Mozart started composing at age 4. Holdsworth was given his first guitar at 17. Tchaikovsky started music lessons at age 21. Brahms didn’t reach success until his late 30’s. Cézanne didn’t achieve success until his 50’s. When I was a young lad at uni, a retired bus driver sat next to me, finally pursuing his dream of composing music. Four years later, he gave his senior recital with his amazing compositions. I met a 90 year old woman who played wonderful piano. She started at age 70. It’s not your age, it’s your desire.
Im 26 (pretty young huh, lol), I have always been into playing guitar since I was 8, but then, I finished college, got my first job, and since then, I never have the time and oppotunity to practice or even noodle around. I really appreciate you sharing this amazing stories. I will start again and chase this dream of mine. God bless stay safe everyone.
When I was a child, my father quoted Mark Twain when he said to me "Comparison is the death of joy". That little mantra has served me well for nearly 50 years.
Yes, you are not fully in the presence while judging and ranking. It seems to be an addiction to people with an inferiority complex. They can put themselves in a role of power - the power to judge.
A few more Mark Twain quotes “The hardest year of marriage is the one your in” “ Politicians are like diaper, they should be changed often and for the same reason” “ The more people I meet the more I like my dog”
I totally agree. Remembering for instance that Rory Galagher wasn't technically the best guitar player at the face of the earth but when he got on stage he was just an incredible musician and that's why his Studio albums weren't so interesting as the live ones.
"Music is not a sport" - Yngwie J. Malmsteen. "I don't believe in music competitions, we are not horses". - French composer Claude Debussy. - You are the best guitarist in the world. - Nawww ! - One of the best ? - How about : The best guitarist on this chair ? - Jimi Hendrix
@@RideAcrossTheRiver Yeah, that's a shame. The guy grew up, just like anyone else, i suppose. I've seen him play swedish folk music with a very fat, very bald individual and there was friendship, complicity there... I've said some really stupid things about other musicians in my youth too - Thanks god i've never been a celeb so nobody took notice...
I've played the guitar for 55 years. It's been my companion. At my age I have no future dreams, just take life one day at a time with my companion, the guitar.
Surely it IS about being the best ... the best YOU can possibly be, the best version of yourself. I've always pushed for excellence, that's all you can ever really do.
@@jzf128 The noodling kept me from really enjoying the guitar and making music. It’s obvious now that I’m learning more. I didn’t realize it then. I appreciate the encouragement, and good luck to you too.
@@thruxtonvalrico67 I stopped my lessons about one year ago and my knowledge and playing has really plateaued as a result. Keep it up! Having a good teacher is huge
Noone really knows where they're going at 24 mate. My most interesting friends still don't know where they're going at 40! Do things everyday that make you happy.
Playing the guitar literally saved my life a few times. It was my only constant, my only means of retaining my sanity during very low points of my existence. It was the only way I could express myself when all other methods failed. It got me through the rough times and I am grateful to have a lifelong love affair with this magical instrument.
Couldn't agree more. Think I'm about same age as Dan and guitars and songwriting have been part of my life since I was a young teen. What Dan says here is sooooo important when we are overwhelmed with information (and pedals - I blame Dan and Mick lol) that it can remove the joy, as you mention, from just playing your instrument and making music. Being drunk at 18 and playing Velvet Underground covers with sunglasses on at midnight in a club was a complete blast. Who cares if I didn't know a single guitar scale - it was fun. You have a lifetime to learn more and get better. You'll never be "the best" because no-one ever is "the best", BUT you can have the best time imaginable with your clothes on (and with any luck you might find someone who wants to remove them off you after the gig lol). Also... you ARE a real musician already. You play music. That's the carefully guarded secret that we all wish more people realised. Be it for your own pleasure or for 50,000 - when you make music, you are doing something magical 😊🤘🤘🤘
I have some good news for you friend. Everytime you play a guitar...You are a real muscian. You may not be a professional musician and get paid for playing songs. None the less you are a real musician.
In my opinion this may be the most important video you’ve ever made Dan. Your authentic love for the guitar is infectious and I for one really appreciate you sharing your story here. All the best to you !
I’ve been basically a bedroom guitarist for 35+ years. There’s not a day goes by when I don’t pick up a guitar. I get stuck in ruts, play the same stuff..... but then I’ll hear something that fires me up and stokes that fire. In recent years my tastes have become more mellow / melodic and I’ve discovered (or rediscovered) Julian Lage, Junior Watson, Whit Smith..... these guys just blow me away and keep me wanting to develop. It’s also worth mentioning that you don’t have to be the best musician or able to play at speed to make some of the best music. Some of the best songs out there are incredibly simple.
My opinion: there are incredible players out there who can play things less than one percent of even the guitar playing population could ever play...and I wouldn't walk across the street to hear them play. I can't even sit through a five minute UA-cam video of them.
Most of those, well, probably all just wank everywhere over the neck and really is just semi-melodic noise devoid of feeling, touch, personality - as exhibited by the ones he showed.
There’s no emotion in shredding, it reduces perhaps the greatest mode of human expression into an athletic feat. Shit, a two chord Beat Happening song where they’re drumming on a bucket is a million times more listenable than these schmoes in the intro.
For years I’ve replied to students when asked how they are doing compared to other students - “the only person to compare yourself to is yesterday’s you.” Some days you’ll be better than yesterday. Some days you’ll be worse. Some, the same. Enjoy your good days, don’t get discouraged by the others.
Exactly!. It also applies for me for personal sports-health-fitness. There'a always going to be people better than us, so everyday I focus and think "the only person I'm competing with is with myself"
@Robert i agree 100% to compare yourself to other guitarist can be so disappointing so i compare myself to yesterday or a few hours ago and im happy and getting better by the day (learning on you tube)
I recrntly fell in to this hole; had a good progress and start to ruin it when i compare myself to other. Suddenly i force myself to be better to the point where it is not even fun. Only recently i have gotten out of that rut
@@christophergarrido2802 I'd never heard that Vai quote either. I remember him saying in a magazine interview in the mid nineties, that be was obsessed with perfection, even if it took him "100 takes".
It is always weird to read a quote like that from someone who is pretty darn successful. I mean would a homeless shmoe who once played guitar for a minute say such a thing? I get the love of music in and of it's self, but success does help pay a few bills.
At 71 and 56 years into playing guitar I still love playing guitar and still fight the self critic in me. I think that voice has less influence over me now than it used to. Yes, I can play, and no, I'll never be great. But I can't imaging not playing as long as I am able and I loved hearing your earnest words, Dan. Thanks for sharing.
Nice to hear you! Thanks for showing up and representing. I have more guitars than I “know” songs for. 69, retired, haven’t played for 4 hour over the last year, but not sweating it. Since COVID isolation, I’ve been the best/fastest (and worst/slowest) guitar in the room. Church folks appreciate _any_ guitarist in the room, that cares about the song. I don’t take my self-criticism seriously. I can get lost in the sound of any bit I play. The things I can imagine interest me, not what others can execute. I give it a 👏🏾and might steal a thing from it. I lack attention span, “squirrel”! Dan, I am glad for you, that you get all this appreciation for your outlook and counsel.
Music is art not athletics. Guthrie is my favorite guitarist but only guitarist or professional musicians know who he is. However you can sweep pick and play a million notes and it doesn’t have much or any feeling, yet Stevie Ray Vaughan can bend one note and get so much feeling out of it. There is a place for everyone who loves music. You don’t need to be the best prog rock/metal musician to write a catchy song.
@@richardaaron4454 you're right I know people who can talk for one hour and not say anything if you know what I mean the same with guitarist they play so fast which I'm envious of but they're not really saying anything
@@sglee4708 99% of hit songs are catchy and not very difficult to play, there are of course a few exceptions. Now if playing the fastest is your goal then go for it but that’s not what the average person cares about, they care about connecting with a feeling and emotions which we as musicians are able to form into music. All you need is basic musical knowledge and determination to make it big if that is your goal. However I’d like to believe most of compose or play music because it’s part of us and we love doing it. I felt I was born to do it. I’ve been lucky enough to play many shows on drums or guitar. That was enough for me. Now I sit at home practicing guitar, writing music and recording all for myself but one day I might distribute it. I’d really like to produce for other bands though. I’ve found a lot of happiness in helping other bands improve their songs and help them arrange them.
Thanks for this Dan! A fantastic story, and inspiration in its own right to just focus on doing it for the love of it and the feeling that playing music brings to the player.
As a 35yr guitar veteran, and someone that is still regularly gigging, I've had this EXACT conversation many times with new players. In the era of YT, there's no longer legit ego to be had. All that's left is, do you love it enough to keep doing it? I do. :)
So true what you say ... I am 52 years old, only a year ago I started playing the guitar, not really to learn to play an instrument, and not to learn music, I wanted to learn to play (even if only a little) the songs that marked me in my childhood and youth, songs that made me happy, or that I like. It is a pleasure, difficult to describe, when little by little (generally very little by little) the notes come out, the riffs, the songs. I don't need to make it perfect, but I always try to improve, I don't need to be better than others, nor do I need to compare myself to anyone, I just need to be happy and the guitar makes me happy. Greetings from Spain.
I started at 59! 60 now and I am really enjoying it!!! I think I have tapped into something that was hidden for my life, and just need to relax and enjoy the process. My daughter, who's a musician in college is giving me guitar lessons!!! We played some blues last night!!!
I played for twenty years, similar story to yours; finally quit altogether in disgust with the industry. 15 years later, I picked up my dad's (deceased) acoustic for 2 minutes, thereby reigniting my passion; since then I play 3 hours a day, 5 days a week, and have collected all my gear back. I love playing more than breathing, don't care if I ever make dime doing it. Thanks Dan for sharing your story.
Love the back story Dan. I'm reminded that it took me 35 or more years of hating that I couldn't play certain things that my peers could. And then, in my current band, I heard a couple of them referring to my contribution to our songs as the "Jon Sound" and it finally registered. At some point I stopped trying to do the things I couldn't, and got really good at the things I can. A star is born? Hardly, but a good guitar player was developed through perseverance, and no longer comparing. I've always looked for opportunities to be the worst player in the room. There's so much to learn! Thanks for this 'vlog, Dan, it gave me a shot of encouragement.
What a powerful message Dan. I've been fiddling with guitar for more than 30 years. I'm good enough that my non guitar friends are impressed but next to a really good player I'd say I'm average. The self doubt and embarrasent always takes over when I sit next to a great player and I feel like a kid in front of his class trying to give a speech while staring at his shoes. Thank you for this perspective Dan.
Totally relate. I too have over 30 years on the instrument. In fact, it appears I picked up guitar around the same time John Mayer did, from a bio I read online. He took it far more seriously that I did back in the late 80s/early 90s, but I eventually started taking it seriously. No where close to Mayer still, but I’m better than I was. I love playing. Play at church, play in my bedroom. Hang at Guitar Center and play there. I’m shocked whenever I get GC compliments, lol. I usually just play chordal stuff with leads tossed in.
Same here, playing for 30 years, You're not alone in your ''self doubt and embarrassment'' in relation to better players. I often say that if I could, every day of the week, have the choice of being able to sleep with any woman of my choosing or be a much more talented guitar player, I'd take the latter.......well.....most days anyway, and I'm serious about that.
Thank you so much for the inspirational speech, my man! I've been playing for 39 years, and I absolutely love playing. It's something I'm very decent at it, but I let drugs get in the way for many, many years. I'm sober now, but I wished I would've pursued it as a career. I think that I'm a bit too old now at 51 to make it in the biz, but I'm still gonna play for my enjoyment. It's the only thing that I've truly been decent at and love. Thanks again, and keep on Rocking! 🎼♥🎸🎵
I play guitar and collect pedals, amps and guitars as a hobby. The good thing about hobbys is.....you don't have to be good at it.Just relax and have fun with your hobby. Some day you end up playing in a Band with some friends...and having even more fun. Or not.! Happy easter to everybody!
It should never be about whether or not you're a "good enough" guitarist. It should be about whether or not you're good to yourself or not. Be good to yourself. You're a person first and a guitar player second. Be true to yourself, enjoy the process and be happy knowing you are enjoying the greatest hobby the world has to offer and you can enjoy it for the rest of your life.
Absolutely, Joe! Well said. There are times when I'm frustrated by my guitar playing, or lack of knowledge or progress, but I can't imagine what life would be without it. It's a gift that I appreciate every day.
...someone said: “it’s when the student is ready that the teacher appears”...I want to say that I needed to see this vlog right here and right now...thank you Dan..
Dan, Of all the thousands of hours of videos you have graced us with, this video has had the greatest impact on me. The timing of running across this video could not have any more perfect. Long story short... I literally put my guitar down yesterday in utter anger and frustration because I am just not playing at the level I would expect myself to be at after playing as many years as I have. My recordings sounded horrible to me. Until hour ago, I had no intention on taking any of my guitars out of their cases for what I anticipated to be months or maybe years, I was that frustrated with myself. A very tearful Thank You for reminding me of what is most important. Thank you!!!
Dick Cavett to Jimi Hendrix “Some say you are the best guitar player in the world.” Jimi’s response “No. How about the best sitting in this chair.” Jimi knew it was all about the love of playing and not trying to be the best in the world.
No one would want that pressure anyway. He would never be able to just experiment and go crazy like he did. If he had to always play better than everyone else every gig and song he recorded.
I love Jimi's ability to embellish and break down chords like in Little Wing. Incorporating rhythm in your solo playing and solos in your rhythm playing like him are key.
Guitar/Music is subjective anyway. Some of the most simple things I play on guitar are the BEST to my ears. Having said that, I've been striving and challenging myself almost daily for 38 years to get better. Do licks and phrases that are interesting but they give me trouble. Therefore it becomes a hurdle I want to clear.
@@stricknine8623 I feel you man. I been playing for 23 and was able to play quite a few decent songs and a few solos pretty well. But mostly the same old rock and blues licks and riffs over and over in a rut for 20 years. The past 6 months I forced myself to practice 1-2 hours a day on stuff I could never play. Paul Gilbert DVDs, frank gambale DVDs, malmsteen tab books of the whole album. Shred and sweep picking scales. Over and over. By 6 months in I was already playing whole malmsteen songs, Paul Gilberts DVD and gambales all the way through to 95% perfection and now getting through Jason Becker songs with insane sweep sections. I actually couldn't believe I got that good, I thought it was for special gifted players, turns out it was just forcing myself to practice and work bloody hard
I'm watching this video for the second time. I'm 63 and have played guitar since I was 15, but I was never around other musicians and never got a chance to play in a band, or even learned how that might be possible for me. But it has given me lots of joy anyway. Sometimes I feel a bit down about where I am as a musician but your perspective on things really picks me up and encourages me to keep going.
Thank you for this Dan. In the last few years I've realised I'm never going to be the lead guitarist, but I'm a great rhythm guitarist. I know my place in a live mix, in the song. I'm a solid sponge in a fancy cake.
I am the only one playing an instrument in my family, and seing my friends having piano lessons and parents who play guitar, drums...I was a bit jealous ! But I turned this into a strength, being the first to open the path to other musicians!! Even though I will never be SRV or Gilmour, playing voodoo child or Lenny poorly put a smile on my face, and it’s enough for me !! As Dan said, enjoying the instrument you play is what matters at the end !!!
The chase kills the passion! I'm rarely the best guitarist in the room and I have stopped trying to be. Once you accept this is how I play, this is my gear, then you find your style and your sound
I've always found that there are 3 pillars of playing music: "the musician" (technically talented), "the artist" (the creative bit), and "the entertainer" (the style part/attitude). Playing music, we all have some mix of these, sometimes unconsciously
I will be sharing this with my students. Too many "influencers" give a very bad impression of what is actually practical and worth pursuing. I know kids who cannot hold down a basic rhythm guitar part but want to skip that and go straight to virtuoso techniques.
As we all do until we learn, - it pays to work through methodically,- but hey! Its fun we all desire and escapism and dreams, those distractions from the hard grind that inspire and ignite the flame of our imagination, this leads us to artistic achievement, so Graham love em and have the patience with them that you obviously had when you learned how to be a teacher.
I think I suck. I've been playing for nearly 30 years but can't play lead. I'm a rhythm guitarist. Other people though think I need to stop knocking myself because I'm expressive and melodic. I am always trying to learn more outside my box but my hands and head just can't coordinate on super fast phrasing for solos.
@@joellebrodeur1015 Joelle I too have been playing for over 30 years, and truth be known can't play lead or rhythm, so I guess I'm just a plonker and if you can bear to listen to such a failure, I only have this to say I am happy most of the time at my plonking, that's the best I can manage, I still dream and hope and listen with admiration to people like Dan and Mick and all those other wonderfully talented people, and don't beat myself up about it all being so unfair, so I guess that's my talent being a good loser, I mean anyone can be a good winner, Ps I notice you say other people notice you are expressive and melodic, maybe you should just record yourself and then one day after resting from all you're practising, pull your recording out and just listen to yourself uncritically hey you might just be pretty good like others say. Sometimes the most talented of us are the most self doubting and hard on themselves, I know this to be true because my son who is beautifully musically talented suffers greatly from this, and it hurts to watch you're loved ones suffer so unnecessarily, be kind to yourself regards Tom Adair
I’m nearly 73, and I joined my first band aged 16. My first thought was “if I haven’t made it by the time I’m 30, I’ll pack it in.” I still haven’t “made it” and of course now never will - do I care? Nooooooo! Have I packed it in? Nooooooo! Why? I realised years ago exactly what you’re saying Dan, that I just absolutely LOVE playing the guitar - and although over the years I’ve had spells where I’ve been pro, mostly the gigs have been in pubs & clubs to a few hundred people at most, but when the band plays great, & the punters love it, there’s no better feeling in the world, so why would you ever stop? Now my grandson’s starting on the same journey at age 17 & him & his band are writing their own stuff - brilliant! I know he’s going to LOVE it and I’m so happy for him. I’ll point him at this vlog so he realises early on that it’s just about loving it, it ain’t a contest, Thanks Dan!
As a late bloomer this really hits home lol. I was told by my high school students that I was too old to learn how to play guitar and before that I was told by my middle school band director that I was too old to join the band in high school ! Music is a life long journey and we should embrace that aspect instead of trying to master everything quickly. The joy comes from discovery and learning how express yourself through your instrument.
Well said! I’ve been going through this and came to the same conclusion. For the first time in years I have enjoyed practising and getting better for myself and focusing on things I enjoy rather then stressing to be the best whatever that is!
There you go carl,, that the way to see it, who is better at what is hard to say, this person can do things that one can't, but oh yeah can you do this, it never ends, that's why I love guitar because it's so personal each and every one of us has our own little nuances, and sound that's unique to only that person, and it's a wonderful thing,
I needed to hear this. I've been playing for 45 years. I'll never be great. But, I am good. I'm a truck driver and everywhere I go an HSS American Strat and a micro cube amp goes with me. I do love playing and I believe it helps me maintain my sanity.
I needed this. So many times I’ve just thought “you’re never gonna be a rockstar why even try”. Then ran into some pretty dark times. Picked it back up and now I’m positive playing guitar literally saved my life. Do it for the love of the music and instrument. I’ve been so much happier since I stopped comparing myself to all the great guitarists
Dan, this most definitely saved my day. Almost made me cry. I came out from a lesson with my brilliant guitar teacher and after 41 years of playing I felt like I had 5 thumbs on my left hand. Your brilliant video explained perfectly why I shouldn't chop up all my guitars for firewood. Thanks and Happy Easter!
Just be yourself. It's what all the most successful people did and it's usually more interesting. I should add that I was a little die hard shredder in the 90s and absolutely no one would have me in their band, so the only way I could play out was to hide it as many others did. Shredding today is fun and all but it is rarely music normal people want to hear unless it's disguised as math rock or something "ironic". Being yourself is very frightening to most people but when you drop the mask and truly express your true self, there's simply nothing more rewarding and fulfilling.
It’s not about being good, it’s about finding your own “voice” and it’s about what you have to “say” and “contribute”. It’s all about being YOU. “Good”...is subjective.
How many great guitarist have written great songs? Extremely few! There are phenomenal unknown guitarists, unknown song writers etc.. and it all means nothing to the world but to the individual who creates out of just the joy of it, that is everything! There is also no age limit to dive into music or anything else. Really nice of Dan to share his story with us!
I lost so many years thinking that I would never be good enough, so there was no reason to practice. Playing with others was unthinkable. The same belief held me back also in other hobbies and professional pursuits.
I can relate to some of this. I'm 50 and I started playing 10 years ago. I will never shred or play crazy fast but that is not my goal. But looking at others and what they can do and you can't will bring you down. I feel that half the guitar community is toxic. Quick to put others down and be critical. I'm glad I came across a number of people in real life and online that were encouraging or I'm sure that I would have given up a long time ago. Thank you for the encouraging words.
"Don't compare" is very good advice for guitar playing, but also for life in general. There's always someone somewhere who's better than you at something, and it does not matter.
It's nice to hear this story. Art is expression, having a fancy vocabulary doesn't mean that you have a great story to tell. Once you are the best, where is there to go? Constant improvement brings me joy every time I play.
No kidding. When I was growing up, I knew there were good guitarists everywhere. Now days, seeing a million people on youtube that can shred circles around the pros is insane. More than once I have had a 'why do I even bother' moment after watching people.
Dan, that was a brilliant talk from the heart of a life well-lived. You’ve directed us from the shallows of the ego into the depths of the heart. Thank you!
Thanks Dan. Guitarists are a “certain breed”. I believe that they are sensitive souls who have a deep connection with the gift they have, but also are acutely aware of their limitations. But we all LOVE the instrument and you’re bang on in that we should not compare ourselves. There is only ONE of each of us. There will never be another like each of us. Each is unique and incredibly important in our own little circle of friends and beyond. I really enjoy your playing and your personality Dan. So grateful to see and hear you.
I worked in my brother's music store in the early-to-mid seventies, and I remember a country dude, not a young cat, take a guitar off the wall and stoop down to the floor and do that tapping stuff ... that early. It definitely did not sound like he looked. Amazingly, the guitar is all things to each person ... the most flexible and willing instrument ever made. Literally, God's gift to humankind. I had ZILCH talent when I started playing. Yet I loved it so much, that I became a respectable player who was able to pay his way through junior college and Florida State University with it, which opened all kinds of doors for me. It literally was my way out of poverty ...
As a young doctor getting back into music after a few years busy hitting the books, Thanks Dan for the great stories and such a wonderful message! You reminded me why we all do it. :)
Dan, years ago, my songwriter friend and I were with a studio manager when my friend mentioned taking lessons to become a better guitar player, our buddy laughed , having been in music since the early 60s and said I can throw a rock and hit a great guitar player, keep writing songs. His message was do what YOU do. BB King made it work with one note most of the time. Thanks for the message. My mantra is "there's ALWAYS someone better than me, HA! " P.S. After seeing Michael Hedges the first time, I threatened to turn my Martin into a coffee table. HA!
You don't even need to play that well to make good music. Ability to write songs, melodies, compose music etc. is more important. And in my opinion the most important thing is to have a personality, being creative, etc. If you don't have a story to tell or you are a boring person you probably won't make good music. That's why good music often comes from personal tragedies or other kind of strong emotions. And that's why a lot of "music theory/guitar youtubers" can't make good music themselves.
Grew up in a restrictive house and had a limited set of influences early on. Opened my ears to a wider world when I started playing at 15, but perhaps had that same ill-founded confidence that you mentioned. 31 years later, I am feeling more fully developed as a player but these kids are incredible. I noticed that what you said about Eddie is true. When he passed I challenged myself to maintain my love for the instrument, as that is the exact way to reach an audience. This is the point of music, in my opinion. Edit: By reach I mean to connect with.
This is very inspiring. Actually made me cry. I am not the best guitar player amongst my bandmates and friends but the love of playing it everyday makes my life fulfilled. I am currently at my worst situation in my life but music and faith in God keeps me going. Without those two, I would not know what would have happened in my life. Thank you Dan for sharing.
Dan, this piece--a wonderful companion to your body of work--speaks volumes about why you are indeed one of the all-time greats. Your road has brought you to this place where so many of us are moved by your talent, your knowledge, and your kind spirit. I drift off most nights listening to you and Mick chatting away, much like my childhood habit of drifting off to the radio. "Sanctuary" is a word that springs to mind. "Legend" is another. Thanks, Dan. You are both.
I needed to hear this today. I'm 44, and I've been playing for 27 years, both professionally and for fun depending on the season of life I'm in. Sometimes I start feeling like I'm too old to keep creating music. I know its not true, but but hearing your story today helped me a lot. Thanks for sharing.
Your song "Hey Tom" is excellent! I love how you referenced Tom's songs many times in your lyrics. Very clever. Very well put together in all aspects. 👍👍
I thought i was the only one who grew up with a parent who restricted all modern music. Its great to hear how you conquered it. For those of us who didn't have access to music at an early age it almost makes finally exploring all this music that much more exciting to discover.
Gotta tell ya, mate...don’t know how or why I came across your vid - but, WTF! Your subliminal message here is the golden recipe on not just playing guitar, but clearly the implication is a first- person testament on the benefit that comes from living a happy/joy-filled life! Whew! Glad I stuck around till the end. A well-timed, human contribution at a time when something like this is profoundly needed....especially for us idled, depressed & dispirited musicians out there. Thank you, my friend.
Absolutely, Dan! Thanks for the encouragement. I promised myself when I started four years ago -- at the age of 55 -- that I would check myself if I ever found I was comparing myself to others or thinking "I'm not where I'm supposed to be". I play guitar for the joy of it, to use God-given abilities to both honor the one who gave them to me, and to have FUN! BTW, respectfully, though I am a man of faith, I would never discourage or forbid my children in their desire to explore all music genres! "Music is Elemental"!
Author Wayne Dyer gave this little bit of advice in regard to his success. Always be "willing" to do the work, even if it may not get done, be "willing" instead of just saying NO. I've done this in my work life and it has always paid off, even if I wasn't the best. Yes, a lovely story, I enjoyed listening and learning,.
Does anyone know where the quote “the most amazing things can happen if you just show up for work”. ? My favorite Mr. Myagi quote: “best way not get hit, not be there”.... twisting that round, “best way to not get that gig, not be there”. 👍🏾👍🏾 to yes opens more doors than no.
I used to live about a block away from Around Midnite at that time. And one night, around midnight btw,......David Gilmour himself was in there alone, towards the back and sitting at the grand piano there tinkering.
@KomodoDragon You said it right there! I find shredding too complex and boring. There is a difference between a good musician and an artist. An artist can make a simple song good! And, look at all of the different musicians and genres birthed from The Stooges and Spacemen 3.....Both bands are probably in my top 5 favorites btw!
Thank you. I really needed to be reminded of all the things you said. I'm in the midst of a major transition and the fear and doubt does not serve me. I love playing and writing music and have known I was going to do this since I was 3 or 4 years old (50 now). At one time, I too viewed music as some sort of competition, but eventually I realized that I play because I love to play, it feeds my soul and hearing another pro say that is all I need to justify my career choice has helped me immensely. Thank you again. Be well brother. PEACE !
finally the whole story from Dan! I loved watching you talk through your career and the fun you had and have. you and mick are an inspiration! thanks for all the time you put in all the videos!!!
Thank you for sharing that, kind of needed that shift in thinking. I suck at guitar playing but somehow, the complicated, too-good-for-me pedals that I acquire brings me hours of enjoyment.
Yes! I agree 100%. It’s about enjoying playing guitar for you. Also I see a lot of comments on UA-cam about a player with good equipment not being good enough for it. That’s nonsense. If you enjoy it then that’s good enough. Great video Dan.
Those 'epic guitar players' are as relevant to good music as the world's fastest painters are to art. You're a good player who's had a career most of us could only dream of. This is humblebragging for the most part.
Well, at 73 years of age and 59 years worth of playing, I am as good as I'm going to be and that's good enough for me! I just enjoy creating melody lines and getting as much tonality and feeling out of each note, that I can. Drive fast while you can and while you want to; but the real magic is making melodic music that connects with your gizzard!
Dan, @Tonetwisters, reaching our age is an achievement, period! Enjoy each day, you can’t get it back. We are younger than we will ever be again. How I feel by moment is gaining ground on how much I can do.
@@Ton7Tube Yessir! As someone who has had continuous ill health for the last 15.5 years, I am happy for anyone who can walk without pain and enjoy life, whatever good thing it is that they enjoy doing. I drive down the road (last thing I can do, it seems) and watch people walking, and I say out loud, "Wish I could do that!" and I change it to, "Thank you Lord, that I WILL do that, soon!" NeuroMD for bad backs. Hope to feel much younger in a few months!
I've been playing for 25 years and I'm still terrible! I don't really care. I'm just happy to be able to play guitar. All the shredders don't bother me. I think it's great people can play like that, and I really enjoy listening to people like Paul Gilbert, Joe Satriani, etc. but I also really enjoy much simpler music where the guitar player can play three chords and make some really great music. It doesn't matter. Music isn't a competition. Just have fun. I'd love to be able to shred but all the guys who do that practice hours and hours every day, and I just don't have the time or desire to do that. It doesn't sound fun, and if guitar wasn't fun I'd quit.
When I was a kid, everything music came so easily. After a very long bout with drug addiction that brought on depression and anxiety I rarely picked up an instrument. Now at age 40 and playing music for fun I’m feeling like myself again, like a kid ;) Thank you for this, as I realize so much time was lost, I have to constantly remind myself that I still have time ahead of me. Thanks again!
Thank you Dan and everyone in the comments for all these great words of encouragement 😊 I was raised religiously as well, so I understand the struggle of finding/developing your own taste when you aren't allowed to make your own decisions.
All my favourite songs are rock and pop tunes. I find shredding just unmusical. The simple rule is this: you technical ability should always match your musical knowledge, which needs to match your artisitry and creativity. Most shredders are like typist or bruce lee who only know how to punch wooden blocks.
@@tdang9528 true, I have only know a few typists that could punch things other than wooden blocks.....LOL I get what you mean. Some times a million notes jammed into a microsecond is good, other times a single note, bent and held for just the right amount of time is the 'thing'
When I stopped trying to be good enough, I realized I was good enough to be me. I don't sound like anyone else; and that's OK. I sound like ME. You know what? I can live with that.
Couldn't agree more. When I listen to the great artists, I don't get the impression that any of these individuals ever cried themselves to sleep because they didn't sound like some other guy.
I hear ya! I've been playing for 40 years and will never, ever be able to 'shred' like some of the hatchlings I see on UA-cam. And that's more than fine. If I'm honest, shredding bores me to tears. And yet, I spent God knows how much time trying to learn to play legato before it finally hit me - 'why am I trying to learn a style I have zero interest in playing?'. So, back to the blues rock I went and have been happy ever since. I subscribe to a teaching site called 'Learning Guitar Now' and the guy who runs that is incredible. He can say more in three notes than shred nation can manage in 3 million. What's my advice to new players? learn to play the music you love, well, and stop worrying about becoming 'the best'. It doesn't exist.
If someone says they like the music you are playing ,that is all you need. Just one person. If that one person is you ,that also is enough for the moment.
You just had to have someone slicing onions somewhere in the background! :) I've been playing guitar for about 35 years. I used to be OK but I left it for quite some time. Now, I'm getting back into it. I don't ever imagine being in a band, but just to ring out a good sound now and again will never grow old! Cheers Dan!!
Mozart started composing at age 4. Holdsworth was given his first guitar at 17. Tchaikovsky started music lessons at age 21. Brahms didn’t reach success until his late 30’s. Cézanne didn’t achieve success until his 50’s. When I was a young lad at uni, a retired bus driver sat next to me, finally pursuing his dream of composing music. Four years later, he gave his senior recital with his amazing compositions. I met a 90 year old woman who played wonderful piano. She started at age 70. It’s not your age, it’s your desire.
Im 26 (pretty young huh, lol), I have always been into playing guitar since I was 8, but then, I finished college, got my first job, and since then, I never have the time and oppotunity to practice or even noodle around. I really appreciate you sharing this amazing stories. I will start again and chase this dream of mine. God bless stay safe everyone.
great comment !!
Love this!
Gary, that helped me. I'm in my 70s looking to quit construction, and spend more time on music. Or, I will be mad at myself on my deathbed.
I’ve given lessons to people in their teens and in their 70s. If something gives you joy, at any age, don’t ignore it, but pursue it.
When I was a child, my father quoted Mark Twain when he said to me "Comparison is the death of joy". That little mantra has served me well for nearly 50 years.
That’s fantastic 🤓🙏
Yes, you are not fully in the presence while judging and ranking. It seems to be an addiction to people with an inferiority complex. They can put themselves in a role of power - the power to judge.
Amazing quote, Barney. Gonna keep that one.
A few more Mark Twain quotes
“The hardest year of marriage is the one your in”
“ Politicians are like diaper, they should be changed often and for the same reason”
“ The more people I meet the more I like my dog”
@scott matthews Hah! Maybe dwelling on comparison. A little bit of comparing is healthy I think....
A great musician friend said to me before a gig, “Don’t be great. Be musical.” That’s been my drive since.
Very wise words... thank you!
I totally agree. Remembering for instance that Rory Galagher wasn't technically the best guitar player at the face of the earth but when he got on stage he was just an incredible musician and that's why his Studio albums weren't so interesting as the live ones.
You can't put it shorter!
That is possibly the most motivational talk to any guitarist who is struggling to believe in their potential.
🤓🙏
I’ve already watched it multiple times haha
"Music is not a sport" - Yngwie J. Malmsteen.
"I don't believe in music competitions, we are not horses". - French composer Claude Debussy.
- You are the best guitarist in the world.
- Nawww !
- One of the best ?
- How about : The best guitarist on this chair ? - Jimi Hendrix
I am the best guitarist that has ever lived....in this particular room, in this particular house...
......also the only guitarist........
Yeah, Yngwie slagging jazz players, 1986: "all their half-bald heads and their fucking glasses." How about that?
@@RideAcrossTheRiver Yeah, that's a shame. The guy grew up, just like anyone else, i suppose. I've seen him play swedish folk music with a very fat, very bald individual and there was friendship, complicity there...
I've said some really stupid things about other musicians in my youth too - Thanks god i've never been a celeb so nobody took notice...
@@francoislecanadien1710 He was 23 in 1986--utterly an adult. Good that Malmsteen _finally_ grew up.
I've played the guitar for 55 years. It's been my companion. At my age I have no future dreams, just take life one day at a time with my companion, the guitar.
Beautiful
What a wonderful outlook, awesome.
"Being the best is not where great art lives." So true. Art lives off imperfections.
Most significant inventions, many scientific discoveries, and loads of great music started with, “Hmm, now that’s interesting...”
Surely it IS about being the best ... the best YOU can possibly be, the best version of yourself. I've always pushed for excellence, that's all you can ever really do.
@@johnvcougar But then you’re really nothing but a hamster in a wheel
@@nothingEvil101 wha...? I don't get it, sos.
@@johnvcougar If you're always just chasing yourself, then you will always be just that, chasing. And never content.
The best player in the room is the one with the biggest smile on his face.
Nice
Ed Van Halen definitely had that; that grin from ear to ear. Peter Frampton is the same way; same with Tom Scholz of Boston.
Or perhaps the one whose audience is happy rather than amazed.
I’ve been noodling aimlessly for 30 years. Started taking lessons last month. It’s never too late.
There is nothing wrong with noodling. Anyway succes with the lessons
@@jzf128 The noodling kept me from really enjoying the guitar and making music. It’s obvious now that I’m learning more. I didn’t realize it then. I appreciate the encouragement, and good luck to you too.
@@thruxtonvalrico67 I stopped my lessons about one year ago and my knowledge and playing has really plateaued as a result. Keep it up! Having a good teacher is huge
As a 24 year old who's kinda lost and has no idea where to go in life, this really hit me. Thanks Dan, you're awesome
Noone really knows where they're going at 24 mate. My most interesting friends still don't know where they're going at 40!
Do things everyday that make you happy.
You’re most welcome J 🤓🙏
You are not lost Julio, you are overwhelmed by the options.
Very few people really know where they are going, and most of the ones who think they know are actually deluded.
keep playin m8
Playing the guitar literally saved my life a few times. It was my only constant, my only means of retaining my sanity during very low points of my existence. It was the only way I could express myself when all other methods failed. It got me through the rough times and I am grateful to have a lifelong love affair with this magical instrument.
It sounds like you should play the Blues.
That’s awesome Ron 👍
Same. Guitar is cheaper than therapy and far more cathartic.
I will never be a real musician but playing guitar brings me joy, pure and simple. Thanks for sharing the encouraging message.
Couldn't agree more. Think I'm about same age as Dan and guitars and songwriting have been part of my life since I was a young teen. What Dan says here is sooooo important when we are overwhelmed with information (and pedals - I blame Dan and Mick lol) that it can remove the joy, as you mention, from just playing your instrument and making music. Being drunk at 18 and playing Velvet Underground covers with sunglasses on at midnight in a club was a complete blast. Who cares if I didn't know a single guitar scale - it was fun. You have a lifetime to learn more and get better. You'll never be "the best" because no-one ever is "the best", BUT you can have the best time imaginable with your clothes on (and with any luck you might find someone who wants to remove them off you after the gig lol). Also... you ARE a real musician already. You play music. That's the carefully guarded secret that we all wish more people realised. Be it for your own pleasure or for 50,000 - when you make music, you are doing something magical 😊🤘🤘🤘
I have some good news for you friend. Everytime you play a guitar...You are a real muscian.
You may not be a professional musician and get paid for playing songs. None the less you are a real musician.
I mean... do you need more than that to be a real musician? Just play from your heart, let it out. That's all it takes.
In my opinion this may be the most important video you’ve ever made Dan. Your authentic love for the guitar is infectious and I for one really appreciate you sharing your story here. All the best to you !
My thoughts exactly Stephen
I’ve been basically a bedroom guitarist for 35+ years. There’s not a day goes by when I don’t pick up a guitar. I get stuck in ruts, play the same stuff..... but then I’ll hear something that fires me up and stokes that fire.
In recent years my tastes have become more mellow / melodic and I’ve discovered (or rediscovered) Julian Lage, Junior Watson, Whit Smith..... these guys just blow me away and keep me wanting to develop.
It’s also worth mentioning that you don’t have to be the best musician or able to play at speed to make some of the best music. Some of the best songs out there are incredibly simple.
100% agreed! Thanks for mentioning some great musicians, that I just disovered.
My opinion: there are incredible players out there who can play things less than one percent of even the guitar playing population could ever play...and I wouldn't walk across the street to hear them play. I can't even sit through a five minute UA-cam video of them.
True.
Most of those, well, probably all just wank everywhere over the neck and really is just semi-melodic noise devoid of feeling, touch, personality - as exhibited by the ones he showed.
There’s no emotion in shredding, it reduces perhaps the greatest mode of human expression into an athletic feat. Shit, a two chord Beat Happening song where they’re drumming on a bucket is a million times more listenable than these schmoes in the intro.
This!
@@chadlong1109 I'm kinda thinking of Polyphia when reading this. I know it's not straight up shredding but it's still incomprehensible to me.
For years I’ve replied to students when asked how they are doing compared to other students - “the only person to compare yourself to is yesterday’s you.” Some days you’ll be better than yesterday. Some days you’ll be worse. Some, the same. Enjoy your good days, don’t get discouraged by the others.
Exactly!. It also applies for me for personal sports-health-fitness. There'a always going to be people better than us, so everyday I focus and think "the only person I'm competing with is with myself"
@Robert i agree 100% to compare yourself to other guitarist can be so disappointing so i compare myself to yesterday or a few hours ago and im happy and getting better by the day (learning on you tube)
I recrntly fell in to this hole; had a good progress and start to ruin it when i compare myself to other. Suddenly i force myself to be better to the point where it is not even fun. Only recently i have gotten out of that rut
As Steve Vai put it: It is not about success, it is about losing yourself in three chords...
Thanks for this quote; Never heard it before - but 100% feel it
Never heard this quote either. As a new guitarist that can finally strum a few chord progressions together. I have totally felt that!
@@christophergarrido2802 I'd never heard that Vai quote either. I remember him saying in a magazine interview in the mid nineties, that be was obsessed with perfection, even if it took him "100 takes".
Amen to that one.
It is always weird to read a quote like that from someone who is pretty darn successful.
I mean would a homeless shmoe who once played guitar for a minute say such a thing?
I get the love of music in and of it's self, but success does help pay a few bills.
At 71 and 56 years into playing guitar I still love playing guitar and still fight the self critic in me. I think that voice has less influence over me now than it used to. Yes, I can play, and no, I'll never be great. But I can't imaging not playing as long as I am able and I loved hearing your earnest words, Dan. Thanks for sharing.
Nice to hear you! Thanks for showing up and representing. I have more guitars than I “know” songs for. 69, retired, haven’t played for 4 hour over the last year, but not sweating it. Since COVID isolation, I’ve been the best/fastest (and worst/slowest) guitar in the room. Church folks appreciate _any_ guitarist in the room, that cares about the song.
I don’t take my self-criticism seriously. I can get lost in the sound of any bit I play. The things I can imagine interest me, not what others can execute.
I give it a 👏🏾and might steal a thing from it. I lack attention span, “squirrel”!
Dan, I am glad for you, that you get all this appreciation for your outlook and counsel.
Absolutely loved hearing your story. Thanks for sharing. A great message that goes well beyond guitar playing.
Music is art not athletics. Guthrie is my favorite guitarist but only guitarist or professional musicians know who he is. However you can sweep pick and play a million notes and it doesn’t have much or any feeling, yet Stevie Ray Vaughan can bend one note and get so much feeling out of it. There is a place for everyone who loves music. You don’t need to be the best prog rock/metal musician to write a catchy song.
@@richardaaron4454 you're right I know people who can talk for one hour and not say anything if you know what I mean the same with guitarist they play so fast which I'm envious of but they're not really saying anything
@@sglee4708 99% of hit songs are catchy and not very difficult to play, there are of course a few exceptions. Now if playing the fastest is your goal then go for it but that’s not what the average person cares about, they care about connecting with a feeling and emotions which we as musicians are able to form into music. All you need is basic musical knowledge and determination to make it big if that is your goal. However I’d like to believe most of compose or play music because it’s part of us and we love doing it. I felt I was born to do it. I’ve been lucky enough to play many shows on drums or guitar. That was enough for me. Now I sit at home practicing guitar, writing music and recording all for myself but one day I might distribute it. I’d really like to produce for other bands though. I’ve found a lot of happiness in helping other bands improve their songs and help them arrange them.
Thanks for this Dan! A fantastic story, and inspiration in its own right to just focus on doing it for the love of it and the feeling that playing music brings to the player.
@@Pantalooj oRRRrTRrzrRRrRrRrRRTrR
As a 35yr guitar veteran, and someone that is still regularly gigging, I've had this EXACT conversation many times with new players. In the era of YT, there's no longer legit ego to be had. All that's left is, do you love it enough to keep doing it? I do. :)
I am never the best guitar player in the room, I am absolutely the happiest. I’m covered.
Boom!
Nailed it!
So true what you say ...
I am 52 years old, only a year ago I started playing the guitar, not really to learn to play an instrument, and not to learn music, I wanted to learn to play (even if only a little) the songs that marked me in my childhood and youth, songs that made me happy, or that I like. It is a pleasure, difficult to describe, when little by little (generally very little by little) the notes come out, the riffs, the songs. I don't need to make it perfect, but I always try to improve, I don't need to be better than others, nor do I need to compare myself to anyone, I just need to be happy and the guitar makes me happy.
Greetings from Spain.
Im right there as well . Started a couple years ago at 51 . I enjoy each time i pick up the guitar ;) I
I started at 59! 60 now and I am really enjoying it!!! I think I have tapped into something that was hidden for my life, and just need to relax and enjoy the process. My daughter, who's a musician in college is giving me guitar lessons!!! We played some blues last night!!!
I played for twenty years, similar story to yours; finally quit altogether in disgust with the industry. 15 years later, I picked up my dad's (deceased) acoustic for 2 minutes, thereby reigniting my passion; since then I play 3 hours a day, 5 days a week, and have collected all my gear back. I love playing more than breathing, don't care if I ever make dime doing it. Thanks Dan for sharing your story.
Thanks Dan. Really spoke to me.
This is a life lesson and not just for guitar. This is for everything in life.
Beautiful words. Thank you.
Love the back story Dan. I'm reminded that it took me 35 or more years of hating that I couldn't play certain things that my peers could. And then, in my current band, I heard a couple of them referring to my contribution to our songs as the "Jon Sound" and it finally registered. At some point I stopped trying to do the things I couldn't, and got really good at the things I can.
A star is born? Hardly, but a good guitar player was developed through perseverance, and no longer comparing. I've always looked for opportunities to be the worst player in the room. There's so much to learn!
Thanks for this 'vlog, Dan, it gave me a shot of encouragement.
What a powerful message Dan. I've been fiddling with guitar for more than 30 years. I'm good enough that my non guitar friends are impressed but next to a really good player I'd say I'm average. The self doubt and embarrasent always takes over when I sit next to a great player and I feel like a kid in front of his class trying to give a speech while staring at his shoes. Thank you for this perspective Dan.
I so relate!
Totally relate. I too have over 30 years on the instrument. In fact, it appears I picked up guitar around the same time John Mayer did, from a bio I read online. He took it far more seriously that I did back in the late 80s/early 90s, but I eventually started taking it seriously. No where close to Mayer still, but I’m better than I was. I love playing. Play at church, play in my bedroom. Hang at Guitar Center and play there. I’m shocked whenever I get GC compliments, lol. I usually just play chordal stuff with leads tossed in.
Same here, playing for 30 years, You're not alone in your ''self doubt and embarrassment'' in relation to better players. I often say that if I could, every day of the week, have the choice of being able to sleep with any woman of my choosing or be a much more talented guitar player, I'd take the latter.......well.....most days anyway, and I'm serious about that.
@@padraiglyons3709 Haha! I agree 100%.
🤓🙏
This channel is like the great British baking show but for guitar, always leaves a wholesome feeling
Thank you so much for the inspirational speech, my man! I've been playing for 39 years, and I absolutely love playing. It's something I'm very decent at it, but I let drugs get in the way for many, many years. I'm sober now, but I wished I would've pursued it as a career. I think that I'm a bit too old now at 51 to make it in the biz, but I'm still gonna play for my enjoyment. It's the only thing that I've truly been decent at and love. Thanks again, and keep on Rocking! 🎼♥🎸🎵
I play guitar and collect pedals, amps and guitars as a hobby. The good thing about hobbys is.....you don't have to be good at it.Just relax and have fun with your hobby. Some day you end up playing in a Band with some friends...and having even more fun. Or not.! Happy easter to everybody!
Our family reunions always turn into jam sessions with closet musicians. Sometimes we all play the same song for a bar or two
It should never be about whether or not you're a "good enough" guitarist. It should be about whether or not you're good to yourself or not. Be good to yourself. You're a person first and a guitar player second. Be true to yourself, enjoy the process and be happy knowing you are enjoying the greatest hobby the world has to offer and you can enjoy it for the rest of your life.
I second that emotion! 👍
Absolutely, Joe! Well said. There are times when I'm frustrated by my guitar playing, or lack of knowledge or progress, but I can't imagine what life would be without it. It's a gift that I appreciate every day.
...someone said: “it’s when the student is ready that the teacher appears”...I want to say that I needed to see this vlog right here and right now...thank you Dan..
You’re most welcome 🙏
Dan,
Of all the thousands of hours of videos you have graced us with, this video has had the greatest impact on me. The timing of running across this video could not have any more perfect.
Long story short...
I literally put my guitar down yesterday in utter anger and frustration because I am just not playing at the level I would expect myself to be at after playing as many years as I have. My recordings sounded horrible to me. Until hour ago, I had no intention on taking any of my guitars out of their cases for what I anticipated to be months or maybe years, I was that frustrated with myself.
A very tearful Thank You for reminding me of what is most important.
Thank you!!!
Ah, you’re so welcome Robert, you’re not alone, I think most of us feel we’re not at a level we want to be, that’s ok, just keep moving forward 🤓👍
This might be the most important video I’ve seen all year. Thank you for being so honest Dan.
Dick Cavett to Jimi Hendrix “Some say you are the best guitar player in the world.” Jimi’s response “No. How about the best sitting in this chair.” Jimi knew it was all about the love of playing and not trying to be the best in the world.
Apparently he also opined on being asked how it was being the best guitarist in the world "I don't know, why don't you ask Rory Gallagher".
No one would want that pressure anyway. He would never be able to just experiment and go crazy like he did. If he had to always play better than everyone else every gig and song he recorded.
I love Jimi's ability to embellish and break down chords like in Little Wing. Incorporating rhythm in your solo playing and solos in your rhythm playing like him are key.
Guitar/Music is subjective anyway.
Some of the most simple things I play on guitar are the BEST to my ears.
Having said that, I've been striving and challenging myself almost daily for 38 years to get better. Do licks and phrases that are interesting but they give me trouble. Therefore it becomes a hurdle I want to clear.
@@stricknine8623 I feel you man. I been playing for 23 and was able to play quite a few decent songs and a few solos pretty well. But mostly the same old rock and blues licks and riffs over and over in a rut for 20 years. The past 6 months I forced myself to practice 1-2 hours a day on stuff I could never play. Paul Gilbert DVDs, frank gambale DVDs, malmsteen tab books of the whole album. Shred and sweep picking scales. Over and over. By 6 months in I was already playing whole malmsteen songs, Paul Gilberts DVD and gambales all the way through to 95% perfection and now getting through Jason Becker songs with insane sweep sections. I actually couldn't believe I got that good, I thought it was for special gifted players, turns out it was just forcing myself to practice and work bloody hard
Being the best isn’t where great art is. Truth. Thank you Dan
I'm watching this video for the second time. I'm 63 and have played guitar since I was 15, but I was never around other musicians and never got a chance to play in a band, or even learned how that might be possible for me. But it has given me lots of joy anyway. Sometimes I feel a bit down about where I am as a musician but your perspective on things really picks me up and encourages me to keep going.
Cheers Jeff, if you find joy in playing, then that’s a wonderful thing 🤓🙏
Great video and a great message Dan. I really enjoyed it. Thanks.
You both put out corkers this week!
Cheers mate 🤓👍
I loved Micks tune, his EP is going to be awesome
Thank you for this Dan. In the last few years I've realised I'm never going to be the lead guitarist, but I'm a great rhythm guitarist. I know my place in a live mix, in the song. I'm a solid sponge in a fancy cake.
(Oops, didn't mean to reply to this thread, sorry!)
I am the only one playing an instrument in my family, and seing my friends having piano lessons and parents who play guitar, drums...I was a bit jealous ! But I turned this into a strength, being the first to open the path to other musicians!! Even though I will never be SRV or Gilmour, playing voodoo child or Lenny poorly put a smile on my face, and it’s enough for me !! As Dan said, enjoying the instrument you play is what matters at the end !!!
The chase kills the passion! I'm rarely the best guitarist in the room and I have stopped trying to be. Once you accept this is how I play, this is my gear, then you find your style and your sound
I've always found that there are 3 pillars of playing music: "the musician" (technically talented), "the artist" (the creative bit), and "the entertainer" (the style part/attitude). Playing music, we all have some mix of these, sometimes unconsciously
I will be sharing this with my students. Too many "influencers" give a very bad impression of what is actually practical and worth pursuing. I know kids who cannot hold down a basic rhythm guitar part but want to skip that and go straight to virtuoso techniques.
As we all do until we learn, - it pays to work through methodically,- but hey! Its fun we all desire and escapism and dreams, those distractions from the hard grind that inspire and ignite the flame of our imagination, this leads us to artistic achievement, so Graham love em and have the patience with them that you obviously had when you learned how to be a teacher.
I think I suck. I've been playing for nearly 30 years but can't play lead. I'm a rhythm guitarist. Other people though think I need to stop knocking myself because I'm expressive and melodic. I am always trying to learn more outside my box but my hands and head just can't coordinate on super fast phrasing for solos.
@@joellebrodeur1015 Joelle I too have been playing for over 30 years, and truth be known can't play lead or rhythm, so I guess I'm just a plonker and if you can bear to listen to such a failure, I only have this to say I am happy most of the time at my plonking, that's the best I can manage, I still dream and hope and listen with admiration to people like Dan and Mick and all those other wonderfully talented people, and don't beat myself up about it all being so unfair, so I guess that's my talent being a good loser, I mean anyone can be a good winner, Ps I notice you say other people notice you are expressive and melodic, maybe you should just record yourself and then one day after resting from all you're practising, pull your recording out and just listen to yourself uncritically hey you might just be pretty good like others say. Sometimes the most talented of us are the most self doubting and hard on themselves, I know this to be true because my son who is beautifully musically talented suffers greatly from this, and it hurts to watch you're loved ones suffer so unnecessarily, be kind to yourself regards Tom Adair
I’m nearly 73, and I joined my first band aged 16. My first thought was “if I haven’t made it by the time I’m 30, I’ll pack it in.” I still haven’t “made it” and of course now never will - do I care? Nooooooo! Have I packed it in? Nooooooo! Why? I realised years ago exactly what you’re saying Dan, that I just absolutely LOVE playing the guitar - and although over the years I’ve had spells where I’ve been pro, mostly the gigs have been in pubs & clubs to a few hundred people at most, but when the band plays great, & the punters love it, there’s no better feeling in the world, so why would you ever stop? Now my grandson’s starting on the same journey at age 17 & him & his band are writing their own stuff - brilliant! I know he’s going to LOVE it and I’m so happy for him. I’ll point him at this vlog so he realises early on that it’s just about loving it, it ain’t a contest, Thanks Dan!
That’s wonderful Adrian 🤓👍
As a late bloomer this really hits home lol. I was told by my high school students that I was too old to learn how to play guitar and before that I was told by my middle school band director that I was too old to join the band in high school ! Music is a life long journey and we should embrace that aspect instead of trying to master everything quickly. The joy comes from discovery and learning how express yourself through your instrument.
Well said! I’ve been going through this and came to the same conclusion. For the first time in years I have enjoyed practising and getting better for myself and focusing on things I enjoy rather then stressing to be the best whatever that is!
There you go carl,, that the way to see it, who is better at what is hard to say, this person can do things that one can't, but oh yeah can you do this, it never ends, that's why I love guitar because it's so personal each and every one of us has our own little nuances, and sound that's unique to only that person, and it's a wonderful thing,
play to your strengths,works for me
i cannot wait to practice again.
I feel that all the times!
tomo is a legend in his own right.
@@Koalarl indeed
Everybody knows that you're a legend from Berklee. And we hold you very highly as well.
@@himankan You're very kind! Thank you!
Come on you play the chromatic scale and it sounds better than what most guitarists play.
I needed to hear this. I've been playing for 45 years. I'll never be great. But, I am good. I'm a truck driver and everywhere I go an HSS American Strat and a micro cube amp goes with me. I do love playing and I believe it helps me maintain my sanity.
Yes Ray, that’s awesome!
I needed this. So many times I’ve just thought “you’re never gonna be a rockstar why even try”. Then ran into some pretty dark times. Picked it back up and now I’m positive playing guitar literally saved my life. Do it for the love of the music and instrument. I’ve been so much happier since I stopped comparing myself to all the great guitarists
This is the video I needed to see about 10 years ago.
Dan, this most definitely saved my day. Almost made me cry. I came out from a lesson with my brilliant guitar teacher and after 41 years of playing I felt like I had 5 thumbs on my left hand.
Your brilliant video explained perfectly why I shouldn't chop up all my guitars for firewood. Thanks and Happy Easter!
We all feel like that Johnny, don’t give up!!
Just be yourself. It's what all the most successful people did and it's usually more interesting. I should add that I was a little die hard shredder in the 90s and absolutely no one would have me in their band, so the only way I could play out was to hide it as many others did. Shredding today is fun and all but it is rarely music normal people want to hear unless it's disguised as math rock or something "ironic". Being yourself is very frightening to most people but when you drop the mask and truly express your true self, there's simply nothing more rewarding and fulfilling.
It’s not about being good, it’s about finding your own “voice” and it’s about what you have to “say” and “contribute”. It’s all about being YOU.
“Good”...is subjective.
hell yea
How many great guitarist have written great songs? Extremely few! There are phenomenal unknown guitarists, unknown song writers etc.. and it all means nothing to the world but to the individual who creates out of just the joy of it, that is everything! There is also no age limit to dive into music or anything else. Really nice of Dan to share his story with us!
I lost so many years thinking that I would never be good enough, so there was no reason to practice. Playing with others was unthinkable. The same belief held me back also in other hobbies and professional pursuits.
I can relate to some of this. I'm 50 and I started playing 10 years ago. I will never shred or play crazy fast but that is not my goal. But looking at others and what they can do and you can't will bring you down. I feel that half the guitar community is toxic. Quick to put others down and be critical. I'm glad I came across a number of people in real life and online that were encouraging or I'm sure that I would have given up a long time ago. Thank you for the encouraging words.
"Don't compare" is very good advice for guitar playing, but also for life in general. There's always someone somewhere who's better than you at something, and it does not matter.
🤓🙏
This reminds me of Mr Miyagi in the Karate Kid movie:
Daniel San: “Yeah, but you know karate!”
Mr. Miyagi: “Somebody always know more.”
It's nice to hear this story. Art is expression, having a fancy vocabulary doesn't mean that you have a great story to tell. Once you are the best, where is there to go? Constant improvement brings me joy every time I play.
No kidding. When I was growing up, I knew there were good guitarists everywhere. Now days, seeing a million people on youtube that can shred circles around the pros is insane. More than once I have had a 'why do I even bother' moment after watching people.
Dan, that was a brilliant talk from the heart of a life well-lived. You’ve directed us from the shallows of the ego into the depths of the heart. Thank you!
I can absolutely say I'm the best guitarist in my spare room, when there's only me there 😂
Same and enjoying it. I don t care about being best or worst.
Absolutely. Unless you count my cat who likes to twang the strings on my old $50 Torch Strat. I tuned it to open D for her.
@Workhorse Productions
You and me both
Thanks Dan. Guitarists are a “certain breed”. I believe that they are sensitive souls who have a deep connection with the gift they have, but also are acutely aware of their limitations. But we all LOVE the instrument and you’re bang on in that we should not compare ourselves. There is only ONE of each of us. There will never be another like each of us. Each is unique and incredibly important in our own little circle of friends and beyond. I really enjoy your playing and your personality Dan. So grateful to see and hear you.
Ah, cheers Darren 🤓🙏
This really struck a chord with me. Just do things cause you enjoy them, and make sure you enjoy it to the fullest!
I worked in my brother's music store in the early-to-mid seventies, and I remember a country dude, not a young cat, take a guitar off the wall and stoop down to the floor and do that tapping stuff ... that early. It definitely did not sound like he looked. Amazingly, the guitar is all things to each person ... the most flexible and willing instrument ever made. Literally, God's gift to humankind. I had ZILCH talent when I started playing. Yet I loved it so much, that I became a respectable player who was able to pay his way through junior college and Florida State University with it, which opened all kinds of doors for me. It literally was my way out of poverty ...
As a young doctor getting back into music after a few years busy hitting the books, Thanks Dan for the great stories and such a wonderful message! You reminded me why we all do it. :)
Cheers mate 👍
That mindset he is describing in the end is the actual mindset of the most successful people in the world
The best guitar playing is not the fastest or most technical but the ones that fit the songs as a musical part played from the heart
Dan, years ago, my songwriter friend and I were with a studio manager when my friend mentioned taking lessons to become a better guitar player, our buddy laughed , having been in music since the early 60s and said I can throw a rock and hit a great guitar player, keep writing songs. His message was do what YOU do. BB King made it work with one note most of the time. Thanks for the message. My mantra is "there's ALWAYS someone better than me, HA! " P.S. After seeing Michael Hedges the first time, I threatened to turn my Martin into a coffee table. HA!
Yep, it's about the SONG - NOT shredding. AC/DC outsells Van Halen. Why? Songs.
You don't even need to play that well to make good music. Ability to write songs, melodies, compose music etc. is more important. And in my opinion the most important thing is to have a personality, being creative, etc. If you don't have a story to tell or you are a boring person you probably won't make good music. That's why good music often comes from personal tragedies or other kind of strong emotions. And that's why a lot of "music theory/guitar youtubers" can't make good music themselves.
Grew up in a restrictive house and had a limited set of influences early on. Opened my ears to a wider world when I started playing at 15, but perhaps had that same ill-founded confidence that you mentioned. 31 years later, I am feeling more fully developed as a player but these kids are incredible. I noticed that what you said about Eddie is true. When he passed I challenged myself to maintain my love for the instrument, as that is the exact way to reach an audience. This is the point of music, in my opinion. Edit: By reach I mean to connect with.
This is very inspiring. Actually made me cry. I am not the best guitar player amongst my bandmates and friends but the love of playing it everyday makes my life fulfilled. I am currently at my worst situation in my life but music and faith in God keeps me going. Without those two, I would not know what would have happened in my life. Thank you Dan for sharing.
You’re welcome mate, just keep going 🤓👍
Erhnam good luck mate. The road ahead only looks brighter. We’re all fellows here and you’re not alone.
Dan, this piece--a wonderful companion to your body of work--speaks volumes about why you are indeed one of the all-time greats. Your road has brought you to this place where so many of us are moved by your talent, your knowledge, and your kind spirit. I drift off most nights listening to you and Mick chatting away, much like my childhood habit of drifting off to the radio. "Sanctuary" is a word that springs to mind. "Legend" is another. Thanks, Dan. You are both.
Ah mats, that’s so kind. Thanks Kurtis 🤓🙏
I needed to hear this today. I'm 44, and I've been playing for 27 years, both professionally and for fun depending on the season of life I'm in. Sometimes I start feeling like I'm too old to keep creating music. I know its not true, but but hearing your story today helped me a lot. Thanks for sharing.
Your song "Hey Tom" is excellent! I love how you referenced Tom's songs many times in your lyrics. Very clever. Very well put together in all aspects. 👍👍
@@brushstroke3733 Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it.
I thought i was the only one who grew up with a parent who restricted all modern music. Its great to hear how you conquered it. For those of us who didn't have access to music at an early age it almost makes finally exploring all this music that much more exciting to discover.
Brings me such joy watching Dan nearly tear up while confessing his love for each note he plays. That was truly heartfelt. Received. Epic message.
Cheers mate 🤓🙏
Gotta tell ya, mate...don’t know how or why I came across your vid - but, WTF! Your subliminal message here is the golden recipe on not just playing guitar, but clearly the implication is a first- person testament on the benefit that comes from living a happy/joy-filled life! Whew! Glad I stuck around till the end. A well-timed, human contribution at a time when something like this is profoundly needed....especially for us idled, depressed & dispirited musicians out there. Thank you, my friend.
Wow, thanks mate, you’re most welcome 🙏
Great story Dan, you have had some great experiences, you ended up at a great place with a great dude (Mick) great vlog Dan.
Absolutely, Dan! Thanks for the encouragement. I promised myself when I started four years ago -- at the age of 55 -- that I would check myself if I ever found I was comparing myself to others or thinking "I'm not where I'm supposed to be". I play guitar for the joy of it, to use God-given abilities to both honor the one who gave them to me, and to have FUN! BTW, respectfully, though I am a man of faith, I would never discourage or forbid my children in their desire to explore all music genres! "Music is Elemental"!
I think being the guy that said "yes" also contributed to your success as a musician throughout the years. Lovely story, thank you for sharing.
Ah, cheers Rick 🤓🙏
Author Wayne Dyer gave this little bit of advice in regard to his success. Always be "willing" to do the work, even if it may not get done, be "willing" instead of just saying NO. I've done this in my work life and it has always paid off, even if I wasn't the best. Yes, a lovely story, I enjoyed listening and learning,.
Does anyone know where the quote “the most amazing things can happen if you just show up for work”. ?
My favorite Mr. Myagi quote: “best way not get hit, not be there”.... twisting that round, “best way to not get that gig, not be there”.
👍🏾👍🏾 to yes opens more doors than no.
This philosophy can be applied to so many other aspects of life, not just guitar. Thanks for sharing your story and thoughts with us, wonderful stuff.
David Gilmour didn't need to shred to make a lasting impact on music. Nuff said 🙇
Soooo right one of the best in rock history
....and just like Michael Schenker. it’s the space between the notes
I used to live about a block away from Around Midnite at that time. And one night, around midnight btw,......David Gilmour himself was in there alone, towards the back and sitting at the grand piano there tinkering.
@KomodoDragon /r/im14andthisisdeep
@KomodoDragon You said it right there! I find shredding too complex and boring. There is a difference between a good musician and an artist. An artist can make a simple song good! And, look at all of the different musicians and genres birthed from The Stooges and Spacemen 3.....Both bands are probably in my top 5 favorites btw!
Thank you. I really needed to be reminded of all the things you said. I'm in the midst of a major transition and the fear and doubt does not serve me. I love playing and writing music and have known I was going to do this since I was 3 or 4 years old (50 now). At one time, I too viewed music as some sort of competition, but eventually I realized that I play because I love to play, it feeds my soul and hearing another pro say that is all I need to justify my career choice has helped me immensely. Thank you again. Be well brother. PEACE !
Cheers Cory, best of luck 🤓👍
finally the whole story from Dan! I loved watching you talk through your career and the fun you had and have. you and mick are an inspiration! thanks for all the time you put in all the videos!!!
Thank you for sharing that, kind of needed that shift in thinking. I suck at guitar playing but somehow, the complicated, too-good-for-me pedals that I acquire brings me hours of enjoyment.
This really resonated with me. Not being the best, or even competitive, crushed my guitar playing spirit. I need to start again with this mindset.
Yes! I agree 100%. It’s about enjoying playing guitar for you. Also I see a lot of comments on UA-cam about a player with good equipment not being good enough for it. That’s nonsense. If you enjoy it then that’s good enough. Great video Dan.
Those 'epic guitar players' are as relevant to good music as the world's fastest painters are to art. You're a good player who's had a career most of us could only dream of. This is humblebragging for the most part.
Well, at 73 years of age and 59 years worth of playing, I am as good as I'm going to be and that's good enough for me! I just enjoy creating melody lines and getting as much tonality and feeling out of each note, that I can. Drive fast while you can and while you want to; but the real magic is making melodic music that connects with your gizzard!
Dan, @Tonetwisters, reaching our age is an achievement, period! Enjoy each day, you can’t get it back.
We are younger than we will ever be again. How I feel by moment is gaining ground on how much I can do.
@@Ton7Tube Yessir! As someone who has had continuous ill health for the last 15.5 years, I am happy for anyone who can walk without pain and enjoy life, whatever good thing it is that they enjoy doing. I drive down the road (last thing I can do, it seems) and watch people walking, and I say out loud, "Wish I could do that!" and I change it to, "Thank you Lord, that I WILL do that, soon!" NeuroMD for bad backs. Hope to feel much younger in a few months!
I've been playing for 25 years and I'm still terrible! I don't really care. I'm just happy to be able to play guitar. All the shredders don't bother me. I think it's great people can play like that, and I really enjoy listening to people like Paul Gilbert, Joe Satriani, etc. but I also really enjoy much simpler music where the guitar player can play three chords and make some really great music. It doesn't matter. Music isn't a competition. Just have fun. I'd love to be able to shred but all the guys who do that practice hours and hours every day, and I just don't have the time or desire to do that. It doesn't sound fun, and if guitar wasn't fun I'd quit.
I'm a lifelong rhythm guitarist, so I get it.
When I was a kid, everything music came so easily. After a very long bout with drug addiction that brought on depression and anxiety I rarely picked up an instrument. Now at age 40 and playing music for fun I’m feeling like myself again, like a kid ;) Thank you for this, as I realize so much time was lost, I have to constantly remind myself that I still have time ahead of me. Thanks again!
Thank you Dan and everyone in the comments for all these great words of encouragement 😊
I was raised religiously as well, so I understand the struggle of finding/developing your own taste when you aren't allowed to make your own decisions.
Same. I was playing professionally for 8 years before I told my dad!
@@jaco7675 Keep it up my friend! Musical talent is something that can't be stifled 🤟
Discouraged musician: "What can I possibly offer?"
Me: "Your soul. Notes are incredibly easy to find, but nobody else has your soul."
All my favourite songs are rock and pop tunes. I find shredding just unmusical.
The simple rule is this: you technical ability should always match your musical knowledge, which needs to match your artisitry and creativity.
Most shredders are like typist or bruce lee who only know how to punch wooden blocks.
You don't hang out down by the crossroads, do you?
Exactly !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!🤠🎸🎶🙏
Why play flashy solo’s when one note at the right time and feel is enough !.
@@tdang9528 true, I have only know a few typists that could punch things other than wooden blocks.....LOL
I get what you mean. Some times a million notes jammed into a microsecond is good, other times a single note, bent and held for just the right amount of time is the 'thing'
they should show this video every night on TV instead of the news, it's more valuable
My favorite video of everything you've made. Such a lovely soul. Thank you for sharing this.
I am shite 58 playing for 1 year (pandamie) and i don,t give a crap because it gives me so much joy.
When I stopped trying to be good enough, I realized I was good enough to be me. I don't sound like anyone else; and that's OK. I sound like ME. You know what? I can live with that.
🤓👍
I agree, and think the most impactful music and art is produced by people with that attitude.
Nobody willl be more youer than you
Couldn't agree more. When I listen to the great artists, I don't get the impression that any of these individuals ever cried themselves to sleep because they didn't sound like some other guy.
I hear ya! I've been playing for 40 years and will never, ever be able to 'shred' like some of the hatchlings I see on UA-cam. And that's more than fine. If I'm honest, shredding bores me to tears. And yet, I spent God knows how much time trying to learn to play legato before it finally hit me - 'why am I trying to learn a style I have zero interest in playing?'. So, back to the blues rock I went and have been happy ever since. I subscribe to a teaching site called 'Learning Guitar Now' and the guy who runs that is incredible. He can say more in three notes than shred nation can manage in 3 million. What's my advice to new players? learn to play the music you love, well, and stop worrying about becoming 'the best'. It doesn't exist.
Totally agree. When.your playing can communicate to the listener on an emotional level, then you're a great guitar player/musician.
If someone says they like the music you are playing ,that is all you need. Just one person. If that one person is you ,that also is enough for the moment.
Very well said.
Reminds me of mantra that I like: "Perfection is the enemy of Good".
Thanks for sharing your story, Dan. 💙🎸🤘🏽
That’s very good, cheers mate 🤓👍
Dan...this was so good. Humble, honest and joyful. Every musician should hear this...on repeat. Thanks so much
Ah, cheers mate 🤓🙏
You just had to have someone slicing onions somewhere in the background! :)
I've been playing guitar for about 35 years. I used to be OK but I left it for quite some time. Now, I'm getting back into it. I don't ever imagine being in a band, but just to ring out a good sound now and again will never grow old! Cheers Dan!!