Pete Drake was born on August 8, 1932, in Georgia. He was raised in a musical family, as his father was a Pentecostal minister. This early exposure to music would greatly influence Pete's future career as a musician and record producer.
Drake's musical journey began when he started his first band, Sons of the South, alongside several other aspiring musicians who would go on to become future stars in the music industry. It was during this time that Pete honed his skills as a lap steel guitar player, a talent that would set him apart in the world of music.
One of Pete Drake's most significant contributions to music was popularizing the use of the talk box guitar effect. This innovative technique would become a staple of Peter Frampton's act, solidifying Drake's reputation as a trailblazer in the industry. His skillful use of the talk box brought a new dimension to live performances and studio recordings, earning him a devoted following among music fans and fellow musicians alike.
Throughout his career, Pete Drake collaborated with a wide range of artists, including the legendary Bob Dylan. Drake's distinctive lap steel guitar playing can be heard on several of Dylan's tracks, adding a unique and soulful touch to the iconic singer-songwriter's music.
As a music producer, Pete Drake helped shape the sound of Nashville and left an indelible mark on the industry. His innovative use of the talk box guitar effect and his mastery of the lap steel guitar set him apart as a true pioneer in the world of music. Pete Drake's contributions continue to inspire and influence musicians to this day, cementing his legacy as one of the greats in the history of music.