Modern CCM for steel

[Cody Coombs]

Hi all,

I’ve had the opportunity to play my steel on sundays for a little while now, it’s certainly a whole new ball game compared to the country style playing. I’ve been keeping an open mind with how I approach my phrases and passages, although I would like to have a wider repertoire.. especially over the minor chords. I’ve sort of stuck with the Ben Keith and “Americana” approach with some single note runs or lots of pads and swells. Using the B and C pedal a lot, and lowering the E’s to get those minor chords sure seems to hit the sweet spot on the minor chords.

One example, say the 6 minor; I hit the BC pedal and slide down two frets with the E lower lever and hit the A pedal on and off.

For any of you all that are playing this style, what do you think when you’re playing? How do you go about your phrasing? I could sure use some tips, advice and ideas on this style of playing.

Thanks and happy holidays to you all!
Cody