Neil Tapp's musical journey is a rich tapestry woven with dedication and reverence for the blues. Drawing inspiration from the fingerpicking mastery of Rev. Gary Davis and Blind Boy Fuller, Tapp embarked on a path of in-depth study, refining his technique and paying homage to the roots of the genre. His rich and honest vocals and his skillful incorporation of the blues harmonica adds a layer of depth to his performances. Tapp's early influences encompass country blues, ragtime, folk, and early jazz, creating a unique blend that paints a vivid picture of musical evolution.
"For anyone reading this let me explain something. Guitar players are a dime a dozen. I know. I have been one for over 50 years. GUITARISTS are a very rare breed. They have mastered the instrument through God given talent and endless practice. Neil Tapp clearly falls into this latter group." Bud Rizer
His early influences are country blues, ragtime, folk and early jazz. His passion for the art of fingerstyle guitar is obvious as he traces the history and developing styles from the 1920's to today. His repertoire starts with his own songs and ranges from Doc Watson to Leo Kottke to Ry Cooder to Lightnin’ Hopkins and more.
He has been playing coffeehouses, bars, clubs, festivals and house concerts up and down the east coast from Nova Scotia to Georgia since 1975.
"The world needs more picking. Take a break from your day, close your eyes and just listen." Clawse Blanchette
“Sounds like we went to the same school” David Bromberg
“…everyone stopped in their tracks the moment you started playing.” Heather Hurlock, 4th Street Cafe
“His playing is a revelation” Dave Brown
“I could listen to him all night” John Costello
"O my god, your CD is great, Canada took my breath away , but then I heard Blue September, I was just really freaked out, thanks, I hate you. You’re so good." Diane Hughes
"A great show, as always!" Bev Booth-Jones, Ball and Thistle Pub
"... your guitar work and songwriting talents are extraordinary" John Gerbron
"...your compositions channel those you honor while highlighting your own unique talents." Richard Tarsia
“…everyone stopped in their tracks the moment you started playing.” Heather Hurlock, 4th Street Cafe
“His playing is a revelation” Dave Brown
“I could listen to him all night” John Costello
"O my god, your CD is great, Canada took my breath away , but then I heard Blue September, I was just really freaked out, thanks, I hate you. You’re so good." Diane Hughes
"A great show, as always!" Bev Booth-Jones, Ball and Thistle Pub
"... your guitar work and songwriting talents are extraordinary" John Gerbron
"...your compositions channel those you honor while highlighting your own unique talents." Richard Tarsia