Bob and I both played banjos on that tour. I brought along a Gibson Mastertone that doubled as a plectrum (by loosening the 5th string and sort of putting it around the bridge.) Bob had created a medley of songs that included "Waiting for the Robert E. Lee."
The group did not perform with a banjo in the later 60's or the first of the 70's. It was a sort of re-branding effort, I guess, where the hope was (at least by a few Columbia Record execs) that the group might become their answer to Lettermen who were selling lots of records.
It was Bob who brought the banjo back into the group. The banjo plays a big role in the current Brothers Four show as the group showcases many styles of songs from "The American Folk Songbook."
The group will return to Japan in May and June of this year for 16 concerts. While the Japanese audience appreciates each member they retain special feelings for the original guys. Because of that the Lady 80's Tour in 1979 was unique in that it was the only tour that had Dick and Bob Flick as the sole original members. They are both strong personalities and it gave the group a unique feel with them in the middle and Bob and I on each side of them.
We had rehearsal today and are learning "Lemon Tree" for the upcoming concert as we did in 1979. Singing that song activates lots of special memories on our way to creating more.
So again-giving Bob lots and lots of credit for not only handling the banjo role beautifully but for re-introducing the banjo into Brothers Four performances.
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