How I Went from College Professor to Deli Worker
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- Опубліковано 24 вер 2021
- On today’s live stream I discuss my journey that took me from being a College Professor to Deli Worker.
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Great story. The moral of this tale: there are few things in life as reliable as a Honda Civic.
And: Philip Glass stopped working as a taxi driver and fixing washing machines at 40! Musicians are unlikely heroes and the washing machines he fixed are still working!
Maytag and Dog's, ha,ha!!!
I definitely agree. My first 3 cars were Honda Civics, a `76, `83, and an `88, all bought used. Great reliable cars. Been a Honda owner ever since.
I was coming to write the same thing! Oh, the places that Civic has seen! How many times did it travel through half a continent!
@@Jd-jm8xt i had 4 from 92-98 then an accord ,never had a problem, then i changed to other cars and the trouble began
The real story within the story is about Rick's parents and his family. He spends 60 seconds on it. They pay for his car, get him back on his feet, and happily send him back out to follow his dream - an extreme longshot. Very rare.
Yes, exactly! Family, ultimately is, always the most important thing in life.
Facts.. What a blessing.
Hit the nail on the head,,, without family,,,
your screwed!
I’m a musician also from Rochester. I agree with you. Why Rick seldom to never talks about Rochester. The Eastman School is in the Univesity of Rochester. As example Steve Gadd ,and Tony Levin both Eastman players - many more of course -
This was one of the best stories I’ve ever heard.
Rick should do a video of Rochester’s musical scene.
I ran into Joe English back there after he just left McCartney - Wings - we were old friends.
Met Larry Hoppins of Orleans way back when at Red Creek.
Point of all this.
Rochester has spawned some of the best musicians in the country.
I’m fifteen years older than Rick, as are the other people I mentioned.
I honestly don’t know if Rick is aware of the players that came from Rochester before his time.
Rick is the most deserving of all on You Tube, and most likely the most popular music aficionado in most genres I’ve ever heard.
House of Guitars - Rochester - Armand Schaubroeck
Andy Babuik - Rochester - Fab Gear guitars and of course the Beatles Gear books l
Etc,etc.
His parents weren't rich.
The two things I really got from this are that:
1. It pays to have skills.
2. It seriously pays to have real friends.
I have one of those
soft skillz are often times more important than the hard skillz
amen
I have neither of those.
And a Honda.
All the talent and skill in the world won't get you far without charm and amiability. Rick talks to us with a smile, like we're all buds. What I love about him is how he rattles off names, chords, and gear like he's talking shop with a fellow music industry veteran.
It's rare to find UA-cam comment sections filled with only gratitude, admiration and praise.
"The story can't end here."
Buddy Rich might have been the exception to that rule
No, but it also doesn't end with a snarky comment. Is that all you got out of this great story? ...Really???@@busterbiloxi3833
Can we take a moment to appreciate this man's networking skills. Seems to me to be the baseline of this story.
Bingo. Personality, ability to develop relationships with pretty much everyone.
yes, my God the webs woven and connected. I have some similar prev paths, and can appreciate his skill and basic goodness.
It is crucial to survive in this business
However, at the base of everything was his Master in music. And for that he had to work a lot.
It's not what you know, but who you know. That will open more doors than anything.
Rick, I'm a non-musician which mean i understand 10% of your regular vids...but i adore your presentation style. And this story tops anything i've seen in a long, long time. Kudos to you for not giving up.
Another moral of the story: don't give up or complain that your life isn't happening, just keep working and don't be ashamed to do whatever you have to do for success.
It's what I call the "curse of near great talent"... maybe "undiscovered talent" too.
Glad I took the other path, cuz Rick, you are so very talented and like many others, you followed your dream.
Much respect!
And have a lot of friends or wind up homeless.
Not much impresses me after the life I've lived, but this guy's depth of knowledge impresses me immensely. And the story of your transformation from wage slave to hacking away at your dream until it finally came true is nothing short of awesome. Well played sir.
Your kids will value this story when they see it again in 50 years. Well told, Rick.
It's very important for musicians to hear stories like this. Some might think it's madness that drives this behavior, but it's really love. Love for music and the freedom that can be found within it.
Now that I think about it. Love borders Madness and Sanity.
Without the passion of music. I'd probably go insane meaning it keeps my sanity free of madness. On the other hand. There was many times I've sacrificed sleep because I was feeling it Music Wise. It was flowing out of me in the wee hours of 2 am and had to wake up at 9:30. This in itself is a form of Madness. I should go to sleep, right? Nah, I was up until like 3:30ish.
The love of what I do which is making music keeps my mind at a balance as much as it can.
I'm not so sure. My takeaway is that talent and luck were the deciding factors.
@@physics2112
It's mostly luck
And so many of the people you find in a life of music are really lovely and giving
@@physics2112 well my comment isn’t so much about the outcome. More about what drives the behavior.
Q: What is the difference between a large pizza and a musician?
A: a large pizza can feed a family of four
How do you get a bass player off of your front porch?
Pay for your pizza...
🤣🤣
Well, Ed Sheeran might differ from you.
What's the difference between a jazz musician and a life assurance policy? A life assurance policy eventually matures and makes some money.
What do you say to a professional musician? "Would you like fries with that?"
Loved that. A man who is willing to sleep on couches for three years can't be stopped. Just started my musical journey at 62.
Same here Doug! Rock On - Del Shannon.
Rick, please don't ever apologise for telling us a great story that goes on for 30 minutes. If it had lasted 60 minutes I still would've been here, listening, nodding along as you mention people/events that you've previously mentioned.
You're a great storyteller who has great stories to tell and we WANT to hear them :)
Set me up with a drink and I'll listen for three hours!
Totally agree, Col Carter!
I absolutely love when he tells his life stories I watch them a bunch of times it’s super interesting. I wish I had the same mindset, the drive he had to keep going and not give up when I was in bands! I just don’t know how he kept going. In my opinion the hardest part about trying to make a band work is finding the right musicians people that put music first before everything who take it very seriously can actually play show up willing to tour move out of state be broke out everything they have into the music and everyone musically gets along! If you get the right musicians and make good music you can play shows, you can tour there are garbage bands that tour you can get a certain level of success that doesn’t mean you will be rich or famous but a decent band can make some good noise, can play shows with bigger bands you really can do some really cool stuff even if ur not getting famous in any way it’s really not out of the question but getting the right musicians is just the hardest thing to do idk how he mentally could deal with being in so many bands over and over again. It’s like trying to find that perfect employee they almost never exist you either get an employee that does absolutely great work but doesn’t show up half the time or an employee that shows up but sucks lol
My takeaway from this and most of your stories: You've got friends.
same thought, have some drive, or goals for your life and don t screw over your friends and you will be fine
Having a likable personality helps in so many ways, from deli service to professorship to record producer, and particularly for youtube leader.
Many aspects of succeeding in the Arts revolve around who you know.That's more of what college is about, - making the connections that can further a career.
Friends are good.
The most amazing thing about this story is how many people just let Rick crash on their couch. Not only would my friends not let me crash on their couch but I dont even have friends.
I thought that my brother was my only friend until he kicked me off his couch.
I don't even like reading your comments!
As my friends always says, "who the fuck are you?!"
Things were a little different back then.
That’s how it was back then before we all went inside, locked the doors and stared at our screens. We were always going out and going to clubs and listening to the best music ever in the 90’s.
Love this... thinking back... every job I ever had taught me something. At the time its not where you want to end up but it's an integral part of the journey. Rick could have just went back to being a college professor but something made him keep going in another direction. This guy is not only entertaining, skilled, and humble... he has balls. Attributes for making and keeping friends like he does.... sure Rick, you can crash on my couch anytime.
Rick appears to have always respected and treated people well and valued relationships and in turn people have looked out for him and wanted him to do well. It all started from his tight and supportive parents and siblings!! God bless you Rick and his family.
Simon, I was trying to work out how to express the same thoughts but you have put it perfectly there.
Before enlightenment: chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment: chop wood, carry water. ☺️❤️
I've Installed windows & doors, cooked in fine dining restaurants, installed wireless AP systems... but nothing has given me more satisfaction than creating music. Great story rick.
This is a fabulous story: I was amused and spellbound simultaneously. I am going to send this video to my 28-year-old son as a way of demonstrating that you can navigate through uncertainty and ultimately fulfill your dreams. Thank you Rick!
Rick as a guy that just turned 40 myself I'm going to start saying out loud "this is not where my story ends. " Fucking thank you.
Im 41 im working on it too...
@@craigusselman546 I'm 43, same here. I really needed to hear this story tonight!
I’m 65, “This is not where my story ends.”
59, story over.
Prison time for you? Change isn't always for the better.
I went from College Professor to independent computer repairman at 57 and now I make more money and I play what I like :)
Congrats Manlio!
Good for you! ⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was a columnist on the Sunday Times for ten years. I was once voted the most admired person in South Africa. Now I am a barista in Starbucks. You are brilliant, Mr Beato!
Never give up jani
KEEP GOING. My father immigrated to US from Africa. I don’t want to put too much personal information out but he went from nothing to being a very well-off president for a massive company here. When I say nothing…I mean NOTHING. And when he had nothing I was born, but he NEVER quit. You’re talented, never stop, KEEP GOING.
I for one remember you :-)
I love this story. Success means a lot of things. It comes with effort and persistence though. I remember my first year in engineering school. After two months I came across an art major and it was there I found out there was a such thing as a Graphic Artist. The fact that you could draw for a living was amazing to me. I went home and told my mother and she was not having it. Finally she said, "you're gonna need something to fall back on in case that "dream" doesn't pan out. I told her, I also know how to play the drums. Through her anger and disbelief she said, "dammit!! your fall back needs a fall back!" I was determined and found what I really could commit to...no matter what. This isn't a story about how I became rich and famous cause i followed my dream... it's a story about how, even after thirty years, I'm still rocking and drawing, I live on my own and I have never hit the snooze button. Money is great... Happiness is better. If you can, make money doing what makes you happy.
Important lesson: I never hit the snooze button. It’s the opportunity clock, not the alarm clock.
"My journey can't be over here..."
Brilliant.
God bless you, rick.
My hypothesis is that the journey never ends. But the only way to test it is to pass over. The Creator really DOES love us, but our brains have trouble gettin it. Trust the Wise Man who talked of Grace. Or not. You'll be fine.
A lot of people find themselves late in life just wishing they'd taken the time to ask themselves that question.
You can still make a comeback, but the options are fewer now.
Great title for his autobiography!
"...Do stuff and figure out your path." What a great saying, no wonder Rick is such a success!
That was powerfully inspiring, Rick. I've just picked back up the viola after 3 years of it staying in its case, moving all the way from Denver to New Orleans about a year ago. Being a musician had been my only identity for 14 years of my life. I stopped playing because I was feeling bad about myself for where I wasn't with music, how I screwed away my shot at a tuition-free music school education right out of high school, and the list goes on. I chose other responsibilities and found a new identity for myself that wasn't music, and I learned my integrity and self-worth was more than just one thing. After being lovingly pressured by wonderful new friends here to get back into my art in a music city that cherishes that above all else, I am freaking loving it. All the music I listened to in the past 3 years has given me phrasing abilities that I can't wait to regain the technique to properly execute.
"My story doesn't stop here."
Terrific story told from the honest perspective of the one who lived it. The pursuit of your dream reminds me of that quote from Woody Allen who stated back in 1977: "I have learned one thing. ‘Showing up is 80 percent of life.’ Sometimes it’s easier to hide home in bed. I’ve done both." And what a great supportive family and parents to assist you in your pursuit. Keep on keeping on brother.
A girl I gig with was asking one night, “how do you become a professional musician?”. When we pointed out to her that she got paid six nights a week to sing, she rejoindered, “Yeah, but how do you become a full-time professional musician?” I told her the answer was real simple: stop taking money for anything else. Chances are you’ll starve, but that’s all there is to it.
Heavy.
@@aakkoin Heavy but true.
Rhett has the motivation for this:
There IS no Plan B.
While having that is wise for most of us; how many of us would have worked much harder had we nothing on which to fall back?
Damn. I chose an arbitrary age, 28, to end my music career. I thought if I didn't have a regular paying gig by 28 I was too old. I quit. Spent the next 20 years not playing music. Now I'm back in my own band having a great time. I wish I had stayed with it Rick.
many seem to end their music careers at " 27 " !
if i hadn't dropped out of cowboy school back in 1972, at least i would have a horse by now.
This is one of the best testimonies of any musician ever. I just love it!
Like most musicians I know... I've worked all sorts of jobs. Also worked all sorts of gigs in music from Weddings to Cafe gigs. I saw some of the best musicians barely making any money...often more as teachers rather than players. One morning I came out of my Apt. in Oakland to go to my Graphics job and the best musician I know was painting the Apt. hallway.
You have to keep in mind that it's a privilege to even play music and to have the freedom of choice to do so. If one reads art History you quickly find out that many of the famous names we know now went through tough times...some their whole life. So never feel like some lowly job is beneath you. It teaches humility for sure.
Rick! This is a beautiful story! It made me cry because you so humbly and authentically shared your journey with us, which many of us have experienced the same such character-building situations. I was so broke in 2010, trying to keep the house for my 3 kids while changing careers due to the recession I once found a bag of fresh broccoli on the sidewalk outside a produce store while on a walk and I took it home and we had it for dinner (with some chicken.) So much happened to me that year that could’ve broke me, but in the end it made me realize I’m so much more than a job, a house, and what the world rewards as successful. You’re awesome, thank you! ♥️
Did you ever listen to "Me" by Paula Cole?
"I am not my house, my job, my songs.
They are only stops along my way."
This song inspires me.
I have a long story myself. one “lesson” I learned worth sharing is, “Perseverance is a regret that always pays off.”
Great story, by a great story teller. I'm not a muso, just a fan of music and personal journeys. Love to read an autobiography from Rick.
You were brave, bold, fearless and humble. You deserved to win.
I love that the most repeated sentence in the story is “I can’t do this anymore, I quit!!”. LOVE IT. That sense of freedom and uneasiness, all combined, and suddenly decide to change direction. Man, love that!!
Rick is as authentic and genuine as it gets. An inspiration because he's just
a real dude that made it his own way,
..thru all the ordained randomness of
possibilities, closed doors, & opened
windows. More successful each day.
Rick, *loved* your story! I started out laughing at your roster of misadventures, but by the end, I was in tears! I'm your age, and like you, I have done a lot of things (dull office jobs mostly) in the 30-odd years I've been stuck in Dallas. But...I don't want that to be the end of my story. Lately, my creative side is _screaming_ to get out, but in what capacity, I just don't know. Feels like my years of desk jobs have squelched those small flickering embers of any real creativity I once had years ago. _However,_ YOU GIVE ME HOPE! Hope that I can somehow fan those embers into a roaring bonfire before too much longer. After all, 60 is the new 40, so they say. Plus, I already have a Honda. 👍😉
Rick, you shine.. one can just tell that you're a great and humble guy. Everything you do here is top notch.
We are exactly the same age (59). I moved to the East Village, 6th btwn A&B, in '92 to join a punk rock band (I'm a drummer). We played CBGB's and toured all over the states. We must have at least walked passed each other on the street! I also met Howard Thompson and he also never signed us. We ended up on Reprise. I love your stories! ❤
You know what? Just like the preacher said, “The one thing in life we get to control is our attitude. We can be a blessing to ourselves and others, or a curse.”
Rick…. You’re a blessing. Ask anyone.
For many reasons, this may be my favorite broadcast of yours. There is tremendous value in sharing your story. Very much appreciated, Rick.
Bless your heart. I love your channel so much, it helps me tremendously with my depression. Idk what I would do without my guitar and and your channel. Keep up the amazing work!
Somewhere in the tail end of this story Rick met his wife, so the couch surfing guitar player ends up in Atlanta meets his wife and falls in love, so Ricks first love was his guitar and then after migrating through the music scene at the time and ending up in Atlanta he meets his second love. it would be interesting to hear that part of the story and learn what her influence was on Rick.
Thank u yes that makes sense I was wondering. Cuz that final stop wasn't any dif; OK did a recording but still just another gig of other people's material. Was redy 2 hear him say then he quit & went on 2 Austin, but something fundamentally changed...
Right? I’d watch this movie if they’d make one.
@@jaydjeffries name 4 the biopic: "Atlanta's On The Way To Austin"
I was thinking the exact same thing!
I have a simp word of advice for goal minded musicians. If you are starting out trying to be a career musician avoid romantic long term relationships.
I love this story Rick. It reminds me that life can be whatever we want and the typical formula for success isn't the only way
This is my second time watching this video.
Much love Rick , you are all of these and much more.
A great ! Human being ,Story teller, teacher, musician, inspiration, determined individual, freind , caring person.
I love your channel and your message.
Keep up the great work.
Rick, why would you block this out of your mind? This is an enviable life path. You went with the flow. You didn't let fear of the future keep you from putting yourself out there. Who cares what kind of employment kept you afloat.
My father always said that there was no shame in honest work. Fact is, I moved across the country from Ohio to central California and washed dishes in a nursing home after graduating from college. I worked with some great people. Fear of change did not stop me. Life was good. I later moved to the mountain region of Northern California where I met my husband. I'm now back in my hometown. I would not exchange those 20 years in California for anything. It made me the person I am.
Your experience made you the person you are. I bet 10 to 1 that you are a kinder person to service employees than you were before you started your journey. Life is what you make of it and you have given it your greatest effort. Now you're out teaching all of us on UA-cam which is so cool.
We all love you and what you do!
Hey Rick, very interesting and inspirational story with a lot of parallels to my own life. Since I was 13 or 14, I had the dream to live in the US one day. I am originally from Germany. I went from working at a department store to working for the Deutsche Bahn in "over night"-trains and travelling Europe to working as a bar tender to working for the University where I studied architecture, as a scientific assistant to actually working as an architect and being responsible for my own projects. Just to scrap it all, sell all my things and move to Boston in 2016 at the age of 41 with two suitcases and without knowing what is going to happen. I started all over again and luckily got hired by an architectural firm in Boston where I work since. I have an American wife, two kids, a house that I bought with my wife and I am able to have that because I followed my dream. You can achieve a lot if you believe in yourself.
Wow! Das Problem ist being afraid to believe in ourselves! Haben Sie "Schultze Gets The Blues" gesehen? Not that YOU need to, for you have changed your life.
Good for you! I got my first full time job (University professor) in my early forties! We only live once!
Boston and its suburbs were a great choice to move to. I am familiar with this area and New England. They are intrigued and very accepting of Germans and other Europeans.
What attracted you to the US?
@@stickerlady1774 Thank you for asking that!
When I was a kid (12/13 years old) I saw a documentary of one of Germany's foreign correspondents for the US (Dieter Kronzucker) and he did a cross-country road trip including all the big cities and Route 66. But in between the big cities (e.g. New York, Boston, Washington, Chicago, Seattle, L.A., San Francisco, Houston, Miami...) he sparkled little stories of how welcoming the people were that he met on his trip, how they helped him fix his car, invited him to stay over in their house, gave him food for the next part of his trip and so on. I was amazed by that and from that moment on I always wanted to come here. So when I was 16 we had that school exchange program where my school had an exchange of students with a high school in Rigby, ID. I couldn't go because I got sick 2 days before the flight, but that made me even more curious to come here one day. When I told my parents they said:" well you always con go there for a vacation!" but I said: "No, I don't want to be treated like a tourist. I want to see if really everything is "Awesome" and "Nice" (which was the main clichee about Americans back in the 80's/90's) so I want to live there!" ... and here I am. 33 years later
I have a similar tale, as in my 30s I was managing a Berkeley apartment building while writing for regional and national magazines. Things don't always work out even if you give it your all, but you learn a lot about life and yourself along the way. You see the possibilities AND the limits. Rick became a success and it appears content, even though he did not become the next big thing solo artist. Rick also has an enthusiasm that many 59-year-olds simply don't have. Congrats.
Rick, Thank you so much for sharing your incredible journey. You are a musical treasure! Perseverance personified!
I love your story Rick, even though I’m not a musician - in your own life searching journey - you have inspired me to seek my own path, and follow through. You also have a talent of storytelling, it kept me captivated throughout the video, and kept me engaged. Thank you for what you do!
Rick always says “I slept on couches”. Never said the word homeless. Great attitude towards life and basically a happy guy. Great story man !
He chose to give up his apartments remain on the road. Very different than losing one’s home, job, etc., against one’s will.
But yeah, he seems like a cool upbeat guy.
couch surfing is a time-honored tradition among creatives.
He was lucky to get a coach. Plenty of folks sleeping on the floor.
HOME is where the heart is. You can take that in many ways. But it's to me about being true to yourself. Keeping that mindset that I'm just living my life. Yep it's different than 99% of people, but it's my life.
"Homeless'' is a misnomer which corporate media coined. A more accurate depiction is mentally ill and addicted. Those problems lead to homelessness. But our ''leaders'' are treating the symptom, not the causes. Sheesh.
These stories are my favorite part of the channel.
This one and the Shinedown story are my favorite so far.
Rock on, Rick.
Rick, a delightful story. I sent it to my daughter, who is a singer/songwriter, with one album under her belt and a second on the way. More than anything, she wants to tour with her band after she graduates from music school at .... the University of Denver! I laughed out loud at that part of your story. Amazing the intersections between people's life stories.
Love listening to Rick, the stories, the interviews and his love for music. It’s heart-warming and brings a smile on my face.
Thank you for sharing your experience! Lesson for all of us. You just keep the faith, practice, and keep moving forward!
"Don't Die With A Song In Your Heart" This means don't forget your dreams and die regretting that you didn't pursue your dreams.
This should be taught in massive assembly halls all across the country. This work ethic and dream chasing tenacity is the stuff that moved the pioneers across this great country. How do we get what we want? How do we succeed? How do we find our place in life? Pursue it with tenacity and work at it till is yours.
Well put …
Thank you for the story today. I have no idea how I stumbled onto this video because I'm not a musician and have no idea who you are. Your advice was exactly what I needed to hear to make a career move. I actually subscribed to your channel too. In my career, like yours, I've made it a mission to stay open to possibilities and new paths for work and places to live. You rock...literally!
Rick, this is one of the most humbling stories I have ever heard. You are making me appreciate what I have even more. GBY
Being part of Gen X, the 90's was a formative time for me. I was the lead singer in a band, writing my own songs and gigging every week. It started a life long love of music. Now I teach songwriting, guitar and vocals and I have just started building guitars and effect pedals. Rick is my kind of person.
*alumnus
Alumni is masculine plural in the nominative case in Latin 🧐. Alumnae is the feminine equivalent. However in English the accusative plurals of alumnos and alumnas are not used - just again alumni and alumnae. 'Graduates' was far less problematic.
@@rns69 Corrected. I was referring to being part of a collective group but could have worded it better.
@@RuthlessMojo Yep I realised that! Part of the potential fun of public comments is you can never be sure what people will pick up on! What I put was just a little bit of Latin meant in good fun.
Was that a comment or a plug, ha,ha!!!
I love Rick man, so wholesome. He's like that father figure everyone wants to have. I'm 20 years younger, so yeah, I look up to him.
Rick,
I've been listening for a few years. Your knowledge of music brings me a back constantly. I have only recently indulged my interest by learning bass. I look forward to every episode. Hearing you reproduce so many awesome lics just tells me my passion is worth it. I enjoy alternately playing the Cajon with keyboards after learning a bass riff. Rush, Steely Dan,Dire Straits, VH,so many others, Just keep going.
What an incredible story! Grateful you share your tale with us. The old bromide "keep on keeping on" personified. Keep rockin', sir!
As I listen to this story it just inspires me and makes me say…my story hasn’t ended yet 🤘
It never ends
Same!
“So we wrote 8 more songs…”
Things a pro says.
ive come back to listen to this a few times now, and has really resonated with me. its romantic to see someone from humble beginnings with no light at the end of the tunnel, see it through and come out the other side. thank you for sharing rick, its inspiring.
Rick, you blew me away with the story of your life! Man I was with you, as you described each step in your journey. Your a musician, but your commitment to your dream is what moved me. Thank you for sharing your story.
Here's Rick's story in reverse (kinda).
I have an old friend who was active in the San Francisco music scene in the mid to late 60's. He knew everybody, but then Uncle Sam called. After he got discharged he played in a bunch of bands, did small solo gigs, and taught guitar, all well into his late 30's. I reconnected with him a few years back and he had become a college professor. As a joke, I congratulated him on discovering what he finally wanted to be when he grew up, but he quickly corrected me, saying that he ALWAYS knew what he wanted out of life (and teaching wasn't it).
On a happier note, he told me that from time to time he gets called to be a guest lecturer for another colleague who teaches a rock and roll course at another college. He shuffles into the classroom with his big belly and a few remaining gray hairs on his head to face a young, impatient, and unimpressed audience. After introducing himself, he asks for a show of hands of anyone who has shared a joint with Jerry Garcia, and suddenly everybody is awake!
Hmmmm. I shared a joint with Jerry on Queen Ann Hill in Seattle, around 1968. Jerry was a smart, philosophical guy. We talked about 'things.'
My band rented a mansion that looked like a castle. It was THE place to go. Unfortunately, one of our guests walked off with my Martin D-18. Hey man, bring that guitar back!
Rick, i once heard that if you find a master at something, he may teach you the thing hes really good at, but what he really does it he teaches you about life. This is the way I feel about you. Yes its about music, but really so much more. Much love man, i really enjoy listening to you and watching you do what you do.
Rick, thank you for telling your story! Huge props to you for following your passion & allowing your dream to unfold, even when you had NO IDEA how it would. Admire your talent & gifts, you inspire me. Love your channel. ❤️❤️❤️❤️♥️
Thank you Rick for sharing your story. Everyone has a story that shapes who they are. The important thing is to find joy everyday in pursuing our dreams.
Being a dedicated musician often comes with many highs and lows. It often comes along with a need to keep believing and lots of humility. Glad things worked out for Rick. His channel is my favorite thing on UA-cam!
I really appreciate you, Rick. i have been a basement musician since the late 70's. Your ability to break down the complex musicianship of so many pieces that are dear to me has blown me away. I am a drummer with no formal training, meaning that everything that I have played is by ear and feel, not that that's bad, but you have truly opened my eyes and ears! Thank you, Thank you, Rick! I love4 what you bring. Please keep up the inspiration! Live long and happy!
Wayne MacIntosh
Wayne, your comment is lovely.
You never quit! I think that is why you can connect with us, out here! Very inspirational! I think it made you better! Love what you put out there, Rick, please keep it up. I have had to live through a lot of pitfalls lately, and you are a big inspiration to me! I am going to write a song, and I am going to record it at your studio. Then I will shake your hand and appreciate the second chance you have given me! Thank You!
These stories are priceless for up and coming musicians.
Makes you realize you’ve “only just begun”
You know Rick, by telling us your life's stories, by opening up to us, you make us feel like your friend. That means, that whether you want us or not, you have a whole bunch of friends that you've never met. I for one, am glad to be included in that group.
You definitely feel like this is how he would tell you his story in person. It does feel very honest and quite intimate. Makes him endlessly watchable.
That was like a spoken word version John Coltrane's "Om" - amazing, confusing, and life changing. Love ya Rick!
Rick, that was a great story, and you're a great storyteller! You seem to attract great people, like all the one's who have written comments here. Life is full of wonders! Keep the love flowing!
How can you not love this guy? Apparently, a lot of other people along the way felt the same. A great story of love and persistence.
Up until our early thirties (late 20s for me), we lived nearly the same life. Where we split was I was got rear ended by a kid which screwed up my neck and back to the point that I couldn't even hold a guitar, let alone play one or else our stories might have continued parallel tracks. But 30 years later, a lot of healing, a career in tech that ended up working out pretty well, and I'm back at it. I'll never live the guitar bum life again or even tour, but getting better as a player and vocalist and songwriter, those are things that can still happen. So that's what I'm doing. And part of the reason I'm back at it is the knowledge and inspiration I get from your videos and the way you break down songs into bits that are really easy to comprehend.
Rick, seriously, if you worked on the nuance and details, this would be a fantastic one man show (Spalding Gray, Mike Birbiglia, etc.) This period of time, and what you experienced, really resonates. I'm about your age and it was a joy listening to your journey and especially digging your wanderlust. And your teaching, your gift, ended up teaching you so much. I bet you sliced a mean turkey loaf too.
I think it could easily become a book
Great story. My son is trying to get his music in front of people and he's had so many knockbacks over the last couple of years but he's never given up. He's working in a frozen food shop during the day and gigging evenings and weekends. Never give up and when success comes it will have been earned.
I hope he hangs on to his dreams. Is there somewhere I could listen to his music or what's his name/band.
What a fantastic journey you’ve been on, having friends that shared your sense of adventure and curiosity. It may have looked alike rambling and dead ends and that you didn’t know what was next, but you stayed focused on making music oh that we live a thousand times and find one like yours: a talented and generous soul.
Rick, your channel is like music crack... I might as well cancel all my other TV subscriptions because your stuff is by far the most interesting part of my day. I have a minor in music from a well-respected university here in Canada but I've learned far more from listening to you than I ever did in class. Thank you for sharing all your recollections and wisdom. Keep it up!
This is one of the best personal stories i've ever heard. You should write another book: " The Beato Beat - the road to riches via the couch train". Hell, i'll read it .... it'll get me off of UA-cam for a few days.
Rick, thank you! Your love of music and ability to explain it to anyone at any level is so incredible. I'm in my fifties and through you, I'm finally able to explore the musical side of myself. So wonderful that you told this story of yours. Everyone's who led a life following their passion has wild stories.
Amazing journey of a courageous soul and love all the significance of warmth, those supporting, meaningful encounters in our respective lives.
You're a great story teller rick, which is why you're a great musician.
The cool thing Rick, is that landed on your feet doin the Lord’s work! You’ve brought infinite joy to us guitarists by unlocking the hidden secrets of riffs and theories so many of us were searching for…
Rick...what a story. You are an extremely brave man and such an engaging storyteller!
Keep doing that. We adore you
Thank you for all the great content you put out. Your story is amazing. Easily my favorite channel. I love the interviews, the top or favorite lists you make, the breakdown of songs, etc. But the part that I like the best is you. How you tell the story. How you make things relatable. The genuine joy when you talk about songs, music and your life. Just want to say thank you for all that you do in sharing your content.
When I was 13, I became a big Guns n' Roses fan. I read about how they went on their very 1st tour: their van broke down, they had to walk and hitch-hike, they had no money, nothing to eat and then, when they finally arrived at the venue, no one had promoted the gig and so, no one showed up and they didn't get paid. This must have been miserable at the time but at the end, this made them feel like a gang, like nothing was going to stop them now and look at what happened with them. When I finally was in a band, I, too, wanted to go on tour and sleep on couches and just improvise as we would go but everyone else in the band was like "No way! I'm not going anywhere without knowing where exactly I am going to sleep, how much I'm going to get paid, when I'm going back...". I was so disappointed but that showed me that this is why most people won't make it. People get comfortable and they don't want to risk losing that comfort without the guarantee of succeeding.
Yep, that comfortable rut can really bog ya down...
In the first place...most people are not creative....and also, most folks do not even have a specific goal in Life, other than to survive, and make some money...And that is a good situation; just think of anyone's chances of pursuing a creative goal, if 300 million or so folks had that opportunity!...lol
I couldn’t believe your twists and turns and how my own low moments in life resembled some of these Rick. I lost my marriage in 1994, car reposessed and evicted in 1995 …. moving back with my parents at 29 also in 1995 and filing a bankruptcy later that year. On the other side, I came out of it with a good job in 1996 as a Product Engineer at a company that was ironically, walking distance from Ithaca College. God bless you Rick for hanging in there.
Coincidentally *
There's nothing ironic about having lived close to Ithaca. I can't help but notice that over the past decade or so, Americans have flat out started to use the two words interchangeably as if they mean the same thing.
@@mordie31 " Literally".
Hey Rick - Thank you, brother. I was going through a dark night of the soul just now, and this video dropped in. That last five minutes had me crying with gratitude. I'm okay now and I have the inspiration to go on with this next chapter of my life. You've wiped away all my self-doubts. What a powerful healing story, Rick. Thank you for every minute of it, and thank you for being you.
That's a great story & just goes to show there is no shame in doing what you have to to follow your dreams. It's better than to wake up one day with regrets wondering what could have been. You are naturally inspiring & I've so enjoyed binging your content even though I came to it late. The reason you have so many friends through your journey is because you're authentic & people can see that & admire it.
Beautifully convoluted story. I could and would listen for hours Rick. Absolutely worth every moment. I had no idea. My massive respect for you has grown even more. I hope you share more whenever you’re a mind to. Thank you for sharing.
My little brother's favorite movie was Forest Gump. This is now my favorite musical journey story. Still holding true...you don't know what you're gonna get. Thank you Rick, for your passion to make your own music and share your knowledge.
This is a great story actually I worked as a school district Plant Manager Custodian for 31 years until I got hurt and retired when I was 52 with a damaged Cervical Spine but music and playing guitar has always been my first choice and that’s what I’m doing now only thing is I’m 58 years old. I can say that over the years I’ve met and hung out with most rock stars and have had a great life that without the job I had I wouldn’t had been able to do anything of things that I’ve done.
Rick I respect the fact that you shared your story of doing whatever it took to get you by to chase your dream. I also think it took courage to be so open about your days when you were struggling on the way to where you are today. Thank you for sharing many people when they are succesfull hide their hardships because they are embarrassed. You were sincere enough to share. God bless you...