I should also add that I wasn't sure wether to post this or not, just because it's a purely personal 'head' thought I'd had. Whenever people post things like that, there is always the possibility to be misconstrued. I personally believe it's about being the best 'you' you can be. If I didn't, I wouldn't be happy creating music with my brothers and moving forward. But it was an internal thought i (at the time) decided to share :-)
I'm glad you post this type of videos. to me, a 17-year-old intermidiate player is great to see what is the question that (kind of) bothers you (one of the players who I look up to as far as diversity in the playing and being nice in general). All things considered, music is to bring people together, not to talk about gear 24/7, isn't it? so, thank you for these videos, it's pure pleasure to watch them and greets from Bulgaria. :)
thanks for uploading this. this is what i really needed right now. not that i think i'm better than anyone (because i'm not). but right now i feel a little bit depressed about my playing and so again, thanks for uploading this. you're one of my favourite guitar player in the world dude. keep up the good music!
It's nice to see something real on here. It makes me squirm when I see Rob and Cap'n testing something blatantly shit and they can't say so because it's a demo, not a review. Cap'n squirms a bit and you have to catch that glance from Rob that says 'this is shit!'. I know I have gone off topic but I just watched that Peavey / Orange lunchbox shootout and it was really uncomfortable viewing. Shouldn't have been uploaded. I haven't seen anything like that from you and I get the feeling that if you can't get behind it then you won't. That's what we look for out here in UA-camland. So thanks bruh for keeping it real.
Really glad you did post this Rabea. You're spot on with this thinking. I'm a 46 year old dude who's been playing seriously for about 12 years, and casually for most of my life, and I'm still cobbling together my personal style by grafting on bits and pieces from other guitarists. I started with Phil Keaggy, moved to Eric Johnson, Ty Tabor, Hendrix, Adam Jones, Satriani, and these days, quite frankly... you. I have no illusions of being even close to any of those players, and likely never will be. But listening to their work, studying it, trying to emulate it and incorporating elements of it into my playing has made me better than I ever would have otherwise been . And perhaps more importantly, it's a massive load of fun. Thanks for your work and for this post!
I've really been enjoying your more personal reflections on things lately. Your honesty, modesty, and openness on things like this, and your lifestyle change, have taken your channel in an exciting direction. Keep it up!
Step 1: Write a riff. Step 2: Work on it until you *really* love it. Step 3: Realise that *you* wrote it, and none of those "better guitarists" did...and then realise that you're far better at playing like you than they are. That's all that matters.
I saw SRV live from the front row of the stalls at Hammersmith on his last tour. He was right in front of me. I could see him sweat. I saw his right hand flying around, the eyes rolling back in his head - the tone just blew my mind. But then afterwards I couldn't pick up the guitar for over a year - what was the point? But then gradually I came to realise the most important thing. Music is NOT a competitive sport. It's not about me setting SRV as a target to be beaten. Its hard to explain with out getting all Buddist but music comes from within. Its much more important to listen to yourself than it is to other people. Since I figured that out I've broadened my horizons, learned a bunch more instruments, more theory, started writing songs and discovered a whole spectrum of enjoyment in the practice of music that I didn't realise was there because I was just looking in the wrong place. Keep the faith and enjoy the journey!
Good video, sir. I went through all this during my time in college. Over the years I luckily found my own little niche and am now happier than ever with the things I can't do.
Words like "best" and "greatest"need to never be uttered when discussing music [or pretty much any art form for that matter]. Music is NOT a competition. That's all we really need to remember. :) Use words like "amazing", "incredible", "precise", "melodic"...hell, the highest praise I can personally ever give a guitar player is to call them "tasty". :) Even in so-called objective activities like sports, where achievements are tallied and quantified endlessly in mountains of statistics, there never is 100% universal consensus on what player or team is "the best". It's ultimately a pointless pursuit - we like what we like. :) Bea...you ain't Satch, Vai, Gilbert, SRV, Gilmour...etc, etc, etc...You're Bea - and in my book, you are indeed a "tasty" guitar player. :D cheers man!
I'm a multi instrumentalist and a teacher ,and I have these same thoughts all the time. I'm constantly meeting people who are so much better than I and it can be a real downer. I have to constantly remind myself to be the best I can be for me and my students. Don't know if you'll see this but great video and thank you for being real!
Bea, I'm not here because you're my favorite guitar player. I enjoy your your expertise and enthusiasm. I have loads of favorites but am always excited to see what you and the guys are up to. It's not a mountain to climb, rather a festival of sharing. Much love from America.
Rabea, Thank you for posting this. I'm a new guitarist that picked up the instrument at 53. My playing is for my own enjoyment, and to write. ( A quick 'across the pond' view of your group.) I found Andertons Music videos while researching a Les Paul I wanted. I watched over the last 4 years as Rob's hair got shorter Lee's playing got 'bigger', and this guy with the cool hair style slowly came from behind the camera. As the UA-cam experience became broader, as a viewer, you feel you get to know the people based on what you see. Rob is just a great showman and shredder. Lee is just that very down to earth business guy who knows what he's doing and is marketing in a way no one else has. You come across as a very intelligent soft spoken guy who is incredibly talented yet humble, that is the corner stone of the business at hand...whether it's the making of a video, a road trip, or showing effortlessly your playing ability hidden behind the instrument you are demonstrating. I'm sure the viewers that are climbing up the playing ladder appreciate your open direct message. I'm just trying to get through a 12 bar blues solo without falling out of the pentatonic scale I'm in. Being the in Mississippi Delta, you don't want to make our heritage look bad. Thanks again for posting.
I’m glad you posted this. I’m going to show this to my nephew. My drive is having my own voice. I can’t compare to most players but as my nephew pointed out at the guitar store “they don’t play or sound like you”. Best compliment ever.
And just like poetry, you write what you feel and those who have not felt like that may not like what you've written but that doesn't mean you have to start writing about things you don't know or feel. Those who have felt the way you do will cherish your words and rythm. That's why we have so many artists, so we can find the one we can relate to
100% music is an art form, not a sport. It's about CREATING SOMETHING, not about whether what you create is "technically good", and it's certainly not about being better than the next man. If it comes from your soul, it's good. Simple as.
It's so frutrating. I was just having one of those moments when your video showed up. But then I rememeber how much fun I have just playing, what hitting a chord or bending a note makes me feel, and that most of the music that got me into guitar playing or the musicians that made me want to play are more about simple things but great feeling, I relax. I enjoy a Beeatles song,a pop hit or a punk rock song with 3 chords as much as a Guthrie Solo, a Vai song or a Stevie Ray lick. The competition is with myself, I should just forget about the world and try to improve my playing. Every time I do that, and simply practice, study and master whatever song or solo I wanted to play, I feel a great satisfaction. And that's about it for me. Another thing is that we tend to compare ourselves with the best, and not look back the road we have traveled. Sometimes I have to stop and see how much I have learned and that I've got to a decent level where I've shared with many great musicians and I can play much better than most of the things I first aspired to play. And while I am still nowhere as close as the "heroes" I have made people enjoy my playing or even inspired at some moment someone to start playing or to go to his guitar. As you do everyday all around the world thanks to your videos. Just the other day I saw your "how to sound like hendrix" video, and enjoyed it so much that it inspire me to go, grab my strat, and play some hendrix too ! And that last chord or note you made a mistake was the best part, cause it was like " this guys are so good and they make mistake too, c'mon, relax" Well this got a little too long, But the point is., thanks for your videos, your sincere words and sharing this thoughts that noone shares and that relate so much to many of us.
Loving the comment section here guys! Really appreciate the kind words, but more importantly it's really nice to read so many level headed comments. Thanks to all that watch and support the videos! I guess in a nutshell, I really love the fact there is so much inspiration out there, and you're all as inspiring to me as the musicians I look up to! Love you all!
Rabea Massaad I totally agree with you. Just so you know, you are one of my inspirations when it comes to the guitar. I know I'm miles away from the guitar players I look up to. I don't want to be the best, I just want to be the best version of myself. Thanks bro!
Rabea Massaad I have rude awakenings every time I surf UA-cam.....it's all good and God bless em!....because we are all a part of this obsession as a whole....always stay inspired.....when we're feeling down, it's fine, it gives us time to recharge our batteries to bounce back....
Rabea Massaad I am a keyboard player, my trick is to listen to other instruments and try to learn from and get inspired by that and try to incorporate that in my style, I think our individual styles comes from everything we hear and then filter it through our musical minds. And remember, it's not a competition, it's art .
Thanks for making this video. I've been trying to play the guitar off and on for 30 years and these same thoughts have been holding me back all this time and I have thought about giving it up many times and now that I'm older I ask myself what's the point of playing at all, I can't go back and do it over it's too late for me and then I break out an old Pink Floyd album and remember why I started playing in the first place. The sound of the guitar touches me deep inside and I finally realised this 30 years too late. You players out there keep playing and don't let these foolish thoughts get in the way of what you love. There's always going to be a 6-year old little girl on youtube who can blow you away :)
I lost fingertips on my fretting hand in 76' like Tony Iommi. I got frustrated and put down the guitar for 30+ yrs. been back playing about 8 yrs and I feel like I'm trying to make up for all that lost time. I want to play all kinds...blues, metal, acoustic slide you name it. so little time and so much to play. I would have regretted never playing again. I think we'll always compare ourselves but never stop playing...
Thank you Rabea! I'm 55 years old and have been playing guitar with more passion over the last 5 years. I always wanted to learn and get better since my 20's but never had the drive until more recently. For some reason, (The mortality clock) kicked in about 5 years ago and I am now slowly progressing and hurdling over the obstacles all players go through. I know my time to learn and get better is shorter than someone your age but that only makes me more resolute in my quest.You are dead on with your observation that we all get that "Am I good enough to get better" feeling that gives us doubt about our capabilities. You hit the nail on the head when you said to have patience and belief in yourself. Just knowing there are guys like you, Rob, Lee, Pete, Nick, Steve Stine, Paul Gilbert, Joe Bonamassa, (1000's more) that are willing to share the road of hard licks with us who are a bit (or a lot) farther back down the path is inspiring to an old dude like me. :) No matter what age, we all find those others out there that we can connect to for pieces of inspiration and drive. To keep the passion glowing and growing. Thank (The Hammer of) the Gods for you all and your ability and drive to share your journey with us! Peace In and Rock Out!
I swear Bea you're prophetic! I'm 43 got back into playing just over a year ago after a 20 year absence. I love technical and mesmerizing guitarists like yourself, Guthrie Goven, Keith Merrow, Tosin Abasi, joey Landreth Ariel, Danish Pete and every inch of me wants to play like that and as hard as I try I can't help compare. Unrealistic and stupid as that is. And most of the time I can put it into context and use their (and your) expertise and skill and an inspiration springboard to push harder and play more and play better l. But sometimes the mountain seems insurmountable, the amount I don't know just too big and it is hard as hell to keep plugging away at my very basic level. But I do, because I love playing and writing and making music, we do because we are compelled to. We do because sometimes, one of our heros posts a video expressing all to familiar vulnerabilities and that puts things into perspective. Thanks for this Bea.
There is a post-it note I keep in my office from a Buddhist book I read with 4 qualities to build when learning: Patience, Diligence, Determination, Energy. Above all that is Joy. It's a lifetime journey with all the ups and downs and that's ultimately why anyone who sticks with guitar is rewarded with a beautiful companion. Great post Rabea.
Rabea, I have to say that just do what makes you happy. I suffered a very bad wrist injury years ago and can no longer play finger style Classical guitar. Doctors told my wife that I wouldn't be able to write, play music , play golf and so on... Well I write, I play golf , I play guitar...the next phase of my playing was to be Flamenco style. I know today that this will probably not happen but I will end up trying at some point. My accident happened a dozen years ago but it hasn't stopped me from doing something I can't live without, playing guitar! It's really about what gives you joy. I've never thought to myself after playing music " I really suck at this or man that was boring" I always seem to end up thinking " can't wait til the next time" or " I'm going to learn this song as my next challenge" Keep on rocking, cheers.
Agree with you 100% Rabea. I have felt exactly the same way, I always seemed to dwell on the things I'm not so good at and switch from one style to another and trying to be a Jack of all trades, and usually coming away feeling like I'm a far worse player than I may actually be. I think your comment about stop worrying about trying to be the best player in the world and just enjoy playing, incorporating all these influences into your own playing is spot on. I'm a little older and wiser these days but still find myself doubting my abilities as a player. Music should never be a competition, unfortunately many guitarists have a tendency to treat it as such, I've been guilty of it myself. Thank you for sharing these thoughts, it's reassuring to us mere mortals that even a monster player as yourself has insecurities too!
Much needed video, thank you! There's one quote Neil deGrasse Tyson once said in an interview I saw that really resonated with me so I'll post it here: "Whether or not you can become great at something, you can always become better at it" - Neil deGrasse Tyson I really love this philosophy and approach.
Although Tyson is an over-rated shill, the sentiment in this quote is almost ok. A lot of people will never get better without one day realising how fucking terrible they are though - that's kind of the first step to being good - having that point where you transition from thinking you know everything to understanding you know fuckall. Just like when Rabea's Dad sat him the fuck down and sorted him out.
@ Burnt Cat - No, because there's no logic in your example. The point of this quote is that you may not be talented enough to be a truly amazing, world-class guitar player / runner / architect / scientist / whoever. But if you practice, you will at least learn something new and gain some valuable skills/knowledge. At the very least you will be better at something than you used to be 1-2-3 years before (even if you are still pretty bad). But the very process of learning something that was "alien" to you is rewarding and you should be proud of yourself.
I think you are correct. I would add also, that you have your own unique style. The way you hear music, the way you translate music in your playing, makes it appealing to people. Everyone has their own personalities, ways of looking at things, the way they feel, Etc. I guess what I'm trying to say is, there's room for all these players, Because everyone will play differently and bring something unique to the table. For instance, you are one of my favorite new guitar players that I've heard in a long time. I've watch for several years, and you become one of my new favorites. Other people may listen to you, and it doesn't do anything for them. Everyone's different. I think that's part of the beauty of all of this. Anyway, rock on brother!
Thanks Rabea. Yes, you are not alone in having felt inadequate at times when seeing other talented players. I have been playing & writing for 45yrs & more as well as running a small semi-pro studio recording others. Remember we are each one of us unique individuals with our own particular talents & weakness. If playing & writing music brings you joy & a sense of achievement then you have succeeded in some form of achievement. If you're recognised by the public for it hey, well done & even better, though that can have it's downside at times too of course. By the the way, based on some of the Andertons clips I have seen you on your quite the guitarist. Don't ever sell your guitar abilities short. Take care & thanks for going to the effort for putting it out there.
I have felt this way for a while now. i started playing about 25 years ago and for the first 15 or so years i would spend all my free time playing and all my cash on gear. i never really compared myself to others like you mentioned. However in the last 10 years or so this has very much been the case. i've felt "why bother learning petrucci licks if they'll never be as good" time passed by and i played less and less. I'm trying to get back in to it but am hitting the "everyone is better than me" wall. this was a refreshing video and thank you for posting. i think you're right in that we need to listen to artists and music that inspires us to play guitar because after all, for many of us that is why we started.
Stumbled on this video, very good thoughts. I've been playing guitar for 32 years, and when I started out, my dad told me repeatedly "you may be good, you may be great, but there's always someone better, and don't be surprised when the mailman or the lady down the street blows you away, but there's only one you." As much as I love listening all the great guitar players (too many to list) they all (even the ones I don't like) inspire me to be myself, to play like me. I feel like identity is one of the most redeeming qualities in an artist. I may learn a lick or some things or follow some advice from other players, and maybe incorporate some of the things they do into my playing, but I always focus on my playing, not theirs. Great video, and great advice!
I've been thinking about this a lot. I've been playing for 45 years and I'm still just an intermediate player. What keeps me going is I love it! It's my life and I'll be playing until the day I die! We have to realize that we are artists and our hands and instruments are are our palettes. If we keep to that mindset our never ending journey will add joy, inspiration and fullness in our lives as well as those we play for even if it is just ourselves. Thanks Rabea, an outstanding UA-cam my brother!
i can take so much from this thank you Rabea! i've had some what the similiar thought of there is so many guitarists out there, why even bother learning when some are better than me? but i feel i really can take to heart by reflecting on guitarists i like for instance Jack White, Noel Gallagher, John Frusciante and Steve Lukather all have key elements i really like and use to my own playing and what makes me playing.
I'm really glad you posted this video. I'm a beginner, watching all the videos of kick-ass guitarists (including you) was making me feel discouraged about 'climbing that mountain'. I appreciate your perspective and humility.
In the same boat man, I left my job about two weeks ago to give the dream a go, working just on music and music alone but during these two weeks I'm writing riffs and songs for an EP and just looking at these dudes on instagram being like I want to write that and that and completely get what your saying about you have to just be you and do what you do. This video actually really helped me a lot so thank you for this it's helped my situation and just made everything a little bit clearer 🤘🏻
My humble advice: hum a lot. Humming is a great way to express your musical ideas because when you hum you're not limited by technique, speed or music knowledge, and your brain can express your ideas better than sitting two hours with your guitar. Sometimes when we're playing guitar looking for a new riff we can't reach our thoughts because we play what our fingers can do, and what they can't do, what we think they can't do, is left aside. Those things we don't play because we don't know if we can play them might be the place where great riffs await. Try it! Greetings from Mexico :)
As someone who just picked up guitar again after like 15 plus years of not playing, you're one of those people for me. Even the littlest thing for me feels huge right now, like learning a song I like. I've accepted that I'll never be a shred master, but wanting to play more post rock/ambient stuff and watching you do it so easily is just flooring. I am really pushing myself to practice and play more than I ever did when I was younger, because I would like one day to hit a point where I feel decent at the guitar. Keep up the good work.
I'm probably older than a lot of your other viewers but I can clearly remember the day my Dad and I had a very similar conversation. Dad was NOT a musician but was always encouraging me to be what I wanted to be. I told him I wanted to make it big (this is around '80-'81) and knew it would happen. He smiled a little and said "There are 13,000 guitar pickers in Nashville...and you ain't one." Not a jab but to this day it has kept me humble and appreciative of other musicians. And by the way, DUDE!...great work on the weight loss. I'm a larger dude too and have gained a lot back but I'm on track again. Congratulations man!
As I said in a Tweet: My parents gave me the talent to play an instrument at all. You guys inspire me to learn and get better, be creative. For me its always a joy to see all the great musicians on youtube or live in person. I know I'm not nearly as good as they are, but I don't need to be. I rather just enjoy their talent and maybe get some great ideas for myself out of it. Its just like you've said: Get your inspiration little by little from different places and just enjoy noodling around, you're gonna be ok;) By the way I think all of this counts for every creative person, not only musicians. I'm talking artists, writers... Thanks for the great video!
Love this Rabea! I am forever telling my students that it's not a competition. Especially when you have two friends with the same teacher. As teachers as well as performers we feel torn between genres. Taking elements and being well rounded is exactly where I stand. I'm not a shredder or a jazz man. I enjoy myself and live in these little bubbles of music/performance. I practice every day and love it. (with a Hawk Pick 🤘🏻😏) I've never put it down and never will. Love your videos. S.
Thank you Rabea. Your words hold a lot of weight that all players feel. I've been playing for 30+ years and what you just described about other players has always f'ed with my headspace. It can be absolutely discouraging, but you're right....take it slow, learn and grow, grab things (inspiration?) from other players to build yourself and your own voice. It's something that gets forgotten too much along the way.
Thanks Rabea! Great message! This sounds a lot like the subject of "imposter syndrome" which is a feeling just about everyone can relate to, musician or not. Something I think we all experience across all disciplines is that as we gain in knowledge and experience, the more it seems like the expanse of our ignorance and inability grows. The more we learn, the more it seems there is to learn. And at the same time, even as our skills and knowledge are objectively and measurably increasing, our feelings of insecurity -- of being a fraud or an imposter -- also grow. We have a much easier time seeing the greatness in others than the abilities we have ourselves, which is why we are all better as musicians when we are supporting, inspiring, and lifting each other up. So from a random guitar-playing dude on the other side of the planet from you: Rabea, you rock! You inspire me! You're awesome! :-)
"This isn´t sports - this is art." Funnily enough Yngwie Malmsteen said that when people compared him to Eddie Van Halen and tried to work out who the better / faster guitar player is. I think he said it perfectly. Music is art and in art there is no better or worse, just different. Some people like what you do and some don´t. If being "better" was the answer, the radio stations would be playing the top shredders and extreme musicians all day long ;-)
Rabea, this is some of the most sound advice I have ever heard. I have been playing guitar for 30 years. For 20 of those I didn't know if I wanted to be Knopfler, Gallagher, Steve Turner, Dave Navarro, Robert Smith etc etc et. al.Then in my thirties I finally realised that I couldn't be any of them. "cause I aint them and they aint me." But to get in and under some of these individuals and grab some inspiration is always fun. And like you say, keeps me picking an axe up, choosing an amp and a pedal combo and giving it a go. At 47 my current interest is Chad Morgan-Sterenberg from La Dispute. Clever player. Challenging my every effort.
Admiring guitarists of many styles, technical abilities, etc., is just part of a healthy musical diet. This is not a sport and our egos should not be barriers to the creation of art. Inspiration should come from everywhere.
I feel you came to the right conclusion, It is not about being 'better than', it is about creating music and expressing oneself, bringing one contribution to the world of music. Looking up to another player and learning from him is great when one manages to pick up on some of his technique to make it its own. Just keep rocking Rabea!!!
Reassuring , thank you! I'm not even qualified to call my self a novice and around every corner is discouragement at this point for me. Just when I feel I've overcome something, I feel like I'm at a dead end and have no idea what to do next. Each day is,a struggle to stay motivated and inspired. You are one of my inspirations, so thank you again , I appreciate you ;)
I think it's natural to be very self critical as a guitarist. You need to listen to outside options for the truth. And the truth is your playing is amazing. You have amazing feel and a great ear, what's more important than that? There are hundreds of technical speed robots but that's just boring. Music should make you feel something when you listen to it not say "you know, technically they're very good". I bought a PRS SE last year and on the warranty card you send in it asks you to list your favourite 3 guitarists. I wrote Rabea Massaad in the number 1 spot. It's all about the feel :)
having the right guitar can help too. I recently bought a reverend, and I don't know why but it has really inspired me to play and practice in a more structured way. I am 47 and I have been noodling my whole adult life, and I have written a few tunes along the way. Something about this guitar just pushed me and inspired me.
You're right... His perfectly manicured facial hair and beautifully coiffed and strategically placed hair is too much for us mere mortals to contend with. I tried so many different types of shampoos and conditioners, and I just can't get it perfectly to cover my O-face the way Mateus gets it to do.
Of course you weren't talking me, it obviously says you're replying to Elliot Grey right there in the beginning what I'm saying is that what he said was a joke unless you're being sarcastic
I'm 49, playing since I was 16 as a singer. All I know now is that The chase is as sweet as the victory. Speaking of inspiration, Rabea, the bloke, is inspirational,mate. Thanks for posting.
Truer words have never been spoken as a guitarist. Sometimes feels hard not to think that way about our playing but all you can do is do what you have to to stay inspired and grow in unique ways over time. Cheers Rabea!
The main basic difference between a "pretty good" guitar player and a "great" guitarist is this: Is it the main occupation or is it just a hobby? Great guitarists usually started playing at young age, spent their whole youth practicing and concentrated their whole life on guitar playing. Whereas other guys became e.g. a doctor/physician and played guitar as a hobby. And those - no matter how talented they might be - can never reach the level of a professional. Rabea clearly talks from the perspective of professionals...
Nice video man. I've thought the same many times. Wanting to do all the things you love about your heros is bound to happen. We loose hope trying to pull off the impossible. but you know what when we take a step back and carry on doing 'our own thing' stuff just sounds better. So what i'm saying is maybe the 'blues' you get trying to live up to the awesome stuff you see other people is kinda what got started and got you where you are today so don't stess. love the pain. love the frustration. It makes you awesome in the end! power to you sir
Thank you for sharing this personal story, I had a similar talk with my dad when i started playing. Many of the things i do (drawing, writing, playing guitar) are not things that i do simply to be the best at, i do them and improve at them because they give me joy. I try to remind myself of this on those days where i feel crummy about my playing!
When I'm rocking out in my living room playing some of my favourite riffs (badly) I feel ace!! I wish I could play half as good as you Bea!! Nice to see someone so humble and your videos inspire me!! I love your playing dude! I think your awesome!!
The way i see it is the guitar is a tool for writing music, sounds stupidly obvious i know, but some guitarists see it as a means to an end, that end being "i can play guitar" but i think the real measure of a guitarist or and instrumentalist is the quality of the music you produce with that tool. There are many guitarists who can play at 1000mph but does that make them better that say, John Lennon? I think if you see the instrument as a means in itself you will be stuck chasing other guitarists around, but if you use the tool to create beautiful music then comparrisons go out the window and you are left with not a guitarist, but a musician.......or something gay like that.
gitsurfer27 Awesome advice. I'd like to add that when you hear and see those players and think "I want to play a bit like that" you can still learn and incorporate those things to make what you create better. Add long as you think of it as bettering your music and not bettering your playing. Because bettering your music is the only way to better your playing when you reach a certain point.
Totally! The goal, like Guthrie Govan said, is to reach musicality, not speed. Speed is another way to express what you're feeling but it shouldn't be your main goal
Yet when I think of Guthrie, I think of lightning fast playing and technique. He doesn't create anything memorable. He doesn't follow his own advice imo.
Bro, I was telling myself this very thing yesterday, so very true. There's always someone better than me but life's not about what's better than, its about enjoyment. I love learning new techniques, practicing different styles and developing my whole profile as a guitar player, I'm not out to beat anyone. Loving these philosophical type videos you do. Such great advice though Bea! You rip dude!
Yes there are "better" guitarists, but that means jack all. Nobody IN THE WORLD writes riffs like Rabea Massaad (or any of us), nobody has his tone or his hands, or his exact influences. There may be more technicially gifted people out there, people more knowledgable in theory or whatever, but it doesn't matter because music is subjective.
Thanks for making the video - I've played guitar for 12 years, and there have been numerous times where I think my playing is shit or that I suck, but when I look back I realize I have incrimentally improved since then. So keep on jamming, keep on getting better - don't be arrogant but at the same time realize what your strengths are.
i really relate to the message here, ive been playing all my life and ive always been following in the footsteps of the greats. started in the blues like most, went from that to classic rock, zepp and such, and felt like a real guitar player. then from there was metal and the desire for solos led me to shred. at a point i could play from muddy to govan but got bored. i put my guitar down and drifted from music. but then i found a seven string at a small local shop (years later) for a steal and grabbed it. since ive been trying to reestablish myself as an artist and then i realized ive never done anything musical at all ive just been practicing others riffs. now with almost a new instrument ive wrote more than i ever have in my life and still find myself stacked up to others. it feels good to watch someone like yourself that i envy go through the same struggle ive been plagued with. if you the public read this take away you play guitar, nothing more and no other guitarist is, your only as good as you sound to yourself. and to rabea thank you for making me feel not alone in a sea of musicians and for the first time in a while feel like one.
LOOK AT KEITH RICHARDS! IS HE A TECHNICAL, FAST OR PRECISE GUITARIST? NO. BUT HE INSPIRED MORE PEOPLE TO PLAY GUITAR THAN ALL HIGH SPEED SHREDERS TOGETHER. MUSIC ISNT A SPORT AND ABOUT WHO IS THE FASTEST OR BEST. ITS ABOUT YOU AND WHAT YOU MAKE WITH THOSE 12 TONES! SIMPLE AS THAT
This is an inspiring video. I've been doubting my musical abilities recently and it really is important to realize that people will always be "better" than you, but they wont necessarily be you. Another important thing is to stay confident in your music. As a musician it's hard to say that you're any good without feeling egotistical (at least for me). Yes, you need to acknowledge your faults and improve on them but it's equally as important to recognize your improvements and be proud that you can evolve as a player. If you're constabtly telling yourself you're not good enough then you may never be happy with what you're creating. Sometimes it's nice to be able to look at what you've accomplished and be thankful you've gotten as far as you did at that time.
I've started playing on November 17, 2016. I have little to no experience on the guitar. Browsing the internet is a double edged sword as sometimes the videos I watch are inspirational but also I get into that mindset which you've described in this video where I'll constantly tell myself "I'll never reach that level. What am I even doing?" So to hear someone who I find absolutely amazing on the guitar, and overall amazing musician (Yes, I'm talking about you Rabea.. lol) question themselves, it absolutely baffles me. Not in a negative way however. It just shows that this journey that each one of us are taking is never ending and that there's and endless amount of skills, techniques, genres, and many other things that each of us can learn. It's great to hear the thoughts of people who are 'ahead' in this journey as it helps the people struggling to get back up and move forward again. Like you said, "Patience and persistence." I can only really keep practicing and just enjoy my time learning. Thanks for the video man! Humble and truly inspirational. Thanks Rabea!
Right on, Bea! I think your thought on this is just right. As a guitar player I tried to hang out with as many other guitar players as I can. If I like what they're doing I'll try to pick up some things and add it to my own style of playing. But there is an opposite side to what you said. There are also a lot guitar players who really do think "that's it, I've made it and don't have to learn anymore". In my mind that is so so wrong! I think I can play, but I also am not above learning something else from someone maybe a little older and wiser than myself. Have a good one, Bea. Keep posting little thoughts like this. It really a great reality check!!
Thank you for posting this. Great to see others feel the same. I had that ``wow you`re amazing`` when I was a young teen praise and then by the time 18-19 hit, just another drop in the ocean.
I started this journey nearly 40 years ago and for all these years have had the same thoughts you've had and come to the same conclusion. Music isnt' a competition. I love Guthrie Govan, Steve Morse, Al DiMeola, Scott Henderson and a load of other guitar freaks of nature. They amaze and inspire me. But I'm no less amazed and inspired by the lyrics of a well written country song. It's about what moves you. Stay moved. Stay inspired. And never get that "I've arrived" attitude. After 39 years of playing I'm a heck of a lot better than I was at 14, but I'm also better than I was at 45 and at 50. I supposed I'll never get "there" and I'm not sure where "there" really is. But, wow, what a journey and a privilege to have music to carry with you a lifetime. It's not only taken me places and let me do things I've dreamed about, but let me express myself and share with others. So, like you said, don't worry about it. Just do it.
The good thing about art is that, it's not about competition (in most cases). I agree we guitarists should handpick elements from guitar influences and their sound, and create a unique sound of our own. You've created a unique sound of your own. Your playing in Toska been a huge inspiration to me and probably most of your subscribers.
I've only just happened upon this video. I completely get what you're saying Rabea. I'm only a hobby guitarist but the music very important to me. I find that I can watch and listen to a guitar player sometimes and I just kind of crumble. I witness what some of these guys are doing and I can't find any path to doing that. It really sucks. But conversely. I also sometimes see/hear a guitarist and even though I know that I can't play the same way. That musician just makes me want to drop everything and pick up a guitar. You sir are one of those guitarists. Take heart and keep on moving. Thanks for the music...... and the vids of course.
Thanks for this video, Rabea. In my opinion, what makes a great guitar player is someone who has something unique and inspiring to say, and says it well with their instrument. Technical skill is important in helping you articulate your musical thoughts, and the ability to play diverse styles is important in helping you express yourself in diverse ways. But skill and diversity work in service to the ideas you are trying to create. That all being said, I'm a 20 year hobbyist, not a professional by any means, so I don't speak with any authority. But lately I've changed my motivation from simply learning my favorite tunes to learning how to express myself. This new motivation has really energized my progress.
I really appreciate the message here. I'm 35 and just started playing guitar about a year ago, and I've wondered many times if it's really worth trying or if I've just missed the boat. A couple of thoughts I had while listening to this: (1) while it's true that I'll likely never be as proficient as my "guitar heroes," I can learn enough that eventually I'll be able to write and create music of my own, which is a very cool thing, and (2) if I keep playing and keep practicing and work at improving every day, by the time I'm 55 I'll having been playing for 20 years, and I think you can become a pretty good guitar player if you invest 20 years in becoming your best. Great work Rabea, and hopefully you realize how many people think they'll never be as good as you!
Very well said, my thoughts EXACTLY. I would add that as musicians we are artists and like great visual artists, all we can do is offer our own creations and unique style. A painter learns from everything he or she has seen before but creates something new on a blank canvas. We too as guitarists must create. It's great to copy all your favorite guitarists' works but at some point you have to put your own soul into something original. So there is no reason to be discouraged, art and music are not a competition but an offering of self expression. Great video mate!!
Really accurate way to describe it. I met rob on the Chapman guitars tour last year when you guys came to sf. I kinda knew who you were but i hadn't seen a ton of your playing or heard of toska. As someone that wasn't a huge metalhead your music changed my perspective of why i enjoy guitar. Wish i had said hi in sf man, great video
That's why your such an amazing player, it's not just your amazing guitar skills or your fro it's your personality, (which shines through when you play), your honestly and the fact you remember what it was like to be a beginner and struggle as we all do and you are not big headed (well apart from the fro lol), about your skills as some are, you are humble man. Love your playing and your videos, please keep up the good work and thanks from a big fan
Thanks Rebea. I've been struggling with picking the guitar back up after many years of playing bass. This really helped my state of mind right now and i truly appreciate that. Much love from Canada!
I think it's great somebody as accompolished and talented such as you had opened up and said something I can really relate to. I've always felt like I should be a considerably better player than I am and I feel quite anxious about people hearing me play. Never been in a band and I spend best part of my time learning bits and pieces from guitarists who inspired me to play for the past 15 years. Thanks for being so transparent and honest.
Bea...You are an F'n RIFFMASTER! It's not about technical ability. Your sensibility speaks to me. I can hear all of my influences coming out of your playing! You create what I would write if my hands could do what yours do!
Man your the first person who has brought this to light that ive seen. Ive felt all these things before and do often. Sometime i want to just hang it up but otherdays i get up and push out new songs.
Had the same question, when about 3 years ago, both my arms were critically injured in accident.. Lost all the years of techniques and playability. But, in the dark came the light. I was able to put myself out of the competition line and learned to enjoy "music" with what I'd left.. I never enjoyed playing this much like I do now.. Much love man!!
thanks for sharing this words rabea, i often feel disscouraged, there's so much talent out there, it's ridiculous! but i feel confort with the thought we are all unique in a way and maybe should embrace "different", i like what you said because even awesome guitarrist like yourself have this feeling at some point...I also think that as guitar players we fall into the trap of thinking about the guitar, as a limited circle and music is so much bigger than just guitar...what I try to say is just jam and learn with others musicians, try to say something than just shred, add some feeling...aniway good post man!! thank you
Thanks for making this video Rabea...I'm 49 yrs old and still ask myself the same question but when I get bummed out about it I always remember this guy I used to know who was about 10 or 12 yrs older than I and he was a great Blues player...I mean he was really good...but one day he saw someone who was much better than he was and thinking that he would never get to that level he sold all his gear and threw it all away. I spoke to him when a chance meeting came about years later and he confessed this to me and to this day I think he made the greatest mistake in his life...there will always be somebody better but for me I just compete with myself and try to be the best I can be, because you can always go that extra step so never, ever throw it away. Cheers, Mike....BTW this is a true story.
I appreciate your openness. We all began because someone inspired us to greatness. And we wanted that, I think. But we all realize somewhere along the line that the greatness is part innate, part diligence, and the recognition is usually a bit of those plus good luck. Finding our own voice should be the quest, taking inspiration and education from every possible source. I love what you say about finding musicians that resonate with you and inspire you. Best wishes on your journey!
Thanks for voicing what I'm pretty sure is a feeling/sense/mindset all guitarists struggle with from time to time. Sometimes it just needs to be said out loud and articulated. Cheers!
As usual Rabea, really insightful and helpful for all us musicians ( not just guitarists), whatever level we're at. There's too much focus on competitiveness in music these days, rather than taking encouragement from other players. Your playing is absolutely amazing and inspiring to me, so to hear you say these thoughts out loud makes me feel happier about my own playing. It's also made me realise I need to focus on what I want to achieve, rather than trying to spread myself over so many different things at once. Thanks again for another great, helpful video Rabea.
I think this is supremely important to put out there. The second you look at another player and think "He's better than me" you've lost sight of the point. Just like you said, it's looking at what someone has done and thinking "Ooo, I like that/that's inspiring" and going off and learning/assimilating that. Kudos to you!
So I realize picking up a guitar again at the age for 42 and apply myself and have been for the past 4 years or so it's easy to think these thoughts that Rebea explain it perfectly. I know I may not be able to shred, or ever will, as that's not really my goal. And with a full time job, it's difficult to switch from a technical way of thinking to an artistic way of thinking. Sometimes I'm good to go right after work but others it takes the entire weekend to really get into a musical frame of mind. I told myself when I started this was going to take a while. And it will continue to take time. This video was well timed cause I was very excited to meet an Icelandic guitar builder (Orn Guitars). He let me muck around on a few of his creations, and then another gent came in and noodles around and it made me feel like I was still just starting haha! Here's to just having fun with what we have, enjoy the creating and learning processes, and trying to stop the comparing myself to others. Just be! (Drops plectrum down sound hold of acoustic .....dammit!)
Great perspective. As you mention taking elements of other players and incorporating it into your playing, that's key. It's one of the things that made Dimebag Darrel great. His feel, use of country and blues licks amped up into high gain metallic sonic wizardry made him one of a kind. Develop YOUR style. That makes your great and stand out.
I should also add that I wasn't sure wether to post this or not, just because it's a purely personal 'head' thought I'd had. Whenever people post things like that, there is always the possibility to be misconstrued. I personally believe it's about being the best 'you' you can be. If I didn't, I wouldn't be happy creating music with my brothers and moving forward. But it was an internal thought i (at the time) decided to share :-)
I'm glad you post this type of videos. to me, a 17-year-old intermidiate player is great to see what is the question that (kind of) bothers you (one of the players who I look up to as far as diversity in the playing and being nice in general). All things considered, music is to bring people together, not to talk about gear 24/7, isn't it? so, thank you for these videos, it's pure pleasure to watch them and greets from Bulgaria. :)
thanks for uploading this. this is what i really needed right now. not that i think i'm better than anyone (because i'm not). but right now i feel a little bit depressed about my playing and so again, thanks for uploading this. you're one of my favourite guitar player in the world dude. keep up the good music!
It's nice to see something real on here. It makes me squirm when I see Rob and Cap'n testing something blatantly shit and they can't say so because it's a demo, not a review. Cap'n squirms a bit and you have to catch that glance from Rob that says 'this is shit!'. I know I have gone off topic but I just watched that Peavey / Orange lunchbox shootout and it was really uncomfortable viewing. Shouldn't have been uploaded. I haven't seen anything like that from you and I get the feeling that if you can't get behind it then you won't. That's what we look for out here in UA-camland. So thanks bruh for keeping it real.
Really glad you did post this Rabea. You're spot on with this thinking. I'm a 46 year old dude who's been playing seriously for about 12 years, and casually for most of my life, and I'm still cobbling together my personal style by grafting on bits and pieces from other guitarists. I started with Phil Keaggy, moved to Eric Johnson, Ty Tabor, Hendrix, Adam Jones, Satriani, and these days, quite frankly... you. I have no illusions of being even close to any of those players, and likely never will be. But listening to their work, studying it, trying to emulate it and incorporating elements of it into my playing has made me better than I ever would have otherwise been . And perhaps more importantly, it's a massive load of fun. Thanks for your work and for this post!
I've really been enjoying your more personal reflections on things lately. Your honesty, modesty, and openness on things like this, and your lifestyle change, have taken your channel in an exciting direction. Keep it up!
man your a monster player no doubt , but your humility introspection and modesty is truly reassuring to others. respect....
Step 1: Write a riff. Step 2: Work on it until you *really* love it. Step 3: Realise that *you* wrote it, and none of those "better guitarists" did...and then realise that you're far better at playing like you than they are. That's all that matters.
digiscream Step 4: Realise that the riff is from a song you heard some time ago
Step 5: Cry in the shower for atleast an hour
+LivingDeadPunker - hence "write a riff" instead of "copy a riff" ;)
Real talk true story.
digiscream my dude.
Hahahaha, it happens a lot rs
I saw SRV live from the front row of the stalls at Hammersmith on his last tour. He was right in front of me. I could see him sweat. I saw his right hand flying around, the eyes rolling back in his head - the tone just blew my mind. But then afterwards I couldn't pick up the guitar for over a year - what was the point? But then gradually I came to realise the most important thing. Music is NOT a competitive sport. It's not about me setting SRV as a target to be beaten. Its hard to explain with out getting all Buddist but music comes from within. Its much more important to listen to yourself than it is to other people. Since I figured that out I've broadened my horizons, learned a bunch more instruments, more theory, started writing songs and discovered a whole spectrum of enjoyment in the practice of music that I didn't realise was there because I was just looking in the wrong place. Keep the faith and enjoy the journey!
Guitar is a journey to find your voice.
"Be who you are, Do what you do, Not win or lose" - John Frusciante
Stamatis Stabos "when the technical part of guitarplaying overrides the spiritual, you'll never get to extreme heights"
Stamatis Stabos he's amazing and is one of best guitar players of all time
Xavier Roberts his live and solo stuff is great
Good video, sir. I went through all this during my time in college. Over the years I luckily found my own little niche and am now happier than ever with the things I can't do.
Words like "best" and "greatest"need to never be uttered when discussing music [or pretty much any art form for that matter]. Music is NOT a competition. That's all we really need to remember. :) Use words like "amazing", "incredible", "precise", "melodic"...hell, the highest praise I can personally ever give a guitar player is to call them "tasty". :)
Even in so-called objective activities like sports, where achievements are tallied and quantified endlessly in mountains of statistics, there never is 100% universal consensus on what player or team is "the best". It's ultimately a pointless pursuit - we like what we like. :)
Bea...you ain't Satch, Vai, Gilbert, SRV, Gilmour...etc, etc, etc...You're Bea - and in my book, you are indeed a "tasty" guitar player. :D
cheers man!
I'm a multi instrumentalist and a teacher ,and I have these same thoughts all the time. I'm constantly meeting people who are so much better than I and it can be a real downer. I have to constantly remind myself to be the best I can be for me and my students. Don't know if you'll see this but great video and thank you for being real!
Bea, I'm not here because you're my favorite guitar player. I enjoy your your expertise and enthusiasm. I have loads of favorites but am always excited to see what you and the guys are up to. It's not a mountain to climb, rather a festival of sharing. Much love from America.
Rabea, Thank you for posting this. I'm a new guitarist that picked up the instrument at 53. My playing is for my own enjoyment, and to write. ( A quick 'across the pond' view of your group.) I found Andertons Music videos while researching a Les Paul I wanted. I watched over the last 4 years as Rob's hair got shorter Lee's playing got 'bigger', and this guy with the cool hair style slowly came from behind the camera. As the UA-cam experience became broader, as a viewer, you feel you get to know the people based on what you see. Rob is just a great showman and shredder. Lee is just that very down to earth business guy who knows what he's doing and is marketing in a way no one else has. You come across as a very intelligent soft spoken guy who is incredibly talented yet humble, that is the corner stone of the business at hand...whether it's the making of a video, a road trip, or showing effortlessly your playing ability hidden behind the instrument you are demonstrating. I'm sure the viewers that are climbing up the playing ladder appreciate your open direct message. I'm just trying to get through a 12 bar blues solo without falling out of the pentatonic scale I'm in. Being the in Mississippi Delta, you don't want to make our heritage look bad. Thanks again for posting.
Great video bro! ;-)
Rob Chapman what can I do for a discount Chapman guitar
I’m glad you posted this. I’m going to show this to my nephew. My drive is having my own voice. I can’t compare to most players but as my nephew pointed out at the guitar store “they don’t play or sound like you”. Best compliment ever.
Art isn't a competition. It's a journey of self discovery.
Amen
Rather profound statement. Well said, my friend.
And just like poetry, you write what you feel and those who have not felt like that may not like what you've written but that doesn't mean you have to start writing about things you don't know or feel. Those who have felt the way you do will cherish your words and rythm. That's why we have so many artists, so we can find the one we can relate to
100% music is an art form, not a sport. It's about CREATING SOMETHING, not about whether what you create is "technically good", and it's certainly not about being better than the next man. If it comes from your soul, it's good. Simple as.
Amen
It's so frutrating. I was just having one of those moments when your video showed up.
But then I rememeber how much fun I have just playing, what hitting a chord or bending a note makes me feel, and that most of the music that got me into guitar playing or the musicians that made me want to play are more about simple things but great feeling, I relax.
I enjoy a Beeatles song,a pop hit or a punk rock song with 3 chords as much as a Guthrie Solo, a Vai song or a Stevie Ray lick. The competition is with myself, I should just forget about the world and try to improve my playing.
Every time I do that, and simply practice, study and master whatever song or solo I wanted to play, I feel a great satisfaction. And that's about it for me.
Another thing is that we tend to compare ourselves with the best, and not look back the road we have traveled. Sometimes I have to stop and see how much I have learned and that I've got to a decent level where I've shared with many great musicians and I can play much better than most of the things I first aspired to play.
And while I am still nowhere as close as the "heroes" I have made people enjoy my playing or even inspired at some moment someone to start playing or to go to his guitar. As you do everyday all around the world thanks to your videos.
Just the other day I saw your "how to sound like hendrix" video, and enjoyed it so much that it inspire me to go, grab my strat, and play some hendrix too !
And that last chord or note you made a mistake was the best part, cause it was like " this guys are so good and they make mistake too, c'mon, relax"
Well this got a little too long, But the point is., thanks for your videos, your sincere words and sharing this thoughts that noone shares and that relate so much to many of us.
Loving the comment section here guys! Really appreciate the kind words, but more importantly it's really nice to read so many level headed comments. Thanks to all that watch and support the videos!
I guess in a nutshell, I really love the fact there is so much inspiration out there, and you're all as inspiring to me as the musicians I look up to! Love you all!
Rabea Massaad I totally agree with you. Just so you know, you are one of my inspirations when it comes to the guitar. I know I'm miles away from the guitar players I look up to. I don't want to be the best, I just want to be the best version of myself. Thanks bro!
Carlos Sanchez wow, you put into words what I was feeling. Beautifully said!!
Rabea Massaad I have rude awakenings every time I surf UA-cam.....it's all good and God bless em!....because we are all a part of this obsession as a whole....always stay inspired.....when we're feeling down, it's fine, it gives us time to recharge our batteries to bounce back....
Rabea Massaad just remember this....you'd be a shit plumber.
Rabea Massaad I am a keyboard player, my trick is to listen to other instruments and try to learn from and get inspired by that and try to incorporate that in my style, I think our individual styles comes from everything we hear and then filter it through our musical minds.
And remember, it's not a competition, it's art
.
Thanks for making this video. I've been trying to play the guitar off and on for 30 years and these same thoughts have been holding me back all this time and I have thought about giving it up many times and now that I'm older I ask myself what's the point of playing at all, I can't go back and do it over it's too late for me and then I break out an old Pink Floyd album and remember why I started playing in the first place. The sound of the guitar touches me deep inside and I finally realised this 30 years too late. You players out there keep playing and don't let these foolish thoughts get in the way of what you love. There's always going to be a 6-year old little girl on youtube who can blow you away :)
I lost fingertips on my fretting hand in 76' like Tony Iommi. I got frustrated and put down the guitar for 30+ yrs. been back playing about 8 yrs and I feel like I'm trying to make up for all that lost time. I want to play all kinds...blues, metal, acoustic slide you name it. so little time and so much to play. I would have regretted never playing again. I think we'll always compare ourselves but never stop playing...
Thank you Rabea! I'm 55 years old and have been playing guitar with more passion over the last 5 years. I always wanted to learn and get better since my 20's but never had the drive until more recently. For some reason, (The mortality clock) kicked in about 5 years ago and I am now slowly progressing and hurdling over the obstacles all players go through. I know my time to learn and get better is shorter than someone your age but that only makes me more resolute in my quest.You are dead on with your observation that we all get that "Am I good enough to get better" feeling that gives us doubt about our capabilities. You hit the nail on the head when you said to have patience and belief in yourself. Just knowing there are guys like you, Rob, Lee, Pete, Nick, Steve Stine, Paul Gilbert, Joe Bonamassa, (1000's more) that are willing to share the road of hard licks with us who are a bit (or a lot) farther back down the path is inspiring to an old dude like me. :) No matter what age, we all find those others out there that we can connect to for pieces of inspiration and drive. To keep the passion glowing and growing.
Thank (The Hammer of) the Gods for you all and your ability and drive to share your journey with us! Peace In and Rock Out!
I swear Bea you're prophetic!
I'm 43 got back into playing just over a year ago after a 20 year absence. I love technical and mesmerizing guitarists like yourself, Guthrie Goven, Keith Merrow, Tosin Abasi, joey Landreth Ariel, Danish Pete and every inch of me wants to play like that and as hard as I try I can't help compare. Unrealistic and stupid as that is. And most of the time I can put it into context and use their (and your) expertise and skill and an inspiration springboard to push harder and play more and play better l. But sometimes the mountain seems insurmountable, the amount I don't know just too big and it is hard as hell to keep plugging away at my very basic level. But I do, because I love playing and writing and making music, we do because we are compelled to. We do because sometimes, one of our heros posts a video expressing all to familiar vulnerabilities and that puts things into perspective.
Thanks for this Bea.
There is a post-it note I keep in my office from a Buddhist book I read with 4 qualities to build when learning: Patience, Diligence, Determination, Energy. Above all that is Joy. It's a lifetime journey with all the ups and downs and that's ultimately why anyone who sticks with guitar is rewarded with a beautiful companion. Great post Rabea.
What a fantastic video, Rabea. Very good advice here.
Tom Quayle Thanks Tom, thank you for watching! I hope you're well :)
Cheers all, Hello Tom Quayle, as well. Keep up the excellence all.
Rabea, I have to say that just do what makes you happy. I suffered a very bad wrist injury years ago and can no longer play finger style Classical guitar. Doctors told my wife that I wouldn't be able to write, play music , play golf and so on... Well I write, I play golf , I play guitar...the next phase of my playing was to be Flamenco style. I know today that this will probably not happen but I will end up trying at some point. My accident happened a dozen years ago but it hasn't stopped me from doing something I can't live without, playing guitar! It's really about what gives you joy. I've never thought to myself after playing music " I really suck at this or man that was boring" I always seem to end up thinking " can't wait til the next time" or " I'm going to learn this song as my next challenge" Keep on rocking, cheers.
The mind set every guitarist/musician should have. You will never be anyone but you so be the best YOU can be.
Agree with you 100% Rabea. I have felt exactly the same way, I always seemed to dwell on the things I'm not so good at and switch from one style to another and trying to be a Jack of all trades, and usually coming away feeling like I'm a far worse player than I may actually be. I think your comment about stop worrying about trying to be the best player in the world and just enjoy playing, incorporating all these influences into your own playing is spot on. I'm a little older and wiser these days but still find myself doubting my abilities as a player. Music should never be a competition, unfortunately many guitarists have a tendency to treat it as such, I've been guilty of it myself.
Thank you for sharing these thoughts, it's reassuring to us mere mortals that even a monster player as yourself has insecurities too!
Much needed video, thank you! There's one quote Neil deGrasse Tyson once said in an interview I saw that really resonated with me so I'll post it here:
"Whether or not you can become great at something, you can always become better at it" - Neil deGrasse Tyson
I really love this philosophy and approach.
Although Tyson is an over-rated shill, the sentiment in this quote is almost ok. A lot of people will never get better without one day realising how fucking terrible they are though - that's kind of the first step to being good - having that point where you transition from thinking you know everything to understanding you know fuckall. Just like when Rabea's Dad sat him the fuck down and sorted him out.
What's that story about his dad? Could you link me to a video where he tells it? :)
ua-cam.com/video/l9iSggMWcxg/v-deo.html I don't think the encounter was as confrontational as I made it out to be :P
@ Burnt Cat - No, because there's no logic in your example. The point of this quote is that you may not be talented enough to be a truly amazing, world-class guitar player / runner / architect / scientist / whoever. But if you practice, you will at least learn something new and gain some valuable skills/knowledge. At the very least you will be better at something than you used to be 1-2-3 years before (even if you are still pretty bad). But the very process of learning something that was "alien" to you is rewarding and you should be proud of yourself.
That makes no sense. How can it become better at something it can't do? You're trying hard to miss the point, it seems.
I think you are correct. I would add also, that you have your own unique style. The way you hear music, the way you translate music in your playing, makes it appealing to people. Everyone has their own personalities, ways of looking at things, the way they feel, Etc. I guess what I'm trying to say is, there's room for all these players, Because everyone will play differently and bring something unique to the table. For instance, you are one of my favorite new guitar players that I've heard in a long time. I've watch for several years, and you become one of my new favorites. Other people may listen to you, and it doesn't do anything for them. Everyone's different. I think that's part of the beauty of all of this. Anyway, rock on brother!
I suck at guitar...but I do it beautifully.
Same here! Hahaha!
Haha I'm sure you can get better though!
Nunya Business can i keep this quote
Thanks Rabea.
Yes, you are not alone in having felt inadequate at times when seeing other talented players.
I have been playing & writing for 45yrs & more as well as running a small semi-pro studio recording others.
Remember we are each one of us unique individuals with our own particular talents & weakness.
If playing & writing music brings you joy & a sense of achievement then you have succeeded in some form of achievement.
If you're recognised by the public for it hey, well done & even better, though that can have it's downside at times too of course.
By the the way, based on some of the Andertons clips I have seen you on your quite the guitarist. Don't ever sell your guitar abilities short.
Take care & thanks for going to the effort for putting it out there.
Am I the only one, who gets that feeling while watching Bea play?
Jackson Facovski nah lol. I have the same feeling.
Jackson Facovski same here man
Jackson Facovski I know what you mean he's got a tone and a feel about it when he plays
definitely
same here
I have felt this way for a while now. i started playing about 25 years ago and for the first 15 or so years i would spend all my free time playing and all my cash on gear. i never really compared myself to others like you mentioned. However in the last 10 years or so this has very much been the case. i've felt "why bother learning petrucci licks if they'll never be as good" time passed by and i played less and less. I'm trying to get back in to it but am hitting the "everyone is better than me" wall. this was a refreshing video and thank you for posting. i think you're right in that we need to listen to artists and music that inspires us to play guitar because after all, for many of us that is why we started.
Ye but did u know, yousician is the best way to learn the guitar?
indigo204 nope, Rocksmith is....it says so right on the box! lol
Best way to learn the guitar is to use youtube - skip all the boring videos and go straight to 8 finger tapping on 8 string guitars - instant success.
J U S T G R A B Y O U R A C O U S T I C O R E L E C T R I C A N D P L A Y A L O N G
indigo204 😅
BOX.inc idk....I only read the front of the box lol
Stumbled on this video, very good thoughts. I've been playing guitar for 32 years, and when I started out, my dad told me repeatedly "you may be good, you may be great, but there's always someone better, and don't be surprised when the mailman or the lady down the street blows you away, but there's only one you." As much as I love listening all the great guitar players (too many to list) they all (even the ones I don't like) inspire me to be myself, to play like me. I feel like identity is one of the most redeeming qualities in an artist. I may learn a lick or some things or follow some advice from other players, and maybe incorporate some of the things they do into my playing, but I always focus on my playing, not theirs. Great video, and great advice!
Dude you are a true inspiration to me and this was something I really needed to hear today. Thankyou man.
I've been thinking about this a lot. I've been playing for 45 years and I'm still just an intermediate player. What keeps me going is I love it! It's my life and I'll be playing until the day I die! We have to realize that we are artists and our hands and instruments are are our palettes. If we keep to that mindset our never ending journey will add joy, inspiration and fullness in our lives as well as those we play for even if it is just ourselves. Thanks Rabea, an outstanding UA-cam my brother!
i can take so much from this thank you Rabea! i've had some what the similiar thought of there is so many guitarists out there, why even bother learning when some are better than me? but i feel i really can take to heart by reflecting on guitarists i like for instance Jack White, Noel Gallagher, John Frusciante and Steve Lukather all have key elements i really like and use to my own playing and what makes me playing.
I'm really glad you posted this video. I'm a beginner, watching all the videos of kick-ass guitarists (including you) was making me feel discouraged about 'climbing that mountain'. I appreciate your perspective and humility.
In the same boat man, I left my job about two weeks ago to give the dream a go, working just on music and music alone but during these two weeks I'm writing riffs and songs for an EP and just looking at these dudes on instagram being like I want to write that and that and completely get what your saying about you have to just be you and do what you do. This video actually really helped me a lot so thank you for this it's helped my situation and just made everything a little bit clearer 🤘🏻
My humble advice: hum a lot. Humming is a great way to express your musical ideas because when you hum you're not limited by technique, speed or music knowledge, and your brain can express your ideas better than sitting two hours with your guitar. Sometimes when we're playing guitar looking for a new riff we can't reach our thoughts because we play what our fingers can do, and what they can't do, what we think they can't do, is left aside. Those things we don't play because we don't know if we can play them might be the place where great riffs await. Try it!
Greetings from Mexico :)
Oh!, and record what you're humming! If not you'll forget what you just created ;)
thanks man that is some of the best advise I've had!! I'm defiantly going to give it a try!!! :)
As someone who just picked up guitar again after like 15 plus years of not playing, you're one of those people for me. Even the littlest thing for me feels huge right now, like learning a song I like. I've accepted that I'll never be a shred master, but wanting to play more post rock/ambient stuff and watching you do it so easily is just flooring. I am really pushing myself to practice and play more than I ever did when I was younger, because I would like one day to hit a point where I feel decent at the guitar. Keep up the good work.
Great video, for me its all about having fun while playing guitar
I'm probably older than a lot of your other viewers but I can clearly remember the day my Dad and I had a very similar conversation.
Dad was NOT a musician but was always encouraging me to be what I wanted to be. I told him I wanted to make it big (this is around '80-'81) and knew it would happen. He smiled a little and said "There are 13,000 guitar pickers in Nashville...and you ain't one." Not a jab but to this day it has kept me humble and appreciative of other musicians.
And by the way, DUDE!...great work on the weight loss. I'm a larger dude too and have gained a lot back but I'm on track again. Congratulations man!
Roses are red, violets are blu
There's always an Asian better than u
versa visa tu
As I said in a Tweet: My parents gave me the talent to play an instrument at all. You guys inspire me to learn and get better, be creative.
For me its always a joy to see all the great musicians on youtube or live in person. I know I'm not nearly as good as they are, but I don't need to be. I rather just enjoy their talent and maybe get some great ideas for myself out of it.
Its just like you've said: Get your inspiration little by little from different places and just enjoy noodling around, you're gonna be ok;)
By the way I think all of this counts for every creative person, not only musicians. I'm talking artists, writers...
Thanks for the great video!
2:21 "You Cant do everything"...yea u cant,unless you are Guthrie Govan;then you can do almost anything
Love this Rabea! I am forever telling my students that it's not a competition. Especially when you have two friends with the same teacher.
As teachers as well as performers we feel torn between genres. Taking elements and being well rounded is exactly where I stand. I'm not a shredder or a jazz man.
I enjoy myself and live in these little bubbles of music/performance. I practice every day and love it. (with a Hawk Pick 🤘🏻😏)
I've never put it down and never will.
Love your videos. S.
An honest account from a great guitarist
Thank you Rabea. Your words hold a lot of weight that all players feel. I've been playing for 30+ years and what you just described about other players has always f'ed with my headspace. It can be absolutely discouraging, but you're right....take it slow, learn and grow, grab things (inspiration?) from other players to build yourself and your own voice. It's something that gets forgotten too much along the way.
Or, one can stop looking at music as a competition.
Faster, stronger and better is for athletes; Music is for artists.
I wonder if those involved in painting or photography compete (?)
Unless you’re Daft Punk
Thanks Rabea! Great message! This sounds a lot like the subject of "imposter syndrome" which is a feeling just about everyone can relate to, musician or not. Something I think we all experience across all disciplines is that as we gain in knowledge and experience, the more it seems like the expanse of our ignorance and inability grows. The more we learn, the more it seems there is to learn. And at the same time, even as our skills and knowledge are objectively and measurably increasing, our feelings of insecurity -- of being a fraud or an imposter -- also grow. We have a much easier time seeing the greatness in others than the abilities we have ourselves, which is why we are all better as musicians when we are supporting, inspiring, and lifting each other up. So from a random guitar-playing dude on the other side of the planet from you: Rabea, you rock! You inspire me! You're awesome! :-)
"This isn´t sports - this is art." Funnily enough Yngwie Malmsteen said that when people compared him to Eddie Van Halen and tried to work out who the better / faster guitar player is. I think he said it perfectly. Music is art and in art there is no better or worse, just different. Some people like what you do and some don´t. If being "better" was the answer, the radio stations would be playing the top shredders and extreme musicians all day long ;-)
Rabea, this is some of the most sound advice I have ever heard. I have been playing guitar for 30 years. For 20 of those I didn't know if I wanted to be Knopfler, Gallagher, Steve Turner, Dave Navarro, Robert Smith etc etc et. al.Then in my thirties I finally realised that I couldn't be any of them. "cause I aint them and they aint me." But to get in and under some of these individuals and grab some inspiration is always fun. And like you say, keeps me picking an axe up, choosing an amp and a pedal combo and giving it a go. At 47 my current interest is Chad Morgan-Sterenberg from La Dispute. Clever player. Challenging my every effort.
Admiring guitarists of many styles, technical abilities, etc., is just part of a healthy musical diet. This is not a sport and our egos should not be barriers to the creation of art. Inspiration should come from everywhere.
I feel you came to the right conclusion, It is not about being 'better than', it is about creating music and expressing oneself, bringing one contribution to the world of music. Looking up to another player and learning from him is great when one manages to pick up on some of his technique to make it its own. Just keep rocking Rabea!!!
I definitely get those "pockets of inspiration" from bea...
Reassuring , thank you! I'm not even qualified to call my self a novice and around every corner is discouragement at this point for me. Just when I feel I've overcome something, I feel like I'm at a dead end and have no idea what to do next. Each day is,a struggle to stay motivated and inspired. You are one of my inspirations, so thank you again , I appreciate you ;)
I think it's natural to be very self critical as a guitarist. You need to listen to outside options for the truth. And the truth is your playing is amazing. You have amazing feel and a great ear, what's more important than that? There are hundreds of technical speed robots but that's just boring. Music should make you feel something when you listen to it not say "you know, technically they're very good". I bought a PRS SE last year and on the warranty card you send in it asks you to list your favourite 3 guitarists. I wrote Rabea Massaad in the number 1 spot. It's all about the feel :)
having the right guitar can help too. I recently bought a reverend, and I don't know why but it has really inspired me to play and practice in a more structured way. I am 47 and I have been noodling my whole adult life, and I have written a few tunes along the way. Something about this guitar just pushed me and inspired me.
asato is not in the same category as the rest of us
You're right... His perfectly manicured facial hair and beautifully coiffed and strategically placed hair is too much for us mere mortals to contend with. I tried so many different types of shampoos and conditioners, and I just can't get it perfectly to cover my O-face the way Mateus gets it to do.
ikr, dem curls tho
+Elliot Grey Mateus ain't got shit on Nick johnston's mane and beard... (jk XD)
VirtualLife bruh it was a joke :v
Of course you weren't talking me, it obviously says you're replying to Elliot Grey right there in the beginning
what I'm saying is that what he said was a joke
unless you're being sarcastic
I'm 49, playing since I was 16 as a singer. All I know now is that The chase is as sweet as the victory. Speaking of inspiration, Rabea, the bloke, is inspirational,mate. Thanks for posting.
Whats the background music Rabea?
zeefour commenting here so I can find this thread in case you do find it.
I was wondering too
I want to know this as well
darude - sandstorm
RorysIrishTour Now you stop this nefariousness
Truer words have never been spoken as a guitarist. Sometimes feels hard not to think that way about our playing but all you can do is do what you have to to stay inspired and grow in unique ways over time. Cheers Rabea!
The main basic difference between a "pretty good" guitar player and a "great" guitarist is this: Is it the main occupation or is it just a hobby? Great guitarists usually started playing at young age, spent their whole youth practicing and concentrated their whole life on guitar playing. Whereas other guys became e.g. a doctor/physician and played guitar as a hobby. And those - no matter how talented they might be - can never reach the level of a professional. Rabea clearly talks from the perspective of professionals...
Nice video man. I've thought the same many times. Wanting to do all the things you love about your heros is bound to happen. We loose hope trying to pull off the impossible. but you know what when we take a step back and carry on doing 'our own thing' stuff just sounds better. So what i'm saying is maybe the 'blues' you get trying to live up to the awesome stuff you see other people is kinda what got started and got you where you are today so don't stess. love the pain. love the frustration. It makes you awesome in the end! power to you sir
"How do you stop yourself from feeling rubbish about it?"
Drinking......Lots and lots of drinking
Thank you for sharing this personal story, I had a similar talk with my dad when i started playing. Many of the things i do (drawing, writing, playing guitar) are not things that i do simply to be the best at, i do them and improve at them because they give me joy. I try to remind myself of this on those days where i feel crummy about my playing!
Shit I really needed to hear this...
When I'm rocking out in my living room playing some of my favourite riffs (badly) I feel ace!! I wish I could play half as good as you Bea!! Nice to see someone so humble and your videos inspire me!! I love your playing dude! I think your awesome!!
The way i see it is the guitar is a tool for writing music, sounds stupidly obvious i know, but some guitarists see it as a means to an end, that end being "i can play guitar" but i think the real measure of a guitarist or and instrumentalist is the quality of the music you produce with that tool. There are many guitarists who can play at 1000mph but does that make them better that say, John Lennon? I think if you see the instrument as a means in itself you will be stuck chasing other guitarists around, but if you use the tool to create beautiful music then comparrisons go out the window and you are left with not a guitarist, but a musician.......or something gay like that.
gitsurfer27
Awesome advice. I'd like to add that when you hear and see those players and think "I want to play a bit like that" you can still learn and incorporate those things to make what you create better. Add long as you think of it as bettering your music and not bettering your playing. Because bettering your music is the only way to better your playing when you reach a certain point.
Totally! The goal, like Guthrie Govan said, is to reach musicality, not speed. Speed is another way to express what you're feeling but it shouldn't be your main goal
Brilliant ! My music teacher in high school taught me exactly like this
Yet when I think of Guthrie, I think of lightning fast playing and technique. He doesn't create anything memorable. He doesn't follow his own advice imo.
this is absolutely true
Bro, I was telling myself this very thing yesterday, so very true. There's always someone better than me but life's not about what's better than, its about enjoyment. I love learning new techniques, practicing different styles and developing my whole profile as a guitar player, I'm not out to beat anyone.
Loving these philosophical type videos you do. Such great advice though Bea!
You rip dude!
Yes there are "better" guitarists, but that means jack all. Nobody IN THE WORLD writes riffs like Rabea Massaad (or any of us), nobody has his tone or his hands, or his exact influences. There may be more technicially gifted people out there, people more knowledgable in theory or whatever, but it doesn't matter because music is subjective.
Thanks for making the video - I've played guitar for 12 years, and there have been numerous times where I think my playing is shit or that I suck, but when I look back I realize I have incrimentally improved since then. So keep on jamming, keep on getting better - don't be arrogant but at the same time realize what your strengths are.
Mateus asato is incredible, fantastic Brazilian fellow
The dude makes me wanna quit guitar every time I watch his videos XD
Z
i really relate to the message here, ive been playing all my life and ive always been following in the footsteps of the greats. started in the blues like most, went from that to classic rock, zepp and such, and felt like a real guitar player. then from there was metal and the desire for solos led me to shred. at a point i could play from muddy to govan but got bored. i put my guitar down and drifted from music. but then i found a seven string at a small local shop (years later) for a steal and grabbed it. since ive been trying to reestablish myself as an artist and then i realized ive never done anything musical at all ive just been practicing others riffs. now with almost a new instrument ive wrote more than i ever have in my life and still find myself stacked up to others. it feels good to watch someone like yourself that i envy go through the same struggle ive been plagued with. if you the public read this take away you play guitar, nothing more and no other guitarist is, your only as good as you sound to yourself. and to rabea thank you for making me feel not alone in a sea of musicians and for the first time in a while feel like one.
LOOK AT KEITH RICHARDS! IS HE A TECHNICAL, FAST OR PRECISE GUITARIST? NO.
BUT HE INSPIRED MORE PEOPLE TO PLAY GUITAR THAN ALL HIGH SPEED SHREDERS TOGETHER.
MUSIC ISNT A SPORT AND ABOUT WHO IS THE FASTEST OR BEST. ITS ABOUT YOU AND WHAT YOU MAKE WITH THOSE 12 TONES!
SIMPLE AS THAT
SpezlvomAnneNr1 he’s also one of the most self absorbed, elitist people I’ve ever seen in interviews
This is an inspiring video. I've been doubting my musical abilities recently and it really is important to realize that people will always be "better" than you, but they wont necessarily be you. Another important thing is to stay confident in your music. As a musician it's hard to say that you're any good without feeling egotistical (at least for me). Yes, you need to acknowledge your faults and improve on them but it's equally as important to recognize your improvements and be proud that you can evolve as a player. If you're constabtly telling yourself you're not good enough then you may never be happy with what you're creating. Sometimes it's nice to be able to look at what you've accomplished and be thankful you've gotten as far as you did at that time.
Guitar is just a toy we pick up to have some fun and spread some love that's all it is
I've started playing on November 17, 2016. I have little to no experience on the guitar. Browsing the internet is a double edged sword as sometimes the videos I watch are inspirational but also I get into that mindset which you've described in this video where I'll constantly tell myself "I'll never reach that level. What am I even doing?" So to hear someone who I find absolutely amazing on the guitar, and overall amazing musician (Yes, I'm talking about you Rabea.. lol) question themselves, it absolutely baffles me. Not in a negative way however. It just shows that this journey that each one of us are taking is never ending and that there's and endless amount of skills, techniques, genres, and many other things that each of us can learn.
It's great to hear the thoughts of people who are 'ahead' in this journey as it helps the people struggling to get back up and move forward again.
Like you said, "Patience and persistence." I can only really keep practicing and just enjoy my time learning.
Thanks for the video man! Humble and truly inspirational. Thanks Rabea!
Right on, Bea! I think your thought on this is just right. As a guitar player I tried to hang out with as many other guitar players as I can. If I like what they're doing I'll try to pick up some things and add it to my own style of playing. But there is an opposite side to what you said. There are also a lot guitar players who really do think "that's it, I've made it and don't have to learn anymore". In my mind that is so so wrong! I think I can play, but I also am not above learning something else from someone maybe a little older and wiser than myself. Have a good one, Bea. Keep posting little thoughts like this. It really a great reality check!!
Thank you for posting this. Great to see others feel the same. I had that ``wow you`re amazing`` when I was a young teen praise and then by the time 18-19 hit, just another drop in the ocean.
I started this journey nearly 40 years ago and for all these years have had the same thoughts you've had and come to the same conclusion. Music isnt' a competition. I love Guthrie Govan, Steve Morse, Al DiMeola, Scott Henderson and a load of other guitar freaks of nature. They amaze and inspire me. But I'm no less amazed and inspired by the lyrics of a well written country song. It's about what moves you. Stay moved. Stay inspired. And never get that "I've arrived" attitude. After 39 years of playing I'm a heck of a lot better than I was at 14, but I'm also better than I was at 45 and at 50. I supposed I'll never get "there" and I'm not sure where "there" really is. But, wow, what a journey and a privilege to have music to carry with you a lifetime. It's not only taken me places and let me do things I've dreamed about, but let me express myself and share with others. So, like you said, don't worry about it. Just do it.
The good thing about art is that, it's not about competition (in most cases).
I agree we guitarists should handpick elements from guitar influences and their sound, and create a unique sound of our own. You've created a unique sound of your own. Your playing in Toska been a huge inspiration to me and probably most of your subscribers.
I've only just happened upon this video. I completely get what you're saying Rabea. I'm only a hobby guitarist but the music very important to me. I find that I can watch and listen to a guitar player sometimes and I just kind of crumble. I witness what some of these guys are doing and I can't find any path to doing that. It really sucks.
But conversely. I also sometimes see/hear a guitarist and even though I know that I can't play the same way. That musician just makes me want to drop everything and pick up a guitar. You sir are one of those guitarists.
Take heart and keep on moving. Thanks for the music...... and the vids of course.
Thanks for this video, Rabea. In my opinion, what makes a great guitar player is someone who has something unique and inspiring to say, and says it well with their instrument. Technical skill is important in helping you articulate your musical thoughts, and the ability to play diverse styles is important in helping you express yourself in diverse ways. But skill and diversity work in service to the ideas you are trying to create. That all being said, I'm a 20 year hobbyist, not a professional by any means, so I don't speak with any authority. But lately I've changed my motivation from simply learning my favorite tunes to learning how to express myself. This new motivation has really energized my progress.
I really appreciate the message here. I'm 35 and just started playing guitar about a year ago, and I've wondered many times if it's really worth trying or if I've just missed the boat. A couple of thoughts I had while listening to this: (1) while it's true that I'll likely never be as proficient as my "guitar heroes," I can learn enough that eventually I'll be able to write and create music of my own, which is a very cool thing, and (2) if I keep playing and keep practicing and work at improving every day, by the time I'm 55 I'll having been playing for 20 years, and I think you can become a pretty good guitar player if you invest 20 years in becoming your best. Great work Rabea, and hopefully you realize how many people think they'll never be as good as you!
Very well said, my thoughts EXACTLY. I would add that as musicians we are artists and like great visual artists, all we can do is offer our own creations and unique style. A painter learns from everything he or she has seen before but creates something new on a blank canvas. We too as guitarists must create. It's great to copy all your favorite guitarists' works but at some point you have to put your own soul into something original. So there is no reason to be discouraged, art and music are not a competition but an offering of self expression. Great video mate!!
Really accurate way to describe it. I met rob on the Chapman guitars tour last year when you guys came to sf. I kinda knew who you were but i hadn't seen a ton of your playing or heard of toska. As someone that wasn't a huge metalhead your music changed my perspective of why i enjoy guitar. Wish i had said hi in sf man, great video
That's why your such an amazing player, it's not just your amazing guitar skills or your fro it's your personality, (which shines through when you play), your honestly and the fact you remember what it was like to be a beginner and struggle as we all do and you are not big headed (well apart from the fro lol), about your skills as some are, you are humble man. Love your playing and your videos, please keep up the good work and thanks from a big fan
Thanks Rebea. I've been struggling with picking the guitar back up after many years of playing bass. This really helped my state of mind right now and i truly appreciate that. Much love from Canada!
I think it's great somebody as accompolished and talented such as you had opened up and said something I can really relate to. I've always felt like I should be a considerably better player than I am and I feel quite anxious about people hearing me play. Never been in a band and I spend best part of my time learning bits and pieces from guitarists who inspired me to play for the past 15 years.
Thanks for being so transparent and honest.
Bea...You are an F'n RIFFMASTER! It's not about technical ability. Your sensibility speaks to me. I can hear all of my influences coming out of your playing! You create what I would write if my hands could do what yours do!
Man your the first person who has brought this to light that ive seen. Ive felt all these things before and do often. Sometime i want to just hang it up but otherdays i get up and push out new songs.
Had the same question, when about 3 years ago, both my arms were critically injured in accident.. Lost all the years of techniques and playability. But, in the dark came the light. I was able to put myself out of the competition line and learned to enjoy "music" with what I'd left..
I never enjoyed playing this much like I do now..
Much love man!!
Thank You Bea. I've been playing guitar and bass for over 40 years and I still keep learning.
thanks for sharing this words rabea, i often feel disscouraged, there's so much talent out there, it's ridiculous! but i feel confort with the thought we are all unique in a way and maybe should embrace "different", i like what you said because even awesome guitarrist like yourself have this feeling at some point...I also think that as guitar players we fall into the trap of thinking about the guitar, as a limited circle and music is so much bigger than just guitar...what I try to say is just jam and learn with others musicians, try to say something than just shred, add some feeling...aniway good post man!! thank you
Thanks for making this video Rabea...I'm 49 yrs old and still ask myself the same question but when I get bummed out about it I always remember this guy I used to know who was about 10 or 12 yrs older than I and he was a great Blues player...I mean he was really good...but one day he saw someone who was much better than he was and thinking that he would never get to that level he sold all his gear and threw it all away. I spoke to him when a chance meeting came about years later and he confessed this to me and to this day I think he made the greatest mistake in his life...there will always be somebody better but for me I just compete with myself and try to be the best I can be, because you can always go that extra step so never, ever throw it away. Cheers, Mike....BTW this is a true story.
I appreciate your openness. We all began because someone inspired us to greatness. And we wanted that, I think. But we all realize somewhere along the line that the greatness is part innate, part diligence, and the recognition is usually a bit of those plus good luck. Finding our own voice should be the quest, taking inspiration and education from every possible source. I love what you say about finding musicians that resonate with you and inspire you. Best wishes on your journey!
Thanks for voicing what I'm pretty sure is a feeling/sense/mindset all guitarists struggle with from time to time. Sometimes it just needs to be said out loud and articulated. Cheers!
As usual Rabea, really insightful and helpful for all us musicians ( not just guitarists), whatever level we're at. There's too much focus on competitiveness in music these days, rather than taking encouragement from other players. Your playing is absolutely amazing and inspiring to me, so to hear you say these thoughts out loud makes me feel happier about my own playing. It's also made me realise I need to focus on what I want to achieve, rather than trying to spread myself over so many different things at once. Thanks again for another great, helpful video Rabea.
I think this is supremely important to put out there. The second you look at another player and think "He's better than me" you've lost sight of the point. Just like you said, it's looking at what someone has done and thinking "Ooo, I like that/that's inspiring" and going off and learning/assimilating that.
Kudos to you!
So I realize picking up a guitar again at the age for 42 and apply myself and have been for the past 4 years or so it's easy to think these thoughts that Rebea explain it perfectly. I know I may not be able to shred, or ever will, as that's not really my goal.
And with a full time job, it's difficult to switch from a technical way of thinking to an artistic way of thinking. Sometimes I'm good to go right after work but others it takes the entire weekend to really get into a musical frame of mind.
I told myself when I started this was going to take a while. And it will continue to take time. This video was well timed cause I was very excited to meet an Icelandic guitar builder (Orn Guitars). He let me muck around on a few of his creations, and then another gent came in and noodles around and it made me feel like I was still just starting haha!
Here's to just having fun with what we have, enjoy the creating and learning processes, and trying to stop the comparing myself to others. Just be!
(Drops plectrum down sound hold of acoustic .....dammit!)
Great perspective. As you mention taking elements of other players and incorporating it into your playing, that's key. It's one of the things that made Dimebag Darrel great. His feel, use of country and blues licks amped up into high gain metallic sonic wizardry made him one of a kind. Develop YOUR style. That makes your great and stand out.