1. 1:35 Remember your trusty good tones 2. 3:25 It's always better when wet 3. 4:22 Grab a trusty guitar that's the easiest to play 4. 5:13 Create a cool workspace 5. 5:39 Don't let the gear stall your momentum 6. 6:20 Make it like starting a car 7. 7:48 Celebrate the music you love 8. 8:36 It's awesome to be good at only one thing 9. 10:08 Practicing is separate from playing 10. 10:47 play along with your favorite songs, the actual records!
Beat me to it, as I was going to say the same thing. I can have a shit day at work, come home, pull up Tim video and instantly feel happier through osmosis. Plus the great music.Thank you Tim, (and playing on 2l of my all time favorite songs .....'Don't Dream it's Over' and 'Iris'.)
I just found Tim's channel not long ago, and I'm convinced that what makes him great (on top of his great chops) is his relentlessly good vibes. If I were a producer, and all he played was jug, I'd have him there just to radiate positivity.
They say a person’s reach should always exceed their grasp. After trying in Amplitude all the amps, pedals, speakers, mike placement, yadada, I have finally found the right sound I’ve been hearing, Fender Twin Reverb with an OD pedal or an Orange Terror when in the mood. My 70’s sounds that I listen to sound pretty good when I play them. I love playing along with the tunes on my phone.
Thanks Tim for helping all of us players through this tough year of no gigs , no band rehearsals, and waay too much time in front of the computer. Your joy in playing, immense knowledge and skill, and killer tips and tricks, helps to keep me inspired.
As a geezer (Tv/film Composer/rock rat/Educator) THIS is one of the best inspirational/non-snob videos I’ve ever seen. As The Great Duke Ellington spake: “If YOU like it, it’s GOOD!” Thanks Tim, you’re a good soul!
Sometimes you really need to hear it from you someone who is extremely experienced like Tim to get motivated again. We need motivation especially in these trying times. Thank you so much!
After years of dealing with the local scene, and the general negativity I've encountered, this is a breath of fresh air...to find out that there are still people out there who can remind me of why I do this in the first place. It seems the town I live in is particularly bad that way with people who discourage you and want to destroy your dreams and ambitions, but now that I'm older I suspect that that sort of thing is everywhere and it's best to seek inspiration on the internet from people who are all over the place and not concentrate on trying to get in with the locals, who are not really people I'd care to associate with anyway, just because of their exclusive club who-the-fuck-are-you attitude. Tim and Rick Beato and that whole gang of internet UA-cam music pro guys are far more my "friends" than any of the local folks that I've known for decades...because they encourage, not beat you down.
This is the very of opening up to good explore. I needed to hear this. Give it up people!!! This man is Smart, Honest, & I'm dig the vibe. I'm so into the way he shares.
Thanks Tim, Always on point. The part about losing the vibe by simply getting down on the floor to plug in a pedal hit home with me. That really happens. Trying to keep my head in the game is sometimes the most difficult part. Its strange how we can go from really really "on" to flat out "off" simply by adding a tedious un-enjoyable task to our routine. So what did i take from this video? Having the simplest route to the most trusted tone available in an instant is paramount. Use an instrument that doesn't fight back thus allowing for the uninterrupted free flow of creativity. This is also great life advice. Mentioning Andy from Shutupandplayguitar was also helpful as his delivery , tone, ability to communicate (much like your own) is refreshingly free of the agitators found in many other youtube lesson videos. My motivation is restored for the moment lol.
I love the “starting the car” approach. The last thing you want when you’re singular minded about a riff or lyric is to allow for the fuzz of setting up to ruin your flow. Wonderful advice, fantastic suggestions. You are appreciated! ❤️
A giant dose of positivity here in this video! I love how you stress to play the music YOU like, that makes you happy to play. I am in the minority in my group of friends with the music I like. I don't get to play much of my favorite music when our garage band is together, so I love to play MY stuff when I'm practicing alone. It's great to hear a pro suggest that very thing. Thank you for this video.
Tim, I've been watching your videos for a while now, but this one really hit home. Your comments about finding a tone you can live with forever, that is the most ON POINT tip I've heard in a long, long time. Appreciate your videos and taking time to share your insights like this. No telling how many musicians you positively impact! Thank you.
I grew up learning and loving the eighties so called hair bands. Well throw in some AC-DC. Eventhough I listened to Skynyrd, I never really learned their music correctly. For the last month I've been doing just that. Wow, am I having a blast. Never realized how good these bunch of guys were together. Great riffs in my mind done to perfection.
That point about learning songs "correctly" is interesting. I have a tendency to bodge through; I can play a song so it sounds about right, but if you take the trouble to go through and learn all the parts thoroughly and properly it really opens up a new world of musical understanding.
Hellz Yes!!. I 2nd this 100% I've been watching "Shutup n Play" song tutorials for years and still haven't seen his face lol i think it took 2 years before i even knew his name haha. He is brilliant and nails the specific version in such great detail whether live or studio album.. every nuance is there to learn.. one of my favorites... if you dont know Andy and his Shut up & play videos,.............Do yr self a favor and go find some now..
Thank you for telling us to champion the music we love. I find that ACDC is my band that inspires me, makes me happy and keeps me so motivated. They never fail to fuel my passion. I am jumping for joy with their new album. I just bought a brand new McCarty 594 PRS. It will take 14 months to receive because of COVID. I can hardly wait to get my hands on it. ⚡️🇨🇦
"But Angus doesn't play Fermented Flat Rutebega scales at a zillion miles an hour, so he don't count!" JK about the daft half of the guitar community! Back in Black is one of the reasons this guy plays guitar! imnho... I think the truly wise listen to Yngwie, Angus & Paisley. HF
I really loved this video Tim. Thank you for sharing these tips. I want that joy you have and will make some changes to get it happening. When I was young I used to play along with records all the time, and it made me so happy. I need to get back to doing that, so thanks for the reminder to do that. I got lost in all the other things everyone says I should be doing and left that behind.
Tim , your enthusiasm is overwhelming. I'm learning things I'd never imagine I could even process , and I'm really grateful it's from an Artist like you. A million thanks!
Battling vintage guitars for good tones and getting put in a bad mood by crawling around on the ground plugging petals in I’m so relieved to know there’s other people out there who understand!!
As my kids have gotten older, one has moved out. For years I had my corner in the basement. I now have my own music room. All my guitars are on wall hangers. All accessible, at any moment.one is actually always tuned down a half. I have 2 pedal boards with (almost) all my pedals hooked up, neatly and again, accessible. Two amps (A/B-Y switch) I tell everyone that is learning. The best advice (IMO) is always have your guitar out, and easy to pick up & play. I’m also going back and learning and relearning songs I love. I connected with so much of this. Thanks Tim
I’m loving your videos more and more every day. I’ve been playing my whole life and I think I’m learning more from your videos than I have the 4 decades before I found you. Thanks so much Tim!
This may seem obvious to some players, but: have your guitar set up by a professional tech. This is my number one tip to help improve a player's relationship with their guitar. It will make any guitar (any guitar) play and sound its best. If you're good with tools and can work patiently and carefully, you can do it yourself. There are, however, some setup details that require special tools such as good nut files. Another detail is understanding how to properly and accurately level, crown, and polish the frets. Caution: don't start gaining your tech chops on your only guitar or an expensive guitar, because you'll make mistakes along the way as you fill your toolbox with experience. Buy a cheap/broken beater at a boot sale and practice your fretwork and nut work on that. Thank you Tim!
I’m subscribed to multiple guitar gurus (you will know who they are). I’ve just unsubscribed from several of them, not for any negative reason .... but more that I now find Tim to be the one who inspires me, limited talent and all, to keep going. Thanks Tim
Tim, you said something that took me back to conversations I have with Tom Bukovac. He said something pivotal to me. He said when I’m playing Sultans of Swing on stage that I am someone’s Mark Knopfler in that moment. He said to remember that and pay homage to it. I still remember that.
I watch two players on UA-cam consistently and those two people are Tom Bukovac and you. Really like the look of pure joy that comes out of your face when you're playing. It's like you're the happiest guy on earth. Could you please do a video on all that massive amount of equipment you have in your studio? Why would you possibly need all that stuff? These are questions that I seriously would like an answer to. Thanks again Tim for all you do. You are much appreciated.
Great intro. I'm 63 and when I finally got an electric when I was 15 in '72, I jammed with guys but sold everything in '80. Back on the horse for a cover band that got paid in '82. gear sat after I quit a year later. dabbled abit until '85. 8 years go by and i'm on standby. Hear Candlebox Far Behind and You. All in again. '05, old band does a reunion. just a jam but we nailed the practice trax. Played Far Behind at a bar gig (one of three sets). Sweet. Moved to an apt. Modified jams. Headphones or stratos unplugged. Like the Peter Gabriel song, "Don't Give Up".
These ten topics and the way you explained what's behind them is pure Gold especially for non professional player like me who often get distracted by "gear search/research". I will stay focused and work with the stuff I already have. Oh boy it lies in front of me and I couldn't see it. Thanks so much Tim
I've taken your (and others') advice and revisited the 9-42 string set of my younger days and I couldn't be happier. I was a heavy string advocate for years and was willing to sacrifice having fun playing for "tone" for far too long. Then you find out that the "tone" you get from heavy strings doesn't amount to a hill of beans in the end...at least on solid bodies. A very valuable piece of information. I am also happiest plugging straight into a good 2 channel amp with its own overdrive with either no pedals, or maybe just a Phase 90 or chorus with a battery in it, and a little bit of reverb on the amp. Pedals, pedal boards, digital programmable units, etc...all that stuff just gets in the way of my playing fun. I have a POD floor unit that I use for recording convenience, but I absolutely hate it for fun bedroom jamming. Always feel like there's something that needs tweaking on the POD.
Yep, I have been chasing gear and tones for the last 6 years. Love the idea of just choosing a guitar thats easy n fun not switching all the time Or thinking I'm saving the good one for the gig. I wasted a lotta time. and practiced wrong. Well its never too late to change. Thanks to Tim.
@@barneycarparts Never really had issues with chasing tone like some guys I've known who have a new rig every quarter...although every time I've ever messed with a digital multi-effects unit I end up hating my life. And I pretty much *have* to own one of those dang things, since some one-offs I've played require me to run direct. Yes, that's right. Sound engineers are now dictating to guitar players what kind of rig they may and may not use. Don't get me started on that.
Dear Tim, this is great advice for players of any level. Thanks for sharing your expertise in such a humble, honest and generous way. Plus, your playing is always very musical and on point, truly inspiring!
Andy over at ..."Shut up and play" is my one stop place for learning songs. As a member of Tim's Masterclass and a patron of Andy's UA-cam channel I feel extremely fortunate to have this level of guitar education at my finger tips...for peanuts ! relatively speaking.
This is SO good! Basically it comes back to that old maxim: Work smarter, not harder. And I LOVE that you play with 9s. I've been on 10s for years, but I do remember the kind of natural flow that can happen with lighter strings. Maybe I need to go back to that.
I am a saxophonist and I love your channel! I have long heard a comparison between you and Luke. It is in the melodic creativity and use of space. Luke is an absolute beast and it seems patently obvious that you two must be friends. Hopefully I will see you one day at the Baked Potato
This video made me smile on many levels. I have my creative space set up a lot like yours, just not quite as tight but close (2 drum sets, bass, keys, 10 guitars, etc.). I even added lighting behind a few amps and my monitors. It’s a really cheap effect ($12 on Amazon) and is awesome for creating a great mood. Thanks for this! Great advice.
I met Tim at Norm’s while visiting family in LA. I was super impressed how cool and unassuming this guy is! To think guitar monsters like Tim could be the guy ahead of you on line to get coffee! I a fan of his talent and I’ll always be a fan of how much enthusiasm he has when talking guitar. Best to Tim from N.Y.
Tim! This is great advice for new guitarists and us old 'vets' as well. I shared this video with my niece who picked up her first electric guitar this Christmas (with a little help from her uncle) Follow what you love!
I (played) cheap guitars for a long time and finally bought a 2012 fender American standard strat and wow ! Yes a better quality guitar that feels really good in your hands can (and did for me) make you a better player. It made playing more enjoyable which I didn't know was possible. Olympic white/maple fingerboard...plug in the wah and channel jimi all night 🎸🤟🍻❤
I totally stole the "cockpit" idea not only for my setup, but for how I record my videos for my own channel, based on this channel! I've learned so much from this channel. :)
The tip about easy reach REALLY helped me. I stole the "cockpit" idea after seeing a few Tim videos, and it's transformed my productivity, big time. Really makes it a joy to play, rather than frustrating. I will admit, it's not easy, it's not really cheap to do it right, but man what a payoff.
Luke and Tim in the same room and session ... all my guitars' wet dreams in one. I've worked on TOTO gigs and hung out backstage with Steve. It's also been my goal to meet you too one day, Tim. Thank you for the lifelong inspirations.
You sir, inspire me. I cant watch you without picking up one of my guitars and getting better. Thank you for what you do. This channel is just good for the soul.
Tim, if folks would watch your videos, your upbeat, positive attitude would put Zoloft and Prozac out of business. You are a great inspiration, I can't help but to feel better after having your videos.
Great video. After hearing points #7 & 8, I had a great time playing this weekend and really enjoyed it. It was great to take a break from technical lessons and just play the kind of music I like.
Tim: There's a certain kind of music that I'm sure you love the most. Me: **starts thinking about all the greatest bands, struggles to pick just one. Finally picks Dire Straits...** Tim: What if it's Dire Straits? Me: I will listen to this man's every word. Great video, thank you so much! :)
Vintage, aged woods, brand new big frets. That's what works well a lot for me. Like in Tim's '65 Gibson video, takes the value down for resale but ups the value as a playable tool. Inspired to tidy up my studio now after watching this, it's like a car sometimes but over time it gets out of tune with junk mail sitting on the desk, old food containers, cables everywhere.
Tim your advice is so spot on. And timely too! After months of COVID sheltering my Trio is playing tonight outside at a small venue. Keeping it simple with my 91 PRS Custom 24 (w/sweet switch!) my line6 amp loaded with a few Dan Boul crafted tones and that’s it. Having fun is the name of the game. Thanks so much for your insights.
Terry how was the gig? Since we're all mostly playing at home for the past few months you might have some inspiring or fun stories of getting back into the world we knew. Glad you're out playing bro' 👍🏻 Stay healthy.
Riverdeepnwide Aside from each of us feeling like we hadn’t played in years, it went well. The place was set up for social distancing, mostly adults, in a nice outdoor setting. Picking up Tim’s cues from this video, I picked 2-3 desert island amp settings, played just one guitar (my PRS), and stuck with tried and true material. One person came up to tell us how good we sounded during break and she put her hand on my shoulder. Wouldn’t have thought about it if not for Covid. I didn’t reciprocate but thanked them. I went through a small bottle of hand sanitizer too lol.
Man, I thank my lucky stars the day I found your channel Tim..........to have a top pro give such truly GREAT insight and advice, is a joy. This video is one of your BEST for us weekend warriors IMHO.........I just LOVE playing guitar, but never had the wherewithal to be a pro at it..........but I think of myself that way 😂so watching how the REAL pros do it is such a pleasure.................my biggest challenge from today's video, and the thing I struggle with most, is the SPACE and SETUP.......I love that you have that "bridge on the Starship Enterprise" and it's something I don't have, and realise I desperately need.........I think I feel a discussion with my other half coming up, and a "negotiation" taking place 😂🤣Wish me luck..........😳
Hi Tim, love seeing those Steve Lukather session rhythm parts desmonstrated they are superb aswell as his solos. Hope you can demonstrate another of your rhythm session records soon? hope you have a great day, alex
learning the essence with mr pierce. playing music is about joy and feeling at home. like any cliche this is just the near to trivial essence of loads of truth.
after 45 years since i started my 1st band and recording since 1988,,just in a home teach myself way..my biggest tip is yes its great to have everything set up like a studio,but in my younger days i always had alot of visitors,what happend my house was robbed... in the couple of times i lost,,,tascam midi studio"s 644 x2 ,shergold masquerador 1975.hofner violin bass (1970-71) peavey acoustic 210watt amp(with horns )combo. vox valve combo. ect ect now age55 i know i didant have as many real friends as i thought,,the fact i would always record and teach recording to anyone for nothing,i thought would mean people didanmt need to steal off me,,they still do,,take care
Step 6: Make It Like Starting a Car. I agree totally with this and have accomplished this over the years. The one thing I wish pedal makers would incorporate is letting the user decide what state the pedal should start up as (active or inactive). On system startup I have a couple pedals I always to have turn-off or turn-on. Also, unfortunately electricity is expensive where I live and just can't leave the system always powered up.
Absolutely Wonderful, I actually really needed this video this week Mr Tim! So thanks for being there and as ever, thanks for inspiring and motivating us all - it makes us all feel just a little bit better about ourselves as guitarists and musicians, and that truly is so precious and valuable! Cheers
one good way to remember your sound is take a picture on your phone, making sure your knob is in the right place from when you last fiddled with it. erm....
Love how you geeked out and shared with us that you like the airplane cockpit feel...AND answered a burning question: how the hell do you get in and out of there!!!??? Seriously, I have been wondering. Thanks for your many gifts to us, Tim :-)
Thanks Tim! Super great advice... especially about having a fail-safe go-to sound (or sounds). When MIchael Thompson would come to a session I was on, he'd showcase his very best iconic sounds instantly, with no guess work. We were always impressed by how focused on the music he was, never searching for some elusive "better" sound...
One way to love your guitar is to have a private stock PRS like yours. That’s probably a $15,000 guitar. And I’m glad that you have it sir you deserve it.
Top notch advise as always. The basics that at times I lose sight of when playing. Simple effective steps. I'm writing this stuff down and hanging it on the wall...
Point 3: choose a guitar that is easy to play. I've tried many acoustic and electric guitars, and even if the neck isn't very large, or 'thick', I always have the same problem. My fingers are quite... Short . They're about 3.15 inches (or 8 cm)... Which makes things like arpeggios, Barre chords, etc etc, much harder to do. And if I use nylon strings, I would say everything becomes 2x harder. Because we have more power, force, pression, at the 2nd half of the fingers ( center-‐>tip ), and because the fingers are quite small, a simple G major barre chord can require tons of practice (no joke...not a talent issue..but a physics, or anatomy problem). I need to apply a ton of pressure, for my entire finger to correctly press all the strings, for the chord to sound ok. I had friends, with gigantic hands, so big, they could almost touch 3 strings, with the tip of one finger. Super hard to play, on guitars with small necks. So yeah, small fingers make playing the guitar almost an impossible thing. Shit !
My longest finger is 3.25 inches, the rest are like yours or even shorter. I am envious of people with long elegant fingers (like my son, who plays better than me) but it doesn't stop me from playing *most* chords. In one of his videos, Tim P notes that he does not have long, elegant fingers either, but it hasn't stopped him. On the internet you can find exercises you to make your fingers stronger and improve your reach. Also worth having your guitar set up by a pro - I was AMAZED at the difference after I had this done for the first time. I'm sorry if this sounds patronising, it's not meant to be.
You have a way of making EVERYTHING sound GREAT! I have learned so much from your channel I love your emphasis on picking dynamics I'm in the middle of perfecting it at the moment.
Great points, Tim! Love that Steve Lukather riff! I totally agree about playing along with favorite riffs. One of my favs is Jealous Lover by Rainbow. What a groove, huh?!
This video was basically a Master class in "all you need to know about playing guitar". Incredible. My problem has always been: I like all kinds of music & have never really nailed down anything I prefer to play. So ... jack of all trades, master of none. The bands I've been asked to join have typically been rock, pop or country so those are the styles I'm most familiar with, but my heart eventually goes somewhere else - therefore, stuck going nowhere, even though I've enjoyed the trip for the most part. I just refuse to give it up though. Too much fun.
#8 hit me where I live. When I was started working, I tried to do a lot of stuff outside of my wheelhouse, and I learned a ton, it was only later when I leaned into the funk/R&B/soul rhythm guitar vibe that was in me naturally did more and better gigs come my way. Always plenty to chew on after watching you drop pearls of wisdom.:)
Wow! What an inspiring message you have! So many guitar players out there that have great licks and styles I want to learn. From you, I want to learn attitude, mindset. That smile while you’re playing bro...says it all! I’m glad and ran across your videos. SUBSCRIBED!!!
Just what I was looking for. Inspiration without the perspiration. I guess we the subscribers don't realize that at times even the great ones get into a funk or two 😉. Thanks man.
1. 1:35 Remember your trusty good tones
2. 3:25 It's always better when wet
3. 4:22 Grab a trusty guitar that's the easiest to play
4. 5:13 Create a cool workspace
5. 5:39 Don't let the gear stall your momentum
6. 6:20 Make it like starting a car
7. 7:48 Celebrate the music you love
8. 8:36 It's awesome to be good at only one thing
9. 10:08 Practicing is separate from playing
10. 10:47 play along with your favorite songs, the actual records!
Ben thank you so much, Generous of you to do this
Good job Ben!!
Helpful list , thank you
I totally need #4!
The sheer amount of joy in your face when you play is enough of a lesson, Tim.
Absolutely! Tim is the Ambassador of Guitar Happiness!
I couldn’t get the smile off my own face. His joy is addicting and inspirational!
So true!
Well said !
Beat me to it, as I was going to say the same thing. I can have a shit day at work, come home, pull up Tim video and instantly feel happier through osmosis. Plus the great music.Thank you Tim, (and playing on 2l of my all time favorite songs .....'Don't Dream it's Over' and 'Iris'.)
I just found Tim's channel not long ago, and I'm convinced that what makes him great (on top of his great chops) is his relentlessly good vibes. If I were a producer, and all he played was jug, I'd have him there just to radiate positivity.
You're so right about that!
No substitute for good vibes!
I just subscribed after watching a Ricky beato video with Tim. Cool :)
I've another suggestion if you're feeling uninspired - just watch one of Tim's videos! Works for me every time...
He certainly has the joy of playing.
They say a person’s reach should always exceed their grasp. After trying in Amplitude all the amps, pedals, speakers, mike placement, yadada, I have finally found the right sound I’ve been hearing, Fender Twin Reverb with an OD pedal or an Orange Terror when in the mood. My 70’s sounds that I listen to sound pretty good when I play them. I love playing along with the tunes on my phone.
Thanks Tim for helping all of us players through this tough year of no gigs , no band rehearsals, and waay too much time in front of the computer. Your joy in playing, immense knowledge and skill, and killer tips and tricks, helps to keep me inspired.
As a geezer (Tv/film Composer/rock rat/Educator) THIS is one of the best inspirational/non-snob videos I’ve ever seen. As The Great Duke Ellington spake: “If YOU like it, it’s GOOD!” Thanks Tim, you’re a good soul!
Sometimes you really need to hear it from you someone who is extremely experienced like Tim to get motivated again. We need motivation especially in these trying times. Thank you so much!
I feel like I’ve been stuck in a rut for like 5 yrs now...heeelp!!!!
After years of dealing with the local scene, and the general negativity I've encountered, this is a breath of fresh air...to find out that there are still people out there who can remind me of why I do this in the first place. It seems the town I live in is particularly bad that way with people who discourage you and want to destroy your dreams and ambitions, but now that I'm older I suspect that that sort of thing is everywhere and it's best to seek inspiration on the internet from people who are all over the place and not concentrate on trying to get in with the locals, who are not really people I'd care to associate with anyway, just because of their exclusive club who-the-fuck-are-you attitude. Tim and Rick Beato and that whole gang of internet UA-cam music pro guys are far more my "friends" than any of the local folks that I've known for decades...because they encourage, not beat you down.
This is the very of opening up to good explore. I needed to hear this. Give it up people!!! This man is Smart, Honest, & I'm dig the vibe. I'm so into the way he shares.
Thanks again, Tim... Sharing your joy in playing with us is... priceless. I watch this video all the time and it always pumps me up!
These are very useful tips Tim. “Stay in your zone”... “the things you love the most”... all of them! Thank you for the well needed reset!
Thanks Tim, Always on point. The part about losing the vibe by simply getting down on the floor to plug in a pedal hit home with me. That really happens. Trying to keep my head in the game is sometimes the most difficult part. Its strange how we can go from really really "on" to flat out "off" simply by adding a tedious un-enjoyable task to our routine. So what did i take from this video? Having the simplest route to the most trusted tone available in an instant is paramount. Use an instrument that doesn't fight back thus allowing for the uninterrupted free flow of creativity. This is also great life advice. Mentioning Andy from Shutupandplayguitar was also helpful as his delivery , tone, ability to communicate (much like your own) is refreshingly free of the agitators found in many other youtube lesson videos. My motivation is restored for the moment lol.
I love the “starting the car” approach. The last thing you want when you’re singular minded about a riff or lyric is to allow for the fuzz of setting up to ruin your flow. Wonderful advice, fantastic suggestions. You are appreciated! ❤️
A giant dose of positivity here in this video! I love how you stress to play the music YOU like, that makes you happy to play. I am in the minority in my group of friends with the music I like. I don't get to play much of my favorite music when our garage band is together, so I love to play MY stuff when I'm practicing alone. It's great to hear a pro suggest that very thing. Thank you for this video.
Tim, I've been watching your videos for a while now, but this one really hit home. Your comments about finding a tone you can live with forever, that is the most ON POINT tip I've heard in a long, long time. Appreciate your videos and taking time to share your insights like this. No telling how many musicians you positively impact! Thank you.
I grew up learning and loving the eighties so called hair bands. Well throw in some AC-DC. Eventhough I listened to Skynyrd, I never really learned their music correctly. For the last month I've been doing just that. Wow, am I having a blast. Never realized how good these bunch of guys were together. Great riffs in my mind done to perfection.
That point about learning songs "correctly" is interesting. I have a tendency to bodge through; I can play a song so it sounds about right, but if you take the trouble to go through and learn all the parts thoroughly and properly it really opens up a new world of musical understanding.
Yeah, the “Andy, at “Shut Up and Play” is quite a resource. That guy is amazing as well. Tim you are so helpful by sharing useful tips! Thanks!
His guitar (The Burgundy LP) sounds amazing, even on stratty stuff.
Hellz Yes!!. I 2nd this 100% I've been watching "Shutup n Play" song tutorials for years and still haven't seen his face lol i think it took 2 years before i even knew his name haha.
He is brilliant and nails the specific version in such great detail whether live or studio album.. every nuance is there to learn.. one of my favorites... if you dont know Andy and his Shut up & play videos,.............Do yr self a favor and go find some now..
Tim. Honestly. You are a gift. The joy and artistry parallel in such an incredibly inspiring way. Thank you so much.
Thank you for telling us to champion the music we love. I find that ACDC is my band that inspires me, makes me happy and keeps me so motivated. They never fail to fuel my passion. I am jumping for joy with their new album. I just bought a brand new McCarty 594 PRS. It will take 14 months to receive because of COVID. I can hardly wait to get my hands on it. ⚡️🇨🇦
Ya just before Christmas last year.
"But Angus doesn't play Fermented Flat Rutebega scales at a zillion miles an hour, so he don't count!" JK about the daft half of the guitar community! Back in Black is one of the reasons this guy plays guitar! imnho... I think the truly wise listen to Yngwie, Angus & Paisley. HF
I really loved this video Tim. Thank you for sharing these tips. I want that joy you have and will make some changes to get it happening. When I was young I used to play along with records all the time, and it made me so happy. I need to get back to doing that, so thanks for the reminder to do that. I got lost in all the other things everyone says I should be doing and left that behind.
Tim , your enthusiasm is overwhelming. I'm learning things I'd never imagine I could even process , and I'm really grateful it's from an Artist like you. A million thanks!
Battling vintage guitars for good tones and getting put in a bad mood by crawling around on the ground plugging petals in I’m so relieved to know there’s other people out there who understand!!
As my kids have gotten older, one has moved out. For years I had my corner in the basement. I now have my own music room. All my guitars are on wall hangers. All accessible, at any moment.one is actually always tuned down a half. I have 2 pedal boards with (almost) all my pedals hooked up, neatly and again, accessible. Two amps (A/B-Y switch) I tell everyone that is learning. The best advice (IMO) is always have your guitar out, and easy to pick up & play. I’m also going back and learning and relearning songs I love. I connected with so much of this. Thanks Tim
I’m loving your videos more and more every day. I’ve been playing my whole life and I think I’m learning more from your videos than I have the 4 decades before I found you. Thanks so much Tim!
This may seem obvious to some players, but: have your guitar set up by a professional tech. This is my number one tip to help improve a player's relationship with their guitar. It will make any guitar (any guitar) play and sound its best. If you're good with tools and can work patiently and carefully, you can do it yourself. There are, however, some setup details that require special tools such as good nut files. Another detail is understanding how to properly and accurately level, crown, and polish the frets. Caution: don't start gaining your tech chops on your only guitar or an expensive guitar, because you'll make mistakes along the way as you fill your toolbox with experience. Buy a cheap/broken beater at a boot sale and practice your fretwork and nut work on that. Thank you Tim!
I’m subscribed to multiple guitar gurus (you will know who they are). I’ve just unsubscribed from several of them, not for any negative reason .... but more that I now find Tim to be the one who inspires me, limited talent and all, to keep going. Thanks Tim
Tim, you said something that took me back to conversations I have with Tom Bukovac. He said something pivotal to me. He said when I’m playing Sultans of Swing on stage that I am someone’s Mark Knopfler in that moment. He said to remember that and pay homage to it. I still remember that.
I watch two players on UA-cam consistently and those two people are Tom Bukovac and you. Really like the look of pure joy that comes out of your face when you're playing. It's like you're the happiest guy on earth. Could you please do a video on all that massive amount of equipment you have in your studio? Why would you possibly need all that stuff? These are questions that I seriously would like an answer to. Thanks again Tim for all you do. You are much appreciated.
Great intro.
I'm 63 and when I finally got an electric when I was 15 in '72, I jammed with guys but sold everything in '80.
Back on the horse for a cover band that got paid in '82. gear sat after I quit a year later. dabbled abit until '85.
8 years go by and i'm on standby.
Hear Candlebox Far Behind and You. All in again.
'05, old band does a reunion. just a jam but we nailed the practice trax.
Played Far Behind at a bar gig (one of three sets). Sweet.
Moved to an apt. Modified jams. Headphones or stratos unplugged.
Like the Peter Gabriel song, "Don't Give Up".
Tims smile when he hits the high bends is pure joy, the very essence of rocknroll
These ten topics and the way you explained what's behind them is pure Gold especially for non professional player like me who often get distracted by "gear search/research". I will stay focused and work with the stuff I already have. Oh boy it lies in front of me and I couldn't see it. Thanks so much Tim
I've taken your (and others') advice and revisited the 9-42 string set of my younger days and I couldn't be happier. I was a heavy string advocate for years and was willing to sacrifice having fun playing for "tone" for far too long. Then you find out that the "tone" you get from heavy strings doesn't amount to a hill of beans in the end...at least on solid bodies. A very valuable piece of information.
I am also happiest plugging straight into a good 2 channel amp with its own overdrive with either no pedals, or maybe just a Phase 90 or chorus with a battery in it, and a little bit of reverb on the amp. Pedals, pedal boards, digital programmable units, etc...all that stuff just gets in the way of my playing fun. I have a POD floor unit that I use for recording convenience, but I absolutely hate it for fun bedroom jamming. Always feel like there's something that needs tweaking on the POD.
Yep, I have been chasing gear and tones for the last 6 years. Love the idea of just choosing a guitar thats easy n fun not switching all the time Or thinking I'm saving the good one for the gig. I wasted a lotta time. and practiced wrong. Well its never too late to change. Thanks to Tim.
@@barneycarparts Never really had issues with chasing tone like some guys I've known who have a new rig every quarter...although every time I've ever messed with a digital multi-effects unit I end up hating my life. And I pretty much *have* to own one of those dang things, since some one-offs I've played require me to run direct. Yes, that's right. Sound engineers are now dictating to guitar players what kind of rig they may and may not use. Don't get me started on that.
Watching Tim play makes me want to play.
Dear Tim, this is great advice for players of any level. Thanks for sharing your expertise in such a humble, honest and generous way. Plus, your playing is always very musical and on point, truly inspiring!
Andy over at ..."Shut up and play" is my one stop place for learning songs. As a member of Tim's Masterclass and a patron of Andy's UA-cam channel I feel extremely fortunate to have this level of guitar education at my finger tips...for peanuts ! relatively speaking.
Tim "Happy Face" Pierce 😃
Thanks for the wonderful tips! I always learn just by transcribing pieces of your tasteful noodling!!
Glad you like them!
Your enthusiasm is truly contagious! Thank you for this boost. I work on the road a lot and started bringing my acoustic with me as a companion.
This is SO good! Basically it comes back to that old maxim: Work smarter, not harder. And I LOVE that you play with 9s. I've been on 10s for years, but I do remember the kind of natural flow that can happen with lighter strings. Maybe I need to go back to that.
This was really helpful. Especially number 8. I've always felt ashamed that I like blues and rock and don't want to do fusion and shred. Thanks
Fantastic tips, Tim, especially the one about tone chasing and the beauty of finding that one tone you can always use. Keep up the great work!
I am a saxophonist and I love your channel! I have long heard a comparison between you and Luke. It is in the melodic creativity and use of space. Luke is an absolute beast and it seems patently obvious that you two must be friends. Hopefully I will see you one day at the Baked Potato
This video made me smile on many levels. I have my creative space set up a lot like yours, just not quite as tight but close (2 drum sets, bass, keys, 10 guitars, etc.). I even added lighting behind a few amps and my monitors. It’s a really cheap effect ($12 on Amazon) and is awesome for creating a great mood. Thanks for this! Great advice.
I met Tim at Norm’s while visiting family in LA. I was super impressed how cool and unassuming this guy is! To think guitar monsters like Tim could be the guy ahead of you on line to get coffee! I a fan of his talent and I’ll always be a fan of how much enthusiasm he has when talking guitar. Best to Tim from N.Y.
Thanks Tim, I haven't played in over 3 years and this made me pick up the guitar and learn it, you're a legend
Your channel is your greatest gig... Thanks for pushing your audience to improve.
Watching Tim's hands and how he includes his body moving into the playing clips is inspiring.
I'm sick and tired of the outrageously high quality of Tim's playing.
tomcoryell Just where the hell does he get off, playing like that? I mean .... smh.
Tim! This is great advice for new guitarists and us old 'vets' as well. I shared this video with my niece who picked up her first electric guitar this Christmas (with a little help from her uncle) Follow what you love!
If you're Eric Johnson, you're definitely entitled to call yourself a 'vet'... keep on playing, you got talent! 😊✌🏼
I (played) cheap guitars for a long time and finally bought a 2012 fender American standard strat and wow ! Yes a better quality guitar that feels really good in your hands can (and did for me) make you a better player. It made playing more enjoyable which I didn't know was possible. Olympic white/maple fingerboard...plug in the wah and channel jimi all night 🎸🤟🍻❤
I often thought the key to EVH's playing was his smile. I see that in you... when you show your super smile after a cool lick!
I totally stole the "cockpit" idea not only for my setup, but for how I record my videos for my own channel, based on this channel! I've learned so much from this channel. :)
Thank you soooo much Tim! You really pushed my inspiration button! I’m re-arranging my studio patches immediately!!!!!!!
The tip about easy reach REALLY helped me. I stole the "cockpit" idea after seeing a few Tim videos, and it's transformed my productivity, big time. Really makes it a joy to play, rather than frustrating. I will admit, it's not easy, it's not really cheap to do it right, but man what a payoff.
Luke and Tim in the same room and session ... all my guitars' wet dreams in one.
I've worked on TOTO gigs and hung out backstage with Steve. It's also been my goal to meet you too one day, Tim.
Thank you for the lifelong inspirations.
You sir, inspire me. I cant watch you without picking up one of my guitars and getting better. Thank you for what you do. This channel is just good for the soul.
You look so genuinely happy when playing. I love it! Super interesting and helpful videos too!
Man expresses true joy on that guitar.
I enjoy watching Tim’s enthusiasm and passion and happiness about music! Inspiring!!!!!!
A man who truly loves his work.
Tim, if folks would watch your videos, your upbeat, positive attitude would put Zoloft and Prozac out of business. You are a great inspiration, I can't help but to feel better after having your videos.
Great advice about being yourself. Been saying that for years. Nice to hear from accomplished musician. Thanks.
Most of this advice you could just carry straight into life itself.
Great video. After hearing points #7 & 8, I had a great time playing this weekend and really enjoyed it. It was great to take a break from technical lessons and just play the kind of music I like.
I love tip #7...so true!...Tim is such an amazing teacher :-) Would take me 7 lifetimes to be that good, he makes it so much fun!
Tim: There's a certain kind of music that I'm sure you love the most.
Me: **starts thinking about all the greatest bands, struggles to pick just one. Finally picks Dire Straits...**
Tim: What if it's Dire Straits?
Me: I will listen to this man's every word.
Great video, thank you so much! :)
You're so inspirational Tim. I always feel empowered to play when I watch your YT vids. Cheers from Oz.
Your advice to turn up your amp is a game changer .. even in modelers .. don't know why I never did it before ... thank you !!!
Vintage, aged woods, brand new big frets. That's what works well a lot for me. Like in Tim's '65 Gibson video, takes the value down for resale but ups the value as a playable tool. Inspired to tidy up my studio now after watching this, it's like a car sometimes but over time it gets out of tune with junk mail sitting on the desk, old food containers, cables everywhere.
Tim your advice is so spot on. And timely too! After months of COVID sheltering my Trio is playing tonight outside at a small venue. Keeping it simple with my 91 PRS Custom 24 (w/sweet switch!) my line6 amp loaded with a few Dan Boul crafted tones and that’s it. Having fun is the name of the game. Thanks so much for your insights.
Enjoy.
Hey! I'd like to hear that you going to record it?👍🏼
Don’t get or spread Covid, please.
Terry how was the gig?
Since we're all mostly playing at home for the past few months you might have some inspiring or fun stories of getting back into the world we knew.
Glad you're out playing bro' 👍🏻
Stay healthy.
Riverdeepnwide Aside from each of us feeling like we hadn’t played in years, it went well. The place was set up for social distancing, mostly adults, in a nice outdoor setting. Picking up Tim’s cues from this video, I picked 2-3 desert island amp settings, played just one guitar (my PRS), and stuck with tried and true material. One person came up to tell us how good we sounded during break and she put her hand on my shoulder. Wouldn’t have thought about it if not for Covid. I didn’t reciprocate but thanked them. I went through a small bottle of hand sanitizer too lol.
Man, I thank my lucky stars the day I found your channel Tim..........to have a top pro give such truly GREAT insight and advice, is a joy. This video is one of your BEST for us weekend warriors IMHO.........I just LOVE playing guitar, but never had the wherewithal to be a pro at it..........but I think of myself that way 😂so watching how the REAL pros do it is such a pleasure.................my biggest challenge from today's video, and the thing I struggle with most, is the SPACE and SETUP.......I love that you have that "bridge on the Starship Enterprise" and it's something I don't have, and realise I desperately need.........I think I feel a discussion with my other half coming up, and a "negotiation" taking place 😂🤣Wish me luck..........😳
Hi Tim, love seeing those Steve Lukather session rhythm parts desmonstrated they are superb aswell as his solos. Hope you can demonstrate another of your rhythm session records soon? hope you have a great day, alex
learning the essence with mr pierce. playing music is about joy and feeling at home. like any cliche this is just the near to trivial essence of loads of truth.
Love you , don't ever stop what your doing.. Thank you so much for your love to us.
after 45 years since i started my 1st band and recording since 1988,,just in a home teach myself way..my biggest tip is yes its great to have everything set up like a studio,but in my younger days i always had alot of visitors,what happend my house was robbed... in the couple of times i lost,,,tascam midi studio"s 644 x2 ,shergold masquerador 1975.hofner violin bass (1970-71) peavey acoustic 210watt amp(with horns )combo. vox valve combo. ect ect now age55 i know i didant have as many real friends as i thought,,the fact i would always record and teach recording to anyone for nothing,i thought would mean people didanmt need to steal off me,,they still do,,take care
Step 6: Make It Like Starting a Car. I agree totally with this and have accomplished this over the years. The one thing I wish pedal makers would incorporate is letting the user decide what state the pedal should start up as (active or inactive). On system startup I have a couple pedals I always to have turn-off or turn-on. Also, unfortunately electricity is expensive where I live and just can't leave the system always powered up.
Your passion for the instrument is infectious. Thank you!
Absolutely Wonderful, I actually really needed this video this week Mr Tim! So thanks for being there and as ever, thanks for inspiring and motivating us all - it makes us all feel just a little bit better about ourselves as guitarists and musicians, and that truly is so precious and valuable! Cheers
Oh and the Boss EQ video warmed my heart. I think I got mine when I was 14 or 15. I'm 40 today and I use it every day of my life. Just awesome boost.
Every one of these guitar lessons is a metaphor for a life lesson. Thanks Tim.
one good way to remember your sound is take a picture on your phone, making sure your knob is in the right place from when you last fiddled with it. erm....
Love how you geeked out and shared with us that you like the airplane cockpit feel...AND answered a burning question: how the hell do you get in and out of there!!!??? Seriously, I have been wondering. Thanks for your many gifts to us, Tim :-)
oh man Tim THANK YOU! "Create your fantasy workstation" will be my NUMBER ONE New Year's Resolution to be implemented on day ONE !!!
Thanks Tim! Super great advice... especially about having a fail-safe go-to sound
(or sounds). When MIchael Thompson would come to a session I was on, he'd showcase
his very best iconic sounds instantly, with no guess work. We were always impressed by how
focused on the music he was, never searching for some elusive "better" sound...
One way to love your guitar is to have a private stock PRS like yours. That’s probably a $15,000 guitar. And I’m glad that you have it sir you deserve it.
Thanks for being so kind...these days I also feature a lot of guitars that are under $1000 on my channel, they are very lovable also :)
I prolly can't do half the stuff you talked about, but I love to watch/hear you play
Man, that double stop ending at 2-34 is just sublime
Tim you have the COOLEST workspace. Great video!
Top notch advise as always. The basics that at times I lose sight of when playing. Simple effective steps. I'm writing this stuff down and hanging it on the wall...
Ed Van Halen has that “feel good” in most of his music.
Point 3: choose a guitar that is easy to play.
I've tried many acoustic and electric guitars, and even if the neck isn't very large, or 'thick', I always have the same problem. My fingers are quite... Short .
They're about 3.15 inches (or 8 cm)... Which makes things like arpeggios, Barre chords, etc etc, much harder to do. And if I use nylon strings, I would say everything becomes 2x harder.
Because we have more power, force, pression, at the 2nd half of the fingers ( center-‐>tip ), and because the fingers are quite small, a simple G major barre chord can require tons of practice (no joke...not a talent issue..but a physics, or anatomy problem). I need to apply a ton of pressure, for my entire finger to correctly press all the strings, for the chord to sound ok.
I had friends, with gigantic hands, so big, they could almost touch 3 strings, with the tip of one finger. Super hard to play, on guitars with small necks.
So yeah, small fingers make playing the guitar almost an impossible thing. Shit !
My longest finger is 3.25 inches, the rest are like yours or even shorter. I am envious of people with long elegant fingers (like my son, who plays better than me) but it doesn't stop me from playing *most* chords. In one of his videos, Tim P notes that he does not have long, elegant fingers either, but it hasn't stopped him. On the internet you can find exercises you to make your fingers stronger and improve your reach. Also worth having your guitar set up by a pro - I was AMAZED at the difference after I had this done for the first time. I'm sorry if this sounds patronising, it's not meant to be.
You have a way of making EVERYTHING sound GREAT! I have learned so much from your channel I love your emphasis on picking dynamics I'm in the middle of perfecting it at the moment.
Amazing video. I need to watch this at least weekly. Thanks Tim. I was smiling all the way through.
Thank you very much, I will from now on play this clip everytime I feel uninspired to pick up the guitar. Your enthousiastm is really inspiring!
Great points, Tim! Love that Steve Lukather riff! I totally agree about playing along with favorite riffs. One of my favs is Jealous Lover by Rainbow. What a groove, huh?!
This video was basically a Master class in "all you need to know about playing guitar". Incredible.
My problem has always been: I like all kinds of music & have never really nailed down anything I prefer to play. So ... jack of all trades, master of none. The bands I've been asked to join have typically been rock, pop or country so those are the styles I'm most familiar with, but my heart eventually goes somewhere else - therefore, stuck going nowhere, even though I've enjoyed the trip for the most part. I just refuse to give it up though. Too much fun.
Can’t believe Tim kept a straight face for tip 2. The TPS boys would be giggling at the very least.
#8 hit me where I live. When I was started working, I tried to do a lot of stuff outside of my wheelhouse, and I learned a ton, it was only later when I leaned into the funk/R&B/soul rhythm guitar vibe that was in me naturally did more and better gigs come my way. Always plenty to chew on after watching you drop pearls of wisdom.:)
Great tips! Thank you so very much Tim . Best wishes to you from Northern Ireland 🌌🙋♂️
Wow! What an inspiring message you have! So many guitar players out there that have great licks and styles I want to learn. From you, I want to learn attitude, mindset. That smile while you’re playing bro...says it all! I’m glad and ran across your videos. SUBSCRIBED!!!
Just what I was looking for. Inspiration without the perspiration. I guess we the subscribers don't realize that at times even the great ones get into a funk or two 😉. Thanks man.