Warm up with some classic surf guitar from the master himself.

The Act: If you’ve seen “Pulp Fiction,” then you know Dick Dale — his “Misirlou” played over the opening credits, and the classic ditty became synonymous with the film. The man pioneered surf rock music in the 1950s, simply by playing a standard right-handed guitar with his left hand and creating strange, never-before-heard sounds.

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Dale released his first album, “Surfer’s Choice,” in 1962. He is often credited as the first guitarist to use reverb in his music; an avid surfer, Dale used this “wet” effect to mimic the sounds he heard whenever he rode a wave. He was an inspiration to many young guitarists, including Jimi Hendrix, who proclaimed, “you’ll never hear surf music again,” when Dale was diagnosed with cancer in 1964. He beat the disease — and today, he is a living legend.

Dale is a prolific musician; in addition to the guitar, he plays the ukulele, harpsichord and accordion. He is also distinguished by his unique “rock star” lifestyle: he has never drank alcohol or used drugs, does not eat red meat and has practiced martial arts for more than 30 years. For his upcoming Seattle show, he’ll be opened by Dead Man, a “filthy” Capitol Hill blues outfit who released their debut, self-titled EP last year. Tickets ($20 each) are available online, or at Sonic Boom Records.

When: Friday, Jan. 13 at 9 p.m.

The Venue: Just about every night, Tractor Tavern hosts a live show. Though many Seattleites know TT for its Old West atmosphere and monthly square dances, the stage has hosted an array of musical styles, such as metal, reggae, psychedelia, Celtic, blues and jazz. Past performers at the tavern include Emmylou Harris, Mudhoney, Tom Landa & the Paperboys, The Dusty 45s, Babyface and Supersuckers.

Coupled with its laid-back vibe, the tavern’s extensive bar and reasonable prices make it the perfect place to catch a live act. Customers don’t have to simply settle for Coors Light, thanks to a good selection of locally produced micro-brews that puts many other “country” bars to shame. For food, TT provides pub food staples, as well as a well-stocked inventory of TV dinners.

Dick Dale at Tractor Tavern  |  Friday, Jan. 13  |  9 p.m.