Smeck was an early radio performer, putting together acts for appearances across the country. In addition to playing the ukulele with his teeth, he would play it behind his back or even use a violin bow. Smeck was also known for his work on the Harmony company's Vita-Uke along with a number of other versions sold with his signature across the headstock. As a result, he endorsed the Harmony and Gibson guitars and Harmony ukuleles. Smeck was unsuccessful in obtaining an endorsement deal with Martin, who limited their support to a twenty percent discount for all performers. Martin & Company and used a variety of their instruments. Like so many of the performers during the era, he was a big fan of the instruments created by the C.F. He was introduced to the instrument by Sam Moore when he played on the bill with Moore and Davis in 1923. Smeck was one of only two vaudeville artists to play the octachord, an 8-string lap steel guitar. ![]() Smeck could not sing well, so he developed novelty dances and trick playing to supplement his act. His style was influenced by Eddie Lang, Ikey Robinson, banjoist Harry Reser, Johnny Marvin and steel guitarist Sol Hoʻopiʻi. Born in Reading, Pennsylvania, Smeck started on the vaudeville circuit.
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