A (Quick) Visit with Tommy Emmanuel
by Julie S. Dobbins
Tommy Emmanuel has traveled all over world playing 300 concerts a year. His performances, which are full of humor as well as music, are something to be experienced. His list of awards and other accomplishments are too numerous to list here.
Craig and Tommy met in Nashville in 1996. Craig just happened to be in Gruhn Guitars when he noticed a skinny, floppy-haired guy with an Aussie accent. Craig, being the cool guy that he is, said, “Hey! You’re Tommy Emmanuel!” To which Tommy responded, “Hey! You’re Craig Dobbins!” They quickly grabbed the nearest guitars and jammed for about an hour. Their friendship has lasted ever since.
Tommy was kind enough to answer a few questions for me. Since he was on the road (when isn't he?), his answers are brief but say a lot.
Are you still a vegetarian? (Is it difficult to maintain a particular diet while on the road?)
No, I was a vegetarian for ten years and one night, I had a meal in a pub in England and decided to try roast lamb. I was so charged with energy after the meal, I decided to go back to eating meat of all kinds and whatever else I wanted. I still have the occasional veggie meal but play best on steak or pasta. On the road, I don't have large meals - I don't need them. I eat as much as I need and try to keep a balanced diet.
What would you be doing if you weren't a musician?
Pushing up daisies.
With so much traveling, how do you keep your faith alive?
Whether I travel or not, my faith remains the same.
Where do you think you would be if you hadn't met Jesus?
Probably in a confused and lost place. I have a consistent trust that I'm doing what He wants me to do.
Which was more exciting - receiving a CGP or receiving the Member of the Order of Australia?
2 Comments on A (Quick) Visit With Tommy Emmanuel, last added: 8/29/2011
Display Comments
Add a Comment
Hi Julie. Interesting interview.
Thanks, Susanne! Tommy is so busy on the road that it took about six months for him to answer. That's why it's such a short interview, but it was fun.