I remember back when Dokken was still huge,The 80s were over, Grunge was in and Dokken like many bands were forced to play smaller lessor venues. After the show I waited outside for three hours in the lot for them to get on their bus. It was a small venue so no one else was out there. When they came out I didnt want to harrass I just wanted a signature on my guitar. I know they were tired, probably tipped a few too. The only two guys that gave me the time of day was Lynch and Pilson. They talked with me a couple minutes, Signed my gear and I was a happy camper. Don and Mick just ignored me and kept walking. I mean how do you be so rude to the one person in an empty lot just asking for a quick signature? Whatever. I will always respect George and Jeff.
Don was on my plane on the way to Milwaukee for a concert with Van halen and Ratt and after we got off I ran up to him to tell him how much I loved Dokken and was a fan since highschool I never asked for a signature and he was totally cool stopped and shot the shit with me for a few minutes Without me asking for anything he pulled out his latest CD which hadn’t been released yet and gave me a copy People have to remember that even before the Internet there’s a lot of folks out there getting signatures just to make money Some musicians get pretty sick of that. I would recommend just saying hi Instead of asking for something from them you’ll get a much better response
Actually, Dokken left near the top and broke up right before grunge took hold.... I remember Alice in Chains was opening for Lynch Mob when they both first came out.
You're making a great point about bands these days. They get paid so little and so they want to keep the expenses down as much as possible, which includes not having rehearsals, and other things that help the band perform their best. I wish there was still more money in the music business, but there's just not!
You know it's a wonder that guys like George can afford to go all the way across the country for a show, or group of shows, and still make any money after paying all the expenses (travel, band members, food, etc.). Profit margins must be getting pretty lean for some of these guys.
Many truths. Its also that George lives up in Sedona. I dont know that there are rehearsal spots in that area and the traffic down here in Phoenix is something im sure he doesnt wanna deal with.
@@thebaldshredder Saw an interview with Bobby Blotzer from Ratt late last year. He said Ratt was getting $35k per show (He was pissed that Pearcy wanted to do solo shows for $7K instead). He could be lying or stretching it a bit but that's pretty solid revenue for a mid-tier 80s band with limited appeal. I know someone in a pretty significant 70s classic rock band (you would definitely know them) and they are making at least that per show as well. Lynch/Dokken are on at least the same level as Ratt, so you have to figure they are somewhere in the same ballpark.
Brutal. I front a STP tribute. It took me 2 months to fully memorize the delivery and lyrics for 15 songs only. Many hours on the treadmill listening to the songs and watching streaming lyrics on UA-cam. Then recording myself. Listening back for clams. Adjusting. It’s not easy.
I do a lot of fill in work some with just a few days/ hours notice and usually covers ( much more before the pandemic) BUT... I'm a drummer.. BIG DIFFERENCE and I can sell it easier than a singer or guitarist for sure but I'm still on the edge of a cliff most of the night! I couldn't imagine being the focal point and having that pressure of delivering without rehearsal? It's not fair to anyone there, fans or band. Peace ✌️
My story: In the year 2000 I was a special guest of Jeff Pilson on the 'Power To The People' tour with Dokken, Poison, Cinderella and Slaughter. I meet Jeff at the Tampa Aquarium and then we go into the Ice Palace Arena, we get to Dokken's dressing room and Jeff says to Don, "this is my friend who flew in from Chile to see us" And Don asked everyone to leave the dressing room because he wanted to talk quietly with me, we chatted, we drank some Jack Daniels with Coke, he gave me the new autographed album and we took photos together with my Chilean flag. Don treated me like royalty as did Jeff and Wild Mick!! Forever respect! PD: On another occasion I met George Lynch here in Chile on a radio show and he was also totally nice and great with me!
Ray was horrible. Saw George play a gig in Lititz, PA after seeing him with Ray and he played with XYZ and Terry Llous did a few songs with him after his set with XYZ and the singer from AON did a couple of songs with George. Way better than Ray.
2016, South Dakota. Dokken reunion. It was clear they hadn't rehearsed very much because George didn't know the songs well. They had to restart a few times.
When people talk about American guitarist George is rarely spoken about, and that's the sad part of it. I've been playing for 30 years and Mr. Lynch is absolutely amazing, his tone, rhythm, his leads are all world class, and yet he is often overlooked
Ive been playing guitar 45 years. Georges playing is a cut above most players of the 80s and 90s. The problem with that is, if you dont play...it goes un-noticed. Ive played some pretty complex stuff at a club or party and nobody notices...then play Mustang Sally and the party is on....lol.
@@MrSpankey1 agreed, it's usually only other guitarists that notice the complexity of your runs. There is so many throughout the years that could have stood with the best, but they either had bad management, or never got that big break and they went unnoticed. There is a guy named Randy Hansen, he plays Hendrix, and he is without a doubt the best I have ever heard and seen, even his vocals is spot on, I met him a few times and he is so humble and nice, he is the kind of player I would've liked to see how bigger, the man is phenomenal, but that's the life all musicians must go thru
Yeah. Rob De Luca is George's bass player, and HE was in Spread Eagle, so he brought Ray in. Funny thing is, due to other commitments, Rob isn't available, and Jaron Gulino from Tantric has been playing with George.
Practice aside, I've been a pro musician for 30 years. You come in knowing your shit forward and back. As a singer I can plug into any band that knows the songs and sing them right. As long as the arrangement is the exact same and there are no unexpected parts then its not hard. He needed to memorize the shit and have it down pat.
My first thought was this. As long as the set list is given a singer should be able to easily prepare with the recordings. It's often not as easy with guitars but definitely is doable. Vocals typically don't join in until after an instrumental intro in that style. It's basically karaoke but with a real band and some need for dialog.
I have known George for years and I am pretty sure he went into it hoping for the best. Your point is valid and they (meaning bands) don't have the support of back in the day. Someone said Quantity vs Quality the other day and that is the truth. You should always aim for quality over quantity so maybe not so many shows so you can focus on tuning the project. No one is at fault at the end of the day life happens.
It’s no secret that most singers’ voices deteriorate from years of use and abuse. Ray was a dynamic singer in his prime and although I don’t know how much he’s been using his voice over the years, odds are he can’t sing Back On the Bitch like like he did back in the day.
Ray West was in one of my favorite rock bands from the early 90’s…Spread Eagle. Check’em out when you get a chance. Scratch Like A Cat, Through These Eyes…those are just two of many great songs they released. Their second album was just as kick ass as their first!
@@johnmcminn9455 I had to look this one up. That was John Michael West who sang for Ronnie James Dio/Ritchie Blackmore tribute band…Black Knights Rising.
One of the most underrated hard rock bands of all time, in my opinion! Broken City (that opening guitar lick is SO dope!), Devil's Road, Switchblade Seranade, If I Can't Have You, Scratch Like a Cat, Back on the Bitch... all good stuff! And they put out a record a few years ago that ain't bad either (I just need to listen to it more).
I have a friend who, let’s just say had a short lived project with George Lynch. You hit many of the nails on the head in terms of the financial aspect. Another issue my friend had, that caused him to not go further with George is that George, he says, still thinks it is the 80s, he thinks he has that kind of clout still and because of that there is a lot of….ego that gets in the way that makes him impossible to work with.
Saddens me. I always wanted to root for George, and I couldn't stand all the drama queen garbage that Don Dokken spewed. But the real truth is.... it's probably almost all these clowns. They still think it's 1988, and they are at their height. And that they're still in their 20s. Sad.
George better get w/ the zoom jams. During Covid ppl recording remotely. Rehearse. A full circle. Now George is doing a Chuck Berry! B flat ...1234 go😂😂😂😭😱
I've met with and talked to George and Jeff many times over the past 30 years. They've always been more than cool. Very down to Earth. Even when the didn't have to be. Made time for me even when they didn't have time. True rock royalty in my book.
How did Lynch expect it? If they had a set list, this guy is supposed to be a fucking professional singer. As a professional, and having at least a month or two to prep, dude should be more than prepared.
I seen the first show with Ray in Saginaw Mi. Ray was off key most of the night and asked the crowd to sing many of the higher range stuff. Understandable since there was no real rehearsal. I understand from the club owner that George was visibly pissed after the show and even refused to do an encore. Bad all the way around. George’s playing was killer…
I was there. I also noticed Ray looking at the stage floor from time to time, like maybe he had a teleprompter or lyrics were on papers taped to the floor.
I was there as well .. It felt like Ray never took ownership of his position as vocalist. His projection toward the audience felt arrogantly overconfident, which in turn shifted the intensity of the energy that came from the rest of band. It was a relief when George expressed his gratitude to the audience after it was over.
I’d think at that level, it would be no surprise to know your part without a rehearsal. I see it all the time. I had to do three sets and got through it with only 4 days. Wasn’t comfy but it happened. Another was literally 2 days. It was scary. Anyway, if you have a couple weeks or more, I’d think you should have a somewhat comfortable understanding of 15 or so songs.
There is no excuse in our modern age. If someone with a bunch of records out hires you as a singer, guitarist or whatever, you should show up knowing the songs. All of the songs are available online to listen to. You can also download and print the lyrics. When Randy Rhoads died in the plane crash, Ozzy hired Brad Gillis last minute to fill in and Brad busted his ass to memorize the songs in order to play the shows. He was cramming in hotel rooms and while traveling. I was excited about Ray joining the band, but ya gotta pull your weight.
WRONG! when Randy died it was Bernie Torme who filled those shoes on short notice (a week) And Brad Gillis travelled with that band meaning, stood on the side of that stage and road in the back of that bus until he was ready. Ironically it was Bernie Torme who said, “you had this guy (Brad) on your radar the whole time, he’s more than capable” (Something of that nature was said) Bernie played the first shows after Randy’s death. He’s the one that had the tough way to go.
@@shawnstarks1743 I stand corrected. I forgot that Bernie was the first man in. Bernie only agreed to play for a month because wanted to pursue his own project. He lasted for 10 days. They knew he was going to leave so they brought Brad in. But I stand by my point about being prepared. Brad told the story a few years ago here in Binghamton when Night Ranger played our local Spiediefest. He played his first show with Ozzy here in my home town of Binghamton, NY with no actual rehearsals with the band, other than soundcheck the day of his first show and Ozzy was not present for it. He was rehearsing in hotel rooms with a live cassette recording of Randy. Yes, he did have the benefit of seeing some shows while prepping, but he still had only a few days to prep on his own for his first show and worked hard. It's all about being prepared.
@@selftaughtguitarplayer Hey man! I saw that Ozzy show at the Broome County Arena. I bought tickets to see Randy so it was rough. Always thought that was Bernie, didn't know it was Brad. He did a good job.
That’s kind of true. As a singer myself, I wouldn’t put myself above anyone else in a band. However I will say that the contribution of the singer should not be underestimated and that’s the problem with a lot of these “guitar heroes”. They talk about singers having huge egos, but it always seems to me to be the guitarist with the issue. Idk what it is with guitarists, but many great guitarist seem to be obsessed with downplaying singers importance. The singers are actually rarely the ones with the ego. As much as I cannot play what Yngvie can do, I promise he can’t sing what I can either, I have performed in full dramatic opera productions etc. And I say this as a fan of these guys like Lynch, Malmsteen, I love those guys.
One thing I’ve learned, is when someone heaps too much praise on you, it’s time to watch out, because things are about to turn bad. When you can’t live up to excessive praise, which nobody can, it quickly swings to the opposite extreme,.
Yea but Ray was not prepared you got to know your lyrics and be ready to throw down practice on your Own! being a musician that's how it goes you're babying Ray too Dam much
"Lack of preparation is preparing to fail" John Wooden, longtime UCLA basketball coach... Inciidentally, I played in a UFO Tribute band a decade ago..I thought it was easy and it went very well . The reason for that is that every swingin' dick LEARNED THEIR PARTS. We had 1 rehearsal and knew we were ready...learn your job and it goes smoothly otherwise you will have trainwrecks. Showing up and knowing your parts makes you a PRO. It's very simple. Not learning your parts makes you an amateur. Shit or get off the pot
Ray West is an amazing artist! I met him when he was in a band called Victims of Anew, when they opened for Tesla back in 2019 or so, then they came to Boston and opened for Scott Stapp. Was wicked stoked when I heard he collaborated w/George. Kinda sucks sweaty ball-sack that Ray didn’t work out. He is such an upstanding guy, really down to earth, super chill, and has a great stage presence!
Back in the day George lured Oni Logan away from Marc Ferrari's band Ferrari. Then Ferrari replaced him with Roy Cathey from the Fayetteville NC band Gibraltar and renamed his band Cold Sweat. Who then had a hit with "Lets Make Love Tonight" from their debut MCA records release "Break Out" just as Grunge was cementing itself to decimate Hair Rock. Anyway there are demos of Oni singing that album, but as similar as their voices & styles are; Roy absolutely knocked it out of the park. Roy sings today for a band called the Fifth & recently did some reunion dates with Cold Sweat. All this to say that I never understood why Roy has never had an opportunity to sing for George as he would be absolutely phenomenal!!! Has been my dream to see this happen for 30 years.
Yes I remember that whole story. I actually met with Marc at his apartment right after Cold Sweat broke up when he was looking for new guys to make a new band. Anyway, at the rate that George goes through singers, maybe Roy will make his way into the band at some point.
@@creeper2054 Rory was the name that the label gave him to give the name Roy more appeal. His real name is indeed Roy Otis(believe it or not) Cathey. He is from my hometown. He dropped Rory after MCA dropped Cold Sweat. He has went by Roy ever since. As far as your opinion on him being good but not great, I've seen him in his old band Gibraltar cover everything from Skid Row, to Ozzy, to Metallica, and Queensryche.He effortlessley morphed into those singers and hit every note on the albums. He even tried out for Jake E Lee's Red Dragon Cartel by sending Jake a version of Badlands "Highwire" which was awesome. I disagree with you. The greats to me are Geoff Tate, Midnight, Michael Kiske, Ray Alder, and the such. Is he as great as these singers? Probably not, but Roy is a more well rounded vocalist & could definitely sing their tunes. The man is in his 50s and still has an impressive range. He would definitely be a power vocalist for Lynch material.
Rob Halford uses a Lyric machine that faces away from the audience . He has for years its just so he doesn't lose his place . LM or whatever Lynch's bands name is ? West is not having time to remb. Dokken & LM songs this monitor would have helped him ??
@@thebaldshredder- Yes Sir alot of singer's use them . Bands like JP have I dont know how many records it would take months to learn , plus Halford is over 70 and still sings PainKiller really well . Anyone any age can get confused or lose their place . I have no idea why Oni is out again ? What Happened ?? Been sick havent kept up in a long while .
@@thebaldshredder Yeah I guess so but I figured he would keep the Gig as long as possible . I like your channel thanks for talking with me and other's ! Cover Ratt and I will sub LOL Thanks Dude ...
George seems to be spewing his own brand of drama queen bullcrap these days. Who knows what really happened? But probably just more hollywood-ish style drama. The new singer prolly made a comment that wasn't politically correct, and George over-heard it.... and gave him his walking papers. LOL What else is new? They're all drama queens.
George was very optimistic about the band lineup with Andrew; sounded like he thought that it was the perfect mix of bandmates and was talking about doing an EP and going from there. Fortunately for George he does have several outlets with his own stuff, guesting with Dokken, KXM, Sweet Lynch, The End Machine, and now his instrumentals. I know that those are mainly not touring opportunities but he does at least keep busy. These musicians value a feeling of stability; Robert Mason with Warrant, Andrew Freeman now with Great White, Jeff Pilson being a mainstay in Foreigner, Reb Beach with Whitesnake as well as Winger. I think the more viable roles that they can be established with the better and if conflicts arise they are going to choose the more stable and lucrative position.
@@scottydog62 Nothing directly I'm just alluding to talented musicians that are inclined to take more marquee roles in bands that go on steadier tours when the opportunity presents itself in order to achieve some level of career continuity. They're two of my favorite guitar players.
@@thebaldshredder this is absolutely correct. Even after knowing every note and lyric, that’s reality only the beginning. Have seen and learned this the hard way especially being involved in many opera and classical music performances.
why is Oni not a part of this anymore? do he and George not get along or is his voice toast? Wicked Sensation might be my fav cd of all time from that era. saw George warmup Dokken with a bass player I've never seen last July 2021, omg that guy could sing, he was awesome
Oni has been in and out of the band more times than I can count. So why did he leave the most recent time? I can't even remember if I ever read a reason. At this point, when Oni comes back, you know it's only going to be temporary as he always leaves after a while.
Speaking from experience I played in a tribute band in the 90,s and we never rehearsed. We changed members constantly and the only rehearsal we ever had was at sound checks.
George Lynch is and always has been my favorite guitar player, I'm a player from the '80s and still playing in a Smooth 70s/80s Band today. Lynch as he has gotten older, he all about improv, that's why he never plays the leads of the docking songs and old Lynchmob songs the same, but there is one other way to practice in between shows and that's with acoustics backstage before the gig or in the hotel rooms..
You nailed it! Also, over the last 20 years, he's always trying to rediscover himself with new & not necessarily great sounds. I saw him about 5 years ago & he played the entire show with a tele & very little gain. It was far from powerful lol
I love George, I am a dream warrior buy Sir Lynch sounds very very difficult to work with. All the interviews with Don talking about George are entertaining AF.
I was called in to tech for George like 10 years ago… He was way nice but saw him years later and he can be really sarcastic/ egotistical. Still love his playing but I think hes unhappy he’s not on tours like the Motley one. Hes EXTREMELY talented but like many in the industry can go hot cold.
I saw him with Andrew in May outside Phoenix. Was PHENOMENAL! Best ive ever seen him play. Im surprised George was doing such a long tour ! I heard about the Great White thing but I didnt think it would take Andrew off😬. Either way Ive heard this story for MANY years. Ive also noticed George goes way off on political rants in interviews lately. Its fine to do that if you dont wanna tour but it puts people off if youre still a working player
@@thebaldshredder Man I wish you coulda seen this tour !!! Ive known Andrew many years. Wayyy nice dude and Ive NEVER heard Lynch mob or Dokken songs sung with such precision and strength! Georges playing was MUCH tighter that nite! Not many leads in the middle of verses and VERY SOLID tone! I wanna say it was a SLO 100 nite. I think you woulda loved it🤟🏻😜💯
I saw the show in Glendale,AZ and Andrew was awesome vocals that night and played on guitar as well. Super talented blew me away as well as George did. Andrew deserves to make some good money
Poltical rants don't impact people like you think, people will still come and hear the music. George's big mistake was changing the name of the band to capitulate to woke frauds.
Actually bands do it all of the time without rehearsals. That's why the singers should have it work down at home. When you look at Bruce kulick's touring band they never get to rehearse and when they play the cruise you got Todd Kerns absolutely nailing the Paul Stanley stuff
I think it's just really Sad that the Original members of these bands can't get along and stay together. Example... Dokken with All Original members. It's so sad to see my favorite bands with different members.
I love George, one of my favorite guitar players. I think part of it too is George has soooo many projects and albums and stuff. He's not like don Dokken where don pretty much just does Dokken so I'm not surprised Lynch mob/ electric freedom is kinda on and off touring wise. I did see a clinic recently where George said he's just kinda accepted that the band is gonna be a revolving door all the time and it won't be the same 4 or 5 guys in the band forever
@@thebaldshredder - That’s still no excuse for not practicing together prior to touring. I don’t care what their budget is. If you can’t at least do that so you sound good don’t bother to go out.
Ray West from Spread Eagle? He was a killer vocalist/singer with Spread Eagle. I can't remember that guys last name for certain. Ray was his 1st name for damn sure. I drove 6 hours in the snow to see Spread Eagle at the Al Rosa Villa in Columbus, Ohio. He sang really well and the club was empty enough that those of us there felt bad for them. They fucking rocked that place. They gave us our due man. Great band.
GL is hands down the coolest and hardest working guy in the world of guitar and Rock and Roll. He's by far my favorite from any era. There are solo's from back for the attack that still give me goosbumps!! Love ot meet him someday in a small club, and have my homemade ESP Sunburst Signed.
Newsflash, if you're lucky enough to be hired into a pro performing band, STEP ONE: You request their latest set list. STEP TWO: You learn it like the back of your hand before walk in the door or step on stage. There is no woodshed rehearsing at the pro-level. Everyone does their homework on their own time, you step on stage and play. That's professionalism.
@@Dave_Wight_The_Rock_Oracle Yes, he can wait for the rehearsals in George's garage, and he can also be fired after two days (as he was). The arrangements are on the studio recordings and or the live show recordings. If he couldn't learn them and be prepared, he needs to get a day job, that's the reality at the pro level. Show up and play like a pro, or go home.
@@BungleJoogie68 How are they expected to rehearse when 99% of musicians live in different cities? This isn't a local bar band we are talking about. Most pro bands at the most have a quick run through or two prior to the first show. There is no woodshed rehearsing. Even at that, my original point is that musicians and singers are expected to show up prepared. In any band, rehearsals are not the time to learn lyrics, harmonies, or parts. You learn the required material on your own time. Nobody can afford the luxury of weeks of rehearsing anymore. Not unless you all live in the same town, which for any pro band is exceptionally rare. I've personally hired drummers and vocalists who have shown up for festivals and or shows in L.A. & N.Y. never having met the other band members and they performed flawlessly. That's not to say every pro band doesn't rehearse. I'm just saying, these days many bands and management teams expect people to show up and perform without rehearsal.
George could sit on the stage and play to a digital track and I'd pay to see that sht! Most every artist says "this is the best guitar/drum/bass etc. player I've ever been in a band with!" when mentioning a replacement player,especially if the split with the last player was on bad terms. kinda like a kick in the teeth.
I'm a long time Lynch fan but also a Ray West fan when he was with Spread Eagle, so I hate that it didn't work out. That being said, everyone is working as interchangeable session musicians these days and keep a hectic schedule, so things like this are bound to happen.
I'd be interested to know what the set list was. I mean, if it's the old stuff, it's not like it's too obscure to be prepared for. But if it's newer material, George can't expect a new singer to jump in and plug-and-play.
I saw George Lynch and The Electric Freedom in Saginaw, Mi at The Vault July 8th this year. I thought they sounded good but not super tight. Rehearsals are necessary before you go on the road at least 3 times.
Being a guitar player you have to feel the band out to see if it works really good first. Playing with musicians you are unfamiliar with how they play can make a difference.
Ray should have done his homework. He knew what he was getting into is think.. Pretty much a karaoke gig at that point. The band will be tight enough if you have it together it's fine
Ray should not have taken the job if he couldn't do the job, he should've done whatever it was going to take to prepare for it!!! As a guitarist myself I have to be prepared before I take a gig from someone and if I know deep down I'm not ready I will not take the gig!!! But you better believe me when I say that makes me work harder so I'm really ready the next time!!!
The economics make extensive rehearsals impossible. However, that doesn’t stop anyone learning the material and trying their best to make things work. Will it be perfect? No, but if you’re a Pro you should be able to make a somewhat passable performance with limited preparation.
I'm quite sure that Ray had agreed to practice the lyrics and tones and assured George that he was prepared and ready for the live shows. George is meticulous and detail-oriented. When the shows commenced and it became clear to George that Ray wasn't so prepared, the contract was terminated.
I had a one off, freelance gig with a guy...didn't usually rehearse much with groups. So, was kind of used to being in the dark... So, the show is the next day. This guy asks me if we can meet for a coffee, and talk about some material and some reference material. I said "sure! I've got a couple hour drive to a gig tonight. I'll listen to it on the way down" So we meet, and he gives me like 8 full length cds! "What should I focus on?" "All of it!" He says! 🤣
Yeah that was laziness on the part of Lynch. They should have rehearsed one day on, one day off for two weeks before doing the shows. Also were they playing them that differently from the recordings? Give me the setlist and I'll learn it in two weeks by myself. I've also heard many times that George can be a difficult person.
So I'm the guy who replaced Ray West to finish the remaining 2 shows in the run. His got fired for not showing up in shape vocally. He had over a month to prepare and showed up weak. I had 4 and a half days to prepare...and I had never heard a single one of any of those songs. But I put myself through hell trying to learn everything and what you saw is what you got. Oh the conversations backstage about the Ray West thing. George is super embarrassed about the interview about Ray...as he should be. He NEVER did his homework on him and found out AFTER he hired him that Ray hasn't even sung in the shower since 2007. Can't expect to run a marathon if you haven't even jogged to the mailbox. Sincerely, The Bald Singer. Lol
Thanks Travis. That certainly sheds more light on the story. To be honest, if George hadn't done that interview and thrown so much praise on Ray, this wouldn't even be a story worth mentioning. Hopefully both George and Ray learned something from this. All the best!
Listening to LOT of George's projects lately. What happened to End Machine? THAT singer was GREAT!! And of course Dino J...he makes ANY band better! Dirty Shirly LOVING that album...I really despise what music has become now....looking to guys like George to hold rock together!
Not bashing anyone but I’m a professional sideman and sub and most of the gigs I’ve ever played were with acts with no rehearsals. It’s my job to know the material before I walk on stage.
It really comes down to the bottom line, without enough money in the equation, everything kind of falls apart. It really becomes about hiring musicians, and other players too, based on their love and desire to do it, and they fee they get is just a small token. The problem is that doesn’t really work, everyone has to pay bills, and even those who don’t have to worry about bills, still don’t want to be treated lesser. This is actually the same reason why we don’t see any truly great bands starting now. If any do, they last only a few years, and it’d fueled by very rich parents with connections.
Which is crazy when you think about it because back in the day on songs like Switchblade Serenade the guy's delivery & pipes were straight up Sebastian Bach. I guess just another casualty singer who lost it in their later years like Don Dokken:(
Try Van Morrison then... He is an absolute sh*t. I know a private pilot who flew him, and he was a total asshole. He was flying him from one concert to another, and he attended the show prior to flying him...During the gig, Van Morrison stopped the show because one of the backing band playing something not quite right, not majorly, or so bad that most would notice. He then asked the guy to tell the audience what he did over the mike.... My friend (the pilot) who was at the gig, told me about this, and his attutude on the plane. Grade A+ douche. He also flew Elton John who had a temper tantrum on a flight to Switzerland where he refused to be screened/searched on arrival, but the Swiss stood firm - no search - no entry. He squawked like a little girl and threw a proper tantrum, but had no choice in the end but to do as he was told. Aslo Grade A+ douche. Verdict - a tie.
I saw their first show together in Woodhaven, MI. They didn't sound very tight, except on a couple of tunes. Ray pulled out his phone at one point and appeared to be reading lyrics for one of their songs. Also the sound guy was visibly frustrating the band.
I was there in Plymouth indiana . The band was grade a , but the singer ehhh man . He kinda killed the vibe , NOT A GOOD FIT . Tbh , he kinda watered the experience down meaning the band out shined the singer . I’m not shocked by this news and feel this was right .
I was at the Michigan show in wood haven. I believe it was his first show. And the vocals weren’t that bad but the stage presents. Was awful .he just seemed lost up there ,he tried getting the crowd into it ,but weren’t having it. But hey George killed it so it’s all good
I know a couple guys that could easily do these George shows. Jeff Schlinz of Wulfhook and Brian Thomas of Detroits own Halloween. George is a superb guitarist just a vocalist away from some more years of viable radio play.
Who knows the truth, there are always two sides to every story. For me, I'd rather not speculate about what happened. I just hope George gets a decent line-up sorted out soon. Hasn't he changed bass players too recently?
Highly probable lynch has expectations within execution, remember his name/reputation is amongst his overall performance. Vocalist very difficult to fulfill, with lynch burnt tiger, floyd enhanced, along with 30+ years exp in his two hands. Attended priest/dokken tour 1986/forum, lynch was stellar, very consistent throught opening time duration slot. His Arizona studio was one best ideas I've seen in a guitarist. Can practice with Marshall sustain at any desirseable level, doesn't bother/disturb others. Plus tranquility within open areas, scenic areas really helps within concentration, no one bothers lynch while he's playing, and-or composing. Very good idea George placed.
I remember back when Dokken was still huge,The 80s were over, Grunge was in and Dokken like many bands were forced to play smaller lessor venues. After the show I waited outside for three hours in the lot for them to get on their bus. It was a small venue so no one else was out there. When they came out I didnt want to harrass I just wanted a signature on my guitar. I know they were tired, probably tipped a few too. The only two guys that gave me the time of day was Lynch and Pilson. They talked with me a couple minutes, Signed my gear and I was a happy camper. Don and Mick just ignored me and kept walking. I mean how do you be so rude to the one person in an empty lot just asking for a quick signature? Whatever. I will always respect George and Jeff.
Wow that sucks. They should've been grateful that anyone even still cared at that point.
I did meet them back in 95 on the Dysfunctional tour and all of them were really cool but Don was the least cool.
Don was on my plane on the way to Milwaukee for a concert with Van halen and Ratt and after we got off I ran up to him to tell him how much I loved Dokken and was a fan since highschool
I never asked for a signature and he was totally cool stopped and shot the shit with me for a few minutes
Without me asking for anything he pulled out his latest CD which hadn’t been released yet and gave me a copy
People have to remember that even before the Internet there’s a lot of folks out there getting signatures just to make money
Some musicians get pretty sick of that. I would recommend just saying hi Instead of asking for something from them you’ll get a much better response
Actually, Dokken left near the top and broke up right before grunge took hold.... I remember Alice in Chains was opening for Lynch Mob when they both first came out.
Just curious, which metal bands survived grunge days?
You're making a great point about bands these days. They get paid so little and so they want to keep the expenses down as much as possible, which includes not having rehearsals, and other things that help the band perform their best. I wish there was still more money in the music business, but there's just not!
You know it's a wonder that guys like George can afford to go all the way across the country for a show, or group of shows, and still make any money after paying all the expenses (travel, band members, food, etc.). Profit margins must be getting pretty lean for some of these guys.
Many truths. Its also that George lives up in Sedona. I dont know that there are rehearsal spots in that area and the traffic down here in Phoenix is something im sure he doesnt wanna deal with.
Hey Max!
@@thebaldshredder Saw an interview with Bobby Blotzer from Ratt late last year. He said Ratt was getting $35k per show (He was pissed that Pearcy wanted to do solo shows for $7K instead). He could be lying or stretching it a bit but that's pretty solid revenue for a mid-tier 80s band with limited appeal. I know someone in a pretty significant 70s classic rock band (you would definitely know them) and they are making at least that per show as well. Lynch/Dokken are on at least the same level as Ratt, so you have to figure they are somewhere in the same ballpark.
@MTD $35,000 per show on New Year's Eve, Halloween, July 4th dates at casinos. Otherwise: $8,000 - 10,000 a night
Brutal. I front a STP tribute. It took me 2 months to fully memorize the delivery and lyrics for 15 songs only. Many hours on the treadmill listening to the songs and watching streaming lyrics on UA-cam. Then recording myself. Listening back for clams. Adjusting. It’s not easy.
Some people seem to think he should've been able to just jump right in and nail it from the first show. Seems unrealistic.
If your band ever breaks up.. Look me up, I can't find a great vocalist anywhere. I'm in NC.
I do a lot of fill in work some with just a few days/ hours notice and usually covers ( much more before the pandemic) BUT... I'm a drummer.. BIG DIFFERENCE and I can sell it easier than a singer or guitarist for sure but I'm still on the edge of a cliff most of the night! I couldn't imagine being the focal point and having that pressure of delivering without rehearsal? It's not fair to anyone there, fans or band. Peace ✌️
Play in an Eagles tribute band, and a Tom petty tribute band. Good stuff
@@jeremyjohnson9222 Best of The Eagles? I know Squiggy...
I saw George in a small club between singers he played instrumental versions of songs and it kicked ass
As a singer in a coverband sins 1995, i would NEVER do a gig without some rehearsals.
Just a fukin recipe for disaster.
It was, i was there...
Details?
@@thomasbonnett4800 Find my other post describing the show..
Do we really know for sure there were no rehearsals? Or did Ray just mess up the show?
My story: In the year 2000 I was a special guest of Jeff Pilson on the 'Power To The People' tour with Dokken, Poison, Cinderella and Slaughter. I meet Jeff at the Tampa Aquarium and then we go into the Ice Palace Arena, we get to Dokken's dressing room and Jeff says to Don, "this is my friend who flew in from Chile to see us" And Don asked everyone to leave the dressing room because he wanted to talk quietly with me, we chatted, we drank some Jack Daniels with Coke, he gave me the new autographed album and we took photos together with my Chilean flag. Don treated me like royalty as did Jeff and Wild Mick!! Forever respect! PD: On another occasion I met George Lynch here in Chile on a radio show and he was also totally nice and great with me!
Very nice.
Ray was horrible. Saw George play a gig in Lititz, PA after seeing him with Ray and he played with XYZ and Terry Llous did a few songs with him after his set with XYZ and the singer from AON did a couple of songs with George. Way better than Ray.
I saw George in Queens in a small club a few years ago. He absolutely killed it. Tone was 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Who was the singer at that show?
@@thebaldshredder Nathan Utz. Sounded way better than Oni.
2016, South Dakota. Dokken reunion. It was clear they hadn't rehearsed very much because George didn't know the songs well. They had to restart a few times.
When people talk about American guitarist George is rarely spoken about, and that's the sad part of it. I've been playing for 30 years and Mr. Lynch is absolutely amazing, his tone, rhythm, his leads are all world class, and yet he is often overlooked
Ive been playing guitar 45 years. Georges playing is a cut above most players of the 80s and 90s. The problem with that is, if you dont play...it goes un-noticed. Ive played some pretty complex stuff at a club or party and nobody notices...then play Mustang Sally and the party is on....lol.
@@MrSpankey1 agreed, it's usually only other guitarists that notice the complexity of your runs. There is so many throughout the years that could have stood with the best, but they either had bad management, or never got that big break and they went unnoticed. There is a guy named Randy Hansen, he plays Hendrix, and he is without a doubt the best I have ever heard and seen, even his vocals is spot on, I met him a few times and he is so humble and nice, he is the kind of player I would've liked to see how bigger, the man is phenomenal, but that's the life all musicians must go thru
George was also the first player, that I know of, to mix major and minor scales making his music moody and more interesting than anyone else's.
Him along with Jason Becker & Criss Oliva deff need to be talked about more imo. And way more to list.
George is rarely talked about?
You’re kidding, right?
Is this the same Ray as the Ray West in Spread Eagle back in 1990 with songs like Broken City, Switchblade Serenade etc?
Yes I think so
Yeah. Rob De Luca is George's bass player, and HE was in Spread Eagle, so he brought Ray in. Funny thing is, due to other commitments, Rob isn't available, and Jaron Gulino from Tantric has been playing with George.
Practice aside, I've been a pro musician for 30 years. You come in knowing your shit forward and back. As a singer I can plug into any band that knows the songs and sing them right. As long as the arrangement is the exact same and there are no unexpected parts then its not hard. He needed to memorize the shit and have it down pat.
That's how I got the gig in the best band I was ever in. I knew the songs better than drummers who honestly were way better, chops wise, than me.
except that adults dont do their homework, do any adult education and find that nobody studies and the teacher has to teach everything twice.
My first thought was this. As long as the set list is given a singer should be able to easily prepare with the recordings. It's often not as easy with guitars but definitely is doable. Vocals typically don't join in until after an instrumental intro in that style. It's basically karaoke but with a real band and some need for dialog.
Can u sing
Yes, I sing. I also teach voice and guitar
Robert Mason was also in Lynch Mob before he was in Warrant so it’s no surprise that George Lynch would do that LOL
Mitch Malloy is my guess for George’s Band, Great White let him go a few months back.
I have known George for years and I am pretty sure he went into it hoping for the best. Your point is valid and they (meaning bands) don't have the support of back in the day. Someone said Quantity vs Quality the other day and that is the truth. You should always aim for quality over quantity so maybe not so many shows so you can focus on tuning the project. No one is at fault at the end of the day life happens.
Since The Boyz George has never had good luck/
consistency with his singers/ frontmen.
George has always been all in
Puzzling 🤔
It’s no secret that most singers’ voices deteriorate from years of use and abuse. Ray was a dynamic singer in his prime and although I don’t know how much he’s been using his voice over the years, odds are he can’t sing Back On the Bitch like like he did back in the day.
Ray West was in one of my favorite rock bands from the early 90’s…Spread Eagle. Check’em out when you get a chance. Scratch Like A Cat, Through These Eyes…those are just two of many great songs they released. Their second album was just as kick ass as their first!
wasn't west the guy who did a Dio tribute ?
@@johnmcminn9455 I had to look this one up. That was John Michael West who sang for Ronnie James Dio/Ritchie Blackmore tribute band…Black Knights Rising.
Louis, Ray West has a better band.
@@Poundemonium24 OH! Okay, thanks for the info! I was wondering about that, John West was the one I am familiar with, thanks!
One of the most underrated hard rock bands of all time, in my opinion! Broken City (that opening guitar lick is SO dope!), Devil's Road, Switchblade Seranade, If I Can't Have You, Scratch Like a Cat, Back on the Bitch... all good stuff! And they put out a record a few years ago that ain't bad either (I just need to listen to it more).
I saw Ray a week ago in NYC and he sounded great fronting Spread Eagle.
I have a friend who, let’s just say had a short lived project with George Lynch. You hit many of the nails on the head in terms of the financial aspect. Another issue my friend had, that caused him to not go further with George is that George, he says, still thinks it is the 80s, he thinks he has that kind of clout still and because of that there is a lot of….ego that gets in the way that makes him impossible to work with.
Wow, that's interesting. Yeah the 80s are long over.
Saddens me. I always wanted to root for George, and I couldn't stand all the drama queen garbage that Don Dokken spewed. But the real truth is.... it's probably almost all these clowns. They still think it's 1988, and they are at their height. And that they're still in their 20s. Sad.
George better get w/ the zoom jams. During Covid ppl recording remotely. Rehearse. A full circle. Now George is doing a Chuck Berry! B flat ...1234 go😂😂😂😭😱
I'd play bass for George Lynch even if he still thinks it's the 80s, sounds good to me.
@@bradford_shaun_murray yeah George can play! I just want to see a good show. Vocals, bass drums, etc
I've met with and talked to George and Jeff many times over the past 30 years. They've always been more than cool. Very down to Earth. Even when the didn't have to be. Made time for me even when they didn't have time. True rock royalty in my book.
How did Lynch expect it? If they had a set list, this guy is supposed to be a fucking professional singer. As a professional, and having at least a month or two to prep, dude should be more than prepared.
I seen the first show with Ray in Saginaw Mi. Ray was off key most of the night and asked the crowd to sing many of the higher range stuff. Understandable since there was no real rehearsal. I understand from the club owner that George was visibly pissed after the show and even refused to do an encore. Bad all the way around. George’s playing was killer…
Hey thanks for that story! Good to know.
I was there. I also noticed Ray looking at the stage floor from time to time, like maybe he had a teleprompter or lyrics were on papers taped to the floor.
I was there as well .. It felt like Ray never took ownership of his position as vocalist. His projection toward the audience felt arrogantly overconfident, which in turn shifted the intensity of the energy that came from the rest of band. It was a relief when George expressed his gratitude to the audience after it was over.
I’d think at that level, it would be no surprise to know your part without a rehearsal. I see it all the time. I had to do three sets and got through it with only 4 days. Wasn’t comfy but it happened. Another was literally 2 days. It was scary. Anyway, if you have a couple weeks or more, I’d think you should have a somewhat comfortable understanding of 15 or so songs.
I guess everybody is different and Ray just couldn't hack it.
There is no excuse in our modern age. If someone with a bunch of records out hires you as a singer, guitarist or whatever, you should show up knowing the songs. All of the songs are available online to listen to. You can also download and print the lyrics.
When Randy Rhoads died in the plane crash, Ozzy hired Brad Gillis last minute to fill in and Brad busted his ass to memorize the songs in order to play the shows. He was cramming in hotel rooms and while traveling. I was excited about Ray joining the band, but ya gotta pull your weight.
WRONG! when Randy died it was Bernie Torme who filled those shoes on short notice (a week) And Brad Gillis travelled with that band meaning, stood on the side of that stage and road in the back of that bus until he was ready. Ironically it was Bernie Torme who said, “you had this guy (Brad) on your radar the whole time, he’s more than capable” (Something of that nature was said) Bernie played the first shows after Randy’s death. He’s the one that had the tough way to go.
@@shawnstarks1743 I stand corrected. I forgot that Bernie was the first man in. Bernie only agreed to play for a month because wanted to pursue his own project. He lasted for 10 days. They knew he was going to leave so they brought Brad in. But I stand by my point about being prepared.
Brad told the story a few years ago here in Binghamton when Night Ranger played our local Spiediefest. He played his first show with Ozzy here in my home town of Binghamton, NY with no actual rehearsals with the band, other than soundcheck the day of his first show and Ozzy was not present for it. He was rehearsing in hotel rooms with a live cassette recording of Randy. Yes, he did have the benefit of seeing some shows while prepping, but he still had only a few days to prep on his own for his first show and worked hard. It's all about being prepared.
@@selftaughtguitarplayer It’s all good man.
@@selftaughtguitarplayer absolutely paul
@@selftaughtguitarplayer Hey man! I saw that Ozzy show at the Broome County Arena. I bought tickets to see Randy so it was rough. Always thought that was Bernie, didn't know it was Brad. He did a good job.
Love Ray West. Spread Eagle kicks ass!!!!
The singer makes the show i don't care if its George, or anybody else on guitar
That’s kind of true. As a singer myself, I wouldn’t put myself above anyone else in a band. However I will say that the contribution of the singer should not be underestimated and that’s the problem with a lot of these “guitar heroes”. They talk about singers having huge egos, but it always seems to me to be the guitarist with the issue. Idk what it is with guitarists, but many great guitarist seem to be obsessed with downplaying singers importance. The singers are actually rarely the ones with the ego.
As much as I cannot play what Yngvie can do, I promise he can’t sing what I can either, I have performed in full dramatic opera productions etc. And I say this as a fan of these guys like Lynch, Malmsteen, I love those guys.
Tell that to EVH, Satch Paul Gilbert, etc
☝️Most ignorant statement of the year☝️
@@whamsie4022 damn! took the words right out of me mouf!
@@whamsie4022 🤣😂😂😂🤟
One thing I’ve learned, is when someone heaps too much praise on you, it’s time to watch out, because things are about to turn bad. When you can’t live up to excessive praise, which nobody can, it quickly swings to the opposite extreme,.
Yea but Ray was not prepared you got to know your lyrics and be ready to throw down practice on your Own!
being a musician that's how it goes you're babying Ray too Dam much
"Lack of preparation is preparing to fail" John Wooden, longtime UCLA basketball coach... Inciidentally, I played in a UFO Tribute band a decade ago..I thought it was easy and it went very well . The reason for that is that every swingin' dick LEARNED THEIR PARTS. We had 1 rehearsal and knew we were ready...learn your job and it goes smoothly otherwise you will have trainwrecks. Showing up and knowing your parts makes you a PRO. It's very simple. Not learning your parts makes you an amateur. Shit or get off the pot
Off topic, but where did you get that hardtail george lynch "submarine" orange guitar in the background? That's sick!
I built it myself! Killer guitar. Look through my videos and you'll find a video on it.
Oni should be back and for good
Ray West is an amazing artist! I met him when he was in a band called Victims of Anew, when they opened for Tesla back in 2019 or so, then they came to Boston and opened for Scott Stapp. Was wicked stoked when I heard he collaborated w/George. Kinda sucks sweaty ball-sack that Ray didn’t work out. He is such an upstanding guy, really down to earth, super chill, and has a great stage presence!
I closed the video performance last night because I thought it was terrible. This just corroborated how I felt about that singer.
Ha, I went to that Def Leppard, Krokus and John Butcher Axis show you have framed on the wall back in the 80s
Awesome! By the time I saw them in August of '83, it was Uriah Heep opening up.
Back in the day George lured Oni Logan away from Marc Ferrari's band Ferrari. Then Ferrari replaced him with Roy Cathey from the Fayetteville NC band Gibraltar and renamed his band Cold Sweat. Who then had a hit with "Lets Make Love Tonight" from their debut MCA records release "Break Out" just as Grunge was cementing itself to decimate Hair Rock. Anyway there are demos of Oni singing that album, but as similar as their voices & styles are; Roy absolutely knocked it out of the park. Roy sings today for a band called the Fifth & recently did some reunion dates with Cold Sweat. All this to say that I never understood why Roy has never had an opportunity to sing for George as he would be absolutely phenomenal!!!
Has been my dream to see this happen for 30 years.
Yes I remember that whole story. I actually met with Marc at his apartment right after Cold Sweat broke up when he was looking for new guys to make a new band. Anyway, at the rate that George goes through singers, maybe Roy will make his way into the band at some point.
His name is not Roy. It's Rory. And I saw him in Cold Sweat live in 1992. Good but not great.
@@creeper2054 Rory was the name that the label gave him to give the name Roy more appeal. His real name is indeed Roy Otis(believe it or not) Cathey. He is from my hometown. He dropped Rory after MCA dropped Cold Sweat. He has went by Roy ever since. As far as your opinion on him being good but not great, I've seen him in his old band Gibraltar cover everything from Skid Row, to Ozzy, to Metallica, and Queensryche.He effortlessley morphed into those singers and hit every note on the albums. He even tried out for Jake E Lee's Red Dragon Cartel by sending Jake a version of Badlands "Highwire" which was awesome. I disagree with you. The greats to me are Geoff Tate, Midnight, Michael Kiske, Ray Alder, and the such. Is he as great as these singers? Probably not, but Roy is a more well rounded vocalist & could definitely sing their tunes. The man is in his 50s and still has an impressive range. He would definitely be a power vocalist for Lynch material.
Rob Halford uses a Lyric machine that faces away from the audience . He has for years its just so he doesn't lose his place . LM or whatever Lynch's bands name is ? West is not having time to remb. Dokken & LM songs this monitor would have helped him ??
I think a lot of pro singers use those now. It's hard to remember all those lyrics.
@@thebaldshredder- Yes Sir alot of singer's use them . Bands like JP have I dont know how many records it would take months to learn , plus Halford is over 70 and still sings PainKiller really well . Anyone any age can get confused or lose their place . I have no idea why Oni is out again ? What Happened ?? Been sick havent kept up in a long while .
@@DeadShred9 Oni has been in and out of the band so many times that I can't keep track anymore.
@@thebaldshredder Yeah I guess so but I figured he would keep the Gig as long as possible . I like your channel thanks for talking with me and other's ! Cover Ratt and I will sub LOL Thanks Dude ...
George seems to be spewing his own brand of drama queen bullcrap these days. Who knows what really happened? But probably just more hollywood-ish style drama. The new singer prolly made a comment that wasn't politically correct, and George over-heard it.... and gave him his walking papers. LOL What else is new? They're all drama queens.
You sniffed out my point before i said it haha
I hear you I mean George Lynch shreds on guitar but hear he's a libertard🙄
George Lynch has always been a drama queen- just ask Don Dokken and every producer they ever worked with. Just an all around pain in the ass.
@@thomasbailey3511 he is a massive libertard.
@@thomasbailey3511 Does any other word ooze the Dunning-Kruger effect like the word "libtard"?
I think if he's a professional and has a set list he should be able to deliver with no rehersals
alot of bands do that though. they have a guy fill in within 24 hrs. how much time frame did he have to prepare?
George was very optimistic about the band lineup with Andrew; sounded like he thought that it was the perfect mix of bandmates and was talking about doing an EP and going from there. Fortunately for George he does have several outlets with his own stuff, guesting with Dokken, KXM, Sweet Lynch, The End Machine, and now his instrumentals. I know that those are mainly not touring opportunities but he does at least keep busy. These musicians value a feeling of stability; Robert Mason with Warrant, Andrew Freeman now with Great White, Jeff Pilson being a mainstay in Foreigner, Reb Beach with Whitesnake as well as Winger. I think the more viable roles that they can be established with the better and if conflicts arise they are going to choose the more stable and lucrative position.
Yeah I don't blame Andrew for taking the Great White gig at all. I'm sure it's more stable and better income.
All good points but what does Reb Beach have to do with George Lynch?
@@scottydog62 Nothing directly I'm just alluding to talented musicians that are inclined to take more marquee roles in bands that go on steadier tours when the opportunity presents itself in order to achieve some level of career continuity. They're two of my favorite guitar players.
@@shiningphantasy1393 Gotcha, I agree with you there.
He had a whole month to learn the songs
I could be wrong but it sounds like he didn’t learn the songs in that month
Even if he learned the songs on his own, you still need at least a couple of full band practices to get it down.
@@thebaldshredder this is absolutely correct. Even after knowing every note and lyric, that’s reality only the beginning. Have seen and learned this the hard way especially being involved in many opera and classical music performances.
The band he had with Corey Glover from Living Colour is amazing.
why is Oni not a part of this anymore? do he and George not get along or is his voice toast? Wicked Sensation might be my fav cd of all time from that era. saw George warmup Dokken with a bass player I've never seen last July 2021, omg that guy could sing, he was awesome
Oni has been in and out of the band more times than I can count. So why did he leave the most recent time? I can't even remember if I ever read a reason. At this point, when Oni comes back, you know it's only going to be temporary as he always leaves after a while.
Speaking from experience I played in a tribute band in the 90,s and we never rehearsed. We changed members constantly and the only rehearsal we ever had was at sound checks.
A drummer or bass player without practice is one thing. But a singer..... that's tough!!!
No offense intended, but is anyone going to see him anymore?
George Lynch is and always has been my favorite guitar player, I'm a player from the '80s and still playing in a Smooth 70s/80s Band today. Lynch as he has gotten older, he all about improv, that's why he never plays the leads of the docking songs and old Lynchmob songs the same, but there is one other way to practice in between shows and that's with acoustics backstage before the gig or in the hotel rooms..
You nailed it! Also, over the last 20 years, he's always trying to rediscover himself with new & not necessarily great sounds. I saw him about 5 years ago & he played the entire show with a tele & very little gain. It was far from powerful lol
Ray West, not knowing him. He deserves a pass. Not rehearsing? That’s a bit much. C’mon George
A buddy of mine saw George in Little Rock, Ar back n mid 90's when he was in his bodybuilding stage.
I love George, I am a dream warrior buy Sir Lynch sounds very very difficult to work with. All the interviews with Don talking about George are entertaining AF.
Yeah could be. I've never worked with George or Don, so who knows.
I was called in to tech for George like 10 years ago… He was way nice but saw him years later and he can be really sarcastic/ egotistical. Still love his playing but I think hes unhappy he’s not on tours like the Motley one. Hes EXTREMELY talented but like many in the industry can go hot cold.
@@thebaldshredder he seems cool online. IG, etc. Interacts w/ ppl! The $ is sad. The big tours they rehearse. Ppl r going for peanuts 🥜🥜
I saw him with Andrew in May outside Phoenix. Was PHENOMENAL! Best ive ever seen him play. Im surprised George was doing such a long tour ! I heard about the Great White thing but I didnt think it would take Andrew off😬. Either way Ive heard this story for MANY years. Ive also noticed George goes way off on political rants in interviews lately. Its fine to do that if you dont wanna tour but it puts people off if youre still a working player
Andrew is a great singer. I can see why he's so in demand. I met him once at a NAMM show. Super cool guy.
@@thebaldshredder Man I wish you coulda seen this tour !!! Ive known Andrew many years. Wayyy nice dude and Ive NEVER heard Lynch mob or Dokken songs sung with such precision and strength! Georges playing was MUCH tighter that nite! Not many leads in the middle of verses and VERY SOLID tone! I wanna say it was a SLO 100 nite. I think you woulda loved it🤟🏻😜💯
I saw the show in Glendale,AZ and Andrew was awesome vocals that night and played on guitar as well. Super talented blew me away as well as George did. Andrew deserves to make some good money
George is woke now.
Poltical rants don't impact people like you think, people will still come and hear the music. George's big mistake was changing the name of the band to capitulate to woke frauds.
Actually bands do it all of the time without rehearsals. That's why the singers should have it work down at home. When you look at Bruce kulick's touring band they never get to rehearse and when they play the cruise you got Todd Kerns absolutely nailing the Paul Stanley stuff
I think it's just really Sad that the Original members of these bands can't get along and stay together. Example... Dokken with All Original members. It's so sad to see my favorite bands with different members.
That's when you practice with an acoustic or something. Great point
Well Erik Grönwall did not have any rehersals before joining Skid Row on stage in Las Vegas. On the other hand he was a longtime fan of the band.
Erik is a god and extremely hard worker
Totally makes sense man. Sounds like a hectic time for these guys. I can't imagine.
I'm glad I'm not a touring musician just barely getting by. Must be a hard.
I love George, one of my favorite guitar players. I think part of it too is George has soooo many projects and albums and stuff. He's not like don Dokken where don pretty much just does Dokken so I'm not surprised Lynch mob/ electric freedom is kinda on and off touring wise. I did see a clinic recently where George said he's just kinda accepted that the band is gonna be a revolving door all the time and it won't be the same 4 or 5 guys in the band forever
yeah it's not possible to keep the same guys around all the time when it's not really full time
@@thebaldshredder - That’s still no excuse for not practicing together prior to touring. I don’t care what their budget is. If you can’t at least do that so you sound good don’t bother to go out.
@@kingtrance307 I agree
Ray West from Spread Eagle? He was a killer vocalist/singer with Spread Eagle. I can't remember that guys last name for certain. Ray was his 1st name for damn sure. I drove 6 hours in the snow to see Spread Eagle at the Al Rosa Villa in Columbus, Ohio. He sang really well and the club was empty enough that those of us there felt bad for them. They fucking rocked that place. They gave us our due man. Great band.
Yes I believe it's the same guy.
GL is hands down the coolest and hardest working guy in the world of guitar and Rock and Roll. He's by far my favorite from any era. There are solo's from back for the attack that still give me goosbumps!! Love ot meet him someday in a small club, and have my homemade ESP Sunburst Signed.
George is my fav as well.
Yes I was in Saginaw Michigan the club is called the vault but it's very good show all the opening bands were great as a musician
Newsflash, if you're lucky enough to be hired into a pro performing band, STEP ONE: You request their latest set list. STEP TWO: You learn it like the back of your hand before walk in the door or step on stage. There is no woodshed rehearsing at the pro-level. Everyone does their homework on their own time, you step on stage and play. That's professionalism.
Step three: rehearse like professionals even if it's in George's garage..
@@Dave_Wight_The_Rock_Oracle Yes, he can wait for the rehearsals in George's garage, and he can also be fired after two days (as he was). The arrangements are on the studio recordings and or the live show recordings. If he couldn't learn them and be prepared, he needs to get a day job, that's the reality at the pro level. Show up and play like a pro, or go home.
Pro-level bands still have rehearsals, hence why George Lynch is not a professional.
@@BungleJoogie68 How are they expected to rehearse when 99% of musicians live in different cities? This isn't a local bar band we are talking about. Most pro bands at the most have a quick run through or two prior to the first show. There is no woodshed rehearsing. Even at that, my original point is that musicians and singers are expected to show up prepared. In any band, rehearsals are not the time to learn lyrics, harmonies, or parts. You learn the required material on your own time. Nobody can afford the luxury of weeks of rehearsing anymore. Not unless you all live in the same town, which for any pro band is exceptionally rare. I've personally hired drummers and vocalists who have shown up for festivals and or shows in L.A. & N.Y. never having met the other band members and they performed flawlessly. That's not to say every pro band doesn't rehearse. I'm just saying, these days many bands and management teams expect people to show up and perform without rehearsal.
George could sit on the stage and play to a digital track and I'd pay to see that sht! Most every artist says "this is the best guitar/drum/bass etc. player I've ever been in a band with!" when mentioning a replacement player,especially if the split with the last player was on bad terms. kinda like a kick in the teeth.
I'm a long time Lynch fan but also a Ray West fan when he was with Spread Eagle, so I hate that it didn't work out. That being said, everyone is working as interchangeable session musicians these days and keep a hectic schedule, so things like this are bound to happen.
I'd be interested to know what the set list was. I mean, if it's the old stuff, it's not like it's too obscure to be prepared for. But if it's newer material, George can't expect a new singer to jump in and plug-and-play.
I saw George Lynch and The Electric Freedom in Saginaw, Mi at The Vault July 8th this year. I thought they sounded good but not super tight. Rehearsals are necessary before you go on the road at least 3 times.
Being a guitar player you have to feel the band out to see if it works really good first. Playing with musicians you are unfamiliar with how they play can make a difference.
Agreed
Ray should have done his homework. He knew what he was getting into is think.. Pretty much a karaoke gig at that point. The band will be tight enough if you have it together it's fine
He must have gave him some kind of set list with songs to learn. George must have felt the guy let him down by not being ready?
Most likely.
Saw a GLATEF show here in Dallas last May, and Nathan Utz brought the pipes. Great visuals, and great voice, and great energy.
I agree Nathan Utz kicks ass .He's the best singer out there right now.
I like that 3 pickup! Does the switch select each on individualy? I need a 3 way that selects each
No it doesn't. Not sure if there is a three way switch like that.
You have to do it yourself but why would you?
Ray should not have taken the job if he couldn't do the job, he should've done whatever it was going to take to prepare for it!!! As a guitarist myself I have to be prepared before I take a gig from someone and if I know deep down I'm not ready I will not take the gig!!! But you better believe me when I say that makes me work harder so I'm really ready the next time!!!
The economics make extensive rehearsals impossible. However, that doesn’t stop anyone learning the material and trying their best to make things work. Will it be perfect? No, but if you’re a Pro you should be able to make a somewhat passable performance with limited preparation.
I'm quite sure that Ray had agreed to practice the lyrics and tones and assured George that he was prepared and ready for the live shows. George is meticulous and detail-oriented.
When the shows commenced and it became clear to George that Ray wasn't so prepared, the contract was terminated.
Interesting news. But your shirt is my favorite part of this video.
Star Wars fan?
@@thebaldshredder I’m a fan of the original trilogy, but a bigger fan of a great sense of humor. PS - Great production on your video.
@@carlensbasement9147 thanks!
Great video Richard 😀🤘🎵🔥🔥🔥🔥
I had a one off, freelance gig with a guy...didn't usually rehearse much with groups. So, was kind of used to being in the dark...
So, the show is the next day. This guy asks me if we can meet for a coffee, and talk about some material and some reference material.
I said "sure! I've got a couple hour drive to a gig tonight. I'll listen to it on the way down"
So we meet, and he gives me like 8 full length cds!
"What should I focus on?"
"All of it!" He says! 🤣
Yeah that was laziness on the part of Lynch. They should have rehearsed one day on, one day off for two weeks before doing the shows. Also were they playing them that differently from the recordings? Give me the setlist and I'll learn it in two weeks by myself. I've also heard many times that George can be a difficult person.
If you get fired after only 2 shows, that probably means you were there one show too many.
So I'm the guy who replaced Ray West to finish the remaining 2 shows in the run. His got fired for not showing up in shape vocally. He had over a month to prepare and showed up weak. I had 4 and a half days to prepare...and I had never heard a single one of any of those songs. But I put myself through hell trying to learn everything and what you saw is what you got. Oh the conversations backstage about the Ray West thing. George is super embarrassed about the interview about Ray...as he should be. He NEVER did his homework on him and found out AFTER he hired him that Ray hasn't even sung in the shower since 2007. Can't expect to run a marathon if you haven't even jogged to the mailbox. Sincerely, The Bald Singer. Lol
Thanks Travis. That certainly sheds more light on the story. To be honest, if George hadn't done that interview and thrown so much praise on Ray, this wouldn't even be a story worth mentioning. Hopefully both George and Ray learned something from this. All the best!
Now's your chance, Richard!!
To be the singer? 😃 🤘
I think he might try a chick🤷♂️ find the right one they can nail that high range stuff..find one hot enough might put more asses in the crowd
What diet and exercise recommendations do you have for upper-body development?
Lots of Taco Bell and McDonalds. Got any beauty tips there Quasimodo?
Listening to LOT of George's projects lately. What happened to End Machine? THAT singer was GREAT!! And of course Dino J...he makes ANY band better! Dirty Shirly LOVING that album...I really despise what music has become now....looking to guys like George to hold rock together!
Not bashing anyone but I’m a professional sideman and sub and most of the gigs I’ve ever played were with acts with no rehearsals. It’s my job to know the material before I walk on stage.
I guess some people can do it, and some can't.
@@thebaldshredder yeah, it's a tough situationt o be placed in, for sure, and a shame for it to end like that as well.
Nobody burns through singers like George
This is true.
Like Kittie with bass players lol
Malmsteen has to be up there too.
Blackmore is up there as well.
It really comes down to the bottom line, without enough money in the equation, everything kind of falls apart. It really becomes about hiring musicians, and other players too, based on their love and desire to do it, and they fee they get is just a small token. The problem is that doesn’t really work, everyone has to pay bills, and even those who don’t have to worry about bills, still don’t want to be treated lesser.
This is actually the same reason why we don’t see any truly great bands starting now. If any do, they
last only a few years, and it’d fueled by very rich parents with connections.
I saw his second show in Plymouth IN.. he wasn’t bad, definitely sounded better than Don who headlined the show.
Anybody would sound better than Don these days.
Well, except Vince Neil. Lol
Ray fronted Spread Eagle which also featured Rob DeLuca who is now in UFO
Which is crazy when you think about it because back in the day on songs like Switchblade Serenade the guy's delivery & pipes were straight up Sebastian Bach. I guess just another casualty singer who lost it in their later years like Don Dokken:(
@@TheXAKChannel yeah he definitely could sing
Thongs change scent from one end to the other. Knowledge is power.
God bless
George Lynch is doing something with Terry Llouis and a newer young band called AON as a guest
I saw that. They sounded great.
Lynch isn't the easiest guy to get along with
Definitely
Try Van Morrison then... He is an absolute sh*t.
I know a private pilot who flew him, and he was a total asshole. He was flying him from one concert to another, and he attended the show prior to flying him...During the gig, Van Morrison stopped the show because one of the backing band playing something not quite right, not majorly, or so bad that most would notice.
He then asked the guy to tell the audience what he did over the mike....
My friend (the pilot) who was at the gig, told me about this, and his attutude on the plane.
Grade A+ douche.
He also flew Elton John who had a temper tantrum on a flight to Switzerland where he refused to be screened/searched on arrival, but the Swiss stood firm - no search - no entry. He squawked like a little girl and threw a proper tantrum, but had no choice in the end but to do as he was told.
Aslo Grade A+ douche.
Verdict - a tie.
Oh man, you have the orange submarine guitar. What exactly is yours and where did you get it? Thx!
I made it. Look at my list of videos and you'll find it.
@@thebaldshredder Ah! Excellent, will do - thx 4 responding!
I saw their first show together in Woodhaven, MI. They didn't sound very tight, except on a couple of tunes. Ray pulled out his phone at one point and appeared to be reading lyrics for one of their songs. Also the sound guy was visibly frustrating the band.
That's a bummer
How was dokken
@@heikkidtw5992 very low energy from Don
@@RobbyBuschbacher I seen them at the Silverdome in 88,, Harpos 97, and The Token about 8 years ago...88 monsters of rock was the best
@@RobbyBuschbacher That's an understatement. It probably would of been better if the 2 Bret Michaels look-a-likes got up there, Ha.... You see em??
I was there in Plymouth indiana . The band was grade a , but the singer ehhh man . He kinda killed the vibe , NOT A GOOD FIT . Tbh , he kinda watered the experience down meaning the band out shined the singer . I’m not shocked by this news and feel this was right .
Thanks man. Good to hear from someone that was actually there. I hope George can find a good semi permanent singer.
I was at the Michigan show in wood haven. I believe it was his first show. And the vocals weren’t that bad but the stage presents. Was awful .he just seemed lost up there ,he tried getting the crowd into it ,but weren’t having it. But hey George killed it so it’s all good
Guess the chemistry just wasn't there.
I know a couple guys that could easily do these George shows. Jeff Schlinz of Wulfhook and Brian Thomas of Detroits own Halloween. George is a superb guitarist just a vocalist away from some more years of viable radio play.
Never blame anyone or any circumstance for giving less that 100% in your preparation. You had one job, Ray. Learn something from this.
Running a band is all about focus and management,and a no bullshit policy.Also standards and target goals,or stay at home! Tone Raven
Excellent perspective . I think you nailed it
Thanks! 🤘
Who knows the truth, there are always two sides to every story. For me, I'd rather not speculate about what happened. I just hope George gets a decent line-up sorted out soon. Hasn't he changed bass players too recently?
He's had a lot of different members in recent years.
George lynch is ruining his legacy as Van Halen brothers destroyed Van Halen..sad
I've met Don Dokken about 10 yrs ago...& he stopped to talk & sign autographs.
He was really cool.
As for Mick...he never came around.
I've met Don a couple of times and he was super cool.
@@thebaldshredder
🤘😁🤘
Highly probable lynch has expectations within execution, remember his name/reputation is amongst his overall performance. Vocalist very difficult to fulfill, with lynch burnt tiger, floyd enhanced, along with 30+ years exp in his two hands. Attended priest/dokken tour 1986/forum, lynch was stellar, very consistent throught opening time duration slot. His Arizona studio was one best ideas I've seen in a guitarist. Can practice with Marshall sustain at any desirseable level, doesn't bother/disturb others. Plus tranquility within open areas, scenic areas really helps within concentration, no one bothers lynch while he's playing, and-or composing. Very good idea George placed.
Is this English?