Last month, on what was the 15th anniversary of his death, NPR dubbed Danny Gatton the “World’s Greatest Unknown Guitarist.”

And with good reason. During a performing and recording career that spanned more than two decades, Gatton earned well-earned acclaim for his virtuoso guitar playing, which blended rockabilly, jazz and blues.

In short, he could just flat-out play.

Gatton had a head start with music: His father, Danny Gatton Sr., was a locally reknown guitarist who gave up music to raise a family — and school his son in the insturment. The younger Gatton needed little prodding.

By his teens, Gatton was playing in local bands around the family’s Washington, D.C., home.  He increasingly gained wide acclaim, playing with a variety of performers and jamming with prominent blues, jazz and rockabilly performers. In later years he would play behind noted performers that included rockabilly crooner Robert Gordon and Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Roger Miller.

But it was his solo work and performances that incresingly gained him acclaim — and respect — in the industry.

In all, Gatton released eight albums before his death in 1994, either as a solo artist or in various ensembles. An additional eight releases of his work were issued posthumously, all of which showcase his remarkable talent.

The tragedy of his death on Oct. 4, 1994, is magnified by the mystery surrounding it. Gatton locked himself in the garage of his Maryland home and shot himself. He left no note or obvious explanation. Friends later suggested he may have suffered from depression.

Months after his death, Gatton was honored at Tramps in New York City, with a three-day musical festival that included performances by musical giants like Les Paul and James Burton — with the proceeds going to Gatton’s wife and daughter.

In 2003, author Ralph Heibutzki also published a Gatton biography, titled “Unfinished Business: The Life and Times of Danny Gatton.” which details both the musical accomplishments of Gatton’s life as well as his lost promise.

If there is a silver lining to his death it is that Gatton left behind a substantial collection of music. Give him a listen. You won’t be disappointed.

(NOTE: This is part of my ongoing series of reports on guitar players who fly under the mainstream radar. Keep checking The Listening Room for future installments of guitar players you should know – JF)

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