Don Howe, Streator Illinois

Susan Alcorn (deceased) · Post by **Susan Alcorn (deceased)** » 11 Nov 2024 2:30 pm

I bought my first and second real pedal steels (an old ZB and then a new MSA Classic (first of several MSA's) from Don Howe at Don's music in the mid-70s. It was always nice to see him. As a beginner, he helped me with everything from how to carry a steel (upside down), how long the strings should be before you cut them (next tuner key except for the 3rd string), and why he would never play a D12 ("It takes a lifetime just to learn one neck").

I was wondering if anyone else remembers him or has stories about him. He was a nice man.

Dyke Corson · Post by **Dyke Corson** » 16 Nov 2024 5:32 pm

I never met Don, but spoke with him on the phone several times back in the 70s. A very nice guy. I was working in a little music store in Urbana, IL and the owner (Marvin Lee) would buy/sell/trade inventory with Don. I believe we ended up with a Peavey franchise thanks to Don. Those were great times for brick and mortar music stores!

Chuck Stowe · Post by **Chuck Stowe** » 18 Nov 2024 2:48 pm

Hi Susan, I don’t have much to add about Don since you were the one to take me there to buy my first Emmons. Don was very helpful, as were you. My thanks to both of you!

Scott Rexroad · Post by **Scott Rexroad** » 20 Nov 2024 9:16 am

Hi Susan, I live in Streator Il and know Don very well. He sold me my first steel in 1980. It was a Sho~Bud Maverick. I bought all my gear there till 1999 when he closed. He helped me a lot. Around 2001 I bought a Emmons SD Lashley Lagrande direct from Emmons. Don was great to everyone and had so many connections to musicians all over the country.

Thanks for sharing your story about Don.

Scott