Prepare to be amazed as we uncover the incredible story of Sneaky Pete Kleinow, a true legend with an extraordinary dual life!
The Man Behind the Music and Magic
Sneaky Pete Kleinow, a name that resonates with country rock enthusiasts and animation buffs alike, was more than just a talented musician. During his senior year of college, a pet tortoise named Sneaky Pete became a beloved mascot, a nod to the man who inspired its name.
Kleinow, alongside ex-Byrds members Chris Hillman and Gram Parsons, formed the iconic Flying Burrito Brothers. His mastery of the pedal steel guitar and his trusted status as a session player in LA during the 1970s are well-known facts. He collaborated with music giants like Joni Mitchell, John Lennon, and Frank Zappa, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
But here's where it gets controversial...
While music may have been his primary passion, it was just one facet of Kleinow's creative genius. You see, before joining the Burrito Brothers, Kleinow spent his time in LA as a visual effects artist, working on cult classics like The Outer Limits and beloved children's shows Davey & Goliath and Gumby. He even composed the theme music for Gumby!
And this is the part most people miss...
Kleinow's career in special effects didn't end there. Even as the most sought-after steel guitarist in Southern California, he continued his animation work. In the '70s and '80s, he animated dinosaurs for Land of the Lost and contributed to blockbuster films like The Empire Strikes Back, The Terminator, and Gremlins. His talent was recognized with an Emmy for Special Visual Effects in 1983 for The Winds of War.
Despite these parallel lives, Kleinow remained a vital but unsung hero, known only to a select few, including the residents of certain university flats with a unique mascot.
As a steel guitar player, Kleinow revolutionized country-rock. While Gram Parsons gained a massive cult following with classics like 'Sin City' and 'Hot Burrito #1', Kleinow's innovative use of fuzzboxes and Hammond Leslie amps gave these songs their distinctive texture and mood. His contributions shaped the way steel guitars were played, influencing bands like the Grateful Dead and the Eagles.
Sadly, both Sneaky Pete the man and the tortoise have passed on, but their legacy lives on, enriching our world with their unique talents.
So, what do you think? Was Sneaky Pete Kleinow's impact on music and animation equally significant? Or did one aspect of his career shine brighter? Let us know in the comments!
