I used to look forward to seeing Dick Dale every year for many years, 2x if I was lucky, always a ROCKING show. Even in his later years he would put on 200+ shows a year. RIP Mr. Dale you are missed.
I saw him play there on the Santa Monica Pier for FREE, in 1994, and the Surfaris (Wipeout) warmed up! I used to work on the carnival rides there for 2 summers..It was BLISTERING loud, exactly how you would want it, with that perfect Fender tone!!
I was lucky enough to introduce my daughter to the King of the surf guitar after hearing some of the bands she likes that play in Dick’s style. We got to see him live in Oakland,CA 2016. We had a great time.
Dick played with the strings upside down like Albert King. (A pair of giants from different solar systems.) He lived fairly close by in the '80s and had a house FULL of old, blonde, Fender Showman amps. We had a mutual friend named Eddie Bertrand (anyone remember =him=?)
Holy fuck I never seen anyone play that style of upside down strings before, when he hit the high E string with his fingering hand, so cool. I play upside down strings, but not like this guy because I'm just a fucked up drummer
If you want a more detailed analysis and explanation of how to play upside down, check this out, from guy at Wings of Pegasus. Rather brilliant. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-zKtXeauLk3A.html
He gigs pretty regularly around Southern California and usually makes a more extended run in the summer. Check out his official page for dates, and definitely check him out if you get a chance. Just spectacular.
I suggest that you see him and his Grandson as soon as possible. One of the last living legends that will still talk to you. I make it a point to be in front of the mike when hes in Wa.