Country Harmonica Legend Interview: Charlie McCoy Talks Harmonica with Liam Ward
Charlie McCoy is a legendary American harmonica player known for his exceptional versatility and skill, particularly within the country music genre. Born in Oak Hill, West Virginia, in 1941, McCoy began his career as a session musician in Nashville, where his harmonica work became a staple on countless hit recordings. He gained widespread recognition for his ability to blend seamlessly into a variety of musical styles, from country and rock to pop and blues. Over his prolific career, McCoy has worked with some of the biggest names in music, including Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley. As a key figure in the "Nashville Sound," McCoy’s harmonica has graced over 10,000 recording sessions, making him one of the most in-demand musicians in the industry. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2009, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest harmonica players of all time. Today I'm sitting down with him in a London basement to discuss his playing style and some of his most iconic recordings.
I hope you enjoyed this interview with the great Charlie McCoy!