Reggie Young was a name synonymous with guitar excellence long before many knew his face. His journey began with a distinctive sound crafted in Memphis, leading him to become a sought-after session musician and even share the stage with music legends like The Beatles. His early hit, “Smokey Part 2” with the Bill Black Combo, not only put him on the map but also showcased his innovative guitar techniques that would influence generations of players.
Young himself recounts the serendipitous creation of “Smokey”. Initially conceived as a local recording project, the instrumental track emerged from experimentation. Tuning his guitar down two steps and employing a pencil to tap out a rhythmic shuffle, Young crafted a unique percussive guitar sound. This distinctive approach, far from traditional picking, became the signature of “Smokey Part 1 & Part 2.” Released by London Records, the instrumental unexpectedly soared into the Top 10, launching Young into a whirlwind tour with Bill Black – a journey that would eventually intersect with the Fab Four.
The Bill Black Combo’s rising fame led them to an extraordinary opportunity: becoming the opening act for The Beatles on their inaugural US tour. As Young recalls, a trade agreement with the British musicians’ union positioned them as the “trade band” for The Beatles. This transatlantic experience exposed Young to a global stage and facilitated collaborations with other notable artists of the era. He reminisces about backing The Ronettes, famous for “Be My Baby,” and sharing the tour circuit with talents like Lulu and The Kinks.
Reggie Young with a guitar, likely during his session work, highlighting his expertise as a guitarist
Beyond the performances, the tour fostered significant musical relationships. Young developed a friendship with George Harrison, bonding over their shared passion for music. Furthermore, the second leg of the tour introduced him to a young Eric Clapton, then with the Yardbirds. This encounter proved to be musically enriching, as Young notes, “He was a blues player and I was too, so we hit it off pretty good. We learned from each other.” This exchange highlights Young’s versatility and his openness to musical dialogue across genres.
Reggie Young’s guitar legacy extends far beyond his early hit and Beatles tour. As a highly respected session guitarist, his innovative techniques and distinctive “licks” became legendary within the musician community. The anecdote of session players jokingly vying for the title of who “stole Reggie’s licks first” speaks volumes about his profound influence on guitar playing. From the inventive percussive style of “Smokey” to his collaborations with iconic musicians, Reggie Young’s guitar work remains a testament to his creativity and enduring impact on the world of music.
