How to play play BEHIND THE BEAT!

[@LeeJHodgson]

I'm fascinated by this concept. I used to read Guitar Player magazine religiously and various teachers would occasionally talking about laying back at times - as if it were a decisive thing to do and a desirable thing, too. I can hear how, for example, American drummers tend to lay back (e.g. Don Henley's snare drum as felt on 'Take it to the Limit' by Eagles, or maybe the straighter 'Desperado'). I was convinced it was something that a pro (session) player should be able to control and deploy on demand or at will. But..... About 10 years ago Anthony Jackson came to the ICMP along with Mike Stern - nice little duo! Anyway, I asked a question of Anthony in front of all the students: I summarised how I'd read how a musician should be able to stretch and compress the feel, thus manifesting noticeably different grooves", but Anthony gave a mildly disapproving look and uttered, in a god-like manner: "In Time, All of the Time!" I didn't argue or question His Master's Voice. Perhaps he had a very fixed perspective as a bass player - and let's not forget that he's one of the most respected bass players on the planet; but, I still think there's a time and a place for what you so masterfully demonstrated. Some modern players talk of "broken" rhythms. There's a fine line between laid back and out of time! You nailed it! (With a hard rubber nail.)

[@ddrummer1821]

It's cool your "on" is actually slightly behind, and the behind was like the exaggeration. Must be nice to have that natural pocket, very well played!

[@leosgf]

I came to say the same thing. He’s a natural.

[@jacktaylorguitarist]

I have been looking for this type of video lesson for over 5 years, thank you SO much.

[@SamBellGuitar]

Great lesson! Something I need to work on in my playing for sure. Great demonstrations. It really adds life to the parts. And its free! No pedals required!

[@BigEdWo]

i think i found a great channel

[@paolozak3014]

thanks a lot, this is essential. Would be nice to show how to rush and when it is cool to play in front of the beat as well… and mix rush & laid back, as Chad Smith is very good at

[@owencooper1360]

Best demo of this concept I’ve found - thank you

[@CliffieVanR]

Thank you! This is the very first time I’ve been able to clearly here playing behind the beat.

[@bjerkely12]

How great it is to find the information you're looking for is actually very well explained on UA-cam by your favorite guitarist just a few hours ago :) thank you Rob, coming across your channel on YT was great, please keep your videos coming!

[@danielcebeira7469]

awesome!! most recent musicians need to learn that oldschool tips

[@guitarsandcats4685]

Great lesson! Thank you so much

[@valeriorinaldi]

Thanks for your tips, Rob! Regards from Buenos Aires!

[@violentlysick1995]

Thank you so much, Rob!

[@RobHarrisGuitar]

Aaron Aldous you’re welcome. Thank you for checking it out.

[@thejamifan-os4oh]

I’m a keys player but lovin your videos especially this, I’m gonna experiment laying it back 👍🏻 cheers

[@Pughhead]

Very interesting concept, I notice vocalists doing this too

[@alexvillalba5167]

Thanks t .....great lesson

[@mitchelwolput6552]

Great video!

[@TiagoFrancomusic]

Reall really cool! Thanks!

[@ghromm1]

THANK YOU VERY MUCH GREAT VIDEO LAYD BACK

[@RobHarrisGuitar]

You’re welcome

[@MrOdissea1978]

Really Helpful! Thanks :)

[@RobHarrisGuitar]

Crisafulli Giangiacomo you’re welcome.

[@BARTFUNKBASS]

Thx!

[@ricomajestic]

How about an example where you are ahead of the beat.

[@johnknight9150]

Unless you know what you're doing and are going for something very specific, you generally want to have the drummer play behind and the guitar out front.

[@Gizzmo77]

I find once you're in a groove behind the beat, it's difficult to play back on the beat :)

[@RobHarrisGuitar]

Eddie Grice it’s a way of life sometimes.

[@SirMan48]

You would have loved playing with John Bonham, huh.

[@joelouisx1]

That's play in the pocket, correct me if I'm wrong

[@guidomendez626]

Great video!

[@RobHarrisGuitar]

Guido Méndez thanks