This is the first video of yours I have watched. I’m pretty new at playing guitar and I have to say this was a great lesson. I actually played Wagon Wheel! I couldn’t be happier! I’m 54 and look forward to learning so much more! Thank you
You've got it wrong. I was there when KETCH, not Kieth, Secor and Ctitter Fuqua, wrote and polished that song like a new dime. I was a 44 year old guitar teacher and the 5 young members of The Route 11 Boys slept on my couch in Maine, winter 1997. Ketch heard Bob Dylan singing "Rock Me Mama" on a documentary called "The Making of Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid", and young Ketch Secor, a rabid Dylan fan that STILL has an autographed hat from stalking Dylan's bus at around 17, was thrilled seeing Dylan, Kristofferson and braless Rita Coolidge doing just a verse of Rock Me Momma around a campfire. Ketch borrowed it for Wagon Wheel THINKING that Dylan wrote it. When it came time for the credits it turned out that Dylan acknowledged that he'd gotten it from some obscure blues man from an old 78RPM record AFTER all of the credits were already made and royalty checks were paid. I heard that Dylan graciously turned over his share of the royalties to the surprised and grateful blues man's estate, and that's where the matter rests. I'm embarrassed that I've forgotten his name, and apologize for my alarming memory loss.
(Dylan) said ‘I didn’t write that; Arthur Crudup did.’ Arthur Crudup said, ‘I didn’t write that; [Big] Bill Broonzy wrote that.’ Bill’s first recording of the derivative of ‘Rock Me Mama’ is around 1928. Also Arthur Big Boy Crudup in the 40s
Great lesson! The progression itself is interesting enough to play over and over and not get tired of it. It’s that Em chord that breaks up the monotony.
Thanks Tony, your treatment of Waggon Wheel has been an inspiration to me. I tend to just strum it but seeing how you flat and finger pick it is an eye opener
How did this 69 year old from North Carolina and Dylan fan not know Wagon Wheel? My favorite campfire song is Kumbaya as it is simple to play, inspirational and you can create your own lyrics. Another great AT!
Dylan never recorded it. If you’re not a country music/Old Crow fan it’s not surprising you’ve missed it. Dylan enjoyed the old crow version so much he suggested they finish more of his songs. That’s where their newer single Sweet Amarillo came from. Definitely worth listening. Old crow also put out a live cover album called 50 years of blonde on blonde. It’s a party! Enjoy!
Just noticed I was featured on this episode. Thanks, Tony. For anyone reading this, I got through that lull and now practice guitar 2-3 hours during weekdays. Take baby steps and you WILL succeed. YOU CAN! ¡tú puedes! 你会！ 小白
The Cranberries "Linger" was my first easy song, as I grew up with an aversion to "country" music, but now I have a whole new appreciation for all types of great songs.
I like singing this song, as I think most people do -but can understand how some would be tired of it. I loved learning that the chords are similar to ones from a bunch of other songs. I'm restarting my guitar journey and hope to be more consistent and songs like these will help. I like seeing the different stylings that you can do on the chords.
I play Wagon Wheel or a version there of every 12 weeks or so. I volunteer as a member of the Cold Nose College dog training team with the Rescued program in Blairsville GA, Saving Detainees & Dogs one life at a time. The corrections officer that is in charge of the program is a very creative guy. He wrote lyrics that are in line with the experience of being in jail to the tune of Wagon Wheel. There are 4 of us that play, there are two guitars one mandolin and a fiddle, graduating detainees sing the song. Our rendition of the song is a great example of just how versatile the tune is. As for the Fallon thing when I see something like that my first thought is consider the source.
16:10 You know, You really do have a great channel! I take it for granted how good this channel is with the wealth of information in its archive as well as great new videos coming out like these. If this channel didn't exist there would be a void on youtube that would need to be filled. But you've filled it very well and I along with many others appreciated you and your work more than you know!
I started learning guitar at 40, about 3 years and 2 months ago. I’ve missed tops of 2-3 days. And I also started taking vocal lessons about 9 months ago,. I’m having a blast! I’ve blown through every goal I initially set out, and now I’m taking this as far as it can go! I’m definitely not a great singer / guitar player, and I’m absolutely ok with that! What matters to me is that I’m constantly improving, and enjoying every second of it. Maybe one day someone else will enjoy the music I play, or maybe not. But it’s not about what anyone else likes, it’s about what I like. If I can do it, anyone can. Go for it!
Cheers!! Hopefully one of your best life decisions. I started late in life as well, age 50. I just turned 63. It is a wonderful journey but a journey of baby steps. Keep at it brother! The planet needs your songs. Rob
I've been playing guitar for almost 40 years, and I still suck...LOL I wish I could start all over, with all the tools that are available now! TH-cam is you friend. So many lessons, it blows my mind. I get the feeling, you're gonna do just fine. Happy strumming!
Similar story to share as a 60+ guitar player. Was recovering from an operation just when the Pandemic started. Bought an Ashton Banjo 2 years earlier without knowing how to play it. In my country, one hardly hears of anyone who plays the banjo. With the help from some well-known banjo instructors on TH-cam I started learning. Thanks to amongst others Banjo Ben, Clark, David Bennett, Jim Panky, Eli G, Kristin S B, Mike Hedding, I’m now able to play many Gospel tunes and some Bluegrass tunes like Cripple Creek, Old Home Place, Wild Flowers etc albeit on a slower beats. I’m very satisfied because there’s literally noone around who knows what a banjo is, let alone play it. I played back up at an Alumni Campfire recently and many were shock to know how well it blended with the guitars. Still hoping someday I can purchase a second hand and low-end Deering or Gold Tone. I’ve watched Acoustic Tuesday quite regularly too.
Hi Tony. It's been quite a while since I had a campfire experience (I'm 64 now...) But "there was a time, back in my prime" (Thanks to Toby Keith for that one), I had some success with Uriah Heep's "Sunrise", believe it or not... I still play it now and then, and have tweeked it into a fingerpicking style song, just for fun. And yeah, that Very Special Girl I played for way back then, is still with me, as my wife, 40+ years later. And so is the guitar, a 1977 Ibanez dreadnought.
Its never a chore for me to play guitar i love it, my guitar is my therapy. I really like to play BE LIKE THAT - 3 DOORS DOWN Totally an audience bringer. Campfire Hit Song for sure.
Best Guitars I ever touched were a Yamaki deluxe and Martin hd28. I was actually shocked how good the Yamaki deluxe was. Every bit as good as any martin.
Awesome production. Liked, subscribed, and bell enabled! I believe the advice regarding consistency and routine playing guitar is more valuable than in fact it is. If someone thinks this is a cliche think twice. I've played guitar in my twenties and after 28 I just stopped playing. Now with 37, I'm practicing again. Playing guitar now does not feel quite the same as in the old times (nowadays feels like a chore) but when I try to play a piece of music following good principles playing slow, paying attention to the details for the pick, hand movement, you know breaking down the problem and focusing on the weaker points ignoring the fear of committing a mistake, I've got small but consistent progress. And that brings a bit of the good sparkle back of playing in those old times. Thanks to Tony and the community!
Hey champs. “From little things big things grow” by Paul Kelly is my favourite Aussie campfire Song. Same simple chorus to verse cord layout and a good story to go with it.
Thanks for breaking down "Wagon Wheel", I personally didn't know that Dylan wrote it! That's a cool thing to know. Favorite campfire song Dylan's "Blowin In The Wind"!!! And R.I.P Martin HD 28, and 3 wags of the finger to Falon!!! : (
It's funny, I only just heard this song and started to learn it on the guitar. I had never heard it before and had no idea it had already become cliché.
I am not experienced enough (18 months) to say it is or is not that Wagon Wheel is an over played song, however I think for beginners it’s an amazing song to learn and play. It’s fun and most generations know it.
How about a episode on the Early Silvertone Guitars cause my wife owns a 1967 Silvertone Acoustic? I Love the show and all of the content and started playing at the age of 63 I come from a Guitar Playing Family here in Louisiana. Have a wonderful Day Clyde J. Ortego
Tony! I love your content. I’ve played guitar for over a year and I’m very happy with my results thus far. I even found a group of experienced guitar players to jam with every Sunday in Parker, Colorado. These guys are really good and each one brings their own style and talent to the club that I can try to learn from. Anyways I have a question regarding Defense #4 - can you direct me to a video or create one that explains the different strumming styles (and title each) ie Flat picking, chicken picking, etc ? Thanks! - Rob from Colorado
Could we maybe get a video on how different string gauges and materials affect tone (compare and contrast tone woods, bracing, body shapes, etc.with various string types and guages)? Please and thank you
Seems to me like there is a little Guitar Geek snobbery going on over your comments about “Wagon Wheel”. I agree with you over the songs importance around the campfire. It’s the type of song that everyone gets immediately and the voices and harmony’s just get stronger with each passing chorus. Cliche’, maybe, but still a great song to pull out at the right moment. ‘Nuff said. One of my all time favorites is a song that Billy Bragg and Wilco did while revisiting some of Woody Guthrie’s unrecorded poems that Bragg had obtained from Woody’s sister in Oklahoma. They ended up recording a album called Mermaid Ave, released in 1998 and the song is titled “Way Over Yonder In The Minor Key”. It has ended up being one of the most requested songs in my repertoire not because of my voice or guitar playing but because it is just so much fun and was so well written. Hope you check it out if you’re not already familiar. Keep kickin’ out the quality episodes!
Oh, one additional favorite for the campfire. A old Bob Dylan tune, ‘You Ain’t Going Nowhere’. Hard to believe that such a simple song had so many re-writes. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/You_Ain%27t_Goin%27_Nowhere
I read an article recently that said guitar makers were depleting valuable wood which destroys trees. I left a comment on this ridiculous article and suggested the author do some investigation before he scribble out his media programed mind. He is like one of the little birds that gets fed by letting the parent throw up in its mouth. Stop swallowing what the media throws up. Trees are one of the most remarkable creations and are actually farmed for paper and lumber in the south. Many guitar makers are given deadfalls and culled trees to make their guitars. We can not stop other countries from destroying virgin rainforest, but the industry has found many many substitutes that are sometimes better than endangered tree species. Guitar makers use such a small % of the wood (many use dead trees) to make insurgents. We have forgotten nearly half of the land mass on our planet is covered in trees. Could you do an article about how Seagull, and other companies that use sustainable woods, reclaimed wood, and replant forests for the future. Thank you for your passion. DWM
At 57 years old, I bought my first guitar during Covid-19. Truly a challenge to begin to learn on my own. I appreciate the talent and dedication of anyone who can make a song sound pleasant and not painful. My first steps of my musical journey our humble, humorous and have been fun. Wagon Wheel will be a challenge. Thanks for your insightful thoughts on playing this song.
Is there such a thing as a mom-and-pop shop builder of great $500-700 guitars? (Been dreaming about a Taylor Academy 12e.) I'd be willing to consider buying from a small builder if they were more affordable.
For everyone out there who is tired of hearing/playing "Wagon Wheel," there is someone joyfully discovering it for the very first time. Any song, played to excess, may become boring to some players; but I think all guitarists should also try to inspire new players. And the easiest way to do that is with songs with which everyone is familiar, and are easy to play and learn! Great episode!
I can recall in one of the early lessons in TAC where Tony used the Wagon Wheel progression to demonstrate alternate picking in the lesson. It really stuck with me years later as it really helped me understand the technique and how Pick Accuracy is so important. And it is a cool sounding song I am not tired of it!!! I agree this was a great episode.
Um,,, I have covered it a million times. I keep finding new ways to play it. It’s you not the song… And it’s Awsome when 50 chicks get off there asses and fill up a dance floor. Sing along!!! I’m kinda shallow that way. 😉
I've played a lot of gigs over the years and the important thing is to play what people want to hear. People love this song, they love Brown Eyed Girl, Margaritaville, etc. Yes, they are trite and kinda boring for us musicians, but people still love them so it is our job to keep them entertained.
Having gigged for years myself I totally get what your saying but some music and songs I just refuse to play just to please others. I also find it cool to introduce people to songs they otherwise may not have heard but end up liking I like to play stuff I also like myself as long as I do enough classics in my set it usually works out pretty good. I just totally refuse to play wonderwall and a few others I could name but refuse to play.
I played an acoustic cover show in China for 10+ years,(until Covid hit, and the music really died). At every show, I was required to play Hotel California, and Country Roads. If I didn’t play them, I didn’t get paid… simple. Yes, we must play what the people want to hear. Now, back in the States, it is the same… at gigs, I play what people want to hear, because I am getting paid. At open mics, I will play B sides, and deep cuts, because nobody bought a ticket. But, if I get 4 songs, I still play 2 that people will know / dance / sing along to.
It's not about being sophisticated, you've just been spared hearing this song a thousand times a day every single day by new and learning musicians, not bashing on em either it's just everyone usually just starts here so you hear it a bunch and start to hate it, almost makes you gain sympathy for like those Taliban kinda guys who were forced to listen to toxic by Brittany spears on repeat for upwards of 10 hours, almost
My personal camp fire favourite is the late, great, and dearly missed Mr John Prine. You pick the song. Most are in a 1,4, 5 sequence (usually C,D, G-but not always). They can work in multiple tempos, can be picked or strummed and are accessible to everyone. Almost all the qualities you mention in a perfect camp song. Thx Tony
Amen to that. John Prine's songs can make you smile and make you cry. I personally love playing Souvenirs and when I have a lady it is always In Spite of Ourselves. Some of his newer songs like Summer's End and Caravan of Fools never disappoint.
Years ago l ran into a lady of 70 who just started to learn the fiddle. She blew my mind with that. Well years later as l was getting older (65) l decided to start playing guitar and singing. Now here we are 11 years later and I’m still loving it. I fo to jams and am a lead singer and rythum player in a couple of groups. The morale is it’s NEVER to late. So follow your dreams and enjoy life. And life is so much richer with music. Ps. I play a Tachamini(sp)
Tony I never heard of Wagon Wheel so I had to look this song up first dude I played was Darius Rucker pretty cool song . Cheers Tony. I never thought Jimmy Fallon was funny. Only Late Late show was funny was Johnny Carson.
Because Rucker was already famous as a rocker with Hootie & Fishies , his attempt at modern country , recieved wide airplay both on modern country outlets , and mainstream . But Old Crow is definitely the Iconic and definitive version .
You’re right, smashing that Martin was not cool at all. I would’ve liked to see him rather donate it to a music school or do anything else with it. The guy’s obviously a tool desperately seeking media…..
I just don't know why we are calling this Darius Rucker's song. It is absolutely NOT his song. Yes, it's based on an unfinished work of Dylan's, but it's Ketch Secor and Old Crow Medicine Show 's song. To credit anyone other than Ketch and old crow is just wrong. ....
I understand your point, but you have to admit. There are many, many people who don’t dive that deep into folk/country/bluegrass music. Darius Rucker’s version was a huge massive hit. Absolutely massive! The reach his version had is unquestionable. It’s insane how many people out there who only casually listen to music while driving and only know what is played on their fm radio. It is sad, but true. What I find crazy is the amount of comments here who say they’ve never even heard of this song no matter the artist. THAT is insane.
@@allstopblue5717 the point you are making about Darius Rucker is not only valid, but spot on. Now, for those who know Old Crow, they know that they aren't making music just to get rich, they love everything about it.. the history, playing small venue shows, etc... but I still just can't imagine what it's got to feel like to be Ketch and Old Crow, watching someone get crazy rich and more famous off their song... hearing people say. (Oh yeah, I love that Darius Rucker song) lol. Maybe they don't care at all, who knows...and I'm obviously not in tune with what their royalty situation is... anyway, I love the old crow guys and they certainly aren't rich, just makes me feel a bit bad for em.
I can't believe Jimmy Fallon smashed a guitar. I can't afford a Martin HD guitar and I'm sure there is a person starting out that would love the guitar as much as us guitar geeks. What a shame.
Even when I was a kid and first saw photos and then videos of Pete Townshend of The Who smashing guitars and then through the countless who followed in his footsteps, I hated and still hate seeing anyone destroy usable musical instruments and equipment. Someone somewhere would do anything to be able to afford that stuff and can't. I got and still get criticized by some for "not being fun" but to me it's like throwing out perfectly good food in front of someone who can't buy a meal.
It's a great song in every respect, and you nail all its qualities. The other reason every guitar player should know it is because everybody knows it and plays it. It's the 'Duelling banjos' of songs. Much played and groaned at because of it, but they are both iconic in their way.
Yeah, the destroyed martin is hard to watch. I'm sure we've all thought about a spontaneous act of anarchy, but musical instruments are sacred aren't they? They are built with love and they chanel emotions so that makes them kinda 'alive'. As a working man with a family I'm in no position to afford a HD28, the guy should have some respect for the people who built it, and the people who dream of owning such an instrument but will probably never get the funds together! RIP HD X
Wagon Wheel is BOB DYLAN... and will always be BOB DYLAN to me... 😎🎸🕊 D. R...... is the only artist I’ve ever witnessed who never gives or acknowledges song writing credits 🍅🎱🎭🤹🏻♂️🎲💸🦠🧽🧼🔪I’ll stop at that so as to not be impolite .. 🐀
favorite campfire song// hard to pick one but it will surely be a 3 or 4 chord song like Wagon wheel. Or maybe a one chord song like Clyde ( written by J J Cale and made famous by Waylon Jennings). The verse is a d chord with an instrumental break between verses where ir rocks back and fourth between c and d. Anyone can play it and anyone can experiment with different ways to play that d to keep is from sounding boring a couple of 2 chord songs I love to play are both by Waylon. Waymores's Blues ( I, IV chords) and Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way (I, IV) rocking back and fourth to a steady 4/4 beat.
Hey Tony! long time listener, first time caller. Wagon Wheel is also my fav campfire jam, but I always replace the lyrics with the theme to Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Always gets a laugh, and everyone still sings along. I even throw in a chorus or two of Wagon Wheel. I first heard it played that way at an acoustic punk show I attended, but unfortunately cannot remember the name of the musician. Just tried to find a video and could not find his recording, but other people have recorded videos of it played with Fresh Prince lyrics. Give it a shot sometime, it's fun!
Tony, I think you nailed it. Wagon Wheel is a fantastic song. It is the song that I played with my sister and nephew when they were first learning guitar. My sister was playing with a capo on 2 but the song was simple enough that I could just play in A. Everybody knows the words and can sing along. The only better known chorus at this point might be Sweet Caroline. As for Jimmy Fallon, John Hiatt says it best - "It breaks my heart to see those stars smashing a perfectly good guitar."
Ya I remember that Fallon episode and how upset I was. I'm disabled and could never afford a Martin. He should donate some musical instruments to underprivileged schools and apologize. I think he was reading the room that second before he smashed it. Because he slightly hesitated, did the deed and realized it was a mistake.
I love Nick Shoulders and old crow both so much! Nicky Bob he has really brought me back to country music lately and that line has me laughing out loud every time!! But I still love the occasional listen/jam to wagon wheel.
@@robinhood480 do yourself a favour and give Nick Shoulders a listen! He’s a party and a half. According to Willie Carslile he’s the best yodeller he’s ever heard.
"Wagon Wheel" became a classic because of Old Crow Medicine Show. Rucker did a nice cover of the song but he didn't pronounce "bouquet" properly. A "bow-ket" of dogwood flowers? That still makes me laugh.
Important or not, because it’s easy and many people know it it’s also one of the most annoying songs. Actually quite literally makes me want to not play my guitar.
I agree with what you said about guitar playing is consistent to get better. I started pretty young myself about 10 years of age. I had dreams about becoming famous by singing or song writing, I am 60 now and still love to play guitar. However, due to loss of feelings in my fingers and 2 surgeries on my ulnar nerve in my elbow I decided on purchasing 2 classical guitars, I bought a Cordoba CH-10 LH Luthier which was very expensive and well worth it. I also purchased a Woods classical, both of these guitars suit my needs because the strings are plastic which keep my fingers from going numb. I'm not famous nor am I as good as I would like but, I play these daily, I switch out every other day because I love the sound from both of them. I mainly wrote you a comment because I wanted to ask you if you would cover this Wagon Wheel song more in depth, you are correct about Bob Dylan wrote it, and we know Darius Rucker recorded it, what an enjoyable song. Thanks and keep up the great work!
How about the “original” country music song, (1924) “Wreck of the Old 97”? A family favorite. If Fallon would give me that guitar, I’d put it back together.
This is the first video of yours I have watched. I’m pretty new at playing guitar and I have to say this was a great lesson. I actually played Wagon Wheel! I couldn’t be happier! I’m 54 and look forward to learning so much more! Thank you
You've got it wrong.
I was there when KETCH, not Kieth, Secor and Ctitter Fuqua, wrote and polished that song like a new dime.
I was a 44 year old guitar teacher and the 5 young members of The Route 11 Boys slept on my couch in Maine, winter 1997.
Ketch heard Bob Dylan singing "Rock Me Mama" on a documentary called "The Making of Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid", and young Ketch Secor, a rabid Dylan fan that STILL has an autographed hat from stalking Dylan's bus at around 17, was thrilled seeing Dylan, Kristofferson and braless Rita Coolidge doing just a verse of Rock Me Momma around a campfire.
Ketch borrowed it for Wagon Wheel THINKING that Dylan wrote it.
When it came time for the credits it turned out that Dylan acknowledged that he'd gotten it from some obscure blues man from an old 78RPM record AFTER all of the credits were already made and royalty checks were paid.
I heard that Dylan graciously turned over his share of the royalties to the surprised and grateful blues man's estate, and that's where the matter rests.
I'm embarrassed that I've forgotten his name, and apologize for my alarming memory loss.
Thank you so much for this story!!!! It made my day.
(Dylan) said ‘I didn’t write that; Arthur Crudup did.’ Arthur Crudup said, ‘I didn’t write that; [Big] Bill Broonzy wrote that.’ Bill’s first recording of the derivative of ‘Rock Me Mama’ is around 1928. Also Arthur Big Boy Crudup in the 40s
Great lesson! The progression itself is interesting enough to play over and over and not get tired of it. It’s that Em chord that breaks up the monotony.
Thanks Tony, your treatment of Waggon Wheel has been an inspiration to me. I tend to just strum it but seeing how you flat and finger pick it is an eye opener
How did this 69 year old from North Carolina and Dylan fan not know Wagon Wheel? My favorite campfire song is Kumbaya as it is simple to play, inspirational and you can create your own lyrics. Another great AT!
Dylan never recorded it. If you’re not a country music/Old Crow fan it’s not surprising you’ve missed it.
Dylan enjoyed the old crow version so much he suggested they finish more of his songs. That’s where their newer single Sweet Amarillo came from. Definitely worth listening.
Old crow also put out a live cover album called 50 years of blonde on blonde. It’s a party! Enjoy!
For my dad and brother one of our favorite camp fire songs is "In the Pines"
Just noticed I was featured on this episode. Thanks, Tony.
For anyone reading this, I got through that lull and now practice guitar 2-3 hours during weekdays.
Take baby steps and you WILL succeed.
YOU CAN! ¡tú puedes! 你会！
小白
The Cranberries "Linger" was my first easy song, as I grew up with an aversion to "country" music, but now I have a whole new appreciation for all types of great songs.
I like singing this song, as I think most people do -but can understand how some would be tired of it. I loved learning that the chords are similar to ones from a bunch of other songs. I'm restarting my guitar journey and hope to be more consistent and songs like these will help. I like seeing the different stylings that you can do on the chords.
I play Wagon Wheel or a version there of every 12 weeks or so. I volunteer as a member of the Cold Nose College dog training team with the Rescued program in Blairsville GA, Saving Detainees & Dogs one life at a time. The corrections officer that is in charge of the program is a very creative guy. He wrote lyrics that are in line with the experience of being in jail to the tune of Wagon Wheel. There are 4 of us that play, there are two guitars one mandolin and a fiddle, graduating detainees sing the song. Our rendition of the song is a great example of just how versatile the tune is. As for the Fallon thing when I see something like that my first thought is consider the source.
this post useless without the lyrics ;-) please...
@@ajm6409 I don't have a copy of the lyrics handy but if you go to Facebook and look for the Rescued Program you will find several videos of the song.
16:10 You know, You really do have a great channel!
I take it for granted how good this channel is with the wealth of information in its archive as well as great new videos coming out like these.
If this channel didn't exist there would be a void on youtube that would need to be filled. But you've filled it very well and I along with many others appreciated you and your work more than you know!
I started learning guitar at 40, about 3 years and 2 months ago. I’ve missed tops of 2-3 days. And I also started taking vocal lessons about 9 months ago,. I’m having a blast! I’ve blown through every goal I initially set out, and now I’m taking this as far as it can go!
I’m definitely not a great singer / guitar player, and I’m absolutely ok with that! What matters to me is that I’m constantly improving, and enjoying every second of it. Maybe one day someone else will enjoy the music I play, or maybe not. But it’s not about what anyone else likes, it’s about what I like.
If I can do it, anyone can. Go for it!
Cheers!! Hopefully one of your best life decisions. I started late in life as well, age 50. I just turned 63. It is a wonderful journey but a journey of baby steps. Keep at it brother! The planet needs your songs.
Rob
I've been playing guitar for almost 40 years, and I still suck...LOL I wish I could start all over, with all the tools that are available now! TH-cam is you friend. So many lessons, it blows my mind. I get the feeling, you're gonna do just fine. Happy strumming!
Similar story to share as a 60+ guitar player. Was recovering from an operation just when the Pandemic started. Bought an Ashton Banjo 2 years earlier without knowing how to play it. In my country, one hardly hears of anyone who plays the banjo.
With the help from some well-known banjo instructors on TH-cam I started learning. Thanks to amongst others Banjo Ben, Clark, David Bennett, Jim Panky, Eli G, Kristin S B, Mike Hedding, I’m now able to play many Gospel tunes and some Bluegrass tunes like Cripple Creek, Old Home Place, Wild Flowers etc albeit on a slower beats.
I’m very satisfied because there’s literally noone around who knows what a banjo is, let alone play it.
I played back up at an Alumni Campfire recently and many were shock to know how well it blended with the guitars.
Still hoping someday I can purchase a second hand and low-end Deering or Gold Tone. I’ve watched Acoustic Tuesday quite regularly too.
Hi Tony. It's been quite a while since I had a campfire experience (I'm 64 now...) But "there was a time, back in my prime" (Thanks to Toby Keith for that one), I had some success with Uriah Heep's "Sunrise", believe it or not... I still play it now and then, and have tweeked it into a fingerpicking style song, just for fun. And yeah, that Very Special Girl I played for way back then, is still with me, as my wife, 40+ years later. And so is the guitar, a 1977 Ibanez dreadnought.
Its never a chore for me to play guitar i love it, my guitar is my therapy. I really like to play BE LIKE THAT - 3 DOORS DOWN Totally an audience bringer. Campfire Hit Song for sure.
Best Guitars I ever touched were a Yamaki deluxe and Martin hd28. I was actually shocked how good the Yamaki deluxe was. Every bit as good as any martin.
Awesome production. Liked, subscribed, and bell enabled! I believe the advice regarding consistency and routine playing guitar is more valuable than in fact it is. If someone thinks this is a cliche think twice. I've played guitar in my twenties and after 28 I just stopped playing. Now with 37, I'm practicing again. Playing guitar now does not feel quite the same as in the old times (nowadays feels like a chore) but when I try to play a piece of music following good principles playing slow, paying attention to the details for the pick, hand movement, you know breaking down the problem and focusing on the weaker points ignoring the fear of committing a mistake, I've got small but consistent progress. And that brings a bit of the good sparkle back of playing in those old times. Thanks to Tony and the community!
Hey champs. “From little things big things grow” by Paul Kelly is my favourite Aussie campfire Song. Same simple chorus to verse cord layout and a good story to go with it.
I love all the different options you call out!
Thanks for breaking down "Wagon Wheel", I personally didn't know that Dylan wrote it! That's a cool thing to know. Favorite campfire song Dylan's "Blowin In The Wind"!!! And R.I.P Martin HD 28, and 3 wags of the finger to Falon!!! : (
The Unicorn song is my favorite. It's fun to sing the chorus over and over. Green alligators, long neck geese,....
It's funny, I only just heard this song and started to learn it on the guitar. I had never heard it before and had no idea it had already become cliché.
I am not experienced enough (18 months) to say it is or is not that Wagon Wheel is an over played song, however I think for beginners it’s an amazing song to learn and play. It’s fun and most generations know it.
I LOVE your little goalie statue
A campfire song - "Peaceful Easy Feeling" by the Eagles.
Country Roads
Works real well on a 3 string cigar box guitar too!
I’m new here. This is great.
Most Dylan songs make good campfire songs, Blowin in the Wind, Tangerine Man, Knocking on Heavens Door, Lay Lady Lay…
tangerine man?
@@kabalababy1 laughed out loud - like for real :D thanks
@@kabalababy1 Mr Tamborine Man; spell check doesn’t always work well
@@jeffcollins1172 Yes, I know! :) It was funny. Dylan's songs are indeed good campfire songs. Peace!
My favorite camp,songs usually are Willie Nelson songs. And Johny cash,, numbers,,,
How about a episode on the Early Silvertone Guitars cause my wife owns a 1967 Silvertone Acoustic?
I Love the show and all of the content and started playing at the age of 63 I come from a Guitar Playing Family here in Louisiana.
Have a wonderful Day
Clyde J. Ortego
Tony! I love your content. I’ve played guitar for over a year and I’m very happy with my results thus far. I even found a group of experienced guitar players to jam with every Sunday in Parker, Colorado. These guys are really good and each one brings their own style and talent to the club that I can try to learn from. Anyways I have a question regarding Defense #4 - can you direct me to a video or create one that explains the different strumming styles (and title each) ie Flat picking, chicken picking, etc ? Thanks! - Rob from Colorado
First time watching, loved it. Gracias Brian
Could we maybe get a video on how different string gauges and materials affect tone (compare and contrast tone woods, bracing, body shapes, etc.with various string types and guages)?
Please and thank you
Seems to me like there is a little Guitar Geek snobbery going on over your comments about “Wagon Wheel”. I agree with you over the songs importance around the campfire. It’s the type of song that everyone gets immediately and the voices and harmony’s just get stronger with each passing chorus. Cliche’, maybe, but still a great song to pull out at the right moment. ‘Nuff said. One of my all time favorites is a song that Billy Bragg and Wilco did while revisiting some of Woody Guthrie’s unrecorded poems that Bragg had obtained from Woody’s sister in Oklahoma. They ended up recording a album called Mermaid Ave, released in 1998 and the song is titled “Way Over Yonder In The Minor Key”. It has ended up being one of the most requested songs in my repertoire not because of my voice or guitar playing but because it is just so much fun and was so well written. Hope you check it out if you’re not already familiar. Keep kickin’ out the quality episodes!
Oh, one additional favorite for the campfire. A old Bob Dylan tune, ‘You Ain’t Going Nowhere’. Hard to believe that such a simple song had so many re-writes. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/You_Ain%27t_Goin%27_Nowhere
always wish you where here at campfires! ☸
Hi Tony, great show and episode. Mind sharing all the different arrangements of Wagon Wheel you played??
A beginner lesson on Wagon Wheel would be nice 🖤
I am going on 67 and restarting the guitar journey. Wish me luck!
You got this dude! ❤️
It’s a fkn cool song.
And you can make up new verses all nite long..
What a great observation
I almost lost it. Your voice sounds like the late Steve Goodman. If you are not familiar, check him out.
I play it in A sometimes in G
Sorry to go off on a tangent, but interesting shirt. Do you have any details please?
Thanks for all the guitar geekdom that you bestow upon us. I found the Jimmy Fallon clip as disturbing too.
I have never heard of this song until this video..born and raised in nyc been playing guitar for 40 years
Drinking game: take one every time he says "Wagon wheel." I passed out less than 5 minutes into the video 🤣
Tony I have those 2 Martin guitar books on your desk signed by dick boak. You have good taste dude!
Or “Will the Circle be Unbroken “
What kind of guitar are you playing in this video, Tony? I can't quite read the head stock....
It looks like the headstock reads “Santa Cruz” the model will have to be researched
@@uniquefaithvideo Thanks...!
Thank
Can you show us the fingerpick you use for this song please?
Smashing the guitar on stage is almost as bad as "Squirting lighter fluid on a guitar, lighting it, and then watch it burn" any disclaimers? :)
I read an article recently that said guitar makers were depleting valuable wood which destroys trees. I left a comment on this ridiculous article and suggested the author do some investigation before he scribble out his media programed mind. He is like one of the little birds that gets fed by letting the parent throw up in its mouth. Stop swallowing what the media throws up.
Trees are one of the most remarkable creations and are actually farmed for paper and lumber in the south. Many guitar makers are given deadfalls and culled trees to make their guitars. We can not stop other countries from destroying virgin rainforest, but the industry has found many many substitutes that are sometimes better than endangered tree species. Guitar makers use such a small % of the wood (many use dead trees) to make insurgents. We have forgotten nearly half of the land mass on our planet is covered in trees.
Could you do an article about how Seagull, and other companies that use sustainable woods, reclaimed wood, and replant forests for the future. Thank you for your passion.
DWM
Idk I kinda love the damn song
Basically a 1-6-4-5 progression.
At 57 years old, I bought my first guitar during Covid-19.
Truly a challenge to begin to learn on my own.
I appreciate the talent and dedication of anyone who can make a song sound pleasant and not painful.
My first steps of my musical journey our humble, humorous and have been fun.
Wagon Wheel will be a challenge.
Thanks for your insightful thoughts on playing this song.
Also I’ve heard it a million times so I know how it’s supposed to sound.
Talking about artists, check out Marcin Patrzalek. Just incredible. Whole 'nother level.
Is there such a thing as a mom-and-pop shop builder of great $500-700 guitars? (Been dreaming about a Taylor Academy 12e.) I'd be willing to consider buying from a small builder if they were more affordable.
Taylor has great ones in that range. GS mini, and Academy series are all good. Just sold a mini to buy an academy 10.
For everyone out there who is tired of hearing/playing "Wagon Wheel," there is someone joyfully discovering it for the very first time. Any song, played to excess, may become boring to some players; but I think all guitarists should also try to inspire new players. And the easiest way to do that is with songs with which everyone is familiar, and are easy to play and learn! Great episode!
I can recall in one of the early lessons in TAC where Tony used the Wagon Wheel progression to demonstrate alternate picking in the lesson.
It really stuck with me years later as it really helped me understand the technique and how Pick Accuracy is so important. And it is a cool sounding song I am not tired of it!!!
I agree this was a great episode.
Paul McCartney famously said that of his own songs, Yesterday would have been his favorite if he hadn't heard it so many freakin' times.
Steve Bolfing, James Taylor said the same thing about "Fire and Rain." Granted "Wagon Wheel" is no "Fire and Rain." Still a good song.
I just learned Hurt, Johnny Cash cover of NIN. I love it, working on Have you ever seen the rain by CCR now
Um,,, I have covered it a million times. I keep finding new ways to play it.
It’s you not the song…
And it’s Awsome when 50 chicks get off there asses and fill up a dance floor.
Sing along!!!
I’m kinda shallow that way. 😉
I've played a lot of gigs over the years and the important thing is to play what people want to hear. People love this song, they love Brown Eyed Girl, Margaritaville, etc. Yes, they are trite and kinda boring for us musicians, but people still love them so it is our job to keep them entertained.
Having gigged for years myself I totally get what your saying but some music and songs I just refuse to play just to please others. I also find it cool to introduce people to songs they otherwise may not have heard but end up liking I like to play stuff I also like myself as long as I do enough classics in my set it usually works out pretty good. I just totally refuse to play wonderwall and a few others I could name but refuse to play.
I played an acoustic cover show in China for 10+ years,(until Covid hit, and the music really died). At every show, I was required to play Hotel California, and Country Roads. If I didn’t play them, I didn’t get paid… simple. Yes, we must play what the people want to hear. Now, back in the States, it is the same… at gigs, I play what people want to hear, because I am getting paid. At open mics, I will play B sides, and deep cuts, because nobody bought a ticket. But, if I get 4 songs, I still play 2 that people will know / dance / sing along to.
Always preferred old crow medicine show. Ruckers version always sounded…. Campy.
This….OCMS all day.
Old Crow Medicine Show version is the best. I thought 'Hootie' ruined it. haha I was pissed when I heard him redo Old Crow
I guess I'm not sophisticated enough to look down on Wagon Wheel.
Same
It's not about being sophisticated, you've just been spared hearing this song a thousand times a day every single day by new and learning musicians, not bashing on em either it's just everyone usually just starts here so you hear it a bunch and start to hate it, almost makes you gain sympathy for like those Taliban kinda guys who were forced to listen to toxic by Brittany spears on repeat for upwards of 10 hours, almost
My personal camp fire favourite is the late, great, and dearly missed Mr John Prine. You pick the song. Most are in a 1,4, 5 sequence (usually C,D, G-but not always). They can work in multiple tempos, can be picked or strummed and are accessible to everyone. Almost all the qualities you mention in a perfect camp song. Thx Tony
‘Hello In there’ is my go-to.
Amen to that. John Prine's songs can make you smile and make you cry. I personally love playing Souvenirs and when I have a lady it is always In Spite of Ourselves. Some of his newer songs like Summer's End and Caravan of Fools never disappoint.
All hail John Prine!
Years ago l ran into a lady of 70 who just started to learn the fiddle. She blew my mind with that. Well years later as l was getting older (65) l decided to start playing guitar and singing. Now here we are 11 years later and I’m still loving it. I fo to jams and am a lead singer and rythum player in a couple of groups. The morale is it’s NEVER to late. So follow your dreams and enjoy life. And life is so much richer with music. Ps. I play a Tachamini(sp)
The ultimate campfire song is anything that is not Kumbaya.
Pssshhhht....bad case of loving you ...dun a dun a ...d dunt na
I have at least 30 friends who are guitar players and not one of us has ever played Kumbaya around a campfire or would even know how
I never thought Jimmy Fallon was funny. Let's just confirms what I already already thought.
The ultimate camp fire song is "Country Roads"
Koombyah?
@@TheSpud1129 No
@@AlwaysEeepy personally I'm partial to some mumble rap or anime openings
Absolutely and you can put your hometown in place of West Virginia....almost heaven, Pennsylvania, Blue Ridge Mountains.....
John Prine - Paradise
I've been playing guitar for 40 years and never heard this song until today.
That's pretty funny. Me neither.
One more.
False
Me too….
How the hell not?
Tony I never heard of Wagon Wheel so I had to look this song up first dude I played was Darius Rucker pretty cool song . Cheers Tony. I never thought Jimmy Fallon was funny. Only Late Late show was funny was Johnny Carson.
Because Rucker was already famous as a rocker with Hootie & Fishies , his attempt at modern country , recieved wide airplay both on modern country outlets , and mainstream .
But Old Crow is definitely the Iconic and definitive version .
I always disliked Fallon, just another reason why.
You’re right, smashing that Martin was not cool at all.
I would’ve liked to see him rather donate it to a music school or do anything else with it. The guy’s obviously a tool desperately seeking media…..
I just don't know why we are calling this Darius Rucker's song. It is absolutely NOT his song. Yes, it's based on an unfinished work of Dylan's, but it's Ketch Secor and Old Crow Medicine Show 's song. To credit anyone other than Ketch and old crow is just wrong.
....
I understand your point, but you have to admit. There are many, many people who don’t dive that deep into folk/country/bluegrass music. Darius Rucker’s version was a huge massive hit. Absolutely massive! The reach his version had is unquestionable. It’s insane how many people out there who only casually listen to music while driving and only know what is played on their fm radio. It is sad, but true. What I find crazy is the amount of comments here who say they’ve never even heard of this song no matter the artist. THAT is insane.
@@allstopblue5717 the point you are making about Darius Rucker is not only valid, but spot on. Now, for those who know Old Crow, they know that they aren't making music just to get rich, they love everything about it.. the history, playing small venue shows, etc... but I still just can't imagine what it's got to feel like to be Ketch and Old Crow, watching someone get crazy rich and more famous off their song... hearing people say. (Oh yeah, I love that Darius Rucker song) lol.
Maybe they don't care at all, who knows...and I'm obviously not in tune with what their royalty situation is... anyway, I love the old crow guys and they certainly aren't rich, just makes me feel a bit bad for em.
I thought he covered that at the beginning of the video
My Favorite Campfire song is Downtown by Petula Clark...what?
I can't believe Jimmy Fallon smashed a guitar. I can't afford a Martin HD guitar and I'm sure there is a person starting out that would love the guitar as much as us guitar geeks. What a shame.
Even when I was a kid and first saw photos and then videos of Pete Townshend of The Who smashing guitars and then through the countless who followed in his footsteps, I hated and still hate seeing anyone destroy usable musical instruments and equipment. Someone somewhere would do anything to be able to afford that stuff and can't. I got and still get criticized by some for "not being fun" but to me it's like throwing out perfectly good food in front of someone who can't buy a meal.
Ultimate campfire song=Knocking on heaven's door
It's a great song in every respect, and you nail all its qualities. The other reason every guitar player should know it is because everybody knows it and plays it. It's the 'Duelling banjos' of songs. Much played and groaned at because of it, but they are both iconic in their way.
Yeah, the destroyed martin is hard to watch. I'm sure we've all thought about a spontaneous act of anarchy, but musical instruments are sacred aren't they? They are built with love and they chanel emotions so that makes them kinda 'alive'. As a working man with a family I'm in no position to afford a HD28, the guy should have some respect for the people who built it, and the people who dream of owning such an instrument but will probably never get the funds together! RIP HD X
I’ll say it again. Wagon Wheel is this gens Freebird.
I’m going to watch this episode, because I’m a Polecastroan, but I can’t help but LOATHE, Wagon Wheel.
P.S. What happened to full-length episodes?
Wagon Wheel is BOB DYLAN... and will always be BOB DYLAN to me... 😎🎸🕊
D. R...... is the only artist I’ve ever witnessed who never gives or acknowledges song writing credits 🍅🎱🎭🤹🏻♂️🎲💸🦠🧽🧼🔪I’ll stop at that so as to not be impolite .. 🐀
favorite campfire song// hard to pick one but it will surely be a 3 or 4 chord song like Wagon wheel. Or maybe a one chord song like Clyde ( written by J J Cale and made famous by Waylon Jennings). The verse is a d chord with an instrumental break between verses where ir rocks back and fourth between c and d. Anyone can play it and anyone can experiment with different ways to play that d to keep is from sounding boring
a couple of 2 chord songs I love to play are both by Waylon. Waymores's Blues ( I, IV chords) and Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way (I, IV) rocking back and fourth to a steady 4/4 beat.
FREEBIRD!
Lol...the intro to Freebird is also 1-5-6m-4.
Hey Tony! long time listener, first time caller. Wagon Wheel is also my fav campfire jam, but I always replace the lyrics with the theme to Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Always gets a laugh, and everyone still sings along. I even throw in a chorus or two of Wagon Wheel. I first heard it played that way at an acoustic punk show I attended, but unfortunately cannot remember the name of the musician. Just tried to find a video and could not find his recording, but other people have recorded videos of it played with Fresh Prince lyrics. Give it a shot sometime, it's fun!
I can almost hear "Don't stop Believing"
His name is Ketch Secor, not Keith.
I’m glad somebody told him. I was debating. Didn’t want to be “that” guy. Thank you tho, it would’ve bothered me indefinitely lol
THANK YOU!! I googled to be sure I wasn’t losing my mind and his name was actually Ketch.
Tony, I think you nailed it. Wagon Wheel is a fantastic song. It is the song that I played with my sister and nephew when they were first learning guitar. My sister was playing with a capo on 2 but the song was simple enough that I could just play in A. Everybody knows the words and can sing along. The only better known chorus at this point might be Sweet Caroline.
As for Jimmy Fallon, John Hiatt says it best - "It breaks my heart to see those stars smashing a perfectly good guitar."
Great song!
You stole my thunder on comments!
Ya I remember that Fallon episode and how upset I was. I'm disabled and could never afford a Martin. He should donate some musical instruments to underprivileged schools and apologize. I think he was reading the room that second before he smashed it. Because he slightly hesitated, did the deed and realized it was a mistake.
Knocking on Heaven's Door is my favorite campfire guitar song.
TBH i've never heard it, glad i didn't..
Martin is the Standard, all others are copycats and sell for more
Nope. “I’ll die where I stand if I hear Wagon Wheel again.” - Nick Shoulders.
Who is nick shoulders ?
See ?..... Nobody cares. 🤷🏻♂️
I love Nick Shoulders and old crow both so much!
Nicky Bob he has really brought me back to country music lately and that line has me laughing out loud every time!!
But I still love the occasional listen/jam to wagon wheel.
@@robinhood480 do yourself a favour and give Nick Shoulders a listen! He’s a party and a half.
According to Willie Carslile he’s the best yodeller he’s ever heard.
I accidentally learned this song while learning "im yours" by jason mraz 🤷🏾♂️
Ultimate campfire song: Back Home Again, J Denver
I didn’t like this song originally and then Darius Rucker made me hate it.
"Wagon Wheel" became a classic because of Old Crow Medicine Show. Rucker did a nice cover of the song but he didn't pronounce "bouquet" properly. A "bow-ket" of dogwood flowers? That still makes me laugh.
Important or not, because it’s easy and many people know it it’s also one of the most annoying songs. Actually quite literally makes me want to not play my guitar.
Our favorite one is Whitehouse Road by Tyler Childers. Always end the firepit/backyard sessions with it
I agree with what you said about guitar playing is consistent to get better. I started pretty young myself about 10 years of age. I had dreams about becoming famous by singing or song writing, I am 60 now and still love to play guitar. However, due to loss of feelings in my fingers and 2 surgeries on my ulnar nerve in my elbow I decided on purchasing 2 classical guitars, I bought a Cordoba CH-10 LH Luthier which was very expensive and well worth it. I also purchased a Woods classical, both of these guitars suit my needs because the strings are plastic which keep my fingers from going numb. I'm not famous nor am I as good as I would like but, I play these daily, I switch out every other day because I love the sound from both of them. I mainly wrote you a comment because I wanted to ask you if you would cover this Wagon Wheel song more in depth, you are correct about Bob Dylan wrote it, and we know Darius Rucker recorded it, what an enjoyable song. Thanks and keep up the great work!
People still request it at our gigs, great song!
How about the “original” country music song, (1924) “Wreck of the Old 97”? A family favorite. If Fallon would give me that guitar, I’d put it back together.
Tupelo Honey is pretty easy and a good campfire song.