Al Perkins

Al Perkins (born January 18, 1944) is a Texas-born American guitarist. Known primarily for his steel guitar work. The Gibson guitar company called Perkins "the world's most influential dobro player" and began producing an "Al Perkins Signature" Dobro in 2001—designed and autographed by Perkins.

Early years

Al Perkins was born and raised in Texas and learned to play Hawaiian steel guitar at the age of 9. In the 1950s Perkins was considered a child prodigy, playing with regional country and western bands, appearing on TV/radio, and winning several talent contests. In the early 1960s, Perkins began playing electric guitar with west Texas rock bands, and was discovered by Mickey Jones and Kenny Rogers of The First Edition. By 1968, he enlisted into the Army National Guard and was discharged from the US Army Reserves in 1972.

1970s

In 1970, Perkins joined the east Texas country rock band, Shiloh, and moved to California. The band included Don Henley and future producer/record executive Jim Ed Norman. Perkins was then hired to play in the new incarnation of the Flying Burrito Brothers and recorded the live album The Last of the Red Hot Burritos in 1972. Perkins, along with former ByrdChris Hillman went on to join Manassas. Led by Stephen Stills, Manassas incorporated Latin jams, rock, blues, country, folk, and bluegrass influences.

Al Perkins (children's author)

Al Perkins (August 27, 1904 in New York City, New York, USA - February 10, 1975 in La Jolla, California, USA) is an author of several children's books, including Hand, Hand, Fingers, Thumb, The Digging-est Dog, and The Ear Book. He also wrote early titles in the Beginner Books and Bright and Early series. He died on February 10, 1975.

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