This is so good, and the best thing about is Tim doesn't get in the way. He just lets him tell his story with the occasional question. There are a LOT of 'professional' interviewers out there who won't shut up long enough for the guest to tell their story probably because they like to hear themselves talk. So kudos to you, Tim, for giving Ray space. Just like playing the guitar, allowing space in an interview is a wonderful tool!
I saw the same listening courtesy from Tim on the Bukovak interview and when he was being interviewed by Rick B. Smart enough to know when not to talk. That's a gift and Tim has it.
Yeah, but there are different types of guests. Ray is one heck of a storyteller. If you have someone sitting there that talks less by himself, you may actually have to go fishing - and that means asking more questions. But you‘re sure right about Tim. And as the musician and person he is, he is genuinely interested and curious about what Ray is saying - so he‘s smart not to stop the flow. 🙂
I just found this video series and I'm totally pissed that I have missed it for these three years. And the fact that these videos don't have a hundred million views is absolutely criminal. Ray is a true Legend, and Tim does an amazing job giving him room to tell his stories.
Born in Detroit and moved to the suburbs when I was 2. My dad worked for Ford Motor (as did 1/2 my family). Fast forward 20 years... I had an opportunity to work for Ford as an engineer. My dad told me the exact same things Ray Parker's dad told him - great job, security, good money, retirement... the whole nine yards. I veered "off-course" and went into the chemicals industry. That was my dream. I did not want to live my dad's life. I never looked back. I never achieved the status of Ray Parker Jr., but, as Frank Sinatra would sing, "I did it my way!" That was 40 years ago. Great video Tim. Thank you very much!! jc
Tim, there are not enough words to express how much I appreciate and respect you as a musician, a guitar player, an interviewer, a teacher, a youtube host, etc., and mostly as a good and decent human being. Thank you so much for posting this video series with Mr. Parker. You handled this superbly from all angles. Live long, prosper and continue as you are for a long, long time. You are a treasure...
This interview is INCREDIBLE!!! THIS IS HOW AN INTERVIEW IS SUPPOSED TO BE CONDUCTED!!! Ray's career is a living example of Proverbs 22:29 "Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men." Ray seemed to be the Nile Rodgers of his time as far as his rhythm guitar prowess was concerned!!! Very nice playing, Tim!!! Not getting credit for such a great song is criminal!!!
What do you say about an interview like this? Two masters of their craft, both amazing in their own right. A given. Then, Ray takes it to another level entirely. In all seriousness, this conversation needs to be preserved in the Smithsonian. This is history.
It's a real lesson to just watch Tim play a simple rhythm behind Ray. He's completely listening, absorbed and focused on supporting what Ray is doing even with a simple progression. What a total pro.
The first few bars of Ray Parker Jr playing is some of the best funk rhythm ever! So inspiring! I'm trying to figure it out now!! Thanks ever so much Tim for sharing this!!
yes, the model is Beato--he doesn't get in the way and he lets the artist talk and he is respectful and enthusiastic. This is a great move by you Tim. There is a hunger out there for artist interviews, a real entrepreneurial, innovative opportunity for channels such as this. I always wanted to hear from these guys and you LEARN so much!
Ray has always had this smooth aura about him. It is reflected in his great rhythm guitar licks. Simply incredible stories of his life's journey. Ray... If u haven't already sir, write a story about your amazing life. Oh, and thanks for the amazing music through the years. 🔥
Ray must have had some amazing parents. It's clear they were very involved in his young life and that he valued their guidance. I love hearing his thought process as a young kid and how he reasoned things out to capitalize on every opportunity that came his way. Ray is obviously super talented and very intelligent but it's his personality that draws you in. I could listen to him tell his story for hours on end. Thanks again Tim for bringing Ray's story to us.
I Actually Swa That Stones/Wonder Tour !! Couldn't Believe Wonder OPENING(??) for the STONES !! After Stevie, .......................... STONES WHO ????? INFREAKIN'CREDIBLE !!!!!! Never Knew RPJ @ That Time, But Now I Feel Priveliged to Have Witnessed His Musicianship !! BIG THANKS TIM, LOVE YOU MAN !! YOU'RE the BEST !! LOVE THE CHANNEL !! GOD BLESS !!
I have heard a lot of top level guitar players over the years say that Ray Parker was a bad bad rhythm player, in fact one of the best in LA at the time.
I love hearing all the stories around RPJ’s career and hearing his playing. So much of what people know of RPJ is tied to one iconic song, and yet his story and playing is so much more diverse and interesting than that one song.
I just cant get enough of RPjr funk & coolness. I could listen to him play & tell stories all day long. A true American treasure and living legend. Him talking about only wanting to be in California made me think about my youth in 1969 when all I wanted to do was be in California. So at 9 years old and I took my dads electric golf cart from here in Florida and was headed to California. I only made it about 15 miles from the house when the batteries went dead. My dad was super p***** about the golf cart, he had the whole sheriffs office out looking for it, but I was on a mission !
Jesus! i was 12 when Ghostbusters came out. me and my friends ALL knew Ray, but he was just the Ghostbusters song guy. a few years later i heard he was a respected musician that went way back but never knew the details. but my god this is fascinating!
What a treet to hear Ray up front and personal. Since the 70s Ray has always been one of my guitar heros,trying to cop his Right hand feel. An American treasure.
If Ray did a "Ray tells stories" channel, I'd subscribe in a second. His story about Stevie Wonder reminds me of the time a well known CA based producer called me up to book time in my little studio in OH. I was sure it was a prank, too. I didn't hang up, though.
It’s just one the great stories in music; I love that Stevie reached back and snagged Ray & Phillinganes out of Detroit into a great big wide world. Thanks for your hard work Tim with all your awesome content, and all the great records!!
Ray Parker Jr. is not only super gifted and talented, he has got to be one of the most honest people in the world. He is a super nice guy. Thanks for posting these videos.
Another great episode. I never realized what a great musician he is and how influential and well-versed he became. I could listen to Ray tell stories forever - and I'm sure he has thousands more. Great work bringing this monster player to my (and I'm sure many others') attention. Outstanding. :-)
Ray Parker Jr. everybody! The. Benchmark. for rhythm guitar playing. So effortlessly grooving and rock solid at the same time. And three cheers have to go to Tim for his interviewing; you're a real natural Tim! There's two parts to play in every great interview.
Leo lives out here in Australia now. He tours here a lot. At some point we'll probably be doing his production for his shows around the place. Ray is a walking rock history book. Something else for sure. Tim's humility speaks volumes for the calibre of decent man he truly is.
Incredible,all the legends Ray has worked with ,and hes so matter of fact,at such a young age,mind blowing.Humble ,with it,and not phased by anything,to mere mortals .Great stuff,Tim,and you are an ideal interviewer ,kmowing when to sit back ,and allow the stories to come.
Holyshit I'm only 4 and 1/2 minutes in this video and he's already working with Stevie Wonder and about to tour with the Stones ! Okay back to the video..
What a great interview! This one and so many others on UA-cam. My life might have been completely different if there was internet 40 years ago and I could have heard Ray’s interview as a kid during the 70s or 80s.
Dam what an amazing right hand he’s got! Just got over watching part 1 multiple times . And now you’re telling us there’s still more to come ? Out of the park Tim 👍🏻
“I want you to cut a record with CSNY, then play on my record and then tour with The Rolling Stones...” I don’t even imagine what that phone call was like.
Honestly..... One of your best interviews ever! (My opinion). What an honest soul.... True to his passion for music. And just a laid back dude willing to share his story. You guy's both jamming together was awesome. Looking forward to part 3. Thank You Tim for what you bring to the table. Experience, wisdom, and fun!
It’s funny. I’ve come to know Ray as Ray Parker , Jr & Raydio. But boy the HISTORY behind him and his guitar playing is awe inspiring to say the least. Can’t wait for the next part.👍🏾
Ray's story about 'You Make Me Feel Like Dancing' reminds me of a similar experience I had in Nashville with a song I wrote called 'Happy Birthday Heartache.' The 'revised' version' went to #1 on the country charts. I should have sued over it when I had the chance.
Well, there's an eye opener .. I saw Stevie Wonder open for the Stones in Seattle ... My friends were manic Stones fans, but all they talked about was how incredible Stevie was that night ... and they were right ...
10:08 - This is what happens when you put two of the best guitarists out there in the same room. This whole video just makes me smile, just like part 1!
I subscribe to most guitar related channels and I think I've watched this interview like 10 times today my gf is sick and tired of me watching part 1 to the point where I was kicked out of bed lol absolutely awesome channel.
These are the absolute most inspiring interviews. Not inspiring like I want to write a hit song ,but inspiring in how I can’t wait to get home and play guitar. Thanks Tim. Aloha
Mesmerizing. Rhythm technique of the funk movement is truly his style . I guess, all this that I've heard over the years was either Ray or Guitarists imitating Ray's style. Nice seeing how he constructed those sounds.
Man what can I say?!?! I haven't even watched the whole thing and I have to leave a comment! This is simply awesome, really knocked it out of the park with this one Tim, can't wait for Part 3!!!!
This just confirms my week long argument with some other guitarist in my area. I keep telling them they are playing too much sh&%. It took a long time for me too understand that civilians (the public, non-musicians) only consume so much musical information. I am saying, get good, learn as much as you can, develope your technique, etc., BUT..play want people want to hear. If you want to maximize your workload!
We need a weekly *"Ray Parker, Jr. Show!!"* lol
Listening to Ray Parker Jr. tell his story is like drinking ice water on a 100 degree day.
Jupiter MacWillow hahaha!
Couldn’t have put it better myself!
🤘😎🤘
Sho Nuff
This is so good, and the best thing about is Tim doesn't get in the way. He just lets him tell his story with the occasional question. There are a LOT of 'professional' interviewers out there who won't shut up long enough for the guest to tell their story probably because they like to hear themselves talk. So kudos to you, Tim, for giving Ray space. Just like playing the guitar, allowing space in an interview is a wonderful tool!
So true.
Couldn't have said it better!
I saw the same listening courtesy from Tim on the Bukovak interview and when he was being interviewed by Rick B. Smart enough to know when not to talk. That's a gift and Tim has it.
Yeah, but there are different types of guests. Ray is one heck of a storyteller. If you have someone sitting there that talks less by himself, you may actually have to go fishing - and that means asking more questions. But you‘re sure right about Tim. And as the musician and person he is, he is genuinely interested and curious about what Ray is saying - so he‘s smart not to stop the flow. 🙂
@@richardervins Yes! Tim is a GREAT guitar player - luckily Ray is a great talker ;)
Can this just not end please?
No kidding.....I could listen to this stuff for a very long time.
I just found this video series and I'm totally pissed that I have missed it for these three years. And the fact that these videos don't have a hundred million views is absolutely criminal. Ray is a true Legend, and Tim does an amazing job giving him room to tell his stories.
Born in Detroit and moved to the suburbs when I was 2. My dad worked for Ford Motor (as did 1/2 my family). Fast forward 20 years... I had an opportunity to work for Ford as an engineer. My dad told me the exact same things Ray Parker's dad told him - great job, security, good money, retirement... the whole nine yards. I veered "off-course" and went into the chemicals industry. That was my dream. I did not want to live my dad's life. I never looked back. I never achieved the status of Ray Parker Jr., but, as Frank Sinatra would sing, "I did it my way!" That was 40 years ago. Great video Tim. Thank you very much!! jc
Tim, there are not enough words to express how much I appreciate and respect you as a musician, a guitar player, an interviewer, a teacher, a youtube host, etc., and mostly as a good and decent human being. Thank you so much for posting this video series with Mr. Parker. You handled this superbly from all angles. Live long, prosper and continue as you are for a long, long time. You are a treasure...
This interview is INCREDIBLE!!! THIS IS HOW AN INTERVIEW IS SUPPOSED TO BE CONDUCTED!!! Ray's career is a living example of Proverbs 22:29 "Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men." Ray seemed to be the Nile Rodgers of his time as far as his rhythm guitar prowess was concerned!!! Very nice playing, Tim!!! Not getting credit for such a great song is criminal!!!
What do you say about an interview like this? Two masters of their craft, both amazing in their own right. A given. Then, Ray takes it to another level entirely. In all seriousness, this conversation needs to be preserved in the Smithsonian. This is history.
This is like watching the long lost Behind the Music Ray Parker Jr. story! Just a great series Tim!
It's a real lesson to just watch Tim play a simple rhythm behind Ray. He's completely listening, absorbed and focused on supporting what Ray is doing even with a simple progression. What a total pro.
I have literally watched part 1 no less than 5 times, Can't wait to see this one :)
What a privilege to see two masters of their art just jamming along almost shooting the breeze while imparting great wisdom.
The first few bars of Ray Parker Jr playing is some of the best funk rhythm ever! So inspiring! I'm trying to figure it out now!! Thanks ever so much Tim for sharing this!!
So amazing!!!
@@harmonystudios1182 R.Parker is a Super Bass Guitarist player, he just as good as Louis Johnson, of The Brother Johnson's...
I need the tab!
😎👍
Like somebody once said, when it comes to RPJ you can learn the notes but NOBODY can quite do his thing.
Someone needs to make a movie or documentary about this guy!
yes, the model is Beato--he doesn't get in the way and he lets the artist talk and he is respectful and enthusiastic. This is a great move by you Tim. There is a hunger out there for artist interviews, a real entrepreneurial, innovative opportunity for channels such as this. I always wanted to hear from these guys and you LEARN so much!
Please have Ray as a reoccurring guest.
Can't get over how clean Ray's Les Paul sounds, almost tele like
Ray has always had this smooth aura about him. It is reflected in his great rhythm guitar licks. Simply incredible stories of his life's journey. Ray... If u haven't already sir, write a story about your amazing life. Oh, and thanks for the amazing music through the years. 🔥
Wow...just realized I saw him live with Stevie Wonder backing the Stones Exile on Main St tour in 71 at Boston Gardens
Ray must have had some amazing parents. It's clear they were very involved in his young life and that he valued their guidance. I love hearing his thought process as a young kid and how he reasoned things out to capitalize on every opportunity that came his way. Ray is obviously super talented and very intelligent but it's his personality that draws you in. I could listen to him tell his story for hours on end. Thanks again Tim for bringing Ray's story to us.
Ray Parker is definitely one of my favorite artists of all time. He has always been extremely talented and under the radar. But he is a cool dude!
The world needs more guys like like him, that feel is priceless... its priceless
I Actually Swa That Stones/Wonder Tour !! Couldn't Believe Wonder OPENING(??) for the STONES !! After Stevie, .......................... STONES WHO ????? INFREAKIN'CREDIBLE !!!!!! Never Knew RPJ @ That Time, But Now I Feel Priveliged to Have Witnessed His Musicianship !! BIG THANKS TIM, LOVE YOU MAN !! YOU'RE the BEST !! LOVE THE CHANNEL !! GOD BLESS !!
Truly an amazing talent 🙌🏻Thanks for getting Ray in your studio for this. I had no idea he was so accomplished. So humble and inspiring 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
OMG he's playing Africa by Toto at the end of the interview!!! I feel like I could just listen to Mr. Parker talk and play all day! What a Joy!!
Love Ray Parker Jr. What a talent...!!
Not often you hear an interview that you can honestly call awe-inspiring. 👍♥️
I have heard a lot of top level guitar players over the years say that Ray Parker was a bad bad rhythm player, in fact one of the best in LA at the time.
Can this interview go on forever please? Awesome!
I love hearing all the stories around RPJ’s career and hearing his playing. So much of what people know of RPJ is tied to one iconic song, and yet his story and playing is so much more diverse and interesting than that one song.
I just cant get enough of RPjr funk & coolness. I could listen to him play & tell stories all day long. A true American treasure and living legend. Him talking about only wanting to be in California made me think about my youth in 1969 when all I wanted to do was be in California. So at 9 years old and I took my dads electric golf cart from here in Florida and was headed to California. I only made it about 15 miles from the house when the batteries went dead. My dad was super p***** about the golf cart, he had the whole sheriffs office out looking for it, but I was on a mission !
This 3 part interview with RPJ is so good, you can't rush thru it or you'll miss a gem. I learned so much about both of these guys ~ Thanks Tim!
Jesus! i was 12 when Ghostbusters came out. me and my friends ALL knew Ray, but he was just the Ghostbusters song guy. a few years later i heard he was a respected musician that went way back but never knew the details. but my god this is fascinating!
What a treet to hear Ray up front and personal. Since the 70s Ray has always been one of my guitar heros,trying to cop his
Right hand feel. An American treasure.
Several years back I sent Ray an email complimenting some of his work. A few minute after I sent it he replied to me. Made my day Ray. Thx.
Thank you so much Tim! That Leo Sayer song was HUGE when I was a little kid - I had no idea Ray wrote it.
Hi Eduardo "Datcha" guitar player, composer, producer from Brazil, congrats! Just wonderful!
If Ray did a "Ray tells stories" channel, I'd subscribe in a second. His story about Stevie Wonder reminds me of the time a well known CA based producer called me up to book time in my little studio in OH. I was sure it was a prank, too. I didn't hang up, though.
Wow, what a treat to learn about Ray Parker Jr’s life! Amazing video, thanks Tim!
That impromptu jam was incredible, Tim! It gave me the chills. Please consider doing more of that in other videos.
Toto - Africa at the end ... nice!!!
SPOILER!
GREAT video! I could listen to Ray Parker Jr. tell stories all day.
It’s just one the great stories in music; I love that Stevie reached back and snagged Ray & Phillinganes out of Detroit into a great big wide world. Thanks for your hard work Tim with all your awesome content, and all the great records!!
Ray Parker Jr. is not only super gifted and talented, he has got to be one of the most honest people in the world. He is a super nice guy. Thanks for posting these videos.
Thank you Tim and Ray. Loving this comfortable discussion, a bit of history, and great riffs to practice!
Another great episode. I never realized what a great musician he is and how influential and well-versed he became. I could listen to Ray tell stories forever - and I'm sure he has thousands more. Great work bringing this monster player to my (and I'm sure many others') attention. Outstanding. :-)
I did not expect the two biggest influences in Ray’s life were John Sebastian and Leave It To Beaver.
I need to add RPJ's catalog to my music rotation.
Also, that Les Paul is gorgeous!
Ray Parker Jr. everybody! The. Benchmark. for rhythm guitar playing. So effortlessly grooving and rock solid at the same time. And three cheers have to go to Tim for his interviewing; you're a real natural Tim! There's two parts to play in every great interview.
This series is hands down the best thing going on UA-cam right now. Well done Mr. Pierce !!!
Leo lives out here in Australia now. He tours here a lot. At some point we'll probably be doing his production for his shows around the place.
Ray is a walking rock history book. Something else for sure.
Tim's humility speaks volumes for the calibre of decent man he truly is.
i've always liked ray, but i had no idea he was that big of a deal. very insprirational and extremely satisfying interview to watch God bless ya ray
What a cool guy! I had no idea the Ghostbusters guy was sooo cool! Thanks Tim.
Ohhh Mr Pierce and Mr Parker Jr. playing guitar together - that's quite an expensive session for whoever would hire you guys love it -
Just a tremendous guest , The great Ray Parker has taught a hell of a lot of great jam. cheers Tim Pierce
Incredible,all the legends Ray has worked with ,and hes so matter of fact,at such a young age,mind blowing.Humble ,with it,and not phased by anything,to mere mortals .Great stuff,Tim,and you are an ideal interviewer ,kmowing when to sit back ,and allow the stories to come.
More, more, more please! He deserves to be better known.
Holyshit I'm only 4 and 1/2 minutes in this video and he's already working with Stevie Wonder and about to tour with the Stones ! Okay back to the video..
What a great interview! This one and so many others on UA-cam. My life might have been completely different if there was internet 40 years ago and I could have heard Ray’s interview as a kid during the 70s or 80s.
What a great guy. Loved hearing his story.
Dam what an amazing right hand he’s got! Just got over watching part 1 multiple times . And now you’re telling us there’s still more to come ? Out of the park Tim 👍🏻
I'm 4 years late to this interview, Part 1 was where I realized Tim has his setup across from his living room!
“I want you to cut a record with CSNY, then play on my record and then tour with The Rolling Stones...” I don’t even imagine what that phone call was like.
I love the impromptu jam session halfway thru this!
Ray, Stevie Wonder just called to say he loved you man. He meant it from the bottom of his heart, and you hung up on him multiple times.
Yowsah!! Thanks Tim. So many great stories. And Ray doesn't look a day over 48!!!
Honestly..... One of your best interviews ever! (My opinion). What an honest soul.... True to his passion for music. And just a laid back dude willing to share his story. You guy's both jamming together was awesome. Looking forward to part 3. Thank You Tim for what you bring to the table. Experience, wisdom, and fun!
So sweet! (secret...) He plays "Africa" at the end..:-)
It’s funny. I’ve come to know Ray as Ray Parker , Jr & Raydio. But boy the HISTORY behind him and his guitar playing is awe inspiring to say the least. Can’t wait for the next part.👍🏾
Ray's story about 'You Make Me Feel Like Dancing' reminds me of a similar experience I had in Nashville with a song I wrote called 'Happy Birthday Heartache.' The 'revised' version' went to #1 on the country charts. I should have sued over it when I had the chance.
Great stories and attitude about moving forward no matter what.
Thanks for sharing more of your time with Ray! I just smiled the whole time as you did Tim.
Well, there's an eye opener .. I saw Stevie Wonder open for the Stones in Seattle ... My friends were manic Stones fans, but all they talked about was how incredible Stevie was that night ... and they were right ...
Oh boy 2! Thinking Ray's life would make a wonderful movie!
When it comes down to it, it’s all about the groove.
AMAZING education right here!! This is gold.
10:08 - This is what happens when you put two of the best guitarists out there in the same room. This whole video just makes me smile, just like part 1!
These interviews with Ray are very interesting. I didn't realize he had such an interesting story.
Wow! What a fantastic conversation man! Both parts are just solid gold! Thanks to you both for sharing this with us! 🤙🏻😎🎸🎸
What a nice guy great player composer I know he wrote Ghost buster but not much else about the man. Thanks for the interview
I subscribe to most guitar related channels and I think I've watched this interview like 10 times today my gf is sick and tired of me watching part 1 to the point where I was kicked out of bed lol absolutely awesome channel.
Interesting and funny anecdotes from Ray Parker, Jr. Great interview series with a legend. He tells some funny stories, too!
SO GOOD!!! These videos have been among the very best! Thanks Tim!
Soooo inspiring! Thanks, Tim and Ray!!!
Wow, just incredible!
Thanks for sharing Ray and Tim!
Yes! I could listen to these stories for days. Can't wait for the third episode.
Fantastic conversation. Thanks for posting!
This has been great...1&2! Shared with a couple musician friends, same thing. I knew RPjr was the Ghostbuster guy, but that was it. What a life! Thx
These are the absolute most inspiring interviews. Not inspiring like I want to write a hit song ,but inspiring in how I can’t wait to get home and play guitar. Thanks Tim. Aloha
Mesmerizing. Rhythm technique of the funk movement is truly his style . I guess, all this that I've heard over the years was either Ray or Guitarists imitating Ray's style. Nice seeing how he constructed those sounds.
Man what can I say?!?! I haven't even watched the whole thing and I have to leave a comment! This is simply awesome, really knocked it out of the park with this one Tim, can't wait for Part 3!!!!
Best interview I have seen in a long time. I never knew Ray had a history so deep.
Tim,
Great interviewing.
Ask, listen......................Ask, listen................
This just confirms my week long argument with some other guitarist in my area. I keep telling them they are playing too much sh&%. It took a long time for me too understand that civilians (the public, non-musicians) only consume so much musical information. I am saying, get good, learn as much as you can, develope your technique, etc., BUT..play want people want to hear. If you want to maximize your workload!
You are maybe talking about modern R&B?
What a treat watching this series on a weekend morning. Thank you!
Just absolutely fascinating Tim - thank you so much for putting this together.
Been hankering for this since pt 1, awesome stuff. Ray is the definition of great feel!
awsome too this part 2!... thanks Tim!