When I was 17 I ran away from home, and ended up in the big city as a small town kid. I met the wrong crowd and was on a bad path. I didnt steal or destroy, but I was on drugs. Hard drugs too. My older brother asked me to move in with him around Christmas time. I think he wanted to keep an eye on me. He was and is a world class guitarist and I plunked a little on his guitars but didnt really play. I knew a few chords and the main riff of China grove and thats about it. I think maybe I thought I had no chance of being as good as him and was intimidated. I woke Christmas morning to a brand new electric guitar. A Vantage. I dont know if they even exist anymore. Id think its junk now I suppose but I loved that thing. I used to sit on the couch (which was also my bed) for hours every single night playing through a rigged radio that I used as an amp. Just that and a MXR distortion pedal. I would play until I fell asleep, and my bro jokes that he had to tuck me in each night by first taking the guitar from my hands as I slept. I started getting pretty good! My druggy friends would call and I didnt want to hang out much anymore, I just wanted to play my guitar. They would ask...what, are you F ing that thing? Learning guitar got my out and away from the road I was on. My bro might credit himself for inspiring me to learn to play, but he doesnt realise that he may very well have saved my life! Music hath charms to soothe the savage beast!
Started playing guitar in 1963, still gigging and love every minute. 70 years of life have thrown a lot of shit at me, my guitars have kept me sane and focused
Me too man. I was going through a divorce and the unexpected death of my mom at the same time. If it wasn't for guitar and music in general, I might not still be here.
i'm 18 years old and i just started playing guitar,for some reason i just feel a lot happier. I don't know why but right now i'm in love with this instrument
Don't stop, keep practicing. I started when I was 17 and thought it wouldn't go anywhere and now at 18 in just a short amount of time I've gotten opportunities that I couldn't dream of. I'm not saying it would happen to you, but you might as well try. Practice everyday
I googled the word incel on UA-cam, and the fact that this video was up there on the top means that it might be a helping people who would go to those dark places
Guitar honestly gave me what feels like a reason to wake up in the morning that wasn't just videogames or the internet, it's helping me build my confidence in big ways and it's just fun as hell. I've been in a rut for a while but I do feel the need to improve after watching this video. Oh yeah we live in a society, or something.
Man I totally relate to this. When I started high school in 2016 I was passionate about playing basketball and I made the team but had no fun at all because I got barely any playing time. I go to a very athletically competitive school and I worked so hard to make the team, but it just didn’t work out the way I thought it would and it left a big hole in my life. At the end of freshman year I also met a girl who completely rocked my world and I became close to her but she didn’t reciprocate feelings and it broke my heart. I legitimately haven’t felt any strong attractions since her and I still get down every time I see her. (Fun fact I watched dead poets society in English class with her my junior year after she told me to watch it sophomore year so that’s kinda coincidental to this video.) So about this time last year I was probably at the worst of this hole I was in and I knew I loved things that made me feel deeply (such as dead poets society, man I love that movie) and so eventually I really discovered Nirvana in like November of last year and it changed my life. Kurt Cobain and his music hit something deep inside of me. I had always loved their hit songs SLTS and CAYA, but then I heard In Bloom and I felt like I was in another world. I became obsessively passionate about their music and started playing guitar and got a beginner electric set for Christmas. It wasn’t putting out the huge nirvana sound I wanted so I got a job as a lifeguard in the summer and bought a fender strat, an orange rocker 15, and a boss ds-1 and fell in love with playing. I’m doing way better now, I really feel like I have a purpose and motivation and it really is due to Nirvana and the guitar.
I love this so much. I was a lost kid, dad in prison, mom in an abusive relationship, and the girl I was in love with was just out of reach. Nirvana hit a spot that nothing else did and it gave me an identity and purpose. A way to ground myself and pivot towards the things I needed from life. It inspired me and gave me something to get fulfillment from. I started playing guitar to express myself and it completely changed my life. I got into bad crowds a bit, but kept myself relatively together, and as my music career blossomed, I became more and more stable. I met good people, found purpose, and the girl eventually fell in love with me. Ultimately, the relationship failed after 7 years, but I eventually met my long term girlfriend who I adore and have 2 kids with because of music. For a long time, I moved past Nirvana and kind of dismissed them, as I was into a lot more virtuosic music and thought "they're not that great". But after some years, I realized how unique and incredibly talented they are as my understanding of music got more mature, and I fell back in love with them. I'm a guitar builder/repairman now, who loves my career and has a wonderful family that I love. And none of it would have happened, had I not fallen in love with Nirvana and been inspired to play music because of them. They breathed life into my empty soul, and for that I'm forever grateful. Now me and my 14 year old son play Nirvana songs together every weekend, him playing on a guitar that him and I built together, and me on drums to build his sense of time. I wish you all the best. Let the music take you where it takes you. Whether it's a big career playing, or just a new group of friends who share the same interests and give you fulfillment. I too never felt as interested in women as I did with my first love, until I met my current girlfriend. That feeling is out there. You just have to be at the right place at the right time. Find your place in life, get your own life together, and the rest will fall into place.
Playing guitar since 13, it’s all I wanted to do. Now I have to play for an hour a day first thing in the morning to explore the mind while creating the sounds I wish I could do at 13, and still feeling the same emotions of renewed excitement every morning.
I must say this hat to be the only guitar channel I watch solely for speeches like that - emotiones, gratitude, self fullfilment and stuff. Seems to be way more important than countless videos devoted to holding the pick at correct angle or practicing pitch harmonics. Thanks for everything you do, dude, keep rocking.
You know what...? You're a cool dude Mike, it shows that you care enough about your followers to actually talk about a lot of personal things in your life, kid's feeling alone is big problem these days.
Literally the same but it started with piano, i was lost too. Most of my friends today comes from my 2 favourite hobbies, music and theatre. I still have not dated anyone or got laid from guitar but i am now going places.
Wesley Henderson Stick with both and you’ll get plenty. Everyone knows musicians get chicks, but I’m an actor as well and at the after show parties the theater chicks are always willing to put on their own private show with you...in my experience anyways.
While one is building their guitar skills, the best way to rule a little universe (IMO of course) is to become a bartender. The bartender is king of that little world and that whole little world depends upon their king. I mention this because I have seen serious social dweebs become engaged, loved and confident taking care of their little realm. I bet there are other jobs that result in huge confidence building like that. a favorite server, or something where you provide immediate benefits to people and your true personality is part of the delivery. So the social wall is broken and that let's you through to the other people vs hiding in your basement or reading water meters alone etc. I'm happy for your success in life.
I would have been an incel if not for bar work. Its not forever. But the setting where beautiful women have to approach you for something they want is great
I hate bartenders with that king mentality, gives them room to think it’s okay to order food moments before the kitchen is closing, fuck that bartenders are ordinary idiots that put in food orders wrong almost all the time. You’re nothing a but drink peddler hun, step off that high horse and knock that king shit off. Fuck out of here with that dumb shit. “I’m the king of my little world” shut up and make your shitty drinks correct “king”!
Same here. I was a chubby kid and got made fun of a bit for it, so I became reclusive. Fortunately, in my early teenaged years, which was the late 90’s, I developed a deep love for music, with metal and hard rock being my favorite stuff. It was at that time I picked up guitar and haven’t been able to put it down since. I ended up breaking out of my shell more in high school and standing up for myself, so it got a little better. In my teenaged years, I tried drinking and drugs a few times, but they weren’t for me, thankfully. I think the desire to play guitar kept me from wanting to feel impaired. Then I got my first serious girlfriend right after I graduated high school and we ended up getting married a few years later and still have a strong marriage (I have no idea being a chubby kid how I got a girl who is so beautiful on the inside and outside). I took a full time job out of high school too which happened to have a great tuition reimbursement program, so I ended up graduating from college with no debt (it was tough because I had to work and go to school at the same time). The college degree got me promoted and now I’m living upper, middle class. Through it all, when times got tough, in my teenaged years and beyond, I always played guitar as much in my spare time as possible, and it has gotten me through a lot of sadness and stress. Had I not picked up guitar in the first place, I don’t think I would’ve had success in marriage or career.
I just got back on the guitar and it is helping me recover from my anxiety episode. Overall, everything you mentioned is true and I am re-experiencing those points and feelings for the past 2 weeks since then. Imma sub and keep watching your content man
I started guitar at 15, 16 now but it literally became an addiction lol; sometimes I have nightmares where I lose my hands and I'm unable to play guitar anymore.
When I was like 9, I wanted to play guitar since I thought it’d make me cool. Since I had a crappy reason, I wasn’t really into it. My parents sold the guitar not long after that, since I barely touched it. When I was 14, I picked up an old acoustic laying around, and started playing again, since I wanted to get good enough to express myself. I kept at it for a year and convinced my parents to let me get an electric. A couple years later I’m still playing. I draw and do other stuff, so in terms of finding focus, it actually didn’t help. But it did help me express myself, that’s probably the biggest thing I got out of it. Making a great melody or nailing a part of a song is definitely rewarding.
"It's like I had this little secret" - Feels good man. I went to boarding school and hated it. When I really got serious about getting good at guitar I used to look forward to getting down to the music centre for practice and it made my day to day life so much happier.
Yeah, guitar has finnally allowed me to have more confidence in myself. I was born with cerebral palsy so I never thought I could. And because of that I let myself drift through life with no real purpose. But after deciding life's too short I got a guitar and a small little amp for my 20th birthday and here I am just a year later and I'm able to write my own songs. It's a wonderful feeling, my only regret is not getting into it sooner
Interesting video! My older cousin started encouraging me to learn guitar around that age. I was definitely considered a nerd/uncool girl in school and I think this was sort of what he had in mind. I was already REALLY into playing the flute and had a hard time sinking my teeth into a second instrument at the time. I got a few of the benefits you mentioned from that, but like you stated with violin, nobody thinks playing the flute is cool. It did lead me to music school though, and put me ahead when I decided I was ready to dedicate time and work into learning guitar. After playing the flute for 15 years or so, I really started to miss the feeling of that super tangible progress that comes with learning a new skill. Guitar has really gotten me excited about music again. You also made a great point about exercise. I have a hard time getting out of the woodshed for physical activity sometimes. During my "musical lull" I was a pretty avid trail runner, but now I have to force myself to put down the guitar to go for a quick run around the neighborhood. Maybe I should give something like martial arts a shot.
4:24 is a great reason to start learning. Use it as a way to express yourself or get your emotions out. When I'm in a bad mood I love listening to St. Anger and palying along to it. Gets the anger out of me.
This video really means a lot to me personally man. I can totally relate and ever since getting serious at guitar my life has changed for the positive. Its funny this video was recommended to me today because I've been kind of struggling with some of these feelings as of late, but this really made me feel good. Thanks so much :)
GREAT VIDEO....GREAT AFFIRMATION FOR SURE... I totally relate.. I am 49 and just picked up the guitar again this year... started playing when I was 10 because of KISS... started taking it serious when I was 16 when I got in a pop cover band and it changed my life socially... put the guitar down due to life happening... sold all of my gear due to a long drawn out trip into religion (a good life lesson, however). I found myself sweep into deep depression for years. It was only when I picked the guitar back up this year that I realized that it was what had been missing the entire time. I had given up the thing that had made me, ME. Music and learning to play music is something that is missing so much in young people. In an age where no one can focus anymore and screens are everything and are draining the life and motivation out of kids, playing an instrument and the self discipline and the confidence it gives is so good for the youth to put their time and energy in to. Thanks for the great video and the fact that you care enough to be transparent and want to help others achieve their goals. Rock on, my friend.
Decided to took guitar seriously back in 2009 when i was ANGRY that someone insult me IDIOT for trying to play a guitar (and loving Ritchie Blackmore's guitar playing). Guitar really becomes my obsession that i skip classes and almost got flunked 😂, but it also slowly improves me to became better person, by forcing me the value of hard work, patience and emotional control. Now at 30, I still practice for 1-2 hours a day.
Completely relate. I’m 12 and I started guitar little less than a year ago, but it truly is something that is keeping me focused. I get so frustrated at life in general but this guitar is the only thing keeping me sane. My grades aren’t really good, I don’t have much friends, too much time is taken away from me by school, but I swear the one thing I love and am passionate about (guitar) it really calms me down. By far, the best decision I’ve made.
It's not just good for young people to focus. After 50 years off the guitar, as an old man, I am picking it up again, and it is wonderful for giving a sensse of purpose and joy as you watch your body crumble! :-D I'm also very grateful for your videos. You're a great guitarist, teacher and a very good person!
I don't trust people that don't have hobbies or some kind of passion... The most negative people I know don't have any passions or healthy outlets and usually end up turning to drugs or alcohol as an escape
I can relate to this. Music is the reason I am the way I am now. It showed me that life had a purpose and people were there for me. My life would be so boring if I didn’t become a musician or find out I played drums (at age 3 at that). And I learned guitar at age 16 in 2018 (I got my first real guitar in Christmas of 2017, an epiphone Les Paul). Ps. Metal really is a great way of releasing anger, I play guitar to calm down and it really comes out in my riffs (as edgy as that sounds, it actually works pretty well.)
I began playing around age 23 a bit late as a hip hop guy all my life it was strange that this instrument called upon me. Before you know it i met friends that played and i guess since they liked my personality they invited me to join them and i learned songs from tablature. Then it happened...my gf of 5 years broke up with me for good, same year That recession happened around 2009, That fueled my obsession with guitar. I fought through the pain by getting serious with it. I always tell everyone that I'm very lucky i am the person that i am today cause i stuck with guitar...i wouldn't want to even see where my life would have went if i didn't start playing music
Agree a lot. When I started playing guitar I didn't believe that I could actually ever learn to play, thinking "I'm just not made for this" - but at some point I realized that this is what I always thought about everything I ever tried. A couple months of daily practice later, and for the first time in a loooooooong time I felt like I could achieve anything if I worked hard enough. Having a hobby/learning a skill can really do wonders for mental health.
I can relate to a lot of what you say. When I occasionally get asked why I play guitar, my answer is usually "therapy". Also, I met my first "proper" girl friend at a small party when I was sitting playing guitar. She told me later, "I saw you playing guitar and you looked so cool, I just had to talk to you". :D
Started playing at guitar at 12 too. I was a angry teenager and needed a purpose. A lot of young guys have a lot of anger. Music can be a great outlet. Still making music today.
Johnny Depp said he started playing at 12 and that it was the only way he could escape his abusive mother. That without it he said he didn’t know what would have happened to him.
I can agree with a lot of these points, started playing guitar at about 13 and I'm 20 now. It taught me tonnes of lessons and made me hardworking which had allowed me to do well at my job as well
Women , friends and sometimes even family can come and go but guitar has always been a constant thing. If anything I feel like I've let guitar down at times. I can't imagine my life without it.
Dude same feeling for me but different, i remember my parents fought bad every day and night. When i was 8 i was flipping through my dads cds (which i was not allowed to do) but in doing that,i flipped over and blood sugar sex magic i thought it looked so cool, when i poped it in the stereo it didn't sound like what i thought the cover would make for music. I immediately started trying to figure out riffs on my dads acoustic. Guitar was my home from home and still is now. I always think about what good direction guitar has taken me, cause I've never been into drugs, drinking or getting in trouble, all my focus went into wanting to rip. I wouldn't trade all the hard mountains of trying to learn this for anything
Nice video. There's a lot of positivity that comes from learning guitar or any instrument. Especially at that difficult teen age, channeling your emotions like that can really set you on a great path. Also, nice to see your natural eyes again. I think your eyes are beautiful, you should be proud of them!
Playing an instrument is amazing, man. It helped me get over my anxiety, probably by having something to look forward to and also eventually showing me that I could get better at stuff with a bit of practice and perseverance. I'm 26 and have other stuff to deal with, so I didn't have the opportunity to practice many hours, but still try to whenever I can and it definitely shows. I've kinda hit a wall recently and have been getting a little frustrated, but this video helped me realize that it's cause I've been slacking on practice time a bit, like a year ago I was at least giving myslelf a couple hours at least and recently it's been barely an hour most days. It may have been a small section of this video, but you've inspired me to find more time for myself and keep at it, so thanks!
Man, it wasn’t inceldom or anything, but I really hit a dark spot in my life before I really got into guitar. A family friend decided to gift me an old Les Paul knockoff, and that’s how it started. I held onto music like it was a life raft.
This video really puts things into perspective for me. I never realized how important picking up guitar really has been for me, until I heard some of the things you said. It really has helped my confidence and mental health as well as a feeling of accomplishment in my life. Thank you.
honestly same dude. just over a year ago i was really sad and let lazyness take controll of me. i just let things pass and i kinda lost sense of feeling. throughout time i realized guitar has given me a purpose to actually do something with my life
Was worried when I clicked on but you handled the whole Joker/ Incel thing very adroitly here. You're to be wading into the murky waters of Dating advice though? Ok man, your channel, your choice, but please don't jump the shark on us dude, you're a beacon of integrity and humility in the cesspit of the UA-cam world. I trust it's going to be 'redpill' or at least realist ie coming from a 'Women Don't Create Winners, They Wait At The Finish Line' type mindset. Also please consider incorporating advice about staying safe in the workplace allegation/#metoo era if you're encouraging shy bedroom shredders to go forth and multiply and take a reckless gamble on the cute colleague they have a crush. You going to cover The Pence rule? Super Gonnorrhea? Just some thoughts of a retired Player (I still play guitar hehe). I'm sure you've got this, you've always got the levels covered, just worried that one of the good guys is wading into a shit storm.
I always do what comes as an inspiration in the moment. Whatever that ends up being I don’t always know, but you can bet it’s always sincere and from a place of caring.
@@TheArtofGuitar Hey man, you're the best. Just don't want to see you caught in some SJW/ Incel/Mgtow crossfire shitshow when you step into these topics. It can attract all sorts of wingnuts.
Cool. Great talk. I think a lot of us feel these points. 8:00 ish...the guitar has been my best friend many times. At some point you start to meet friends who have guitars for friends too! Thanks. Good stuff.
I had this both with movies and music. I am a 16 years old high shooler who has been playing guitar and piano (not as much as guitar) for a year and been interested in filmmaking for 2 years. When i was first able to shoot a little scene with my friends with my phone and nothing else (of course it was awful, it's my first time shooting and editing a movie scene) it felt really good when it ended. It applies to music too. When i was first able to play In The Hall Of The Mountain King on piano or Master Of Pupets on guitar i felt like i could fly miles away. And to see that people who knew these songs saying "You're playing really good" helped me emotinoally. There are limited things better than finding something, holding onto it, getting better at it and seeing good responds.
Guitar had a really big impact on me. I started listening to other music than rock too. It s like meditation. You can forget everything and concentrate just on music. This gives you very positive thoughts even when you re not playing anymore and your day wasnt that good:)
I can't even Express what guitar has and is doing for me. I'm just grateful it re introduced itself (got one when I was 16 but yeah didn't play it much was to caught up in life's distractions and work sadly) into my life and that I've really made a stronger connection with it this past year and 4 months. Was cool hearing about your experience man, thanks for sharing 🤘
Guitar has basically been driving me nuts. I’m a newbie and learning the notes on the 5th and 6th strings seeing the notes off the staff is quite an adjustment but I keep at it. I’m only half way through guitar method 1, not sure how learning this way on the acoustic is going to help me play electric guitar and rock and roll in the future? All the awesome supportive players at guitar center tell me I have to crawl before I can walk.
30 years old and going through a painful divorce. Picked up guitar again after over a decade and it makes me feel okay again. It’s given me something new to love and pour myself into.
Great video, I can relate to many things you said. For me the biggest thing was that I found something I was very passionate about, besides singing. Being able to combine both made me so happy, I started writing my own songs as soon as I knew how to play three basic open chords on acoustic guitar. A few years later I started playing electric guitar, too, because my taste in music changed to heavier stuff. ;)
@@pampa0331 exactly, I wish I had the time to do that.. I'm a noob, but if I had the time I could practice from the moment I wake up till I go to sleep.
I relate alot with this I had gone through a really terrible breakup right after I started guitar and it was an outlet and a distraction that pulled me out of depression, so thank God i had picked up the instrument
I can totally relate to how you felt in school and I would spend most of time in High School scrutinizing scales and tabs tucked into my binders just looking forward that moment when I got home. Years and a lot of practice later, when I had to do monotonous and boring crap at work I would focus on rhythm and try to coordinate my movements work to different tempos and time signatures. Sometimes to would use the oscillations of the machines as a metronome to work out subdivisions in my head. It probably look pretty strange to an observer but it help me through those soul crushing days.
I never consider myself an incel but being introverted is something I know a lot kind of sticking on the sidelines but guitar helped me understand that they’re fun. Fun to play and screw around the more I focus on that it helped me to avoid being less introverted. The scary thing I see and people don’t understand. It’s easy to be an incel but on a hopeful note it’s also easy to know to not be one. From what I get about the incels they each other or they want some sense of the world to be petty towards them. They have no interests except for their forums or any sensible hobbies and interests. They like to destroy any self esteem towards others and themselves.
I really really really like these videos! self-development in guitar style! I haven't been able to commit to any creative endeavor like guitar or drawing but let neurotic anxiety take over me. Your story sets a promising example!
Guitar has allowed a lot of us to live in a society.
Without a society, what would we rebel against?
Earned me much respect from co-workers.
Youre not just a guitar teacher anymore,you are actually a life teacher.
I love it.
When I was 17 I ran away from home, and ended up in the big city as a small town kid. I met the wrong crowd and was on a bad path. I didnt steal or destroy, but I was on drugs. Hard drugs too. My older brother asked me to move in with him around Christmas time. I think he wanted to keep an eye on me. He was and is a world class guitarist and I plunked a little on his guitars but didnt really play. I knew a few chords and the main riff of China grove and thats about it. I think maybe I thought I had no chance of being as good as him and was intimidated. I woke Christmas morning to a brand new electric guitar. A Vantage. I dont know if they even exist anymore. Id think its junk now I suppose but I loved that thing. I used to sit on the couch (which was also my bed) for hours every single night playing through a rigged radio that I used as an amp. Just that and a MXR distortion pedal. I would play until I fell asleep, and my bro jokes that he had to tuck me in each night by first taking the guitar from my hands as I slept. I started getting pretty good! My druggy friends would call and I didnt want to hang out much anymore, I just wanted to play my guitar. They would ask...what, are you F ing that thing? Learning guitar got my out and away from the road I was on. My bro might credit himself for inspiring me to learn to play, but he doesnt realise that he may very well have saved my life!
Music hath charms to soothe the savage beast!
I hope you answered "yes, and she's enjoying it."
What a story Mark! (*using Tommy Wiseau's voice)
more seriously you have an awesome brother dude,
Keep on your good path! 🎸
Thank you!
Thankful that you found another path, brother.
That is the most beautiful thing I have read on the internet. Ever.
We truly live in a society
Bottom text
Guitarists Rise Up!
How is this supposed to be funny
indeed.
An original comment, I never thought I’d find one. Thankyou.
@@lamigraice2442 shut up normie
Started playing guitar in 1963, still gigging and love every minute. 70 years of life have thrown a lot of shit at me, my guitars have kept me sane and focused
I can absolutely relate. As far as I'm concerned, music saved my life.
Me too man. I was going through a divorce and the unexpected death of my mom at the same time. If it wasn't for guitar and music in general, I might not still be here.
Ryan Haydon Damn you are tough for getting through that. Much respect
@@Ori0987 Thanks, I appreciate that. It hasn't been easy, but I got through the worst of it so I think I'll make it.
i'm 18 years old and i just started playing guitar,for some reason i just feel a lot happier.
I don't know why but right now i'm in love with this instrument
Don't stop, keep practicing. I started when I was 17 and thought it wouldn't go anywhere and now at 18 in just a short amount of time I've gotten opportunities that I couldn't dream of. I'm not saying it would happen to you, but you might as well try. Practice everyday
I think Metallica riffs should be prescibed for angry and depressed teenagers, God knows it helped us lol
Yep thank god for fade to black
And when you think you’re done with Metallica riffs there’s always Amon Amarth to keep it going
Lamb of God has some tasty anger riffs. Bonus points for Drop D being extremely friendly to newer players.
seconded, i don't know how i'd have gotten through ages 14-17 without metallica
Honestly, I agree. I got into it when I was 16 about 4 years ago, and it really got me through hard times.
I love that you’re clearly trying to help young musicians, not just as guitarists, but as people.
I googled the word incel on UA-cam, and the fact that this video was up there on the top means that it might be a helping people who would go to those dark places
Guitar honestly gave me what feels like a reason to wake up in the morning that wasn't just videogames or the internet, it's helping me build my confidence in big ways and it's just fun as hell. I've been in a rut for a while but I do feel the need to improve after watching this video.
Oh yeah we live in a society, or something.
Cool!
-How about another solo, Murray?
- You wanna know what Mike i think we had enough solos for tonight
“What do you get when you cross a guitarist that practices and a society that abandoned them. You get another f-Ing solo!”
I'm a guitarcel, I got no guitar game.
Man I totally relate to this. When I started high school in 2016 I was passionate about playing basketball and I made the team but had no fun at all because I got barely any playing time. I go to a very athletically competitive school and I worked so hard to make the team, but it just didn’t work out the way I thought it would and it left a big hole in my life. At the end of freshman year I also met a girl who completely rocked my world and I became close to her but she didn’t reciprocate feelings and it broke my heart. I legitimately haven’t felt any strong attractions since her and I still get down every time I see her. (Fun fact I watched dead poets society in English class with her my junior year after she told me to watch it sophomore year so that’s kinda coincidental to this video.) So about this time last year I was probably at the worst of this hole I was in and I knew I loved things that made me feel deeply (such as dead poets society, man I love that movie) and so eventually I really discovered Nirvana in like November of last year and it changed my life. Kurt Cobain and his music hit something deep inside of me. I had always loved their hit songs SLTS and CAYA, but then I heard In Bloom and I felt like I was in another world. I became obsessively passionate about their music and started playing guitar and got a beginner electric set for Christmas. It wasn’t putting out the huge nirvana sound I wanted so I got a job as a lifeguard in the summer and bought a fender strat, an orange rocker 15, and a boss ds-1 and fell in love with playing. I’m doing way better now, I really feel like I have a purpose and motivation and it really is due to Nirvana and the guitar.
I love this so much. I was a lost kid, dad in prison, mom in an abusive relationship, and the girl I was in love with was just out of reach. Nirvana hit a spot that nothing else did and it gave me an identity and purpose. A way to ground myself and pivot towards the things I needed from life. It inspired me and gave me something to get fulfillment from.
I started playing guitar to express myself and it completely changed my life. I got into bad crowds a bit, but kept myself relatively together, and as my music career blossomed, I became more and more stable. I met good people, found purpose, and the girl eventually fell in love with me. Ultimately, the relationship failed after 7 years, but I eventually met my long term girlfriend who I adore and have 2 kids with because of music.
For a long time, I moved past Nirvana and kind of dismissed them, as I was into a lot more virtuosic music and thought "they're not that great". But after some years, I realized how unique and incredibly talented they are as my understanding of music got more mature, and I fell back in love with them.
I'm a guitar builder/repairman now, who loves my career and has a wonderful family that I love. And none of it would have happened, had I not fallen in love with Nirvana and been inspired to play music because of them. They breathed life into my empty soul, and for that I'm forever grateful. Now me and my 14 year old son play Nirvana songs together every weekend, him playing on a guitar that him and I built together, and me on drums to build his sense of time.
I wish you all the best. Let the music take you where it takes you. Whether it's a big career playing, or just a new group of friends who share the same interests and give you fulfillment. I too never felt as interested in women as I did with my first love, until I met my current girlfriend. That feeling is out there. You just have to be at the right place at the right time. Find your place in life, get your own life together, and the rest will fall into place.
Nirvana made me buy a guitar too lol
Black Sabbath, Motorhead, Maiden, Priest, Slayer, Metallica, and drums: all part of my young mental health stability.
Playing guitar since 13, it’s all I wanted to do. Now I have to play for an hour a day first thing in the morning to explore the mind while creating the sounds I wish I could do at 13, and still feeling the same emotions of renewed excitement every morning.
Guitar and music got me off of drugs. I got my first guitar at 16, almost died at 19, and I've been studying for years ever since
Darkfusion280 same. And good on you for getting sober. I’ve been sober almost 30 days now but if I didn’t have music I couldn’t have made it one
@@jamietaylor8663I hope you're still sober, dude! If not, it's never too late ...
I must say this hat to be the only guitar channel I watch solely for speeches like that - emotiones, gratitude, self fullfilment and stuff. Seems to be way more important than countless videos devoted to holding the pick at correct angle or practicing pitch harmonics. Thanks for everything you do, dude, keep rocking.
You know what...? You're a cool dude Mike, it shows that you care enough about your followers to actually talk about a lot of personal things in your life, kid's feeling alone is big problem these days.
Literally the same but it started with piano, i was lost too. Most of my friends today comes from my 2 favourite hobbies, music and theatre. I still have not dated anyone or got laid from guitar but i am now going places.
Wesley Henderson
Stick with both and you’ll get plenty. Everyone knows musicians get chicks, but I’m an actor as well and at the after show parties the theater chicks are always willing to put on their own private show with you...in my experience anyways.
While one is building their guitar skills, the best way to rule a little universe (IMO of course) is to become a bartender. The bartender is king of that little world and that whole little world depends upon their king. I mention this because I have seen serious social dweebs become engaged, loved and confident taking care of their little realm. I bet there are other jobs that result in huge confidence building like that. a favorite server, or something where you provide immediate benefits to people and your true personality is part of the delivery. So the social wall is broken and that let's you through to the other people vs hiding in your basement or reading water meters alone etc. I'm happy for your success in life.
Overlord of drunks and alcoholics...what a life goal....SMH
Am learning guitar, am part-time bartender. Can confirm.
I rule all the drunkards
I would have been an incel if not for bar work. Its not forever. But the setting where beautiful women have to approach you for something they want is great
I hate bartenders with that king mentality, gives them room to think it’s okay to order food moments before the kitchen is closing, fuck that bartenders are ordinary idiots that put in food orders wrong almost all the time. You’re nothing a but drink peddler hun, step off that high horse and knock that king shit off. Fuck out of here with that dumb shit. “I’m the king of my little world” shut up and make your shitty drinks correct “king”!
@@neikojohnson6141 I think its about the neverending cycle of alcohol substance and social that plays a hand in addiction.
Thanks for sharing. I don’t even play guitar. I follow you because you are such a cool dude.
Tiit Saul I strongly suggest you to pick up a guitar :D
This video was ahead of its time
Whenever I lost motivation to keep playing, I come to this channel. Always work
Thank you
Same here. I was a chubby kid and got made fun of a bit for it, so I became reclusive. Fortunately, in my early teenaged years, which was the late 90’s, I developed a deep love for music, with metal and hard rock being my favorite stuff. It was at that time I picked up guitar and haven’t been able to put it down since. I ended up breaking out of my shell more in high school and standing up for myself, so it got a little better. In my teenaged years, I tried drinking and drugs a few times, but they weren’t for me, thankfully. I think the desire to play guitar kept me from wanting to feel impaired. Then I got my first serious girlfriend right after I graduated high school and we ended up getting married a few years later and still have a strong marriage (I have no idea being a chubby kid how I got a girl who is so beautiful on the inside and outside). I took a full time job out of high school too which happened to have a great tuition reimbursement program, so I ended up graduating from college with no debt (it was tough because I had to work and go to school at the same time). The college degree got me promoted and now I’m living upper, middle class. Through it all, when times got tough, in my teenaged years and beyond, I always played guitar as much in my spare time as possible, and it has gotten me through a lot of sadness and stress. Had I not picked up guitar in the first place, I don’t think I would’ve had success in marriage or career.
I just got back on the guitar and it is helping me recover from my anxiety episode. Overall, everything you mentioned is true and I am re-experiencing those points and feelings for the past 2 weeks since then. Imma sub and keep watching your content man
If it wasn't for getting laid, I never would have started playing guitar.
For getting or not getting?
@@yafeelmestevens6256 getting
i would love to know, did it work for you?
So the pussy inspired you to pick up the guitar? Or the lack of pussy?
Guifakist
5:00 Catharsis! Love that feeling
I started guitar at 15, 16 now but it literally became an addiction lol; sometimes I have nightmares where I lose my hands and I'm unable to play guitar anymore.
When I was like 9, I wanted to play guitar since I thought it’d make me cool. Since I had a crappy reason, I wasn’t really into it. My parents sold the guitar not long after that, since I barely touched it. When I was 14, I picked up an old acoustic laying around, and started playing again, since I wanted to get good enough to express myself. I kept at it for a year and convinced my parents to let me get an electric. A couple years later I’m still playing. I draw and do other stuff, so in terms of finding focus, it actually didn’t help. But it did help me express myself, that’s probably the biggest thing I got out of it. Making a great melody or nailing a part of a song is definitely rewarding.
"It's like I had this little secret" - Feels good man.
I went to boarding school and hated it. When I really got serious about getting good at guitar I used to look forward to getting down to the music centre for practice and it made my day to day life so much happier.
Yeah, guitar has finnally allowed me to have more confidence in myself. I was born with cerebral palsy so I never thought I could. And because of that I let myself drift through life with no real purpose. But after deciding life's too short I got a guitar and a small little amp for my 20th birthday and here I am just a year later and I'm able to write my own songs. It's a wonderful feeling, my only regret is not getting into it sooner
Interesting video! My older cousin started encouraging me to learn guitar around that age. I was definitely considered a nerd/uncool girl in school and I think this was sort of what he had in mind. I was already REALLY into playing the flute and had a hard time sinking my teeth into a second instrument at the time. I got a few of the benefits you mentioned from that, but like you stated with violin, nobody thinks playing the flute is cool. It did lead me to music school though, and put me ahead when I decided I was ready to dedicate time and work into learning guitar. After playing the flute for 15 years or so, I really started to miss the feeling of that super tangible progress that comes with learning a new skill. Guitar has really gotten me excited about music again.
You also made a great point about exercise. I have a hard time getting out of the woodshed for physical activity sometimes. During my "musical lull" I was a pretty avid trail runner, but now I have to force myself to put down the guitar to go for a quick run around the neighborhood. Maybe I should give something like martial arts a shot.
Creative outsiders feel like that-I am old and still remember that feeling...still have it!
If I did not learn guitar I would feel truly worthless and I am serious
I love your honesty and how you put your story in words. I can relate to a lot of the things you talked about in this video. Thank you for uploading.
Some people don't what they like or are passionate about. It's a blessing to find that. Thanks for your insight!
Damn that guitar. We have missed a potential joker
Markiplier would make a good joker
Hitler should've been accepted in art school. Js
4:24 is a great reason to start learning. Use it as a way to express yourself or get your emotions out. When I'm in a bad mood I love listening to St. Anger and palying along to it. Gets the anger out of me.
Drinking doctor pepper Is what almost made him an incel
I was saved the moment I heard Randy Rhoads play Mr. Crowley LIVE on Tribute. ❤
This video really means a lot to me personally man. I can totally relate and ever since getting serious at guitar my life has changed for the positive. Its funny this video was recommended to me today because I've been kind of struggling with some of these feelings as of late, but this really made me feel good. Thanks so much :)
GREAT VIDEO....GREAT AFFIRMATION FOR SURE... I totally relate.. I am 49 and just picked up the guitar again this year... started playing when I was 10 because of KISS... started taking it serious when I was 16 when I got in a pop cover band and it changed my life socially... put the guitar down due to life happening... sold all of my gear due to a long drawn out trip into religion (a good life lesson, however). I found myself sweep into deep depression for years. It was only when I picked the guitar back up this year that I realized that it was what had been missing the entire time. I had given up the thing that had made me, ME. Music and learning to play music is something that is missing so much in young people. In an age where no one can focus anymore and screens are everything and are draining the life and motivation out of kids, playing an instrument and the self discipline and the confidence it gives is so good for the youth to put their time and energy in to. Thanks for the great video and the fact that you care enough to be transparent and want to help others achieve their goals. Rock on, my friend.
Decided to took guitar seriously back in 2009 when i was ANGRY that someone insult me IDIOT for trying to play a guitar (and loving Ritchie Blackmore's guitar playing). Guitar really becomes my obsession that i skip classes and almost got flunked 😂, but it also slowly improves me to became better person, by forcing me the value of hard work, patience and emotional control. Now at 30, I still practice for 1-2 hours a day.
Really good video. Thanks so much. I can relate to a lot of what you were talking about.
Completely relate. I’m 12 and I started guitar little less than a year ago, but it truly is something that is keeping me focused. I get so frustrated at life in general but this guitar is the only thing keeping me sane. My grades aren’t really good, I don’t have much friends, too much time is taken away from me by school, but I swear the one thing I love and am passionate about (guitar) it really calms me down. By far, the best decision I’ve made.
Guitar introduced to me to incelcore
I think I get a little down when I'm away from my guitar, and when I pick it up I instantly feel better.
It's not just good for young people to focus. After 50 years off the guitar, as an old man, I am picking it up again, and it is wonderful for giving a sensse of purpose and joy as you watch your body crumble! :-D I'm also very grateful for your videos. You're a great guitarist, teacher and a very good person!
I don't trust people that don't have hobbies or some kind of passion... The most negative people I know don't have any passions or healthy outlets and usually end up turning to drugs or alcohol as an escape
I can relate to this.
Music is the reason I am the way I am now.
It showed me that life had a purpose and people were there for me.
My life would be so boring if I didn’t become a musician or find out I played drums (at age 3 at that).
And I learned guitar at age 16 in 2018 (I got my first real guitar in Christmas of 2017, an epiphone Les Paul).
Ps. Metal really is a great way of releasing anger, I play guitar to calm down and it really comes out in my riffs (as edgy as that sounds, it actually works pretty well.)
Thank You for your sincere honesty, I went down that same road in my youth.
I began playing around age 23 a bit late as a hip hop guy all my life it was strange that this instrument called upon me. Before you know it i met friends that played and i guess since they liked my personality they invited me to join them and i learned songs from tablature. Then it happened...my gf of 5 years broke up with me for good, same year That recession happened around 2009, That fueled my obsession with guitar. I fought through the pain by getting serious with it. I always tell everyone that I'm very lucky i am the person that i am today cause i stuck with guitar...i wouldn't want to even see where my life would have went if i didn't start playing music
I love the direction you're taking with your channel with more diversified content.
Agree a lot. When I started playing guitar I didn't believe that I could actually ever learn to play, thinking "I'm just not made for this" - but at some point I realized that this is what I always thought about everything I ever tried. A couple months of daily practice later, and for the first time in a loooooooong time I felt like I could achieve anything if I worked hard enough.
Having a hobby/learning a skill can really do wonders for mental health.
I can relate to a lot of what you say. When I occasionally get asked why I play guitar, my answer is usually "therapy". Also, I met my first "proper" girl friend at a small party when I was sitting playing guitar. She told me later, "I saw you playing guitar and you looked so cool, I just had to talk to you". :D
Started playing at guitar at 12 too. I was a angry teenager and needed a purpose. A lot of young guys have a lot of anger. Music can be a great outlet. Still making music today.
I relate 100%. Having a passion for music grounded me and playing guitar is always a source of joy. I hope your message reaches more people.
Johnny Depp said he started playing at 12 and that it was the only way he could escape his abusive mother. That without it he said he didn’t know what would have happened to him.
I relate to this, and I want to thank you for always helping not only with guitar but with life as well
I can agree with a lot of these points, started playing guitar at about 13 and I'm 20 now. It taught me tonnes of lessons and made me hardworking which had allowed me to do well at my job as well
Really good words and positive message. Well done mate.
Such an insightful video :)
Women , friends and sometimes even family can come and go but guitar has always been a constant thing. If anything I feel like I've let guitar down at times.
I can't imagine my life without it.
Dude same feeling for me but different, i remember my parents fought bad every day and night. When i was 8 i was flipping through my dads cds (which i was not allowed to do) but in doing that,i flipped over and blood sugar sex magic i thought it looked so cool, when i poped it in the stereo it didn't sound like what i thought the cover would make for music. I immediately started trying to figure out riffs on my dads acoustic. Guitar was my home from home and still is now. I always think about what good direction guitar has taken me, cause I've never been into drugs, drinking or getting in trouble, all my focus went into wanting to rip. I wouldn't trade all the hard mountains of trying to learn this for anything
Hey! I got some similar experiences. I love this instrument. Cheers.
Nice video. There's a lot of positivity that comes from learning guitar or any instrument. Especially at that difficult teen age, channeling your emotions like that can really set you on a great path. Also, nice to see your natural eyes again. I think your eyes are beautiful, you should be proud of them!
Playing an instrument is amazing, man. It helped me get over my anxiety, probably by having something to look forward to and also eventually showing me that I could get better at stuff with a bit of practice and perseverance. I'm 26 and have other stuff to deal with, so I didn't have the opportunity to practice many hours, but still try to whenever I can and it definitely shows. I've kinda hit a wall recently and have been getting a little frustrated, but this video helped me realize that it's cause I've been slacking on practice time a bit, like a year ago I was at least giving myslelf a couple hours at least and recently it's been barely an hour most days. It may have been a small section of this video, but you've inspired me to find more time for myself and keep at it, so thanks!
Guitar changed everything. Music in general has always been my go to. It is part of you.
Man, it wasn’t inceldom or anything, but I really hit a dark spot in my life before I really got into guitar. A family friend decided to gift me an old Les Paul knockoff, and that’s how it started. I held onto music like it was a life raft.
This video really puts things into perspective for me. I never realized how important picking up guitar really has been for me, until I heard some of the things you said. It really has helped my confidence and mental health as well as a feeling of accomplishment in my life. Thank you.
You're like the chill, older brother I didn't know I needed.
Interesting I recognize my self as well in that video.
honestly same dude. just over a year ago i was really sad and let lazyness take controll of me. i just let things pass and i kinda lost sense of feeling. throughout time i realized guitar has given me a purpose to actually do something with my life
Love your vids! You are my favorite guitar teacher (alongside Marty Schwartz). Love the life advice videos. Your channel is a public service.
Really great video, excellent, and thank you so much for sharing. I think a lot of us need to hear this...
Was worried when I clicked on but you handled the whole Joker/ Incel thing very adroitly here. You're to be wading into the murky waters of Dating advice though? Ok man, your channel, your choice, but please don't jump the shark on us dude, you're a beacon of integrity and humility in the cesspit of the UA-cam world. I trust it's going to be 'redpill' or at least realist ie coming from a 'Women Don't Create Winners, They Wait At The Finish Line' type mindset. Also please consider incorporating advice about staying safe in the workplace allegation/#metoo era if you're encouraging shy bedroom shredders to go forth and multiply and take a reckless gamble on the cute colleague they have a crush. You going to cover The Pence rule? Super Gonnorrhea? Just some thoughts of a retired Player (I still play guitar hehe). I'm sure you've got this, you've always got the levels covered, just worried that one of the good guys is wading into a shit storm.
I always do what comes as an inspiration in the moment. Whatever that ends up being I don’t always know, but you can bet it’s always sincere and from a place of caring.
@@TheArtofGuitar Hey man, you're the best. Just don't want to see you caught in some SJW/ Incel/Mgtow crossfire shitshow when you step into these topics. It can attract all sorts of wingnuts.
Cool. Great talk. I think a lot of us feel these points.
8:00 ish...the guitar has been my best friend many times. At some point you start to meet friends who have guitars for friends too! Thanks. Good stuff.
I had this both with movies and music. I am a 16 years old high shooler who has been playing guitar and piano (not as much as guitar) for a year and been interested in filmmaking for 2 years. When i was first able to shoot a little scene with my friends with my phone and nothing else (of course it was awful, it's my first time shooting and editing a movie scene) it felt really good when it ended. It applies to music too. When i was first able to play In The Hall Of The Mountain King on piano or Master Of Pupets on guitar i felt like i could fly miles away. And to see that people who knew these songs saying "You're playing really good" helped me emotinoally. There are limited things better than finding something, holding onto it, getting better at it and seeing good responds.
really agree on the venting out part with the instrument
Guitar had a really big impact on me. I started listening to other music than rock too. It s like meditation. You can forget everything and concentrate just on music. This gives you very positive thoughts even when you re not playing anymore and your day wasnt that good:)
I can't even Express what guitar has and is doing for me. I'm just grateful it re introduced itself (got one when I was 16 but yeah didn't play it much was to caught up in life's distractions and work sadly) into my life and that I've really made a stronger connection with it this past year and 4 months.
Was cool hearing about your experience man, thanks for sharing 🤘
Guitar has basically been driving me nuts. I’m a newbie and learning the notes on the 5th and 6th strings seeing the notes off the staff is quite an adjustment but I keep at it. I’m only half way through guitar method 1, not sure how learning this way on the acoustic is going to help me play electric guitar and rock and roll in the future? All the awesome supportive players at guitar center tell me I have to crawl before I can walk.
30 years old and going through a painful divorce. Picked up guitar again after over a decade and it makes me feel okay again. It’s given me something new to love and pour myself into.
for me it was bmx stunt riding. and now my entire body hurts. lol.
Great video, I can relate to many things you said. For me the biggest thing was that I found something I was very passionate about, besides singing. Being able to combine both made me so happy, I started writing my own songs as soon as I knew how to play three basic open chords on acoustic guitar. A few years later I started playing electric guitar, too, because my taste in music changed to heavier stuff. ;)
Made me subscribe! Really hit home. Thank you.
Oh Christ, the movie isn’t about incels dude.
Always dig your vids Mikey
Could you please elaborate on 6-8 hours practice?
I will soon.
You just get lost playing guitar, and time flies. Been there, I wish I could still do it
The-Art-of-Guitar Yes, I would too love to hear about this. Thank you, brother! Cheers
@@pampa0331 exactly, I wish I had the time to do that.. I'm a noob, but if I had the time I could practice from the moment I wake up till I go to sleep.
Eric Clapton is the reason I play guitar and love the blues. (different age group) Ginger Baker is why I play the drums.
Travis bickle character i felt the same way too.
...you talking to me?...
I relate alot with this I had gone through a really terrible breakup right after I started guitar and it was an outlet and a distraction that pulled me out of depression, so thank God i had picked up the instrument
I can totally relate to how you felt in school and I would spend most of time in High School scrutinizing scales and tabs tucked into my binders just looking forward that moment when I got home. Years and a lot of practice later, when I had to do monotonous and boring crap at work I would focus on rhythm and try to coordinate my movements work to different tempos and time signatures. Sometimes to would use the oscillations of the machines as a metronome to work out subdivisions in my head. It probably look pretty strange to an observer but it help me through those soul crushing days.
I never consider myself an incel but being introverted is something I know a lot kind of sticking on the sidelines but guitar helped me understand that they’re fun. Fun to play and screw around the more I focus on that it helped me to avoid being less introverted. The scary thing I see and people don’t understand. It’s easy to be an incel but on a hopeful note it’s also easy to know to not be one. From what I get about the incels they each other or they want some sense of the world to be petty towards them. They have no interests except for their forums or any sensible hobbies and interests. They like to destroy any self esteem towards others and themselves.
I really really really like these videos! self-development in guitar style! I haven't been able to commit to any creative endeavor like guitar or drawing but let neurotic anxiety take over me. Your story sets a promising example!
You're like a less suicidal Donnie Darko that can shred
Nice job dude.
Thumbs up for shoving in that quick nonchalant "pleas don't " in the middle of the sentence 0:50 lol
Great advice my man! I think most of us can relate more than you know.
Good job on this video ! Thanks !