Gordon was my friend, and I was his. He used to bust my balls, and I became a better player. He used to give me tapes, "check this out, Whadd'ya think? I'm playing keyboard on this one." I have every tape he ever gave me, including the one where he sez, "fuck you FReD". Allisandra, his wife....super bass player, playing on this track. I hope you're well girl, x. I fuggin' miss him.
Gordon was always a big presence on the music scene in Jersey City in the 70's were I grew up. He was my friend. It was a privilege to have collabrated with him musically ( the Atomix)
His Guitar work provided a potent punch. I miss him, and know he made a positive impact on all that came in contact with his art, R.I.P. Gordon
Gordon and his wonderful wife were my good friends and I miss him more than ever! He used to let me hang out there and would buy me a drink if I went to get him a slice of pizza when I was flat broke and pretty much homeless! Anyone who was fortunate enough to know him let alone experience his amazing talent are all the more richer in life than most!
Gordon and his wonderful wife were my good friends and I miss him more than ever! He used to let me hang out there and would buy me a drink if I went to get him a slice of pizza when I was flat broke and pretty much homeless! Anyone who was fortunate enough to know him let alone experience his amazing talent are all the more richer in life than most!
I met Gordon through a mutual friend, and watched him perform that night at Terra Blues in N.Y.C. Quite a talent indeed. He came across as a very down to earth person.Unfortunately never got to see him again before his untimely death.I would have loved to had played with him. A very inspiring musician. Hope to see more clips of him. Thanks, G
ok..I've sat on them for a long time.. I have a lot of Gordon footage. I will be posting starting after the new year. Check this page for links starting in January.
@Storm331: Thanks for the heads up! I'm very much looking forward to your postings. Hopefully this will inspire others who have live footage or recordings of Gordon to post what they can.
So bittersweet to see my old friend! Brings back the good ole day of listening to him play in the tunnels @ Bayonne Park. He was a phenom in so many ways! His talent, wicked humor, bravery social consciousness &, of course, his looks. So glad his absolute dedication brought him the attn he so richly deserved. Gordon never saw color in a person's skin ... only in their auras. I will always love him. Play on & on,"brown-eyed boy".
Surfing along youtube I found this video by accident. I don't know who this guy was, but he must have been one hell of a guitar player. May he rest in peace.
Thanks danastasio1 for posting this vid. Gordon was a dear, dear friend to me as well. I played and worked often at the BE in the late 80's and Gordon always gave the club such an added presence. Always, made me laugh, et. Working the door, et - he was great guy, and monster on the guitar in performance. JMP
I could write pages about the influences that Gordon and Alessandra had on me as a wayward student at Columbia University in the early 90s. To sum it up...they would take me into their home and encourage or yell at me depending on how bad I had messed up. What wonderful people! It is so nice to see his music today. I remember my first guitar lesson. Gordon wouldn't let me play anything until I learned how to tune the "E" string by ear. I got mad and left and still can't play worth a damn!!
Many thanks to the late Robert Martin of bobbyshreddotcom for being the 1st to share this clip on Gordon's tribute page that he maintained for the last decade. You will be greatly missed. An even greater thank you to Van Romaine and the individual who recorded the show.
Long live Gondon, from a brother in music and heart. I was at the Bitter End all the time and he was a real gentle giant in music and as a person. From Van Romaine's Ex-drum tech.
Gordon Gaines was not only the best guitar player I ever met but also one of my best friends when I moved into NYC & lived on Bleecker st. & Tompson spring of '89. I was a flat broke street musician and he would always let me in the club and buy me a drink or a slice of pizza if I would go get him one too. LOL Even now when I go to The Bitter End I always feel a bit closer to my friend.
I knew Gordon from way back when i worked in the West Village,,He was a true gentleman,a mans man ,honest ,kind brilliant and the best guitar player i ever saw! i just started playing guitar and he without batting an eye gave me his Stratocaster,,i will always cherrish it with all my heart.i miss my friend and i know that he is in Heaven playing with all the great musicians who have left us,,for they are the lucky ones now..MikeyG
father in law, who was ill at the time, he asked me to just pray. Those were his last words to me. Im not a religious man, but every time I hear a recording of him play I say a hello and a thank you to him and how much he meant to so many of us. The preacher delivered his message and anyone who ever heard it was touched by the man and his music. His music will be in my heart until I can see him again.
The audience more often than not, sprinkled with the in musicians of NYC, some nationally & internationally celebrated artists. You could always tell the newbiesthey sat or stood there in wonderment... often voicing to people nearby that they had never seen or heard anything like this before. That sentiment, nearly 11 years after I said goodbye to my friend during brief phone conversation the night before he died, still rings true for me. In that conversation, while talking about his..
For the brave or the uninitiated, the first row was the place to be. The tune ups were always reasonable, but somehow when that first chord hitthe WALL of sound that hit you was sorta like that old commercial where the guy sitting in front of the speaker is blown back in his chair! AWESOME! It was as close to being inside music as you can possibly describe.
For those who see this clip and didnt know Gordon, I will give you this background. Every Monday night, rain, shineand at least one blizzard, a gathering of musicians, friends and admirers would gather for the scheduled 10:30 -11pm. Yet more often 12-12:30am sermon delivered by the Gordon Gaines Triowhich of course had four people in it. The little banner card out in front of the BitterEnd said,Gordon Gaines Trio Youre gonna lose your hearing anyway, might as well be worth it!
To be more specific about this clip & its origin - It was most definitely recorded at the Bitter End on "Yamaha Night," where the company was showcasing its new line for the coming year. I still have my poster! lol At the time I worked as a sub for the soundman at the BitterEnd from time to time. I recall the person who taped it was a drummer acquaintance of Gordon's, and of Vans, who frequented the club, about 6ft tall, blonde ponytail. He was sitting at the table to my left.
and a man next to me instantly recognized the piercing guitar riffs coming from my headphones (at full volume of course to simulate the real thing) and saidthats Gordon Gaines! In the conversation that followed I found out he was an attorney and part of a group call the Suits who also played at the BitterEnd.
I have a full audio recording of that night that I transferred to cd years ago and still frequently listen to in my carand have many audio & video recordings of Gordon playing at the BitterEnd and a couple other placesincluding a showcase at the Yamaha showroom. I havent shared these recordings with anyone except a few of my closest friendsbut I recall on one occasion my recording was heard going up in an elevator at the Carnegie Towers
Thanks for posting. This is great. so sad I never saw him. I was in NYC and saw a tone of great music in the early 90s. Don't know how I missed Gordon. Thanks for sharing.
Wow Art"Flash"Gordon my brother turned me on to this video.I was really good friends with Gordon back in the early 70s,he and his talent are missed.The stories from those days and the bands!Wow!
Yo handztalkin I'm not sure if you are reggie or phillip I know you cats have a large family but your brother was the first cat to put me on working @ the Bitter End in 91 a real life saver and great teacher musicalay he really encouraged me in my playing both kndly and sarcasticly(I wouldn't have it any oter way)may god continue to bless and protect you and the Gaines Family
I am nither, This is Phyllis, Phil twin sister...ThX for sending greetings and checkN out my brother... he is still playing his axe in heaven....Until next time.... PEACE
Hey Phyllis I just wanted to drop you a line this is Kyle I hope all is well with the Family say hello to your Brothers and sisters,Forgive some of my spelling errors,It's been a while since I've watched SchoolHouse Rock.
I heard today that there was a Gordon Gaines video on YouTube; what a treasure! Gordon was one of the most effortlessly gifted yet humble musicians one could imagine and a warm, funny and generous friend as well. His playing on this clip is stunning, and it's good to see/hear Alesandra on bass as well; they made great magic together.
You're right polytwobeers, when we crashed into the room he was playing with Billy(drums)& Jun(bass)and they were amazing. Still miss Gordon coming by the house, and making some noise with us. Thanx for your time.
We were at the studio in JC once and later we crashed into there room to watch Gordon and some guys Jammin... he had the most amazing tone for his guitar and they were playing some mahavishnu... it was amazing I was so lucky to have seen that
It's has been eleven years and I am still very humbled by the fact that people are still veiwing this video. Thank you all, please don't forget him, he was one of a kind. Please keep listening.
It's really touching to read such fond remembrances of Gordon. After just about every set I've seen all I could say was "G**Damn"! Gordon was unbelievably good!
I had to pick my jaw off the floor more than a few times LOL!
Witnessing the live shows is an experience that will always be with me. Sometimes getting back home to N.J. after a such a late gig was hassle. Never regretted having went though LOL! I only wish I went back more often.
I grew up with Gordon in JC and saw many of the bands he played with, Power Hitter ECT, I remember him playing Quadrrnt 4, i was amazed. A great talent lost Bob Foley
Oh Man!!! "Skotrat" you couldn't have said it better!! I used to go down there on Mondays as well, after my shift at the restaurant where I was working at the time ended, circa '95-'96. His sarcasm was great, but always the consummate sweetheart Gordan was. Watching his fingers fly effortlessly across his Parker Fly Deluxe guitar was something to behold. So much so, that for my 27th B-day, I had my friends take me there to see him..when I got the news..He played with such fire, RIP Gordon
I WILL CONTINUE TO COME BACK AND READ THE WONDERFUL COMMENTS FOR ALL THAT SPEAK HIGHLY OF MY BROTHER... MUCH LOVE AND MAD RESPECT TO ALL!!! He is one of the reasons I keep plugging at what I do... PEACE
I used to watch Gordon play in the early 90s and he was truly one of the greatests ever. I was a young musician who'd just come to NYC and he always spoke to me like I was a close friend and he had no reason to. He was a warm soul. His soloing sent me to another universe, and he was always searching around for the crescendo. Boy, when he found it, we'd just about soil our pants. AND he played, not one, but two Zappa covers! I loved him. Miss you, Gordon. RIP
RIP my friend.First heard this man play at the Wagon Wheel in Bayonne,NJ with PuncFusion in the80's. Gordon and Johnny Lynch on guitar,Jimmy Teshek Bass,& Jeff Kelly/Phil Romano on drums. My outlook on music completly changed. Gordon was 1 of the most down to earth human beings u could ever meet. Loved by all who ever met him. He was my inspiration to start playing music. I have many a cassette with lots of old classic Gordon riffage. Anytime I pick up a pair of sticks I always think of Gordon
I miss Gordon. He came often to play at the studio of my ex, where we lived, which was down the street from where Gordon resided in Brooklyn. Not only was he an awe inspiring musician, could play, sing anything, but was always great company, a joy to be around and to dine with, the guy loved to eat. I still can't believe how long he has been gone.
Fantastic video.this was Gordon in rear form. He should never be forgotten and talked about for eternity. I played bass with him in the early days in a great band we had in J.C.N.J called "Power hitter".
Now i know that he was a great musisan and proud to call him my uncle... my sister never got to meet him...he past the day she was born. May 2nd 1997 R.I.P uncle gordon
Wow... he is really good. it has been 10 years scnce my uncle has moved on... i wuz only two nd i still remember bits and pieces of him as one of my uncles... now i can really see that he was a really big musician. R.I.P.
I have long bemoaned the absence of Gordon Gaines material - thank you! There may have been other guitarists on the scene slightly more technically proficient, but NO ONE played with the passion and feeling that Gordon did. I once asked him why he refused to use a whammy bar. He said, "I don't NEED one." He didn't - but as evidenced in this video, he added that weapon to his arsenal to devestating effect. It's hard to believe he's been gone 10 years! There's a big hole in the music scene.
I spent many of Monday nights, or I should say Tuesday mornings (1am) at The Bitter End enjoying Gordon's shows. Gordon is one of the best. Deeply missed indeed.
I really miss this great friend! He made walking the beat on Bleecker Street worthwhile. I remember many late Monday nights @ the Bitter End... He and Alex were really awesome. I have a Gold Pacifica guitar he gave me. It's one of my prized possessions.
Thanks to who ever posted this. It brought me back to a really happy time. Good to see Van's face again also.. I think he's back out with the Steve Morse band.
Yes, there's other material out there. Anythings possible, though I doubt any of it will surface on here for various reasons. While I do appreciate you posting the clip, It would have been cooler if the source of the footage was aknowledged.
I posted here some momths ago that this clip is the exact same clip found on Gordon's tribure page run by Bobby Martin was a friend of his. The clip is downloadable so I'm pretty sure that's where it came from.
My point is that while it's cool to have such a rare clip, the poster should at least mention the source. Gordon's stuff isn't just floating around out there. I think the primary reason for this is that the folks that do have this material have a great deal or respect for his music and don't want his memory or music exploited. IMOHO.
My point is that while it's cool to have such a rare clip, the poster should at least mention the source. Gordon's stuff isn't just floating around out there. I think the primary reason for this is that the folks that do have this material have a great deal of respect for his music and don't want his memory or music exploited. IMOHO. (sorry for the double post).
I understand what you meant now. The source for this "clip" is indeed the tribute website. As for the original filmer, his identity is unknown, but many thanks to him.
Having met Gordon in '77 when I first started playing guitar, I was taken by how genuine and humble he was. I took lessons from him from the time I met him till '83 or 84. At my house, Gordon was a family member, mom & dad loving him like everyone else did. Gordon till this day still remains influential in my growth as a musician. He is deeply missed. Thanx
Yo Thunderbolt - You got that right brotha, Gordon Rocked! Didn't I bump into you at the wagon wheel in Bayonne 1 or 10 times checkin out Punk Fusion? ;>)
I knew Gordon from Triangle Park, Jersey City, in the 70's & 80's. A great guy and awesome guitarist. It was sad to hear of his passing.
Does anyone know... wasn't he able to play like this despite missing part of one finger? Is that true, or am I thinking of someone else? Anyway it was great seeing this video.
His right hand index finger was severed above the 1st joint. I've heard from a couple of his friends that this happened as a result of top part of his finger being crushed when an amp or bass cab(depending on who tells the story) being dropped on it while moving some equipment many years ago. This cat had to have the strongest pair of hands. I remember shaking his hand when I first him. It was like a piece of solid oak! LOL! -Ken-
I'd like to make a slight correction to date of the gig this clip is from. It's actually the evening of June 24th 1991. The time & date stamp from the video footage shows that the performance started around 11:45pm.
Yeah, I thought it was a finger on his left hand but I guess not. I spent many nights hanging out in a friends basement watching Gordon playing casually (If you can call his playing casual) I remember going to gammar school dances and seeing Gordon play. The first time I saw him play was at St. Puals grammar school in Jersey City with a band called Dugan (I think). I wonder if anyone else from Triangle Park has seen this video?
mike i believe he lost the tip of his right index finger at a gig in the 70's either at olm dance or st paul's dance when a shure vocalmaster column fell on it... i have a shot of gordon and my wife (karen henninger) now norris in bayonne park with him stickin the finger up his nostril...of course it wasnt there ...he was just cuttin up.....a former triangle park hanger....tim norris
Nice to see a post from you on this site Tim. I heard you and Karen got together. That's great, your both good people. Brings back some good memories of Triangle Park. It's sad to think about those that are gone.
Hey, do you know a guy named Bill (Bif) Mullane? He was a bass player in Bayonne. We were talkin one time, and he said he knew one of your brothers, not Kevin, a diferent brother, I can't remember which.
hey mike not many of us left...still keep up with peggy ganch....a few others...your buddy probably knows either my brother bill (guitar) or my brother mike (drummer) good to talk to ya tim
I Work in a Studio In Jersey City & I Have Family an Friends That Knew Him Personally,not a day goes by without hearing other musicians talk about Gordon Gaines.He Was Amazing! -Jackie Tagg's Nephew
I ran sound for a few months at The Bitter End...a few times for Gordon. (this is the Bitter End for sure) MAN he would play loud. I will never forget his playing and I'm sure I'll never see another like him. He was a genius.
Anyone interested in learning a bit more about Gordon can visit his tribute page at bobbyshredcom Bob Martin who was friend of Gordon's has kept the page up & running the last 7+ years and his efforts are greatly appreciated. The video clip featured here came from that tribute page.
God Bless Him - I miss him very much. I have the page from the Yamaha catalog with his picture up in my studio. He was a great guy and obviously, a monster player.
From what I've been told this was a Yamaha sponsored gig at the China Club. Gordon had an an endorsement deal with Yamaha. Van Romaine who is the drummer in this clip is the actual source of this video.
I've played at The Bitter End and heard Gordon there many times and this is, without a doubt, The Bitter End as you can tell from the red brick wall behind the stage.
I agree, as most of the gigs I've seen were at the Bitter End. However,I have a video of this entire set and it's titled as being at The China Club. The clip is also listed as such on Gordon's tribute page. I'll drop Bobby a line pointing this out. I'm pretty sure he was basing this on what he was told when he obtained the footage.
I agree, as most of the gigs I've seen were at the Bitter End. However,I have a video of this entire set and it's titled as being at The China Club. The clip is also listed as such on Gordon's tribute page. I'll drop Bobby a line pointing this out. I'm pretty sure he was basing this on what he was told when he obtained the footage.
On a side note, Bobby has mentioned he had actually ran sound for some of Gordon's gigs. I know it's been a long time, but I'd like to thing that he'd recognize the Bitter End stage if he saw it on video. Go figure.
....p.s. : I was working the door that night @ B/E.
9Rochelle 1 week ago
Gordon was my friend, and I was his. He used to bust my balls, and I became a better player. He used to give me tapes, "check this out, Whadd'ya think? I'm playing keyboard on this one." I have every tape he ever gave me, including the one where he sez, "fuck you FReD". Allisandra, his wife....super bass player, playing on this track. I hope you're well girl, x. I fuggin' miss him.
9Rochelle 1 week ago
Gordon was always a big presence on the music scene in Jersey City in the 70's were I grew up. He was my friend. It was a privilege to have collabrated with him musically ( the Atomix)
His Guitar work provided a potent punch. I miss him, and know he made a positive impact on all that came in contact with his art, R.I.P. Gordon
1starcrown 1 month ago
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Gordon and his wonderful wife were my good friends and I miss him more than ever! He used to let me hang out there and would buy me a drink if I went to get him a slice of pizza when I was flat broke and pretty much homeless! Anyone who was fortunate enough to know him let alone experience his amazing talent are all the more richer in life than most!
DJSTRIP 1 year ago
Gordon and his wonderful wife were my good friends and I miss him more than ever! He used to let me hang out there and would buy me a drink if I went to get him a slice of pizza when I was flat broke and pretty much homeless! Anyone who was fortunate enough to know him let alone experience his amazing talent are all the more richer in life than most!
DJSTRIP 1 year ago
I met Gordon through a mutual friend, and watched him perform that night at Terra Blues in N.Y.C. Quite a talent indeed. He came across as a very down to earth person.Unfortunately never got to see him again before his untimely death.I would have loved to had played with him. A very inspiring musician. Hope to see more clips of him. Thanks, G
idolhands50 1 year ago
Thank you 'Danastasio1 for posting & sharing....
I remember Gordon from the 70's in J.C.
There is nothing bad, anyone can say about Gordon...he was a Great Guy, Friend and a Super Talented Musician.
God Bless
ChazzLyons 1 year ago
ok..I've sat on them for a long time.. I have a lot of Gordon footage. I will be posting starting after the new year. Check this page for links starting in January.
Storm331 1 year ago
@Storm331: Thanks for the heads up! I'm very much looking forward to your postings. Hopefully this will inspire others who have live footage or recordings of Gordon to post what they can.
kstrat 1 year ago
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I miss my friend! Rest in Peace Gordon. I am glad to have the chance to see you again.
P.M.
phunkyman 1 year ago
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phunkyman 1 year ago
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phunkyman 1 year ago
I miss my friend! Rest in Peace Gordon. I am glad to have the chance to see you again.
P.M.
phunkyman 1 year ago
Loud music will damage your hearing make it worth it... thank you to whoever posted this. good times, great music.
diannebowen 1 year ago
Y'all know how Gordon died?? He hated his blood pressure medication and didn't take it. His heart exploded in his chest while he was sleeping .
TheElissaS 1 year ago
Yup,miss Gordon lots. He came to me twice, in two dreams. We would always go to the movies together.
TheElissaS 1 year ago
So bittersweet to see my old friend! Brings back the good ole day of listening to him play in the tunnels @ Bayonne Park. He was a phenom in so many ways! His talent, wicked humor, bravery social consciousness &, of course, his looks. So glad his absolute dedication brought him the attn he so richly deserved. Gordon never saw color in a person's skin ... only in their auras. I will always love him. Play on & on,"brown-eyed boy".
chele0057 2 years ago
i was fortunate enough to know and play with gordon he will be missed greatly
nicksaya 2 years ago
Surfing along youtube I found this video by accident. I don't know who this guy was, but he must have been one hell of a guitar player. May he rest in peace.
DarkMagicGr 2 years ago
A true inspiration at the foundational core!!!
ydnalor 2 years ago
Thanks danastasio1 for posting this vid. Gordon was a dear, dear friend to me as well. I played and worked often at the BE in the late 80's and Gordon always gave the club such an added presence. Always, made me laugh, et. Working the door, et - he was great guy, and monster on the guitar in performance. JMP
catfishfridaymusic 2 years ago
What A Talent. What a loss.
MrRippedRocks 2 years ago
I could write pages about the influences that Gordon and Alessandra had on me as a wayward student at Columbia University in the early 90s. To sum it up...they would take me into their home and encourage or yell at me depending on how bad I had messed up. What wonderful people! It is so nice to see his music today. I remember my first guitar lesson. Gordon wouldn't let me play anything until I learned how to tune the "E" string by ear. I got mad and left and still can't play worth a damn!!
btydings 2 years ago
Wow!!! Amazing!!! I've read a bunch of the comments and they're all so true. Gordon was an amazig human being... Blessings!
Addaus 2 years ago
Many thanks to the late Robert Martin of bobbyshreddotcom for being the 1st to share this clip on Gordon's tribute page that he maintained for the last decade. You will be greatly missed. An even greater thank you to Van Romaine and the individual who recorded the show.
kstrat 2 years ago
I THANK YOU ALL for the love and awesome comments you continue to post about his AWESOME TALENTS!
HE IS TRULY MISSED!!!! KEEP THE LOVE ALIVE....
Phyllis Gaines, youngest sister & his BIGGEST FAN!
Handztalkin 2 years ago
You're very welcome Phylilis!
kstrat 2 years ago
Long live Gondon, from a brother in music and heart. I was at the Bitter End all the time and he was a real gentle giant in music and as a person. From Van Romaine's Ex-drum tech.
zarwarrior 2 years ago
Loved Gordon; he was a great guy.
ionahoopii 2 years ago
Gordon Gaines was not only the best guitar player I ever met but also one of my best friends when I moved into NYC & lived on Bleecker st. & Tompson spring of '89. I was a flat broke street musician and he would always let me in the club and buy me a drink or a slice of pizza if I would go get him one too. LOL Even now when I go to The Bitter End I always feel a bit closer to my friend.
DJSTRIP 2 years ago
I knew Gordon from way back when i worked in the West Village,,He was a true gentleman,a mans man ,honest ,kind brilliant and the best guitar player i ever saw! i just started playing guitar and he without batting an eye gave me his Stratocaster,,i will always cherrish it with all my heart.i miss my friend and i know that he is in Heaven playing with all the great musicians who have left us,,for they are the lucky ones now..MikeyG
mikey8view 3 years ago
Thanks so much for taking the time to post about your friendship with Gordon.
-Ken-
kstrat 3 years ago
father in law, who was ill at the time, he asked me to just pray. Those were his last words to me. Im not a religious man, but every time I hear a recording of him play I say a hello and a thank you to him and how much he meant to so many of us. The preacher delivered his message and anyone who ever heard it was touched by the man and his music. His music will be in my heart until I can see him again.
Storm331 3 years ago
I often check this clip for any new comments. Thanks so much for taking the time to share your feelings about Gordon and his music.
-Ken-
kstrat 3 years ago
The audience more often than not, sprinkled with the in musicians of NYC, some nationally & internationally celebrated artists. You could always tell the newbiesthey sat or stood there in wonderment... often voicing to people nearby that they had never seen or heard anything like this before. That sentiment, nearly 11 years after I said goodbye to my friend during brief phone conversation the night before he died, still rings true for me. In that conversation, while talking about his..
Storm331 3 years ago
For the brave or the uninitiated, the first row was the place to be. The tune ups were always reasonable, but somehow when that first chord hitthe WALL of sound that hit you was sorta like that old commercial where the guy sitting in front of the speaker is blown back in his chair! AWESOME! It was as close to being inside music as you can possibly describe.
Storm331 3 years ago
For those who see this clip and didnt know Gordon, I will give you this background. Every Monday night, rain, shineand at least one blizzard, a gathering of musicians, friends and admirers would gather for the scheduled 10:30 -11pm. Yet more often 12-12:30am sermon delivered by the Gordon Gaines Triowhich of course had four people in it. The little banner card out in front of the BitterEnd said,Gordon Gaines Trio Youre gonna lose your hearing anyway, might as well be worth it!
Storm331 3 years ago
To be more specific about this clip & its origin - It was most definitely recorded at the Bitter End on "Yamaha Night," where the company was showcasing its new line for the coming year. I still have my poster! lol At the time I worked as a sub for the soundman at the BitterEnd from time to time. I recall the person who taped it was a drummer acquaintance of Gordon's, and of Vans, who frequented the club, about 6ft tall, blonde ponytail. He was sitting at the table to my left.
Storm331 3 years ago
and a man next to me instantly recognized the piercing guitar riffs coming from my headphones (at full volume of course to simulate the real thing) and saidthats Gordon Gaines! In the conversation that followed I found out he was an attorney and part of a group call the Suits who also played at the BitterEnd.
Storm331 3 years ago
I have a full audio recording of that night that I transferred to cd years ago and still frequently listen to in my carand have many audio & video recordings of Gordon playing at the BitterEnd and a couple other placesincluding a showcase at the Yamaha showroom. I havent shared these recordings with anyone except a few of my closest friendsbut I recall on one occasion my recording was heard going up in an elevator at the Carnegie Towers
Storm331 3 years ago
Thanks for posting. This is great. so sad I never saw him. I was in NYC and saw a tone of great music in the early 90s. Don't know how I missed Gordon. Thanks for sharing.
alanpaulchina 3 years ago
i will never forget the first time i wandered into the bitter end by chance and saw gordon play. i was blown away !!!
i returned many times to see him again and again and always left amazed and inspired.
you are truly missed !!!
z02171968 3 years ago
MY FRIEND AND TEACHER I MISS HIM
fc196582 3 years ago
I miss him dearly and not one day has passed without me thinking of him. I loved his straightforwardness and friendship.
He was so great and intense musically...
steviedeedee 3 years ago
Wow Art"Flash"Gordon my brother turned me on to this video.I was really good friends with Gordon back in the early 70s,he and his talent are missed.The stories from those days and the bands!Wow!
jngordon 3 years ago
Yo handztalkin I'm not sure if you are reggie or phillip I know you cats have a large family but your brother was the first cat to put me on working @ the Bitter End in 91 a real life saver and great teacher musicalay he really encouraged me in my playing both kndly and sarcasticly(I wouldn't have it any oter way)may god continue to bless and protect you and the Gaines Family
kscotto8 3 years ago
Hi,
I am nither, This is Phyllis, Phil twin sister...ThX for sending greetings and checkN out my brother... he is still playing his axe in heaven....Until next time.... PEACE
Handztalkin 3 years ago
Hey Phyllis I just wanted to drop you a line this is Kyle I hope all is well with the Family say hello to your Brothers and sisters,Forgive some of my spelling errors,It's been a while since I've watched SchoolHouse Rock.
kscotto8 3 years ago
Outstanding! Thanks, Kyle for telling me about such a great player!
NotYourTypicalNegro 3 years ago
I heard today that there was a Gordon Gaines video on YouTube; what a treasure! Gordon was one of the most effortlessly gifted yet humble musicians one could imagine and a warm, funny and generous friend as well. His playing on this clip is stunning, and it's good to see/hear Alesandra on bass as well; they made great magic together.
docmacy 3 years ago
You're right polytwobeers, when we crashed into the room he was playing with Billy(drums)& Jun(bass)and they were amazing. Still miss Gordon coming by the house, and making some noise with us. Thanx for your time.
pistolpdm 3 years ago
We were at the studio in JC once and later we crashed into there room to watch Gordon and some guys Jammin... he had the most amazing tone for his guitar and they were playing some mahavishnu... it was amazing I was so lucky to have seen that
Thnx Gordon
polytwobeers 3 years ago
It's has been eleven years and I am still very humbled by the fact that people are still veiwing this video. Thank you all, please don't forget him, he was one of a kind. Please keep listening.
marcella9211 3 years ago
It's really touching to read such fond remembrances of Gordon. After just about every set I've seen all I could say was "G**Damn"! Gordon was unbelievably good!
I had to pick my jaw off the floor more than a few times LOL!
Witnessing the live shows is an experience that will always be with me. Sometimes getting back home to N.J. after a such a late gig was hassle. Never regretted having went though LOL! I only wish I went back more often.
kstrat 4 years ago
I grew up with Gordon in JC and saw many of the bands he played with, Power Hitter ECT, I remember him playing Quadrrnt 4, i was amazed. A great talent lost Bob Foley
ref11358 4 years ago
Oh Man!!! "Skotrat" you couldn't have said it better!! I used to go down there on Mondays as well, after my shift at the restaurant where I was working at the time ended, circa '95-'96. His sarcasm was great, but always the consummate sweetheart Gordan was. Watching his fingers fly effortlessly across his Parker Fly Deluxe guitar was something to behold. So much so, that for my 27th B-day, I had my friends take me there to see him..when I got the news..He played with such fire, RIP Gordon
ski5150 4 years ago
God Damn I miss seeing Gordon play on Mondays.
I miss his sarcasm and just plain miss him
Love you man!
-Scott Abene
Skotrat 4 years ago
I WILL CONTINUE TO COME BACK AND READ THE WONDERFUL COMMENTS FOR ALL THAT SPEAK HIGHLY OF MY BROTHER... MUCH LOVE AND MAD RESPECT TO ALL!!! He is one of the reasons I keep plugging at what I do... PEACE
Handztalkin 4 years ago
I used to watch Gordon play in the early 90s and he was truly one of the greatests ever. I was a young musician who'd just come to NYC and he always spoke to me like I was a close friend and he had no reason to. He was a warm soul. His soloing sent me to another universe, and he was always searching around for the crescendo. Boy, when he found it, we'd just about soil our pants. AND he played, not one, but two Zappa covers! I loved him. Miss you, Gordon. RIP
yesfan 4 years ago 2
I met Jimmy Teshek last night in a bar in Raleigh, NC... Told me google "Gordon Gaines" so here I am... Wow... this guy shreds!
brookswood 4 years ago
RIP my friend.First heard this man play at the Wagon Wheel in Bayonne,NJ with PuncFusion in the80's. Gordon and Johnny Lynch on guitar,Jimmy Teshek Bass,& Jeff Kelly/Phil Romano on drums. My outlook on music completly changed. Gordon was 1 of the most down to earth human beings u could ever meet. Loved by all who ever met him. He was my inspiration to start playing music. I have many a cassette with lots of old classic Gordon riffage. Anytime I pick up a pair of sticks I always think of Gordon
treefreek23 4 years ago
Amazing song..
wenfei2306 4 years ago
I miss Gordon. He came often to play at the studio of my ex, where we lived, which was down the street from where Gordon resided in Brooklyn. Not only was he an awe inspiring musician, could play, sing anything, but was always great company, a joy to be around and to dine with, the guy loved to eat. I still can't believe how long he has been gone.
naoussa2you2 4 years ago
Fantastic video.this was Gordon in rear form. He should never be forgotten and talked about for eternity. I played bass with him in the early days in a great band we had in J.C.N.J called "Power hitter".
Ld Guitar= Gordon Gaines
2nd Guitar= John Lynch
3rd Guitar= Mark Volpe
Bass= Greg Radford
Drums= Billy Hodnett
Love to his wife and to all his very talented
siblings.
Greg "Rapid Riff" Radford
dformula2 4 years ago
@dformula2 im talking to John Lynch,He Says He Cant Believe The Nick Name "Rapid Riff" That Gordon Gave You Stuck.
ivi13 5 months ago
an absolute phenomenon!.
slikwin007 4 years ago
Now i know that he was a great musisan and proud to call him my uncle... my sister never got to meet him...he past the day she was born. May 2nd 1997 R.I.P uncle gordon
Dance708 4 years ago
Wow... he is really good. it has been 10 years scnce my uncle has moved on... i wuz only two nd i still remember bits and pieces of him as one of my uncles... now i can really see that he was a really big musician. R.I.P.
Dance708 4 years ago
I have long bemoaned the absence of Gordon Gaines material - thank you! There may have been other guitarists on the scene slightly more technically proficient, but NO ONE played with the passion and feeling that Gordon did. I once asked him why he refused to use a whammy bar. He said, "I don't NEED one." He didn't - but as evidenced in this video, he added that weapon to his arsenal to devestating effect. It's hard to believe he's been gone 10 years! There's a big hole in the music scene.
keneelee 4 years ago
You are right no one has played with the passion and feeling of Gordon. Thank you for sharing your experiences and thoughts of Gordon.
Marcella678 4 years ago
I spent many of Monday nights, or I should say Tuesday mornings (1am) at The Bitter End enjoying Gordon's shows. Gordon is one of the best. Deeply missed indeed.
Lardhand1 4 years ago
I really miss this great friend! He made walking the beat on Bleecker Street worthwhile. I remember many late Monday nights @ the Bitter End... He and Alex were really awesome. I have a Gold Pacifica guitar he gave me. It's one of my prized possessions.
Thanks to who ever posted this. It brought me back to a really happy time. Good to see Van's face again also.. I think he's back out with the Steve Morse band.
Peace............
FLEGZ81 4 years ago
You're very welcome. Obviously, if there are any other videos out their of Gordon they should be posted here if at all possible.
danastasio1 4 years ago
Yes, there's other material out there. Anythings possible, though I doubt any of it will surface on here for various reasons. While I do appreciate you posting the clip, It would have been cooler if the source of the footage was aknowledged.
kstrat 4 years ago
Sure thing. Source: Unknown
danastasio1 4 years ago
I posted here some momths ago that this clip is the exact same clip found on Gordon's tribure page run by Bobby Martin was a friend of his. The clip is downloadable so I'm pretty sure that's where it came from.
kstrat 4 years ago
My point is that while it's cool to have such a rare clip, the poster should at least mention the source. Gordon's stuff isn't just floating around out there. I think the primary reason for this is that the folks that do have this material have a great deal or respect for his music and don't want his memory or music exploited. IMOHO.
kstrat 4 years ago
My point is that while it's cool to have such a rare clip, the poster should at least mention the source. Gordon's stuff isn't just floating around out there. I think the primary reason for this is that the folks that do have this material have a great deal of respect for his music and don't want his memory or music exploited. IMOHO. (sorry for the double post).
kstrat 4 years ago
I understand what you meant now. The source for this "clip" is indeed the tribute website. As for the original filmer, his identity is unknown, but many thanks to him.
danastasio1 4 years ago
Having met Gordon in '77 when I first started playing guitar, I was taken by how genuine and humble he was. I took lessons from him from the time I met him till '83 or 84. At my house, Gordon was a family member, mom & dad loving him like everyone else did. Gordon till this day still remains influential in my growth as a musician. He is deeply missed. Thanx
pistolpdm 4 years ago
Yo Thunderbolt - You got that right brotha, Gordon Rocked! Didn't I bump into you at the wagon wheel in Bayonne 1 or 10 times checkin out Punk Fusion? ;>)
JoeLap62 4 years ago
nice
ccollin88 4 years ago
I knew Gordon from Triangle Park, Jersey City, in the 70's & 80's. A great guy and awesome guitarist. It was sad to hear of his passing.
Does anyone know... wasn't he able to play like this despite missing part of one finger? Is that true, or am I thinking of someone else? Anyway it was great seeing this video.
Mike White
mmiikkee5500 4 years ago
Gordon's picking technique was pretty deft.
His right hand index finger was severed above the 1st joint. I've heard from a couple of his friends that this happened as a result of top part of his finger being crushed when an amp or bass cab(depending on who tells the story) being dropped on it while moving some equipment many years ago. This cat had to have the strongest pair of hands. I remember shaking his hand when I first him. It was like a piece of solid oak! LOL! -Ken-
kstrat2 4 years ago
Gordon had an incredible balance between his fretting & picking hand. His legato playing was every bit as loud & precise as his picking!
Btw, this clip was recorded on June 25th 1991.
-Ken-
kstrat2 4 years ago
I'd like to make a slight correction to date of the gig this clip is from. It's actually the evening of June 24th 1991. The time & date stamp from the video footage shows that the performance started around 11:45pm.
kstrat2 4 years ago
Yeah, I thought it was a finger on his left hand but I guess not. I spent many nights hanging out in a friends basement watching Gordon playing casually (If you can call his playing casual) I remember going to gammar school dances and seeing Gordon play. The first time I saw him play was at St. Puals grammar school in Jersey City with a band called Dugan (I think). I wonder if anyone else from Triangle Park has seen this video?
mmiikkee5500 4 years ago
mike i believe he lost the tip of his right index finger at a gig in the 70's either at olm dance or st paul's dance when a shure vocalmaster column fell on it... i have a shot of gordon and my wife (karen henninger) now norris in bayonne park with him stickin the finger up his nostril...of course it wasnt there ...he was just cuttin up.....a former triangle park hanger....tim norris
norsongs 4 years ago
Nice to see a post from you on this site Tim. I heard you and Karen got together. That's great, your both good people. Brings back some good memories of Triangle Park. It's sad to think about those that are gone.
Hey, do you know a guy named Bill (Bif) Mullane? He was a bass player in Bayonne. We were talkin one time, and he said he knew one of your brothers, not Kevin, a diferent brother, I can't remember which.
Mike White
mmiikkee5500 4 years ago
hey mike not many of us left...still keep up with peggy ganch....a few others...your buddy probably knows either my brother bill (guitar) or my brother mike (drummer) good to talk to ya tim
norsongs 4 years ago
I Work in a Studio In Jersey City & I Have Family an Friends That Knew Him Personally,not a day goes by without hearing other musicians talk about Gordon Gaines.He Was Amazing! -Jackie Tagg's Nephew
ivi13 4 years ago
ITs very hard to view this without shedding a tear... I MISS HIM SO MUCH!!!! pgaines
Handztalkin 4 years ago
It's great to see so many people have enjoyed this. I read about him in Guitar Player 10 years ago, and what was written never left my mind.
danastasio1 4 years ago
AWESOME....
Handztalkin 4 years ago
I ran sound for a few months at The Bitter End...a few times for Gordon. (this is the Bitter End for sure) MAN he would play loud. I will never forget his playing and I'm sure I'll never see another like him. He was a genius.
michaelalanwells 4 years ago
I really miss Gordon and his playing.
ckorch 4 years ago
wow...one of a kind...
shadneh 5 years ago
Anyone interested in learning a bit more about Gordon can visit his tribute page at bobbyshredcom Bob Martin who was friend of Gordon's has kept the page up & running the last 7+ years and his efforts are greatly appreciated. The video clip featured here came from that tribute page.
kstrat2 5 years ago
The band members featured in this clip are:
Gordon Gaines - Guitar
Alessandra Gaines - Bass
Van Romaine - Drums
Mark Wilson - Keyboard
kstrat2 5 years ago
God Bless Him - I miss him very much. I have the page from the Yamaha catalog with his picture up in my studio. He was a great guy and obviously, a monster player.
riffs66 5 years ago
From what I've been told this was a Yamaha sponsored gig at the China Club. Gordon had an an endorsement deal with Yamaha. Van Romaine who is the drummer in this clip is the actual source of this video.
kstrat 5 years ago
I've played at The Bitter End and heard Gordon there many times and this is, without a doubt, The Bitter End as you can tell from the red brick wall behind the stage.
redavide1 5 years ago
I agree, as most of the gigs I've seen were at the Bitter End. However,I have a video of this entire set and it's titled as being at The China Club. The clip is also listed as such on Gordon's tribute page. I'll drop Bobby a line pointing this out. I'm pretty sure he was basing this on what he was told when he obtained the footage.
kstrat2 5 years ago
I agree, as most of the gigs I've seen were at the Bitter End. However,I have a video of this entire set and it's titled as being at The China Club. The clip is also listed as such on Gordon's tribute page. I'll drop Bobby a line pointing this out. I'm pretty sure he was basing this on what he was told when he obtained the footage.
kstrat2 5 years ago
On a side note, Bobby has mentioned he had actually ran sound for some of Gordon's gigs. I know it's been a long time, but I'd like to thing that he'd recognize the Bitter End stage if he saw it on video. Go figure.
-K-
kstrat2 5 years ago
It's nice to see that Gordon finally has a Youtube presence. Any available video of Gordon's gigs is pretty rare treat.
kstrat 5 years ago
A truly wonderfull man, and a monster player, GOD needed him for his band. rest in peace my frend G
fusioniskey 5 years ago
Yes, this was at the Bitter End. I was honored to be in a band with him for 2 years. Miss you Gordon!!!!
Grapemama 5 years ago
I miss Gordon very much. I think this was shot at The Bitter End, where Gordon worked.
ionahoopii 5 years ago
This video is from a club in NYC. The fretboard heroics are extraordinary.
danastasio1 5 years ago
Not only fretboard heroics, but Gordon's musicality and the emotional intenseness of his playing are really very, very rare.
redavide1 5 years ago