18 February 2009
As I continue my quest for great original music on YouTube I came across a wonderful song, “Fallen” which is a tribute to Steve Bartok who passed away at an early age. It was written by his nephew William Bartok Jr. (aka Bill Jr.; or BJ but he prefers to be named ‘B’) shortly after his death. According to B, his uncle Steve was an excellent musician and had a huge influence on his pursuit of music. “Seemed like any instrument he picked up he could play it.” B says.
Bill Sr. can recall a time back in ‘73 when he proudly played the Marines Hymn he had just learned on the harmonica for his brother Steve; then later as they were listening to Johnny Cash on the 8-Track Steve asked to use the harmonica and began playing along with the song.
“So, I told him to just keep the damn thing.”
B had written the lyrics to Fallen first, added the melody later, then he and his friend Joey Davis recorded the finished song at Joey’s home studio with some additional dubbing done later. The video is a collage of photos of Steve and I just love the lyrics and the soft rhythmic guitar.
B’s Dad Bill says, “I may be prejudiced but, I think he’s pretty good… and he has a lot more lyrics to put to music.” I agree with Bill and if B’s got more, I for one, want to hear more. Lots more. B has an incredible talent and deserves to get more airplay.
Steve’s son Bryant says, “My dad had a deep love and appreciation for all music.
Some of his biggest influences were Bob Dylan, Merle Haggard, Don Williams, John Prine, Woody Guthrie, Chet Atkins, Neil Young, Keith Whitley, and so many more.
He could play any instrument you put in front of him. He just had a natural talent for music and singing. He was capable of so much. It’s a crying shame we lost him at such an early age.”
More of Steve’s music can be found at: www.myspace.com/stevebartok
Filed under YouTube