For those of you who do not know of him – and I bet there are a fair number of you who do not – Andy McKee is one of the finest acoustic guitarists in the world. I did not know of him until a friend told me about her favorite musician over a year ago, and decided to see him at Regattabar last year.

Andy McKee on his harp-guitar

As soon as this weekend’s shows were announced, I knew we would be in the audience once again to see this extraordinary guitarist work his magic.

Even though I know there was only Andy playing, when I closed my eyes it sounded as if there were at least three guitarists and a percussionist on stage. Andy gets more sound out of one instrument than any musician I have ever heard.

Andy McKee on his baritone guitar

I may still know a couple of chords on the guitar that I remember from my days of taking a few lessons as a teenager, but I have no idea how he plays so many notes from only two hands.

Andy McKee

Andy feels that his biggest influence on the way he plays today was Michael Hedges, who died shortly after Andy discovered him so they never met. This was an incredibly emotional night for Andy because Hedges’ son was in the audience. Andy played one song by Hedges during his set and honored him by playing another for his encore. I think there more than a few eyes that welled up with tears at the emotion emanating from Andy and his guitar during the encore.

Andy McKee

If I had to name a style for Andy’s music, I would be forced to call it New Age, but that does it a disservice. Andy’s music is not about what genre in which to categorize it but it is all about the feelings his audiences experience when they listen to him.

Andy McKee

His guitars are as beautiful as his music albeit in a different way. His baritone guitar looks to be a different color each time the light hits it; black, brown, purple… I am guessing that his instruments are custom-made for him.

Andy McKee

Andy’s music takes the listener on a journey. The journey is dependent on the listener; the tune titled ‘Into the Ocean’ may take one there or not. It does not matter where you go, but you will be transported.

Andy McKee

I am so thankful that my friends introduced me to Andy’s music; I will be a lifelong fan and see him whenever I have the opportunity!

Andy McKee

Thanks to Regattabar for the ticket; all opinions are my own.