Sneaky Pete Kleinow, American guitarist and songwriter (b. 1934)

Peter E. "Sneaky Pete" Kleinow: A Polymath of Pedal Steel and Stop-Motion Animation

Peter E. "Sneaky Pete" Kleinow (August 20, 1934 – January 6, 2007) was a uniquely gifted American artist, celebrated for his dual mastery in both the world of music and the intricate craft of motion picture special effects. Renowned as a pioneering country-rock musician and prolific songwriter, Kleinow was equally distinguished for his groundbreaking work as a stop-motion animator and special effects artist, seamlessly blending his creative talents across diverse mediums.

The Pedal Steel Virtuoso: Founding Member and Session Legend

Kleinow is most widely recognized for his profound contributions to music, particularly through his distinctive pedal steel guitar playing. He was a foundational member of The Flying Burrito Brothers, an influential American country-rock band formed in 1968 by Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman. Their seminal album, "The Gilded Palace of Sin" (1969), prominently featured Kleinow's innovative pedal steel work, which helped define the emerging country-rock sound by blending traditional country instrumentation with rock and roll sensibilities. His playing transcended conventional boundaries, contributing a unique fluidity and expressive melodicism that set him apart.

Beyond his band work, "Sneaky Pete" Kleinow became one of the most in-demand session musicians of his era, lending his unparalleled pedal steel artistry to a remarkable array of legendary artists across various genres. His ability to adapt his distinctive sound to diverse musical styles made him a highly sought-after collaborator for countless recording sessions. The extensive list of artists he worked with underscores his versatility and the respect he commanded within the industry:

• Neil Young
• Joan Baez
• Jackson Browne
• The Byrds
• Joe Cocker
• Rita Coolidge
• Eagles
• The Everly Brothers
• George Harrison
• The Steve Miller Band
• Joni Mitchell
• The Rolling Stones
• Ringo Starr
• Stevie Wonder
• Spencer Davis
• Little Richard
• Linda Ronstadt
• Jimmie Spheeris

These collaborations represent just a fraction of his extensive session career, which saw him contribute to numerous classic recordings that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. His signature sound became an integral part of the fabric of 1970s and 80s rock and country music.

The Animator: From Gumby to Hollywood Blockbusters

Beyond his musical prowess, Kleinow maintained a parallel and equally impressive career as a motion picture special effects artist and animator. This often-overlooked aspect of his professional life highlights his incredible versatility. He began his career in the visual arts long before his musical fame, becoming a pioneer in the field of stop-motion animation.

Notably, Kleinow composed the iconic theme song for the beloved 1960s animated television series "Gumby." More significantly, he was a key animator on this iteration of the show, bringing the malleable green character and his friends to life through painstaking frame-by-frame manipulation. His animation work extended beyond "Gumby" to include other celebrated stop-motion projects like "Davey and Goliath."

As his reputation grew, Kleinow transitioned to working on major Hollywood productions, contributing his specialized skills to a variety of blockbuster films. His uncredited but significant contributions to special effects can be seen in:

• Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983) – often cited for creature effects.
• The Terminator (1984) – for the endoskeleton effects.
• Gremlins (1984)
• RoboCop (1987)
• Gumby: The Movie (1995)

His ability to excel in two such disparate creative fields, mastering both the intricate nuances of the pedal steel and the meticulous craft of stop-motion animation, truly sets Peter E. "Sneaky Pete" Kleinow apart as a unique figure in American arts.

Accolades and Lasting Legacy

In recognition of his exceptional contributions to music, Peter E. "Sneaky Pete" Kleinow was rightfully inducted into the Steel Guitar Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor acknowledges his innovative playing style, his influence on countless musicians, and his enduring legacy as one of the instrument's most skilled and creative exponents. His life's work stands as a testament to boundless creativity, leaving an indelible mark on both the soundscapes of popular music and the visual artistry of animated film.

Frequently Asked Questions about Peter E. "Sneaky Pete" Kleinow

Who was Peter E. "Sneaky Pete" Kleinow?

Peter E. "Sneaky Pete" Kleinow (1934-2007) was a distinguished American musician, songwriter, and special effects artist. He was a pioneering pedal steel guitarist best known for his work with The Flying Burrito Brothers and as a highly sought-after session musician. Simultaneously, he was a skilled stop-motion animator and contributed to iconic projects like "Gumby" and major Hollywood films.

What instruments did "Sneaky Pete" Kleinow play?

Peter E. Kleinow was primarily known for his exceptional skill on the pedal steel guitar, an instrument that utilizes foot pedals and knee levers to change pitch, creating unique glissando and bending effects. His innovative approach to this instrument was a hallmark of his musical career.

What was "Sneaky Pete" Kleinow's connection to Gumby?

Beyond his musical career, "Sneaky Pete" Kleinow was a significant figure in the world of animation. He composed the iconic theme song for the 1960s "Gumby" television series and also served as a principal animator on the show, bringing the beloved characters to life through stop-motion techniques.

Which famous artists did "Sneaky Pete" Kleinow play for as a session musician?

As a highly respected session musician, "Sneaky Pete" Kleinow played pedal steel guitar for an extensive list of legendary artists across various genres. Some notable collaborations included Neil Young, Joan Baez, Jackson Browne, The Byrds, Joe Cocker, Eagles, George Harrison, Joni Mitchell, The Rolling Stones, and Stevie Wonder, among many others.