^ That would be a lap steel guitar. They have a very distinct tone and are conventionally played with it resting on the performers lap or on a stand. It can be hit/miss with me too, but Brian Whelan can make it sing, like he does on this Dwight Yoakam tune:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwui4SAFq2I
For true slide guitar, look into some Derek Trucks. He's one of the best on the planet right now.