[Dixielandjazz] Electric (Electronic) Washboard

[Mike Woitowicz]

Jerry Gordon wrote (in part):

"Hey! has any body developed an electric washboard Yet ?? "

The answer is "Yes." The rhythm player with Bela Fleck and the Flecktones (known as "Future Man") uses an electronic washboard.  It's wired up with synthesized percussion sounds to provide rhythmic background to the banjo, string bass and reeds in Fleck's band. 

Personally, it's a bit much for me. My own opinion is that a regular drummer would add a lot more to the mix, and would be less intrusive. On the other hand, Future Man is the Bass Player's (Victor Wooten) brother, so they're keeping the family gainfully employed.

With regard to the tongue in cheek comments about "Washboard Artists", one only has to see and hear washboardists such as Ralf (sp?) Reynolds with the Rhythm Rascals, or Don Sheske with my band, the Dixie Barons Dixieland Band. Both are virtuosos on the "instrument", providing background color as well as solid rhythm. Listen to "Coney Island Washboard" in the Dixie Barons section on my website and you'll see what I mean. Listmate and drummer Bill Sargent also plays outstanding washboard. I talked Bill into putting a washboard setup together a few years ago, and whenever I can, I use him in my group. The man provides terrific rhythm, colorful fill and outstanding endings. 

There are probably numerous other washboard "artists" in the USA and abroad. Rolf Seidal of the Norwegian band "Louisiana Washboard Five" plays a very "tasty" style on the 2 CD's this group has published. I'm sure there are many, many more.


Mike Woitowicz
Banjo Player
Occasional Washboardist
The Banjo Barons Ragtime Band
The Dixie Barons Dixieland Band
www.banjomusic.biz