The “D-18 Song,” subtitled “Thank You, Mr. Martin,” is an original by Norman Blake and Tony Rice, recorded for their 1990 duo album Blake and Rice 2. It is, plainly and warmly, a song in praise of a guitar.
The D-18 is a model of flat-top guitar made by the C. F. Martin company, long prized by flatpickers for its dry, woody tone — and both Blake and Rice were among the instrument’s most admired players. The song offers thanks to the maker for the tool that made their music possible, a rare and affectionate case of musicians singing directly to their craft.
Coming from two of the finest acoustic guitarists in the bluegrass tradition, “Thank You, Mr. Martin” doubles as a quiet tribute to the whole culture of the flatpicked guitar.
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