumier’s Pedal Steel Guitar Mastery Goes Viral
Guitar enthusiasts and steel guitar aficionados are buzzing about Doug Beaumier’s recent YouTube video showcasing his breathtaking performance of “Ghost Riders in the Sky.” Played on his signature E9 pedal steel guitar, Beaumier’s interpretation is both respectful of the original spirit of the song and infused with his own unique artistry. The video, initially shared within online guitar communities, quickly gained traction, amassing millions of views in a short period and captivating listeners worldwide, particularly in unexpected corners like Brazil and Russia.
Doug Beaumier performing Ghost Riders in the Sky on his E9 pedal steel guitar, captivating audiences worldwide with his masterful rendition of the classic western song.
The forum post on steelguitarforum.com reflects the enthusiastic reception from fellow musicians. Comments range from “Really, really Good!” to heartfelt praise like “in my eighty seven years, seventy five playing the steel guitar, I never heard it played any better.” This outpouring of appreciation underscores the video’s impact and Beaumier’s exceptional talent. What resonates most with viewers, as highlighted in the forum feedback, is the purity of his playing and his dedication to the instrument’s natural voice, relying on subtle reverb and delay to enhance, not overshadow, the steel guitar’s inherent beauty.
Why “Ghost Riders” and Pedal Steel are a Perfect Match
“Ghost Riders in the Sky” lends itself beautifully to the pedal steel guitar. The song’s minor key, combined with its narrative of otherworldly riders and windswept plains, creates a naturally melancholic and ethereal atmosphere. The pedal steel, with its ability to produce smooth glissandos, mournful bends, and shimmering vibrato, perfectly captures this mood. The E9 tuning, favored by Beaumier, is particularly well-suited for country and western styles, allowing for rich chord voicings and expressive melodic lines that bring the spectral tale to life.
For guitar players seeking to explore beyond standard guitar and delve into the world of steel guitar, Beaumier’s video serves as an inspiring introduction. It showcases the instrument’s potential to evoke deep emotion and add a unique sonic texture to classic tunes. While “Ghost Riders In The Sky Guitar Tab” searches often lead to standard guitar arrangements, Beaumier’s performance highlights the song’s true potential on pedal steel.
Finding Your “Ghost Riders in the Sky” Guitar Tab and Learning Steel Guitar
Inspired to learn “Ghost Riders in the Sky” on guitar or even venture into pedal steel? While Doug Beaumier’s website and YouTube channel (playsteelguitar.com and youtube.com/steelguitar3) are excellent resources for learning steel guitar techniques and exploring his instructional books, dedicated “Ghost Riders in the Sky guitar tab” directly for his arrangement might not be readily available.
However, this shouldn’t deter you. Begin by searching for general “Ghost Riders in the Sky guitar tabs” online. Numerous websites offer chords and tablature for standard guitar arrangements of the song. Once you have a basic understanding of the song’s structure and chord progression, you can start adapting it for steel guitar, particularly if you’re learning E9 tuning.
For those serious about pedal steel, Doug Beaumier’s website and instructional materials are invaluable. His books, such as “60 Popular Melodies E9 Pedal Steel,” provide a wealth of knowledge and songs to learn. By studying his playing and exploring resources dedicated to E9 pedal steel guitar tabs and techniques, you can embark on your own journey to master “Ghost Riders in the Sky” and other classics in this captivating genre.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Steel Guitar and “Ghost Riders”
Doug Beaumier’s viral video is a testament to the enduring appeal of both “Ghost Riders in the Sky” and the pedal steel guitar. His masterful performance has not only captivated millions but also sparked renewed interest in this unique instrument. Whether you’re a seasoned steel guitar player or a guitarist intrigued by its haunting sounds, exploring “Ghost Riders in the Sky guitar tab” and listening to artists like Doug Beaumier is a rewarding journey into the heart of western musical tradition. Watch the video, find your tab, and let the spectral riders inspire your own musical explorations!
