14 Habits Holding You Back (on guitar)

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  • Опубліковано 6 тра 2024
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    Take lessons with me at: www.the-art-of-guitar.com
    Just wanted to put this out there in case anyone out there can relate to a few, or most, of these. I know I've had my fair share of bad habits come my way.

КОМЕНТАРІ • 2,2 тис.

  • @TheArtofGuitar
    @TheArtofGuitar  2 роки тому +19

    If you want to learn how to play guitar from me, be sure to check out my entire lessons program at www.the-art-of-guitar.com. 👍🎸🎸

  • @shurdi3
    @shurdi3 5 років тому +1998

    If you just crank the distortion up enough, you can ignore all this advice

    • @notoriusdrifter40
      @notoriusdrifter40 3 роки тому +94

      And open the portal to the void

    • @marshwiggle9676
      @marshwiggle9676 3 роки тому +54

      @@notoriusdrifter40 infinite delay ushers in chtulu

    • @pan.vyblitku
      @pan.vyblitku 3 роки тому +8

      lol true

    • @michaelsmusic3532
      @michaelsmusic3532 3 роки тому +4

      And you'd sound monotone and everyone including yourself would tired of listening to it really quick ! Trust me ... I thought that 40+ years ago
      Michaels Music ~
      ua-cam.com/channels/h5GY7QF25vsjvc86i2r7gQ.html

    • @thfreakinacage
      @thfreakinacage 2 роки тому +33

      Delay + wah = just slap the thing around it'll still sound like a sick solo :P

  • @aragorn1079
    @aragorn1079 4 роки тому +1458

    He protec
    He attac
    But most importantly
    He tell me 14 guitar habits that are holding me bac

  • @twitterydock4075
    @twitterydock4075 6 років тому +622

    "I have know idea what these strings are called, but wow watch this" - Angus Young

    • @benparsons4979
      @benparsons4979 4 роки тому +25

      I can honestly see him saying that

    • @joandrumz3176
      @joandrumz3176 4 роки тому +9

      Well, I like you, you like Foo Fighters

    • @michaeljoseph8229
      @michaeljoseph8229 3 роки тому +1

      Toon link main! Any good results in ult?

    • @gohjohan
      @gohjohan 3 роки тому +6

      A few people I know do that. Don't know how to read chord charts and tabulature but comes to playing, they nail it. For example they know what a F minor and a F# minor sounds like but they do not know the name for that chord.

    • @bojangles6444
      @bojangles6444 2 роки тому +5

      @@gohjohan if it’s only rock and roll they don’t need to if they sound right. Only problem is communicating with other people.

  • @AllHailZeppelin
    @AllHailZeppelin 5 років тому +252

    "And now with just a little vibrato"
    *adds a shit ton of vibrato, pinch harmonics, and more bending*

  • @Baaaaaaaandyyy
    @Baaaaaaaandyyy 6 років тому +1749

    "Sucking at something is the first step to being sort of good at something"
    - Jake the Dog

    • @kadenisgr8
      @kadenisgr8 6 років тому +42

      Baaaaaaaandyyy watching that episode as a kid legitimately helped me in life, I think.

    • @mikeyfoulke
      @mikeyfoulke 6 років тому +42

      kaden is gr8 Don’t say “watching it as a kid” that shit makes me feel too old

    • @Gorgun2010
      @Gorgun2010 5 років тому +16

      And being sort of good at something is the start of being good at something.

    • @thunderballz74
      @thunderballz74 5 років тому

      maverik33452 adventure guitarist lol

    • @kezziekz
      @kezziekz 5 років тому +2

      maverik33452 nice one

  • @gemlouise1260
    @gemlouise1260 4 роки тому +502

    Yesterday, I spent ten whole minutes trying to tune my guitar with the clip on tuner, getting progressively more frustrated and baffled, and at one point even shouted at my D string, because every time I got it to C, I thought 'ok, we're nearly there', and then it would just skip straight to G.
    Yep, it took me ten entire minutes to finally realise that I would never get to D, no matter how hard I lectured the fourth string, because my tuner had set itself to Ukele mode 😭😂

    • @GlucoseGarbage
      @GlucoseGarbage 4 роки тому +22

      oof that sucks. I suggest learning how to tune by ear. It's pretty easy with practice

    • @TheGoldDragon100
      @TheGoldDragon100 4 роки тому +8

      @@GlucoseGarbage I've been trying for a while now but can never get it as precise as my snark does

    • @nuke8672
      @nuke8672 4 роки тому +1

      This got a good laugh outta me😂😂😂

    • @MClark-bv9tn
      @MClark-bv9tn 3 роки тому

      That's funny!

    • @MClark-bv9tn
      @MClark-bv9tn 3 роки тому

      @@TheGoldDragon100 I heard those are hard to come by

  • @HEWfunkingKNEWit
    @HEWfunkingKNEWit 4 роки тому +223

    One of the best feelings ever when you make that transition from overthinking to just feeling the playing.

    • @BrockRodriguez
      @BrockRodriguez 3 роки тому +8

      Absolute freedom

    • @bethspahr9582
      @bethspahr9582 Рік тому +2

      I can't seem to get there as much as I try.

    • @user-yo3cg9ev8y
      @user-yo3cg9ev8y Рік тому +3

      @@bethspahr9582 it comes naturaly when you get more confident in your playing and you dont have to think hard what to play next, it just kinda flows.
      try playing things without looking and focusing on the guitar neck 24/7 and just have fun and feel the groove and musik.

    • @antwanelynch87
      @antwanelynch87 Рік тому

      ​@Tim But then when you do that ppl complain and say your just noodling and wasting your practice sessions🤷🏿So being self taught by taking advice from advanced or Vet technical Players, it confuses me, by making me feel im doing the wrong things while practicing that way🤦🏾So idk WTF is the correct approach and/or practice techniques and lessons for Beginning Self-Taught players, Tbh🤦🏾...BTW thats my POV, and My own Opinion. So im over-thinking bc Im confused of what Noodling and whats the PROPER Approach and What is considered "Over-Thinking" & Noodling is what im trying to Say, and Explain, Bro🤔🤷🏾🤦🏾...???

  • @Weifu7
    @Weifu7 5 років тому +2276

    Timestamps for people returning to this video and just want a list:
    1. Playing out of tune 0:06
    2. Over/Under Bending 1:09
    3. Pushing Way Too Hard 2:46
    4. Lack of Vibrato 4:08
    5. Overthinking 5:14
    6. Lack of/Bad Sense of Rhythm 7:45
    7. Being clueless about your tone 9:22
    8. No knowledge Guitar Maintenance 11:31
    9. Not Playing well with others 12:57
    10. Poor Muting Skills 14:41
    11. Bragging/Boasting 17:41
    12. Lack of Improvisation Skill 19:28
    13. Not Standing While Playing 21:50
    14. Having A Lack Of Theory Knowledge 23:03

  • @berni2905
    @berni2905 5 років тому +142

    20:50
    "Take a solo!"
    "You know what? I'm just gonna go home to practice, see ya"

  • @HOWYOUDOIN884
    @HOWYOUDOIN884 5 років тому +1266

    You missed one: playing an electric guitar without an amp, for years and years.

    • @12377Bobo
      @12377Bobo 5 років тому +21

      What is the problem with doing this?

    • @Hennu_TRM
      @Hennu_TRM 5 років тому +205

      @@12377Bobo I don't know if this is a problem for everyone, but I've tried practicing without an amp but then when I try to play that song or riff plugged in to an actual amp it just doesn't sound right... either the articulation or dynamics are not great or there is a string ringing out that I didn't notice without the amp.
      The best way to make sure you have a good sound and feel when you're playing through an amp is to practice with an amp. You can make fine adjustments to your playing and tone, and you can know exactly what it sounds like.
      If you don't think your tone and the way your guitar responds are significantly different unplugged vs amped, you may not be very aware of your tone and sound. (of course that's not necessarily true, I maybe just suck at playing/practicing unplugged...)

    • @rachelmcgahey6302
      @rachelmcgahey6302 5 років тому +22

      HOWYOUDOIN884 thanks ...I always play without an amp so I’ll try stop that

    • @jeremywynohradnyk4993
      @jeremywynohradnyk4993 5 років тому +49

      I disagree been playing for 20 years and practicing without amp or effects can help you tremendously imo

    • @Jay-lr3me
      @Jay-lr3me 5 років тому

      Yep very true!

  • @ryadachaibou8098
    @ryadachaibou8098 5 років тому +95

    The "people don't wanna play with you" one hit hard

    • @gohjohan
      @gohjohan 3 роки тому +1

      I know, been there too many times, especially when I was living in Singapore because the standard of music is so high.

  • @keithscott5580
    @keithscott5580 5 років тому +153

    Mistake #11. Just realized the other day that when Zappa said "Shut up and play your guitar", what he meant was SFTU and actually LEARN how to play the guitar, and the comment might have been aimed at many players out there, like me, who never did learn how to play it right, cheating anyway you could, and avoiding the painful practice needed to overcome playing difficult chords, and nailing certain chord changes that will seemingly haunt you your whole life.
    In my recent travels, I picked up this information I'd like to share;
    "To get the basic guitar chords down put one finger down at a time and check for buzzing, if it buzzes it's not right. Make small adjustments in your finger placement so that it works.
    Now once you have got to the place where the chord is not buzzing, raise your fingers off the fretboard and place them slowly into place, Keep doing that until you are confident that your can grab a chord quickly.
    You are building memory in your nervous system and that works best if you move slowly and as relaxed as you can.
    Memorize and learn each basic guitar chord so that it is an automatic reflex you can use without thinking.
    Be patient with yourself. I've found what seems to be impossible is possible if you take your movements very slow and relaxed at first and then speed up slowly until they are a lightning fast reflex."

    • @jordandangelo180
      @jordandangelo180 5 років тому +4

      That... anddd those albums were live guitar solos he recorded over a number of years form the 70s to the early 80s and Frank did a lot of talking during his songs and singing in his own inimitable way. Those albums have no singing or really any vocals at all. Just one guitar solo after another taken from concerts he performed. But you me point makes sense and it solid and true.

  • @PrepperAction
    @PrepperAction 6 років тому +758

    Muscle memory... practice slowly, "slow is smooth and smooth is fast."

    • @matthewclark7952
      @matthewclark7952 5 років тому +18

      Good point and speed comes with accuracy as they say.

    • @MrAdravix
      @MrAdravix 5 років тому +9

      Because of this stuff I slightly disagree with the tip about tone. Practicing should be done clean and extremely clear, making every note ring out properly and not over playing, and then when you're in a live situation or jamming or whatever. Then you add that distortion or whatever effect you want.
      Some songs need some effects to sound properly but as a rule of thumb when playing stuff with distortion, master it completely without first and have it be perfectly smooth.

    • @akaThaJordan
      @akaThaJordan 5 років тому +30

      Yes and no. Tone and Technique are a double edged sword. You could perfectly master a solo on a clean tone only tot turn on your distortion just to realize you have to start over because your attack is having a profoundly different impact on your sound. See point 10 in the video. Base your playing on the intention of the part your playing, not purely the notes themselves.

    • @akaThaJordan
      @akaThaJordan 5 років тому

      @adra btw

    • @someguywithamic9
      @someguywithamic9 5 років тому +5

      I heard that phrase a couple years ago and it's really true. the slower you can get through something the smoother it'll seem and smoother you can get it to become the faster it can happen

  • @ryanduray1
    @ryanduray1 6 років тому +666

    I'm a really great guitar player except for my timing, phrasing, bending, improvisational skills, muting, picking, and I don't know any chords or scales. Other than that, I'm Jimi freakin' Hendrix.

    • @isaacabraham5842
      @isaacabraham5842 5 років тому +22

      BlackDogsMatter
      Wow i thought i was the only one who never knew this stuff. Rock on man

    • @AaronAJaeger
      @AaronAJaeger 5 років тому +38

      You forgot to mention not having a guitar. This should really be Habit #1.

    • @kingturtle2197
      @kingturtle2197 5 років тому +2

      😂😂😂😂

    • @therayven3147
      @therayven3147 5 років тому

      I'm the best guitar player in n the world... I don't know first thing about guitar...
      Actually, I play pretty well, but this guy is a good teacher... Even to intermediate or higher players...

    • @Terrysoddy
      @Terrysoddy 5 років тому

      BlackDogsMatter that’s a good one

  • @Galinn_Arts
    @Galinn_Arts 5 років тому +437

    Earth bending
    Fire bending
    Water bending
    Air bending
    Guitar bending

    • @oneburrito_
      @oneburrito_ 4 роки тому +5

      Ah, yes. My favorite element

    • @VinnyBRotten
      @VinnyBRotten 4 роки тому +1

      1/\

    • @u2dva
      @u2dva 4 роки тому +1

      @cameron worsley Yes. Guitar will probably crack if you try to bend it :-)

    • @kkoch666
      @kkoch666 4 роки тому +4

      Gender bending

    • @LRM12o8
      @LRM12o8 4 роки тому +1

      @@u2dva Nah, it won't.
      some pro guitarists (forgot who) actually bend the neck of their guitar to get vibrato on an open string, if their guitar doesn't have a tremolo system.
      It's probably not good for the guitar, I guess you'll have to adjust the trussrod more often if you do this, but it is a thing.
      Or you could just press the string down on "fret 0" to get vibrato, but if you don't have locking tuners that will bend it out of tune immediately...

  • @Djozer
    @Djozer 5 років тому +30

    The over-thinking thing I was taught in grade school. My band teacher brought me up to the front of the class and had me read the sheet music. He blocked it off to represent thinking. Then he took his hand away so I could read "ahead", leaving me options to play, rather than being so focused on the next note. That little lesson really stuck with me.

  • @BrettFunkGuitar
    @BrettFunkGuitar 6 років тому +276

    I'm easily twice your age, and I've been teaching for over 25 years, and you pull me in every time kid. You're a wonderful instructor, players, and video producer. I appreciate all you do. Keep up the good work!

    • @TheArtofGuitar
      @TheArtofGuitar  6 років тому +38

      Thanks Brett. It’s a fun “job.” Hehe

    • @BrettFunkGuitar
      @BrettFunkGuitar 6 років тому +8

      Yes, I cannot imagine working for a living. :D

    • @HavocMusic1759
      @HavocMusic1759 2 роки тому +5

      @@BrettFunkGuitar You're 90?

  • @hhhytryyhyhj
    @hhhytryyhyhj 6 років тому +518

    The tip about "not overthinking it" was literally just saying "get good at guitar so you don't have to concentrate".. thanks lol

    • @weho1233
      @weho1233 6 років тому +15

      Logan Goldberg listening to the music from a different perspective and keeping rhythm is what will help

    • @abberss
      @abberss 6 років тому +55

      More like: spend a lot of time practicing until playing guitar feels as natural as eating a sandwich. For example, exercise your chords and scale shapes while you watch TV, that way you learn how to make those motions by feel without needing to stare at your hand. Your sense of touch should factor into your playing more than your sense of sight. By learning to follow the way it feels you will be able to play by muscle memory.

    • @congealedlegacy4673
      @congealedlegacy4673 6 років тому +1

      just practice

    • @MaximumJoy
      @MaximumJoy 6 років тому +2

      Logan Goldberg rest of the fucking owl

    • @adams8589
      @adams8589 6 років тому +3

      You’re kind of right but if you overthink on any instrument it really throws off how good it sounds

  • @odudi
    @odudi 5 років тому +34

    1 of the biggest mistakes i made in the early days of my playing was always practicing fully distorted. When it came to playing clean i was bad, so when i started practicing clean so many things became more accurate during regular play. Some music jokes...how do you know when a drummer is knocking at your door? the knocking starts speeding up. How do you get a bass player to leave your porch? you pay him for the pizza. How many lead singers does it take to screw in a lightbulb? He doesn't have to do anything because the world revolves around him. How do you get a lead guitarist to turn down the volume? you put a music chart in front of him.

  • @AlonzoWhite
    @AlonzoWhite 3 роки тому +6

    You are so right about "standing." It's really a trip until you get used to it.

  • @Mr.M1STER
    @Mr.M1STER 6 років тому +85

    Dude, you're a great teacher. You seem so patient and your tone of voice is really good and sounds very positive. Great stuff.

  • @pippipster6767
    @pippipster6767 6 років тому +2135

    Beginners mistake number one.
    Failing to pick up the guitar.
    You see, the guitar is very hard to play unless you're actually holding it. Free tip. 🤘

    • @ThatRandomBeast
      @ThatRandomBeast 6 років тому +89

      Jesus, now you tell me!!! That's where I've been going wrong all this time! I wondered why it wouldn't play anything while staring at it intently! :P

    • @MrDmadness
      @MrDmadness 6 років тому +35

      this comment = TRUTH

    • @SHineWhon
      @SHineWhon 6 років тому +24

      finally someone giving advice that actually make sense

    • @kehnyonlohrum4652
      @kehnyonlohrum4652 6 років тому +5

      Life changing hack😱😱😱

    • @ashfordartcornwall3790
      @ashfordartcornwall3790 6 років тому +1

      Obvious, yeah - but it's surprising how many don't really get this, y'know, practically speaking. Although I s'pose it depends on the weight of the d*mn thing if it's heavy and weighs a tonne etc. As opposed to a Classical or some other string thing, lightweight.

  • @dannykent6190
    @dannykent6190 3 роки тому +9

    20 years I've been playing... I've known for almost that entire time that it's the metal fret that makes the sound... Never once thought about how that means I don't have to press into the wood... Twenty years of practice and you just made me better with one sentence.

  • @santiagoferrer9513
    @santiagoferrer9513 3 роки тому +13

    when your ear is so bad that the "out of tune" You Shook me all night long part sounds the same as the "in tune" one

  • @vzguitars
    @vzguitars 6 років тому +460

    ""just add a little vibrato, I'll show you how much of a difference it makes" - does a full step bend. Good advice though.

    • @blade4174
      @blade4174 5 років тому +47

      Bro there was vibrato even in that bend
      Listen carefully

    • @robbieswrath1638
      @robbieswrath1638 5 років тому +2

      Vlad Z lol! Was totally thinking the same thing xD

    • @esketityeet9078
      @esketityeet9078 5 років тому +1

      Robbie what song was that?

    • @daviddunn4816
      @daviddunn4816 5 років тому +5

      @@esketityeet9078 For the Love of God - Steve Vai

    • @wewanticecream
      @wewanticecream 5 років тому +3

      Douchebag

  • @TheCrustiCroc
    @TheCrustiCroc 6 років тому +51

    Wow, that pressing too hard habit was exactly what I did wrong for so many years omfg.

    • @blackllistd5752
      @blackllistd5752 5 років тому +3

      From what it seems, this is a habit that comes from playing acoustic. I don’t know anything about guitars but it always seemed easier to hold the chords on electric.

    • @Sealedaway
      @Sealedaway 4 роки тому +1

      Blackllistd That’s probably what it is. More specifically, nylon strings. Since nylon strings are mounted further from the board, you have to push them much harder than steel strings. I use both and I’ve definitely needed some time to get used to steel when switching. I’ve always felt that steel strings are more forgiving and generally easier to play, but they also hurt more and sound very different.

  • @uriahduncan9029
    @uriahduncan9029 5 років тому +8

    I've been playing guitar for about ten years now, and I can say that I've unknowingly worked through everyone of these issues, and I'm glad I stuck with it

  • @vielumiereg9794
    @vielumiereg9794 4 роки тому +39

    Also don’t forget. Don’t rush anything.. getting honestly good at any instrument, or just any skill in general, is gonna take some decent time, and the more time you put into it, the better it’ll be. You’re not gonna be the next James Hetfield in 2 months, or even in a year in some cases... it takes time.

    • @kaurpoiss1
      @kaurpoiss1 2 роки тому +8

      Your comment implies that most people reach hetfield level in less than a year 😂

    • @noahraab2429
      @noahraab2429 2 роки тому +6

      @@kaurpoiss1 Or ever. It's his job after all.

    • @ab_0625
      @ab_0625 Рік тому

      Every night I have to remind myself of this to sleep in peace.

  • @charliefoxtrotthe3rd335
    @charliefoxtrotthe3rd335 6 років тому +169

    Damn, I wish I would have watched this video about 10 years ago. Would have saved me soooo much time effort, frustration, headaches and all manner of bad things. I can just see myself in all 14 of the stages at some point. Great compilation.

    • @alanmares8643
      @alanmares8643 6 років тому

      Charlie Foxtrot The 3rd i thought this was from that stupid yousician ad 😂

    • @spartan8390
      @spartan8390 5 років тому +1

      Charlie Foxtrot The 3rd Same here. I've been playing just over 20 years and I have so many bad habits.

    • @j3an725
      @j3an725 5 років тому

      Same

  • @tuomike7023
    @tuomike7023 6 років тому +55

    I must say I really like your style of teaching. Wish I could be your student. Not just a virtual student... Thank You very much for interesting content on UA-cam.

  • @MrHandyfrank
    @MrHandyfrank 5 років тому +17

    Mike, really do appreciate your lesson (advice). I'm a late learner, 76 years not playing guitar and now 3 years learning, so I am guilty of most of your 14 habits that I'm sure are holding me back. You are a good teacher. Thanks.

  • @NealKlein
    @NealKlein 5 років тому +3

    Your pointers are detailed as Hell, and I couldn't be happier that someone expanded on the list of things holding me back. Good on you.

  • @LevitatorMusic
    @LevitatorMusic 6 років тому +420

    sometimes under-bending can be awesome if you know how to use it right. BB King did it a lot. 1/4 bends and such.

    • @TheArtofGuitar
      @TheArtofGuitar  6 років тому +86

      True but many do it without realizing it. ;) haha

    • @MasterP48HD
      @MasterP48HD 6 років тому +13

      guthrie govan does too, the thing is, if you're doing it on purpose and are aware of it then you'll use the microtonal bends in the right spots and not when you should be bending to a certain note

    • @d1zzyd1
      @d1zzyd1 6 років тому +5

      Often between the minor and the major third...

    • @allenblackwell2508
      @allenblackwell2508 6 років тому

      LevitatorMusic
      Thank You, because bending a note, is "sweet & sour", as long as it's in the "Key"; it sends out emotions, which comes from The Blues( making the guitar "scream or cry"), a very good effect, which is not the used on other instruments, although they compensate somehow to extend the capabilities of what the instrument does. And yet we still have a long way to go, to what is untapped on this particular; you can never master it, so "shut up and play your guitar" ( it just feels better; especially when you "stumble up" on something which is not frequently used. You hear saying "look what I created", when it should be "look what I discovered"( music by frequencies, is layed out, on every musical instrument), as The Great Sun Ra said "there is nothing new in music( what you think you are doing, it's already been done), we are only "recycling", just with "less hot sauce"(😂😂😂😂😂)!!!

    • @jaysonscott187
      @jaysonscott187 6 років тому

      LevitatorMusic mu

  • @tommywho924
    @tommywho924 6 років тому +382

    4:34 I want to know how hard that was to play without vibrato

    • @TheArtofGuitar
      @TheArtofGuitar  6 років тому +201

      Damn hard.

    • @xvrrecords
      @xvrrecords 6 років тому +9

      The-Art-of-Guitar incredibly stupid question but what song is that? I can't remember the name for some reason.

    • @tijmenvde4299
      @tijmenvde4299 6 років тому +24

      the real seacow Steve Vai - For The Love Of God

    • @CarlosFreitas99
      @CarlosFreitas99 6 років тому +19

      Actually the first part of the song isn't supposed to have a lot of vibrato (or none at all). It's just in the second part that Vai adds bends, vibrato and pinch harmonics

    • @FluidRat
      @FluidRat 6 років тому +1

      It is also where he switches from neck to middle position on his pickups, to add more clarity and gradually shift to the more shred heavy sections.

  • @matthewfraney9108
    @matthewfraney9108 Рік тому +2

    this is a great mental checklist even for experienced players. i would summarize the first 4 points plus 7 and 10 as "improve you listening skills". thanks for the video!

  • @MrJoshDrums0490
    @MrJoshDrums0490 5 років тому +4

    When you said “I’ve been a drummer longer than a guitarist” I saw myself in that. Been a drummer since I was 5 and just a month ago I picked up the guitar (I still drum obviously, drums are my heartbeat) and have been trying to learn and incorporate many of the things I’ve seen on your channel and others. Thank you for your videos and your insight!!! Much love.

  • @SuspiciousPenguins
    @SuspiciousPenguins 6 років тому +10

    Also, the tip on practicing precise bends with a live tuner attached is brilliant. I'm going to start doing that for sure.

  • @alexbetty5896
    @alexbetty5896 6 років тому +3

    A lot of the points made are definately applicable to me!! Poor vibrato skills, unable to improvise, not standing up to play, serious lack of theory knowledge etc etc!! Having these things talked about in a "friendly" way gets the point across so much better than someone telling you you're not very good at certain things!! Gives me hope and determination to improve on my shortcomings. Thanks for sharing your tips and knowledge.

  • @ragingdane7923
    @ragingdane7923 6 років тому +4

    I love when you intentionally do something to make your sound bad and it accidentally sounds amazing

  • @dezza72
    @dezza72 5 років тому +41

    You can use the guitar itself to check your bends e.g. a full step bend on the 15th fret will sound the same as the 17th fretted note.

  • @dylangraef715
    @dylangraef715 6 років тому +4

    man.. this is my 20th year to have been playing the guitar.. so much of the problems you said for beginners i actually went through.. this is a really really good video for new guitar players.. i wish i had this back when i started playing.. thanks for the video man!

  • @Murphy4747
    @Murphy4747 4 роки тому +7

    I'm day 3 into learning and the tip about pressing too hard on the frets is something I've never even heard from anyone and you'd think that would be the first thing people want to tell you. Insane tip that immediately affected how trying to play feels 👌🏻

    • @superadventure6297
      @superadventure6297 4 роки тому

      If you're on day 3 (well maybe it's day 15 now?) watch Simon's video. I watched it over and over again. After a couple weeks didn't need it anymore, but on day 1 I didn't know how to fret a dam note. I was playing his ascending/descending exercise later the same day. This vid seems more for the beginner/intermediate phase, like after a few months up to few years.

  • @myguitarjourney3002
    @myguitarjourney3002 4 роки тому

    You're an amazing teacher. Clear, concise, straight to the meat with no BS. Us beginners appreciate you so much. Thanks for everything you do.

  • @jimsonbrown9768
    @jimsonbrown9768 5 років тому +27

    When I first started playing, before I even learned a chord I would practice Pete Townsend windmills....out in my front yard.......I looked ridiculous.....as a 42 year old I should have known better.

  • @helixxharpell
    @helixxharpell 4 роки тому +3

    Glad I found this video. Instant subscriber!
    Extremely grateful for your efforts! Excellent instructional and informative video! Soft-spoken, humble, knowledgeable and talented! Thank you young man. Keep em coming!

  • @meowtherainbowx4163
    @meowtherainbowx4163 6 років тому +156

    The-Art-of-Guitar > Music Is Win
    Fight me.

    • @TheArtofGuitar
      @TheArtofGuitar  6 років тому +40

      Ah shucks. ;) I'm just glad there are a lot of cool options for aspiring guitarists these days. When I was a kid it was me and a crappy old cassette tape that I had to keep rewinding to figure out what was happening. haha

    • @meowtherainbowx4163
      @meowtherainbowx4163 6 років тому +3

      +The-Art-of-Guitar Wow, that was fast! Anyways, I see what you're saying. I don't even think Music is Win is bad. I just don't find the instructional videos as useful as yours. I still haven't completely dug into this channel, but I am definitely considering subscribing. Thank you for the time and effort you put into these videos.

    • @TheArtofGuitar
      @TheArtofGuitar  6 років тому +18

      Thanks Meow. Many more to come. I gotta hustle if I wanna get those music is win-type views. haha

    • @gamesandguitars3901
      @gamesandguitars3901 5 років тому +1

      MeowTheRainbowX for learning yes but for pure entertainment I’d have to say music is win not saying this isn’t interesting or entertaining i watch this channel all the time for entertainment

  • @Alyssa-vl6lj
    @Alyssa-vl6lj 5 років тому +1

    This is the second video I watch from you and it is very helpful. You seem genuine and your tips are actually real things I deal with as a beginner, and you come across like you really want to help others. Thank you for that.

  • @dennishrmn1
    @dennishrmn1 5 років тому +8

    Man, I wish this guy was my personal teacher!!! I watch ALOT of tutorials, but this guy has an amazing way of not only explaining the technique, but also making you feel comfortable, and not like an idiot. Good job brother!! You're awesome!! Also, you hit one thing on the head with me. As much as I hate to admit it, I was that guy that talked like I could play like Dimebag Darrell, then when it came time to jam,I looked like a fool!! Lesson learned!! Lol

    • @hillers54
      @hillers54 2 роки тому

      Would be great to have lessons with Mike... if only😘😘😘

  • @MichaelEMJAYARE
    @MichaelEMJAYARE 2 роки тому +5

    This really makes me realize that while Ive been playing for 13 years, I havent progressed past that “intermediate” stage. I am so comfortable on the instrument but I have a lot of blind spots - mostly theory.
    It is so easy to neglect learning new stuff, I feel like there are simply too many options to choose from when it comes to learning something “new” - and a lot is skewed towards beginners.

  • @richardjordan6518
    @richardjordan6518 4 роки тому +3

    3:21 minutes is me for sure! I've stopped pushing so hard this week. Also, I was overthinking! Been practicing all this week and have jettisoned those bad habits! Thanks for the advice!!
    God Bless!

  • @younic
    @younic 4 роки тому +1

    This is one of the most sensible guitar-basics videos I've ever seen. Congrats, man!

  • @jamescapodilupo3034
    @jamescapodilupo3034 5 років тому +1

    I learned really well with your laid-back demeanor and teaching style. Thanks for the upload!

  • @ChookaParkerTV
    @ChookaParkerTV 5 років тому +3

    I'm learning guitar right now and it's come fairly naturally as I've transitioned from piano, understand my thoery and play by ear, but I'm so so glad I watched this video because I didn't realize how many bad habits I had!! Like pressing too hard on the strings (a habit from acoustic steel string playing) amongst other bad habits I noticed I have which I can address now! There's no shame in making mistakes, and it's always nice to know how to fix them so you don't fall into ruts. There's always room for improvement.
    Really enjoyed the lesson!
    Cheers

  • @brandonmarks3438
    @brandonmarks3438 4 роки тому +3

    Overthinking definitely is me right now, pushing way too hard, vibrato, not knowing theory, and I need to learn more about maintenance and tone. I haven't even attempted to play with anyone except a couple very basic training videos lol. Thanks for this video, I'm about to go work on a few of these! I was getting frustrated at being stuck, and you definitely helped me realize some things!

  • @Foxtango1776
    @Foxtango1776 4 роки тому +1

    This instructor is so insightful I am glad I am taking his course.

  • @leftylugnutz9117
    @leftylugnutz9117 4 роки тому +1

    Your examples are so good, really helps drive the point home. I've only been learning acoustic but still enjoyed this video. You are a great instructor

  • @denniscasey2883
    @denniscasey2883 4 роки тому +3

    Your Patience and careful explanations make you an excellent teacher I am sure. I have been browsing videos here on you-tube. Most are Brittish which isn't easy to understand when you are trying to learn and watch at the same time. Best vids here for sure. You raise the bar several levels. With being left-handed, I already have real Barriers already. I am also disabled and cannot afford to buy lessons. I still cannot play a thing but you encourage Practice with clues that matter. Thank you

  • @tombeals8980
    @tombeals8980 6 років тому +10

    Thank you for the video. I do not have a good ear. I do not have a good sense of timing. And I am old. BUT I do have a great sense of humor and enjoy playing for my own entertainment. The best phrase that I picked up from this is: "A little bit of inadequacy." LOL, Thanks for doing this.

  • @armaanansari4922
    @armaanansari4922 2 роки тому

    i've had this video on my watchlist for over a year since i found it and am finally watching it. Love your stuff

  • @dylancrowe2788
    @dylancrowe2788 5 років тому +1

    I've seen every one of these done by guitarists I've met over the years, this is a bloody great video! Very coherent, well delivered, and even one of them can really take alot out of a persons apparent skills. Great job getting a list like this together!

  • @grantknott
    @grantknott 3 роки тому +3

    You’re great to listen to my friend. Thanks for the tips. No wonder you have so many subscribers. Keep up the good work

  • @TeddyZ83
    @TeddyZ83 6 років тому +2

    Good tips. Thanks for posting, Mike!

  • @miyannaable
    @miyannaable 2 роки тому +1

    All I ever say about my own playing is that I love to practice. Every point in this video is incredibly helpful to me - thank you!

  • @zacziegler9235
    @zacziegler9235 4 роки тому +1

    Excellent content, been playing for years and your videos always open my mind

  • @yllausunutcartsba6697
    @yllausunutcartsba6697 6 років тому +375

    how did you not vibrato that dude. that was probably actually difficult

    • @andrewbooker3364
      @andrewbooker3364 6 років тому +18

      yllausunu tcartsba that's what I was thinking, I got antsy cause I wanted to vibrato it 😂😂

    • @kevinwesel2472
      @kevinwesel2472 6 років тому +3

      What song is that

    • @dr.derplols8312
      @dr.derplols8312 6 років тому +4

      Kevin Wesel for the love of God Steve Vai (Idk if any of that is right)

    • @TYSuggested
      @TYSuggested 5 років тому +3

      Thought the same thing man. Vibrato is something I do by default.

    • @Roescoe
      @Roescoe 5 років тому +6

      it's like putting spin on in table tennis, once you learn it, it's really part of the hit.

  • @str8harry
    @str8harry 4 роки тому +3

    Way better than most other guitar channels. I feel like they have so much fluff that they just put in to make their videos longer.
    Your stuff was to the point and made sense. My biggest problem from this list is muting strings. I'll get cleaner eventually. Makes such a huge difference :(

  • @coffeecomics3583
    @coffeecomics3583 5 років тому +2

    This is a good video for "intermediate" players & beginners too.
    Thanks mate!!!

  • @ronwencel3755
    @ronwencel3755 5 років тому

    Love this perspective on learning to play better, keep preaching brother!

  • @donniedarkestra7771
    @donniedarkestra7771 6 років тому +4

    Expanding on the standing and playing live thing- I'd recommend going through all the motions including flipping your toggle switch while playing (even when your not plugged in) and setting up pedals to hit for changes. These things can become overwhelming if you never practice them. Also make sure if you have pedals you have some sort of light to illuminate them. I've played a lot of underground gigs and most of the time the lighting was terrible. Good video for starting out.

  • @lordMaroza
    @lordMaroza 6 років тому +24

    I'm fat, so my guitar is always tilted while standing.... :D Great vid, man! The only thing I'm lacking is theory. I do know stuff, but not enough to create those smooth transitions while playing with others, although I did have a knack for improv during those high school band days.

  • @Itiswhatitispartna
    @Itiswhatitispartna 3 роки тому +2

    Bang on man, very orecise detailed info. Very important stuff for any level

  • @87BruceH
    @87BruceH 3 роки тому +1

    This video is right on point. Timing is literally EVERYTHING! If you’re out of time, everything else will go wrong too. Overthinking is still an issue, especially when playing improv lead. I tend to get nervous when people are watching me jam and I overthink and it doesn’t have that “soul” it did earlier.
    And using a clip on tuner to hit those bends, you helped me sooo much. It takes a community to make a good guitar, lol,

  • @SeemsLikeSomething
    @SeemsLikeSomething 4 роки тому +3

    Awesome advice! It’s all important stuff! I think one of the worst habits is definitely that “maybe later” mentality about practicing/playing. Try to push yourself to play regularly. Can’t stress how much you will regret not just doing it. This is an obvious one and basically falls under the practice-makes-perfect idea. Just PLAY and try to explore multiple styles and techniques too. Work on your weakest points, play sitting, standing, with other tracks and without. The more the better, but do your best to identify problems and avoid ingraining bad habits. Unlearning is harder than learning! Cheers 👍

  • @Beau76712
    @Beau76712 4 роки тому +3

    15:07 I really identified with that. It’s happened in the same scenario. I’ll be explaining something with an example thought of on the fly. Comes out way better than intended.

  • @phillipwesson8785
    @phillipwesson8785 5 років тому +1

    I whole heartedly agree with and have suffered from pretty much everything on this list. Subscribed!

  • @KeithH02
    @KeithH02 4 роки тому

    Excellent teaching channel, my friend. I am not a complete beginner , just a home guitarist and not advanced - these clips explain a lot, I wish I had them when I was a beginner ! There is lots to learn at any playing level - fantastic instructions

  • @JackWoodman
    @JackWoodman 6 років тому +4

    I think I'm the one who had all 14.... But already got rid of some, because of that video! Thanks!

  • @swingingharnessofdoom8260
    @swingingharnessofdoom8260 6 років тому +203

    I knew I sucked before but after watching your video I know I really suck! So what is the first step other than smash the guitar?

    • @TheArtofGuitar
      @TheArtofGuitar  6 років тому +104

      We've all sucked but that's what makes not sucking feel so good over time. ;)

    • @piotrbraszak3394
      @piotrbraszak3394 6 років тому +43

      A great mind once said:
      We all suck in the beginning. But sucking in the beginning is the first step to not sucking.

    • @MrDmadness
      @MrDmadness 6 років тому +2

      you learn more from failure than success.... learn from it and work... you never, ever stop learning the guitar.

    • @fazesway3110
      @fazesway3110 6 років тому +2

      Swinging Harness Of Doom dont give up or give in, you will only suck once. You can only get better from there

    • @scottcaldwell5806
      @scottcaldwell5806 6 років тому +3

      Grasshopper, you can't NOT suck, without having sucked. But knowing you suck is a big step. Lots of people just keep on sucking without even realizing it.

  • @bruce8042
    @bruce8042 5 років тому

    Your comment about playing about overthinking your playing is so true! At a certain point, you observe and get a feel for your playing instead of thinking about it.

  • @kozyraur7
    @kozyraur7 4 роки тому

    Great great video. I watch a lot of these as a guitar teacher to gain ideas and I have to say you covered a lot of excellent ground that I deal with on a daily basis. Truly appreciate this particular video more than most. Keep it up my man. Great job.

  • @wendyg1059
    @wendyg1059 2 роки тому +3

    12:30 Dude, I've been playing guitar for 31 years (professionally for 27) and I don't change my strings unless they break, lmao! Well-worn strings can give you *hella* tone, yo! Now, if one breaks I *do* change them all and start fresh; however, I don't change them every so often, as is recommended. I just don't like my guitar sounding *that* bright. 😉
    Oh, and regarding 12:50 -- learn to *not* leave your instrument sitting in the lights on the stage while you're waiting to perform. Yeah..... out of tune *real* quick, lmao! Learned that one the hard way -- thank god for bending!

  • @flwolf2000
    @flwolf2000 6 років тому +3

    A lot of good advice for beginners. I really like the one about good players/bands don't need to be overly loud to impress an audience. My advice: It's the tightness of all players in a band, beginning with bass & drums. That's what will make you good.

  • @jeremymayville6799
    @jeremymayville6799 4 роки тому +1

    Really enjoy your videos, you dont make me feel overwhelmed with things i need to practice!

  • @robbelouwet8019
    @robbelouwet8019 6 років тому

    Thanks for the tips! I started playing the guitar a few months ago and i see myself doing some of the things you point out

  • @bizarrefruit
    @bizarrefruit 6 років тому +3

    All good tips, but I don't think a strat is the best example of how tone can be sapped, clean it might have done better but I am personally a big fan of a treble cut on the neck pup with a nice drive, not all the time though of course.
    Getting to know your controls is well worth it as you said.
    Nice video, very clear.

  • @kh_guitars
    @kh_guitars 6 років тому +6

    When he played Steve Vai for the vibrato part my heart melted lol

    • @ff-qc7qy
      @ff-qc7qy 5 років тому

      What song was that?

    • @christiancorcoran5031
      @christiancorcoran5031 5 років тому

      JUKE indi pag gamita, the song is “for the love of god” by Steve Vai

  • @benjaminturney9788
    @benjaminturney9788 5 років тому

    Great video. Glad I found you. Can't argue any of your points as I'm certain I've done each of them. A few things on here such as the tone/personal instrument sound, suggestion really hit home. Thanks a bunch and nice to meet you!

  • @Top-Jimmy
    @Top-Jimmy 5 років тому

    Ive said it before, You my friend present your lessons in such a way that it is truly an Inspiration to tune into this channel, In turn, An Inspiration to pick up my Guitar and Practice. Thank You.

  • @lunarscorpio3987
    @lunarscorpio3987 5 років тому +3

    One thing about timing, don't feel disheartened when you can time the notes or chords right. I felt that way too while I was trying to play along to my favorite songs. It doesn't mean you're a terrible guitar player if you have one of these habits, it just means you're learning and progressing if you notice you're one or more of these.

  • @danielhughes3758
    @danielhughes3758 5 років тому +3

    I could add a few things I've been doing wrong almost 15 years. I found myself almost only improvising after a while, playing the same stuff over and over or just playing random stuff rather than learning from other people's solos etc. I've played a lot without a metronome and trying to play it fast right away which means it becomes sloppy. Playing random stuff also doesn't really equal practicing.

  • @kylergarcia7359
    @kylergarcia7359 5 років тому

    Great video Mike! A lot of these are things I try to tell to my friends who are just starting out. Really useful stuff.

  • @jeffhinneburg75
    @jeffhinneburg75 5 років тому

    Pressing to hard held me back for a long time; Your videos help me a great deal easy to understand. Thanks a lot.

  • @StatesEdge
    @StatesEdge 2 роки тому +6

    20 years you’ll be considered a guitar god because of how many people you’ve helped and taught

  • @DanielNester
    @DanielNester 6 років тому +3

    15:04 is my favorite part -- "actually that sounds kinda cool." :)

  • @dariusphillips9613
    @dariusphillips9613 6 років тому

    Thanks for the video. I feel like this video gives me confidence in alot of things I have been learning recently on my own. I also love your teaching method and examples

  • @jayyoutube8790
    @jayyoutube8790 3 роки тому

    That bending trick with the tuner is brilliant!!! Thanks bro

  • @Lisbonized
    @Lisbonized 6 років тому +8

    Habit #13. A useful tip I was once taught was to set your guitar strap so that it hangs the same distance whether your standing or sitting. The stuff you've practised whilst sitting will be comfortable to play standing up and not having to adjust wrist angle etc and struggling because the guitar is now too low. Hope that makes sense!

    • @elliotskunk
      @elliotskunk 5 років тому +1

      nah bro that'll look bouukey it's best to just practice both. At least via practicing both you will get a better feel of the guitar

  • @michaelluczak3019
    @michaelluczak3019 6 років тому +2

    Good points.

  • @jeremiemartin5273
    @jeremiemartin5273 5 років тому

    I played for 9 years now and those tips made me learn man, I think every guitarists should see this video 👍