Chris Hillman was our guest. Wow!

Posted: December 8, 2009, 8:27 pm

It was a privilege to have musician Chris Hillman as our guest on our show. Hillman is considered the pioneer of country rock music. He has played in such bands as The Byrds, The Flying Burrito Brothers Band, Manassas, Souther, Hillman, Furay Band, Desert Rose Band (with Herb Pederson), and Hillman & Pederson.

Growing up in the 60s, Hillman's music with the Byrds influenced my musical tastes and my life. The distinctive sounds of Turn, Turn, Turn (1966) and Mr. Tambourine Man (1965) or 8 Miles High (1966) evoke strong memories of the sixties and my childhood.

I was like a giddy child as Chris signed album covers for me, took calls from our listeners and answered our questions (for what must have been the thousandth time for him). Chris proved to be a kind, generous man. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to meet and interview him.

The one, little-known nugget Chris shared with our listeners was that the song that most typified the Byrds's sound was The Bells of Rhymney. Listen. Decide for yourself and comment on the blog if you agree or disagree.