Tommy pushing the quintessential Australian character trait of his generation by quickly interjecting after he finishes playing to avoid having to navigate a compliment. He knows his hand skills are great but he doesn’t want that to foreshadow the songs that have been gifted to him through the hard work of everyone that has inspired him. He’s a true custodian of music and the people that have influenced him. What a gift.
@@andrewbroughton65 Culture does vary country to country. For example if he was American he'd be setting himself up for the compliments and basking in them. If he was Japanese he'd be humble and self-effacing.
Tommy is an amazing guitar player and entertainer. I could listen to this guy play all day long.,I play guitar and he just blows me away with his arrangements.
@@Ca_milo_G Unfortunately no, I don't think anyone recorded it, and I've looked around online and couldn't find it. But in a way, it makes it more special knowing that it was a moment in time and a feeling I walked away with.
Tommy Emmanuel's enthusiasm is infectious. His love for playing music is completely tangible. It's impossible to not smile when he plays and talks. Love him.
This channel has always been a masterpiece. It’s now becoming the one-stop source of great exclusive music content that we’ve always wanted. Rick, we all owe you big big time!
I'm exactly the same age as you Rick, and coincidentally born in the same year, and within about a month. I've been following Tommy since I was in high school. I lied about my age to get into a pub in Sydney where he and his brother Phil were playing, just to satisfy my obsession with guitar. I got some lessons from both of them around that time and you could not have met two nicer people. RIP Phil. I would make many bootleg recordings of their early pub gigs and have been following Tommy's career ever since then. We always knew even back then, that one day Tommy would be playing the world's great concert halls. Tommy always kept telling me that I should come to a Chet Atkins Society convention in Nashville, which I did for the first time a few years ago, to celebrate my recovery from cancer. And he dedicated a song to me during his performance, and mentioned that when he was starting out in the business and playing pubs, I had been to more of his gigs than he had. To this day, he still remains one of the nicest people in the business. In all the years I've been following your TH-cam channel Rick, I've been hoping that you would one day interview Tommy. I am so glad you finally did. His kind heart is only eclipsed by the fact that he has pushed forward the boundaries of playing Fingerstyle guitar further than any guitarist would have thought humanly possible. And the hard work and effort he has put into in helping other guitarists develop their skills and carry on this fine musical tradition, cannot be understated. And likewise the contribution your channel has made to the pursuit of music, will also I'm sure endure the test of time for future generations of people to enjoy. Gentleman, I salute both of you.
Yes, I've got a short but auspicious Tommy story myself. His place in this world is far beyond even just guitar/music, but "what a great reason to get out of bed boys and girls!" 😄
@@kippsguitar6539 Really ? Seems so humble here. Confident for sure, but as he says, he's the open vessel, and just trying to pass on happiness to the listener
Speaking as former music editor at a national newspaper, I have to say your style of interviewing is really excellent. It takes a lot to avoid the most common mistake (being overly star struck) and get to the heart of the job, allowing your guests' genius and demeanor to come out. You make them feel safe and appreciated without being fawning. Very professional and a genuine public service! There's no one doing this better these days.
Brilliant melodies can do so very much in the hands of a virtuoso. Tommy knows the value of melodies by Paul McCartney and John Mayer. The instrument as a human voice. Mesmerizing, inspiring, just wonderful.
It's easy to avoid being star struck with Tommy , he is one of the most down to earth people you could ever hope to meet , despite his preternatural talent.
Thank you for making these observations. I am fascinated by the simplicity, authenticity, and humility of these conversations. So much to admire here. 🙏🏻
My Dad knew Tommy because he was a record producer and he took me to a TE concert in Tamworth, NSW (I think I was about 8 or younger) and as we were leaving Dad & Tommy had a chat and I said to Tommy that my Dad was the best guitarist in the world, and he agreed "Yes Son I think you are right" ! I think back now and know that was the nicest thing you could say to a kid that's proud of his Dad ! Of all the people to say that too ! Tommy's brother Phil was a killer player and used to join a band I was in called Johnny Green's Blues Cowboys on stage alot when I was a teenager. Great interview Rick, all the best. It's great to see you enjoying it. Tommy is sounding incredible as usual.
My wife and I saw Tommy live in 2018, one week before she died. She loved his music and playing and had all his CDs. Tommy Emmanuel will always be special to me for giving my wife her last joyful concert.
Grief loves nothing more than to sneak up noiselessly and land a sucker punch that leaves me gasping. But you have the celestial memory of your wife listening to her favorite music. Could anything be better.
As an Aussie, I am super proud of Tommy Emmanuel Rick. When I was living in the North East of England back in the late 90s I was told by a dear friend that Tommy Emmanuel was playing in one of the local pubs. Having know of Tommy for years as a stadium performer I said, no he isn't! So, with scepticism, I booked into the pub with another Aussie friend who was working with me in the UK. We decided to go to the pub early to have dinner and we met Tommy in the restaurant. He was so warm and friendly and we chatted for a little while. We were honoured to have Tommy dedicate a number of songs to us fellow Aussies in the pub - that was packed with about 50 people. It was a magic night and Tommy performed for about 2 hours without a break. It was one of the best ever concerts of my life. So glad you managed to nab him for this interview Rick. So good!!
This channel deserves multiple awards for what it's giving the music loving community. The educational value, the level of passion and respect you showcase, the quality in production, and wealth of information you present in your videos, and the unique ability to bring titans of the industry. There's really no other channel like this one.
I agree. Alot of his content is over my head but it's great and in all the many videos I have watched from Rick I have never heard one negative comment
As an Aussie, I can attest Tommy is a household name here in Australia. I was lucky enough to watch/hear a great live show as a rabid guitar-learning music-mad teen - in Sydney, back in 1983. Tommy was playing with possibly the only guitarist on Earth ever - a lesser-known guitarist whom could simply shadow, technically match & indeed even up the ante & clearly outdo with his outrageous virtuosity (YES, OUTDO) the imperious wizard Tommy - his dearly-departed & most sadly missed; one guitarcheologist extraordinaire & Tommy's superlatively talented elder brother; the late great but never forgotten - Phil Emmanuel. If Tommy is a gun - and he is, then his older brother, Phil, was a Gatling-gun. Just a freakish guitarist was Phil Emmanuel. Thank you Rick for this great interview, Tommy is as talkative enthusiastic & 'alive' with music as he always has been, great stuff 11/10! RIP - Phil Emmanuel - Guitar Genius Never Forgotten.
Yes Tommy is brilliant and I dearly miss Phil. Phil used to play at a bar in Kingsford every fortnight in the early nineties. Me and my mates used to be there every fortnight. He was setting the stage up by himself so we asked if we could help. He said yes thank you. Over the next couple of months I learned so much practical advice on setting up a stage that I'm forever grateful. Awesome guy too. The only guy who can play Bach to an aussie pub crowd and get a cheer! RIP mate
Glad to see Phil getting a mention. I saw him twice, and the first time he was absolutely on fire. Killed it all night with dirty blues. Brilliant. Second time, well maybe he'd discovered the minibar or something.
@@LuvHrtZ Having seen him on both a really good and a really bad night, I get the feeling he ran hot and cold. This may explain why, for all his talents, he wasn't as commercially successful as his brother. Certainly nowhere nearly as well known as Tommy.
I took my 10 year old son to see Tommy at the Winter Gardens, Blackpool UK, a decade or so a go. My son was enthralled. We were near the front and Tommy kept smiling at him directly, throughout the show. Towards the end of the gig, late in the evening, Tommy dedicated a song to him. Tommy said something along the lines of 'this is for the young lad at the front, who has remained awake and attentive all night, and also so that he can remember the time when I played two songs at once'. Tommy then played Yankee Doodle Dandy and Dixie, both melodies/songs simultaneously. What a gent!!! What an amazing player!! Thank you Tommy. Thank you Rick!
@@andrewbroughton65 Thank you Andrew. I did a little research myself after we saw TE perform it. Our son went on to do his end of year school presentation/PowerPoint, at age 10, on TE and his career and it included TE's Beatles Medley on video which his class and teacher loved. He has gone on to be a drummer and a TV audio/music live broadcast engineer.
@@bernie_smith Beautiful story. Here's mine! :) In June 2001 I took my 13 year old son (who by that time was already starting to play Eric Johnson material!) to see Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings here in Edinburgh. The attraction, in part, was his two guitarists: Albert Lee and Martin Taylor. We were there in good time. There was an opening act. Tommy somebodyorother. Acoustic. Solo acoustic. Meh. We were itching for THE BAND! So, Tommy Emmanuel comes on . . . and he was stunning. So rich musically, so enjoyable, and (like this video) great entertainment. He certainly left us wanting more! We were a long, long way from the front of the auditorium, but the evening is indelibly etched in memory. I'm sure Tommy has touched countless lives this way.
We saw and met Tommy a few years ago when he did a 3 hour performance at the Toronto Shadows Club in Canada. Yes, he is amazing and a great gentleman who loves music and spent a lot of time talking to us guitar nuts about his technique, guitar strings and anything music related. It was an awesome evening.
@@erajad Brilliant. Thank you for sharing. Was fortunate to see TE and Martin Taylor playing together on one of their joint UK tours some years back. Another very memorable night. Kind regards, Bernie.
I grew up with Tommy (and Phil) playing in the pubs in Sydney throughout the 80s and 90s. I saw him play close to 100 times...He is an Australian national treasure. Thanx Rick.
I've played for over 50 years accustic. I'll never be as good as Tommy. To see someone achieve a level of almost perfection is humbling. It's a gift . love to watch him pick.
This is the best 54 minutes and 19 seconds in the history of the world. There are musicians that inspire and then there's Tommy. Sixty six years old and as vibrant and vital as a world class athlete. Even unsaid Tommy teaches us that humility and ability are inseparable twins and you HAVE to do the work while loving every second of it.
Ridiculous. Just ridiculous how great a guitar player this man is . And so humble . Notice Rick is now the man who interviews for all of us , the greatest players in music. Just loved every moment.
Possibly the best Tommy Emmanuel interview I've ever seen. Rick is a quality interviewer. I felt the same way about the interview with Sting....Rick's knowledge of music and his enthusiasm for great musicians and their work shows through at every point. Two really first rate interviews with men who have been interviewed many, many times, but were clearly enthusiastic about the interview and very forthcoming because Rick obviously knows music and asks sophisticated questions that haven't been asked over and over again....Such a good interview that I donated to the channel...Well worth it.
Rick Beato, an accomplished guitarist without reservation, is clearly awestruck by Emmanuel. It's touching to see his genuine regard for the epic talent of Tommy. Another tremendous interview by Rick.
Honestly, one of the things that just pours off both of these people as admiration. Rick is awestruck by Tommy, yes; and Tommy in turn can't stop singing the praises of Paul McCartney, Chet Atkins, Lenny Breau, Frank Sinatra, Joni Mitchell, Steve Gadd, and countless other masters and legends across every school of music. It's the middling and mediocre musicians who talk about themselve and their work almost exclusively. The truly great ones, even talking about their own work, can't help but talk with admiration and respect of others who have informed and influenced them.
@@LukeMaynard Amen...! That's how I can tell who a mediocre musician is. There seems to be an inverse relationship between true talent/musicianship and ego. The smaller the talent, the bigger the ego and vise versa. Tommy is a great example of the vise versa...!
Being an Aussie myself it's so great to see Tommy getting the international recognition he deserves. When you see him live he is incredible. I still remember seeing him live many years ago at st george sailing club absolutely incredible. Also what makes him one of my favorite guitarists is his humility.
Music is not a contest. There is no "best" guitarist and I don't like to use that terminology or compare players. But I saw Tommy live last night for the first time. Yes, he is the world's greatest acoustic guitarist. Then there's everyone else. There, I said it. He is absolutely astounding. His touch, tone, phrasing, dynamics, and overall command of the instrument is like nothing I've ever witnessed, and I've seen many of the great players we all know and love from all genres. Tommy is in complete control of what he plays even when he steps right up the edge when he's improvising. I've never seen anything quite like it. My jaw is still on the floor of the venue where I saw him. I need to go back there today and find it. Guitar bonfire in my back yard tonight...
I heard that brother. I always believed that if "they" can do it, than so can I.... It was probably the reason why I took up playing Then I heard Tommy play, and I realized that I could never get that kind of control, no matter how hard I work, and I am flat out jealous of this man's talent.
With Tommy, the first thing that impresses you is he's technically a great guitarist. Then, you realize he's using that great technique to MAKE MUSIC. The music is #1. Finally, it's his attitude, his humility, his love, his approach that makes him Tommy Emmanuel. Echoing the comments about Rick's channel. Such a resource. He knows what good stuff is, who the greats are, and he does his homework.
In Australia we were being bedazzled by the Emmanuel brothers 45 years ago. Tommy has gone on to be the greatest acoustic guitar player in history we are so proud of him here. Thank you Rick for your excellent interview pure gold 👏👏👏
I've been to many of Tommy's concerts, but my highlight was when I was in university. I had a show on the university radio station and had contacted Tommy's manager prior to the concert to ask if I could interview him before the concert and they immediately said yes. Before the concert, I was brought backstage to meet Tommy, I interviewed him for a bit, got him to show me some things, showed him some of my own playing, and received some advice directly from the master. It was an absolutely unbelievable experience and one that I will treasure forever. Tommy is genuinely one of the nicest people I've ever met. Here I was, this 19 year old university undergraduate, coming to interview him, and he was so unbelievably gracious and friendly. I will never forget it. At the time of writing, I am actually going to be seeing Tommy in concert again in about a week and I'm super excited!
what i love about Tommy is how he talks up everyone else in the industry all the greats, but when it comes to himself he lets his hands do the talking. a true master of his art.
This by a country mile the best interview with Tommy. Rick and Tommy's love for their topic is so infectious. Rick's enthusiasm prompts Tommy to explain the roots of his incredible musicality, beyond just a 'show and tell', revealing the iceberg of influence and discipline that sits below Tommy's calling to be a great guitarist, composer and musician. Great stuff Rick and Tommy, thank you. When I was studying composition at university in the 80s we were given an assignment to interview a musician and analyse their style etc. Tommy was touring locally and did a gig and a guitar workshop (in northern NSW, Australia). I attended both and spoke with Tommy after the gig. I asked if he'd be happy to be interviewed. He said 'come over to my mum's for a cup of tea' and half an hour later I was at his mother's house (she lived in the area). I spoke with Tommy for 45 minutes and recorded the interview while his mum provided afternoon tea and cake. I felt honoured to have been invited and came away from the incredible experience with far more than the High Distinction for the assignment, a lasting view of Tommy as an amazing human being as well as an incredible musician. Thank you again Tommy.
This wasn't just a great interview by Rick of another legend... It was a mini-concert. Love that Rick needed no prodding of Tommy to play an example of what Tommy was talking about, which makes this interview one I'll watch many times.
I first heard - and met - Tommy when I was 15. He did a tight music clinic for highschool students in Bendigo, Victoria AUS. I was one of the few (bless my music teacher) who was chosen to attend. What I loved, and always will, about Tommy, is how effortlessly and expansively he can communicate what he does, and how he does it, to another musician. Rick absolutely nailed this interview - I just wish they'd given Tommy the right gauge strings on that Gibson!!!
Tommy is the gold standard of guitar ambassadors. Also, Rick is an incredible interviewer. He asks his question and then allows the artist to answer without interruption. This gives the artist plenty of room to give complete answers.
What I have learned from Tommy Emmanuel is to keep playing. Only reason people lose their skills with age - aside from the cruel fact of nature that muscles atrophy with age - but that if we keep using them we can keep those skills, to a large degree! Note to self: never stop playing. Keep your passion.
Good lord, that rendition of Slow Dancing in a Burning Room at the end. I must have heard Mike play it hundreds of times already but Tommy's accompaniment is absolutely stunning. That's one of the things I love about Tommy, he can sound amazing by himself but when playing with other people, he really knows how to make you look good. He can take an already amazing song and shoot it up straight into the stratosphere.
I can vouch for that. A while back, at the Chet Atkins convention, I was playing in the guitar builders room, working through one of my own arrangements. I'm a decent player, but that's about it. While I was playing, I heard someone playing with me - not playing against or over me, but adding little fills and runs, making me sound GOOD. I looked over my shoulder...and it was Tommy Freakin' Emmanuel. He didn't care that I was nobody, he was just having fun making music. He slapped me on the shoulder and busted out laughing. I felt better knowing that he felt that playing with me was worth his time. :D
@@DavidCHollingsworth What a fantastic experience. I'm truly happy for you. What a great role model that man is. I'm glad you shared that too, Best Regards
@@DavidCHollingsworth Spent some time with him at Key West show just before the shutdown last year. We talked about his song halfway home, which I play. He spent time talking about it and then showed me some stuff and then said he now plays it capoed at 2nd fret vice 3rd as he likes that sound better. I tried it and I agreed. it was so much fun, but there are hundreds of not thousands of stories like this. he spends time with everyone and loves to share music and ideas etc.
He personifies everything that is great about acoustic guitar and has mastered everything an acoustic guitar can be. Plus, he personifies enthusiasm and warmth. Tommy is a true hero and a top 5 guitar player of the world. I'd love to chat with him someday.
I saw him live in Auckland New Zealand about 30 years ago. He wasn't super well known here, and I think his local representation did him a massive disservice as only 15 people turned up to a venue that could easily accommodate 400 people. He took it in his stride and showed no less trademark enthusiasm. He gathered the few of us into the two front rows. It became more of a sitting room performance at that point, and a conversation between everyone there in between songs. It was beyond informal and to date is still my favourite ever gig.
Tommy is too humble ! He praises the best but doesn't realize that's who he is . And he's bettering himself every day with every duel , every solo and every expression that he puts his soul into . He is the best and he is sharing his soul with so many .
Rick, you are blowing things out of the water (per usual, but especially lately). Tommy is one of my favorite guitarists also. I contend, your interviews are some of the best I have ever seen. The guests, the questions, the Audio and video quality et al. Thank you for bringing us these ICONs of music in such an incredibly engaging and professional way.
Tommy's performances are amazing, but this interview is a large step beyond amazing. To hear Tommy talk us through what he is doing as he is playing is priceless. I really appreciate how Rick asks a question and then stays out of the way and lets his guest talk. Two thumbs up Rick!
Here’s a sign of a musician truly being “next level”: As Rick listens to the musician playing something that’s relatively easy or second nature to him (in this case, it’s Tommy improvising), Rick just starts chuckling at how impossible it would be for him to duplicate it. And Rick’s quite a good player himself….
More than just "seemingly." He's an awesome guy, gentle and sincere, a real everyman. He's even been known to have impromptu jam sessions just for fun before a concert with a fan who happened along backstage. A bonza bloke in every respect. 👍
Not many people talk about this in relation to ANY guitarist, but Tommy is a master of dynamics. Love the way he makes melodies speak, and pulls back the volume for dramatic effect. Amazing.
Rick, if you keep these interviews going, in a couple of months incredible artists (or at least their PR team) will contact YOU for an interview instead of the other way around! All these musicians have a great time with you and can actually talk music. You give them space and ask just the right questions to make them shine. It definitely doesn't hurt that you have a large following of people that are into paying money to own a physical copy of a good album, too.
I saw Tommy live in Baton Rouge in 2010. Within 30 seconds of his first song, a woman came down to the front row and knelt down and tried to inconspicuously take a photo. Tommy saw her, stooped playing, walked down to her and had someone else take a photo of the two of them. The whole place roared with laughter and we were all putty in his hands after that. Complete master performer.
About 30 years ago I went to s Clapton gig and Tommy was opening for him. Tommy blew me away, he was playing a Maton guitar with a bit of delay etc and used the acoustic like it was a drum kit, his playing was amazing and so good that Clapton was a real let down and I felt like going home. Yep he blew Clapton away, God bless him.
I watched Lee Anderton’s interview with Tommy last night, and now this one this morning. Tommy is humble and generous with his praise of others, yet is a virtuoso in his own right. Saw him in Melbourne last time he was in town. Always memorable. When he plays with others like he does with Mike Dawes, he gives them room to shine also. Speaks to the spirit of the man and his love of music over love of self.
This. The praise of other artist is something I really love about Tommy Emmanuel: he never stops giving credit to other musicians and pays tribute to their art. Truly inspiring.
I know the sound guy who tours with Tommy when he's in Europe and he told me that Tommy is always practicing, hours and hours a day. If travelling in the car he gets his guitar out. In the hotel, in the airport lounge, wherever. It's all about hard work and dedication to his art. An incredibly modest and humble man.
As a fingerstyle player primarily, Tommy is one of my personal heroes. The thing I love about him the most is that he never forgets to give credit to his own heroes. Whenever someone praises him he's always quick to remind people that what he does wouldn't be possible without Chet Atkins.
@@matthewtayloryowieresearch1912 exactly! A lot of people don’t know how good Tommy’s brother was as well! He was also a beast specially at being a lead!
I re-watch this video about every six months to recharge. An hour of him demonstrating - and describing - how how he creates his magic. Have seen him several times in the US, hoping he comes back here to the UK where we now live.
Had the pleasure of seeing Tommy live at the Civic Theatre, Newcastle NSW a few weeks ago, and that is probably coming home for him. I had not seen him live since he payed with Phil as The Emmanuel Bros, who played some Fridays in the Tavern Bar at the pub I worked at. He and Phil were always nice, happy to chat to a young new glassie! The nice personality is 100% genuine.
I always thought that Phil Emanuel was the better guitarist as an Aussie who 1st saw em play Duelling Banjo's on TV as a kids act. Saw Goldrush & The Emanuel Brothers multiple times. In my opinion Phil was always the better guitarist as I saw The Emanuel Brothers & Goldrush multiple times as a kid in concert in OZtralia. Love this show but why does Tommy always get the acolytes when Phil is always largely ignored even though he always played the lead bit & hardest bits when playing as a duo. Love em! Vale Phil Emanuel RIP mate!~
Tommy recorded 3 CDs at our studio, and I got to be a fly on the wall for part of it. His energy and focus are amazing. He entered the studio ready to go, and was seated in from of a mic within minutes of arrival! Such a nice guy!
Just watching Rick's reaction to Tommy's interludes is delightful. Tommy draws you in to his world and for a moment, nothing else exists. Absolute top draw.
Rick has built not just a great TH-cam channel but an entertainment venue that rivals anything on TV, streaming, podcasts, etc. Brilliant interviews. The 30:00 - 31:30 minute mark is elite guitar work. Simply insane.
The most incredible aspect of what Tommy does, is (I think), that everything he plays is ad lib and absolutely in the moment. I've been listening to him play "Initiation" for 32 years, and the most recent performance here on TH-cam sounds nothing like I heard in 1992. But it's his best version yet. :P
I studied classical guitar, I like obscure rock, King Crimson, etc, and of course as all musicians, anything that's good, but this man..., what I feel hearing him play, every time, is SO unique, no matter how much I love EVH, Pat Metheny, Satriani, Fripp, no one makes me feel the joy and wonder I feel hearing and watching him play the guitar, it's as though he was playing from within the instrument. Totally wonder-full , emotional.-
I really like how generous Tommy is with his playing here. He seems not to need the pyrotechnics he's so often playing in public. So refreshing since as a mediocre guitarist to see him do things more subtly. I can learn better watching him here. And he's one of Rick's best interviews.
What strikes me is that both men have high self esteem but very little ego (in the negative sense). Rick is genuinely open to learning from Tommy and representing the kind of questions he thinks his audience might want to ask and Tommy seems genuinely open to his audience -- in this case Rick -- and willing to share his passion.
What a bloody marvellous interview... And that final jam melted what was left of me. ❤️❤️❤️ I just LOVE the mood of these interviews. Like good old friends "catching up" and talking of oh so many good things and having a laugh and sharing their stories and knowledges. Thank you, both of you. These things enrich who watches and listens, as a PERSON, not "just" as a musician (which I am not). I love you guys, you're so human. Thank you.
When a legend says, "I watched your video with that OTHER legend (Sting), and what HE said is so true. . . " I always knew Rick was bringing contact with greatness to the mortals like me, but now I can actually see that even for legends, he's bringing THEM into contact with other musical thinkers that THEY might not have gotten to meet. I'm just absolutely blown away by Rick's growing legacy.
"There are people who play rings around me". Got to love that he's humble enough to say it. Obviously, there are alot of guitarists doing stuff Tommy doesn't but if we talk specifically about his style... I think he's still there at the top. Much respect! I always look at Tommy a little like I do at Muhammed Ali, who was a boxer. Muhammed Ali is known as the greatest of all time, but not just for his boxing as there were better boxers (ofcourse people have their own opinions of this). But Muhammed's energy, what he did outside of the boxing ring, ... made him the greatest. And it's the same with Tommy for me. If you've seen this guy live you'll know that, his insane playing aside, his energy and stage presence is a very big aspect of him too. A guy who plays insanely good but just sits and stares at his fingers doesn't get you going the same way Tommy does.
I think for a lot of guitarists there is always going to be someone who does something different, and (in their eyes) better. When talking about playing with the late Doc Watson and trying to imitate his style, Uwe Kruger pretty much said 'you can't out-Doc Doc". The greats have their own strengths and style that even other great players can't approach. Ditto on Tommy's energy though. The man just beams out into the audience as he's laying it down.
Saw Tommy at byron bay bluesfest 2019. Whoa. He wasn't the cliche of my (Australian) childhood.. He's a champion who filled a festival yet he then walks quietly among us. Don't miss a chance to see him play or say hello to him.
Tommy is a very good guitar player, but far from the best. He lacks subtlety and restraint in most cases, which is crucial in my book. You have to be able to just breeze through a song without always making it something that it's not. I get that he's passionate but restraint and release is very much part of a performance. That's something he's not very good at, and that's why I can not count him as one of the best. There are plenty of guitar players out there who does it just as good, only with more class. That being said, Tommy Emmanuel is really good. I thought his performance of "Secret Love" in this video was out of this damn world. Absolutely beautiful.
@@hastobe303 In my book he's what this craft is all about; great musicianship and entertainment. Tommy pulls you in with that wether you're a musician yourself or not. I hope it's still ok to listen to him? ;)
I've had the privilege of meeting Tommy and speaking with him a couple of times, and seen him live several times, including in a pub where it was a gathering of guitarists and he was encouraging others to play (though as a veteran player, I did find the idea a bit intimidating, so I remained seated!). He is truly one of the greatest guitarists of all time. His humility is so genuine. He's such an inspiration, not only as a musician, but as a human being. And yeah, there is no one who can "play rings around" Tommy. That he says that speaks volumes about who he is. He really is a master. I think he knows that he is, but he has so much reverence for music. He sees it as bigger than him. So humbling. A true virtuoso.
I love how humble Tommy Emmanuel is, always crediting others in such a selfless way... what a beautiful ambassador of sound and, as always, I feel privileged to be in the presence of such an informed, educating and engaged interview. Fantastic, Rick.
This guy is the world’s greatest. I told my father about him and sent him some of his music as a Christmas present. My father was a local country/gospel musician in Arkansas. He passed Tommy’s music around to his friends, and they went crazy. They went crazy enough they got Tommy to appear and play at the civic center in Mountain View. Thank you for interviewing him. May be your best.
Being an Aussie I can definitively say that Tommy is as true blue as it gets. Humble, works on his trade, not out spoken n gives ya the time of day no matter who u r. I've been watchin Ricks ch for years n I've never seen him look like a giddy school girl getting asked to Grad by the most handsome dude in school😂 Absolutely fantastic all round.
Lets not underestimate that the superstars are willing to work with Rick. Rick has made music theory approachable and resonates with, and brings us the very best from the best. Thank you Rick.
man, the giggles and the chops in this video are out of this world! Tommy is unbelievably humble and down-to-earth. Rick, you bring the best out of these geniuses, exposing their secrets to us mortal, while gaining their trust with your extraordinary knowledge. fantastic stuff. please, please, please keep this up!
Yes, this and the Eric Johnson interview are two of the best ever done IMHO. Both these artists are truly transcendent. I find myself perpetually inspired and lifted up by both of them. Rick knows just what to query and most importantly does not interrupt...
Despite, or perhaps because of, the personal losses he's suffered in his life, Tommy radiates warmth humour and goodness. He is a man with effortless charisma that everyone would want as a friend. And boy can he make that guitar sing and shout.
I've seen Tommy numerous times, he's been a guest in my home on multiple occasions, and it's great to see an interview which is long enough and in-depth enough for his true genius and musicality to really come out. He truly has no technical limitations, in spite of his modesty, so he can focus on musical spirituality. Well done, Rick.
I saw Tommy January 24, 2013 in Reno Nv. I know the date because I still have the autographed ticket stub in my wallet. It was one of the best performances I've ever experienced. His story telling is just as great as his playing. If you ever have the chance, take the time, spend the coin, just GO. You will never regret it.
I’ll be absolutely honest and say I had never heard of Tommy Emmanuel-ever. This is what makes Rick and this channel so great. Now I feel like I not only know this great artist, I understand and appreciate great music and how it’s created. Thank you Rick for shining a light on great artists like Tommy. You are a national treasure and I really appreciate what you bring to us lay people every week. Keep up the great work!🔥🤙
I met Tommy and his brother Phil as a teenager. Their performance changed how I listened to guitar. Decades later, while traveling my musical knowledge collection walkabout of the Americas, I was surprised to find how many musical people on the West coast knew who Tommy was. A great ambassador for guitar technique and internationally influenced Australian guitarists. Weeding out what we don't need in a tune (placing more space) matters. I appreciate this clip.
Bravo Rick. I thought you'd peaked early with Sting. Tommy is a national icon for us Aussies. Wonderful genuine down to earth human being we are all better for having listened to you talk with Tommy. Thank you Rick.
It's clear that Tommy still gets so much joy from playing and that Rick gets joy from Tommy playing and we get joy from watching them both. Another great interview, Rick!
Most of us have the jaw dropping experience even after many years of Tommy but gotta love how RickB laughs as he watches - he knows exactly what’s going on and that laugh really underscores us jaw dropping mere mortals. Fabulous interview and the Tommy-Dawes finale was a hell of a treat!!
Yes. Rick’s grinning like a Cheshire cat as Tommy pauses mid-sentence to let rip with some of the sweetest playing you’ll ever hear before casually finishing what he was saying as if nothing has happened.
Tommy pushing the quintessential Australian character trait of his generation by quickly interjecting after he finishes playing to avoid having to navigate a compliment. He knows his hand skills are great but he doesn’t want that to foreshadow the songs that have been gifted to him through the hard work of everyone that has inspired him. He’s a true custodian of music and the people that have influenced him. What a gift.
Getting complimented is the worst thing lol
:)
@@andrewbroughton65 No need to get salty and turn a nice comment about Tommy into pissing contest.
@@andrewbroughton65 Culture does vary country to country. For example if he was American he'd be setting himself up for the compliments and basking in them. If he was Japanese he'd be humble and self-effacing.
Great comment mate, I agree with you 100%.
The fact that Tommy is STILL learning is the most humbling thing I’ve heard in a while
All great masters of their are humble and ever-learning. It’s a key to greatness. 👍🏾
The truth is everyone is always learning. No single human in existence never just stops learning.
Imagine what will happen when he gets good
Got to see Tommy a few years ago live and it was amazing how his energy filled the entire room. Still in my opinion the best guitarist alive.
Saw him live in Toronto few years back and yeah he was great. Had the best version of "Hurt" I've ever heard, and never heard since
He’s great… saw him in Melbourne in mid 1990’s touring for his journey album.
Tommy is an amazing guitar player and entertainer. I could listen to this guy play all day long.,I play guitar and he just blows me away with his arrangements.
@@Ca_milo_G Unfortunately no, I don't think anyone recorded it, and I've looked around online and couldn't find it. But in a way, it makes it more special knowing that it was a moment in time and a feeling I walked away with.
Him and Richard Smith
Tommy Emmanuel's enthusiasm is infectious. His love for playing music is completely tangible. It's impossible to not smile when he plays and talks. Love him.
Yes! He plays with his whole heart, soul and body. It's like he IS the guitar.
I had tears of joy could hardly ficus❤
This channel has always been a masterpiece. It’s now becoming the one-stop source of great exclusive music content that we’ve always wanted. Rick, we all owe you big big time!
this is one of the few channels where every video is awesome and I will enjoy every single video
Couldn’t have said it better.
I agree 100%
It's pretty great.. when the video isn't 60% self promo. We get it, you have a book/course.
Give ur reaction for alip_ba_ta sir... Fingerstyle guitaris from Indonesia.. 🙏.
I'm exactly the same age as you Rick, and coincidentally born in the same year, and within about a month. I've been following Tommy since I was in high school. I lied about my age to get into a pub in Sydney where he and his brother Phil were playing, just to satisfy my obsession with guitar.
I got some lessons from both of them around that time and you could not have met two nicer people. RIP Phil. I would make many bootleg recordings of their early pub gigs and have been following Tommy's career ever since then. We always knew even back then, that one day Tommy would be playing the world's great concert halls.
Tommy always kept telling me that I should come to a Chet Atkins Society convention in Nashville, which I did for the first time a few years ago, to celebrate my recovery from cancer. And he dedicated a song to me during his performance, and mentioned that when he was starting out in the business and playing pubs, I had been to more of his gigs than he had. To this day, he still remains one of the nicest people in the business.
In all the years I've been following your TH-cam channel Rick, I've been hoping that you would one day interview Tommy. I am so glad you finally did. His kind heart is only eclipsed by the fact that he has pushed forward the boundaries of playing Fingerstyle guitar further than any guitarist would have thought humanly possible. And the hard work and effort he has put into in helping other guitarists develop their skills and carry on this fine musical tradition, cannot be understated.
And likewise the contribution your channel has made to the pursuit of music, will also I'm sure endure the test of time for future generations of people to enjoy. Gentleman, I salute both of you.
Yes, I've got a short but auspicious Tommy story myself. His place in this world is far beyond even just guitar/music, but "what a great reason to get out of bed boys and girls!" 😄
i watched phil at the RSL break a string in the middle of a song and just bent every note to pitch to finish the song !! amazing brothers!!!
@@nigelbarnett351 Without Phil, there wouldn't be Tommy.
That was so wonderfully written. Well done.
Nobody ever played the guitar with more pure joy than Tommy. That's why he is so special to me. Ultimate happiness of guitar playing.
Big head though
@@kippsguitar6539 Really ? Seems so humble here. Confident for sure, but as he says, he's the open vessel, and just trying to pass on happiness to the listener
Tommy and EVH, uncontained joy while playing. I consider myself fortunate to have seen both sets of brothers play live.
@@kippsguitar6539 you are most certainly entitle to your opinion but, maybe do some research on Tommy before you pass such a comment mate
@kippsguitar6539 big head? Have you heard him play? Clown comment
This interview made me cry. Been listening to Tommy almost all my life. And yet he still has new things to offer to the world. True inspiration.
Thank you Mr. Rick for such a beautiful interview with Tommy Emmanuel. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Speaking as former music editor at a national newspaper, I have to say your style of interviewing is really excellent. It takes a lot to avoid the most common mistake (being overly star struck) and get to the heart of the job, allowing your guests' genius and demeanor to come out. You make them feel safe and appreciated without being fawning. Very professional and a genuine public service! There's no one doing this better these days.
Brilliant melodies can do so very much in the hands of a virtuoso. Tommy knows the value of melodies by Paul McCartney and John Mayer. The instrument as a human voice. Mesmerizing, inspiring, just wonderful.
So true 👍🏻
It's easy to avoid being star struck with Tommy , he is one of the most down to earth people you could ever hope to meet , despite his preternatural talent.
Agreed.
Thank you for making these observations. I am fascinated by the simplicity, authenticity, and humility of these conversations. So much to admire here. 🙏🏻
A true Australian gentleman. Stunning guitarist and a hell of a bloke too. His brother Phil was a killer player too. Rest In Peace Phil.
Yep Phil was bloody good too….I remember seeing them both several times as they were regular gigs in the pubs
@@occyman Saw Phil play with Albert Lee with about 50 in the room. 11/10 ..
I saw Phil live many moons ago. As a player myself, I didn't hear one mistake during he's gig...
Bloody oath.
Rick looks like a kid in a candy store watching Tommy play. There is no one else like Tommy!
"There are players that could play rings around me"
Man Tommy is just too humble.
Who are they?
@@CptSlow89 Aliens from a different planet maybe or from another dimension..?
Nice of him to say that. . . no truth to it at all.
Right?! Give me names, Tommy
My Dad knew Tommy because he was a record producer and he took me to a TE concert in Tamworth, NSW (I think I was about 8 or younger) and as we were leaving Dad & Tommy had a chat and I said to Tommy that my Dad was the best guitarist in the world, and he agreed "Yes Son I think you are right" ! I think back now and know that was the nicest thing you could say to a kid that's proud of his Dad ! Of all the people to say that too !
Tommy's brother Phil was a killer player and used to join a band I was in called Johnny Green's Blues Cowboys on stage alot when I was a teenager.
Great interview Rick, all the best. It's great to see you enjoying it. Tommy is sounding incredible as usual.
My wife and I saw Tommy live in 2018, one week before she died. She loved his music and playing and had all his CDs. Tommy Emmanuel will always be special to me for giving my wife her last joyful concert.
Grief loves nothing more than to sneak up noiselessly and land a sucker punch that leaves me gasping.
But you have the celestial memory of your wife listening to her favorite music. Could anything be better.
Instant tears upon reading of your situation. Tommy's heavenly gift! You and your beloved touched by it. Beautiful. Just in time. ❤
oh boy - so so sorry mate. Your story brought tears - precious experience and memories - much love.
As an Aussie, I am super proud of Tommy Emmanuel Rick. When I was living in the North East of England back in the late 90s I was told by a dear friend that Tommy Emmanuel was playing in one of the local pubs. Having know of Tommy for years as a stadium performer I said, no he isn't! So, with scepticism, I booked into the pub with another Aussie friend who was working with me in the UK. We decided to go to the pub early to have dinner and we met Tommy in the restaurant. He was so warm and friendly and we chatted for a little while. We were honoured to have Tommy dedicate a number of songs to us fellow Aussies in the pub - that was packed with about 50 people. It was a magic night and Tommy performed for about 2 hours without a break. It was one of the best ever concerts of my life. So glad you managed to nab him for this interview Rick. So good!!
One of our national treasure. All Rick’s Aussie listeners coming out of the woodworks 😂
Thank you for your story!
@@zedlicious awesome, so glad he got to feature Tommy. He is absolutely one of the worlds best guitarists - possibly THE BEST!!!
@@fretlessfender thank you :)
Another proud Aussie here.... Tommy is a dead set legend
(Also I keep secretly hoping Beato will do a Chisel song on "What makes this song great?")
Not only an unbelievable player, but so generous with his time and knowledge. What an ambassador for the instrument Tommy is.
I got so much out of this interview and learned so much. Practice, practice, practice.
This channel deserves multiple awards for what it's giving the music loving community. The educational value, the level of passion and respect you showcase, the quality in production, and wealth of information you present in your videos, and the unique ability to bring titans of the industry. There's really no other channel like this one.
I agree. Alot of his content is over my head but it's great and in all the many videos I have watched from Rick I have never heard one negative comment
Could not agree more. This is the 3rd time I have watched this interview.... what a pro, and what a good human being
Rick will some have artists lined up wanting to be one of his guests.
Amen.
Rick has the best music channel on TH-cam, hands down.
As an Aussie, I can attest Tommy is a household name here in Australia.
I was lucky enough to watch/hear a great live show as a rabid guitar-learning
music-mad teen - in Sydney, back in 1983. Tommy was playing with possibly the
only guitarist on Earth ever - a lesser-known guitarist whom could simply shadow,
technically match & indeed even up the ante & clearly outdo with his outrageous virtuosity
(YES, OUTDO) the imperious wizard Tommy - his dearly-departed & most sadly missed;
one guitarcheologist extraordinaire & Tommy's superlatively talented elder brother;
the late great but never forgotten - Phil Emmanuel.
If Tommy is a gun - and he is, then his older brother, Phil, was a Gatling-gun.
Just a freakish guitarist was Phil Emmanuel.
Thank you Rick for this great interview, Tommy is as talkative enthusiastic & 'alive'
with music as he always has been, great stuff 11/10!
RIP - Phil Emmanuel - Guitar Genius Never Forgotten.
happy to hear that tommy is getting the Recognition he so deserves in australia!
he should be a household name all over the world too!!
Yes Tommy is brilliant and I dearly miss Phil.
Phil used to play at a bar in Kingsford every fortnight in the early nineties. Me and my mates used to be there every fortnight.
He was setting the stage up by himself so we asked if we could help. He said yes thank you.
Over the next couple of months I learned so much practical advice on setting up a stage that I'm forever grateful.
Awesome guy too.
The only guy who can play Bach to an aussie pub crowd and get a cheer!
RIP mate
Glad to see Phil getting a mention. I saw him twice, and the first time he was absolutely on fire. Killed it all night with dirty blues. Brilliant. Second time, well maybe he'd discovered the minibar or something.
@@LuvHrtZ I'm sorry, I don't understand: how did he know what you play like?
@@LuvHrtZ Having seen him on both a really good and a really bad night, I get the feeling he ran hot and cold. This may explain why, for all his talents, he wasn't as commercially successful as his brother. Certainly nowhere nearly as well known as Tommy.
I took my 10 year old son to see Tommy at the Winter Gardens, Blackpool UK, a decade or so a go. My son was enthralled. We were near the front and Tommy kept smiling at him directly, throughout the show. Towards the end of the gig, late in the evening, Tommy dedicated a song to him. Tommy said something along the lines of 'this is for the young lad at the front, who has remained awake and attentive all night, and also so that he can remember the time when I played two songs at once'. Tommy then played Yankee Doodle Dandy and Dixie, both melodies/songs simultaneously. What a gent!!! What an amazing player!! Thank you Tommy. Thank you Rick!
How great is that. Awesome
@@andrewbroughton65 Thank you Andrew. I did a little research myself after we saw TE perform it. Our son went on to do his end of year school presentation/PowerPoint, at age 10, on TE and his career and it included TE's Beatles Medley on video which his class and teacher loved. He has gone on to be a drummer and a TV audio/music live broadcast engineer.
@@bernie_smith Beautiful story. Here's mine! :) In June 2001 I took my 13 year old son (who by that time was already starting to play Eric Johnson material!) to see Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings here in Edinburgh. The attraction, in part, was his two guitarists: Albert Lee and Martin Taylor. We were there in good time. There was an opening act. Tommy somebodyorother. Acoustic. Solo acoustic. Meh. We were itching for THE BAND! So, Tommy Emmanuel comes on . . . and he was stunning. So rich musically, so enjoyable, and (like this video) great entertainment. He certainly left us wanting more! We were a long, long way from the front of the auditorium, but the evening is indelibly etched in memory. I'm sure Tommy has touched countless lives this way.
We saw and met Tommy a few years ago when he did a 3 hour performance at the Toronto Shadows Club in Canada. Yes, he is amazing and a great gentleman who loves music and spent a lot of time talking to us guitar nuts about his technique, guitar strings and anything music related. It was an awesome evening.
@@erajad Brilliant. Thank you for sharing. Was fortunate to see TE and Martin Taylor playing together on one of their joint UK tours some years back. Another very memorable night. Kind regards, Bernie.
I grew up with Tommy (and Phil) playing in the pubs in Sydney throughout the 80s and 90s. I saw him play close to 100 times...He is an Australian national treasure. Thanx Rick.
awesome bro thats magic
I saw Tommy and Phil a couple of times in the early 90s when they came over to Perth.
Sa that Phil is no longer with us
RIP Phil, so sad he left us way too soon.
what a privilege man, are you still playing? An international treasure now.....
I've played for over 50 years accustic. I'll never be as good as Tommy. To see someone achieve a level of almost perfection is humbling. It's a gift . love to watch him pick.
This is the best 54 minutes and 19 seconds in the history of the world. There are musicians that inspire and then there's Tommy. Sixty six years old and as vibrant and vital as a world class athlete. Even unsaid Tommy teaches us that humility and ability are inseparable twins and you HAVE to do the work while loving every second of it.
Ridiculous. Just ridiculous how great a guitar player this man is . And so humble . Notice Rick is now the man who interviews for all of us , the greatest players in music. Just loved every moment.
So good....and I am nothing when I play guitar. Unbelievable.
Tommy is an Australian treasure. I've met him and he is every bit as original in person as you see him in any interview. What a talent.
54 minutes of pure musical joy and entertainment. Absolute magic, Aussie style, mate!
Possibly the best Tommy Emmanuel interview I've ever seen. Rick is a quality interviewer. I felt the same way about the interview with Sting....Rick's knowledge of music and his enthusiasm for great musicians and their work shows through at every point. Two really first rate interviews with men who have been interviewed many, many times, but were clearly enthusiastic about the interview and very forthcoming because Rick obviously knows music and asks sophisticated questions that haven't been asked over and over again....Such a good interview that I donated to the channel...Well worth it.
The Eric Johnson "unscripted" is probably one of the other best IMHO
Yes people are enthusiastic about being in a quality interview with rick
He sets them at ease and just lets them be and do their thing! Awesome!
Could not agree more! First class!
Well said!
The man still has "all the enthusiasm of an 18yo". Music is the elixir of youth.
Heck yeah. Love it.
To see Rick as smitten as the rest of us when we hear and see Tommy play it’s amazing. Absolute Australian national Treasure,
Check out Aussie guitarist Joe Robinson
Aussie National treasure and world as well indeed!!!
Yes, he is I think the best all round guitar player there is today.
Tommy is a national treasure for both Australia and the US.❤
Rick Beato, an accomplished guitarist without reservation, is clearly awestruck by Emmanuel. It's touching to see his genuine regard for the epic talent of Tommy. Another tremendous interview by Rick.
Rick is just sitting there giggling! You can't help but love watching Tommy play!
Honestly, one of the things that just pours off both of these people as admiration. Rick is awestruck by Tommy, yes; and Tommy in turn can't stop singing the praises of Paul McCartney, Chet Atkins, Lenny Breau, Frank Sinatra, Joni Mitchell, Steve Gadd, and countless other masters and legends across every school of music.
It's the middling and mediocre musicians who talk about themselve and their work almost exclusively. The truly great ones, even talking about their own work, can't help but talk with admiration and respect of others who have informed and influenced them.
Thats what Rick would look like if he met god...😊
@@LukeMaynard Amen...! That's how I can tell who a mediocre musician is. There seems to be an inverse relationship between true talent/musicianship and ego. The smaller the talent, the bigger the ego and vise versa. Tommy is a great example of the vise versa...!
Being an Aussie myself it's so great to see Tommy getting the international recognition he deserves. When you see him live he is incredible. I still remember seeing him live many years ago at st george sailing club absolutely incredible. Also what makes him one of my favorite guitarists is his humility.
Amen to that. Humble and generous.
South Australia, here, hi
Saw him in the late 80,s in his electric phase blew the doors off
Don't forget you also have the incredible Aussie Trumpeter James Morrison!
@@pauldavies9360 Don't forget he played with Australia's greatest singer ...John Farnham.
Music is not a contest. There is no "best" guitarist and I don't like to use that terminology or compare players. But I saw Tommy live last night for the first time. Yes, he is the world's greatest acoustic guitarist. Then there's everyone else. There, I said it. He is absolutely astounding. His touch, tone, phrasing, dynamics, and overall command of the instrument is like nothing I've ever witnessed, and I've seen many of the great players we all know and love from all genres. Tommy is in complete control of what he plays even when he steps right up the edge when he's improvising. I've never seen anything quite like it. My jaw is still on the floor of the venue where I saw him. I need to go back there today and find it. Guitar bonfire in my back yard tonight...
Tommy would scold you for that last crack.
I heard that brother.
I always believed that if "they" can do it, than so can I....
It was probably the reason why I took up playing
Then I heard Tommy play, and I realized that I could never get that kind of control, no matter how hard I work, and I am flat out jealous of this man's talent.
With Tommy, the first thing that impresses you is he's technically a great guitarist. Then, you realize he's using that great technique to MAKE MUSIC. The music is #1. Finally, it's his attitude, his humility, his love, his approach that makes him Tommy Emmanuel.
Echoing the comments about Rick's channel. Such a resource. He knows what good stuff is, who the greats are, and he does his homework.
In Australia we were being bedazzled by the Emmanuel brothers 45 years ago. Tommy has gone on to be the greatest acoustic guitar player in history we are so proud of him here. Thank you Rick for your excellent interview pure gold 👏👏👏
As an Aussie seeing Tommy absolutely kill the world stage makes me so happy!
He is a national treasure here in Australia, sad his brother Phil has passed, they were just amazing together. Out of this world
Truth..
He truly is a legend. He is also a fair dinkum top bloke!
I've been to many of Tommy's concerts, but my highlight was when I was in university. I had a show on the university radio station and had contacted Tommy's manager prior to the concert to ask if I could interview him before the concert and they immediately said yes. Before the concert, I was brought backstage to meet Tommy, I interviewed him for a bit, got him to show me some things, showed him some of my own playing, and received some advice directly from the master. It was an absolutely unbelievable experience and one that I will treasure forever. Tommy is genuinely one of the nicest people I've ever met. Here I was, this 19 year old university undergraduate, coming to interview him, and he was so unbelievably gracious and friendly. I will never forget it. At the time of writing, I am actually going to be seeing Tommy in concert again in about a week and I'm super excited!
“World’s Greatest Acoustic Guitarist”
Finally a YT video that is NOT click bait!
Thank you for showcasing & appreciating greatness Rick! 👏👍🔥♥️😊😎
what i love about Tommy is how he talks up everyone else in the industry all the greats, but when it comes to himself he lets his hands do the talking. a true master of his art.
Humble genius
This by a country mile the best interview with Tommy. Rick and Tommy's love for their topic is so infectious. Rick's enthusiasm prompts Tommy to explain the roots of his incredible musicality, beyond just a 'show and tell', revealing the iceberg of influence and discipline that sits below Tommy's calling to be a great guitarist, composer and musician. Great stuff Rick and Tommy, thank you. When I was studying composition at university in the 80s we were given an assignment to interview a musician and analyse their style etc. Tommy was touring locally and did a gig and a guitar workshop (in northern NSW, Australia). I attended both and spoke with Tommy after the gig. I asked if he'd be happy to be interviewed. He said 'come over to my mum's for a cup of tea' and half an hour later I was at his mother's house (she lived in the area). I spoke with Tommy for 45 minutes and recorded the interview while his mum provided afternoon tea and cake. I felt honoured to have been invited and came away from the incredible experience with far more than the High Distinction for the assignment, a lasting view of Tommy as an amazing human being as well as an incredible musician. Thank you again Tommy.
Cool story! Amazing player and amazing human being
Such a lovely story - I'm so proud as a fellow Aussie. He creates magic in just a few bars!
Would love to hear the interview if you still have a copy :)
@@WarlockAgenda I promised Tommy I wouldn't publish it and I've stuck to that
Every day this channel gets More important. Thank you Rick and thank everyone watching and loving playing and learning music.
This wasn't just a great interview by Rick of another legend... It was a mini-concert. Love that Rick needed no prodding of Tommy to play an example of what Tommy was talking about, which makes this interview one I'll watch many times.
I first heard - and met - Tommy when I was 15. He did a tight music clinic for highschool students in Bendigo, Victoria AUS. I was one of the few (bless my music teacher) who was chosen to attend. What I loved, and always will, about Tommy, is how effortlessly and expansively he can communicate what he does, and how he does it, to another musician. Rick absolutely nailed this interview - I just wish they'd given Tommy the right gauge strings on that Gibson!!!
Tommy is the gold standard of guitar ambassadors. Also, Rick is an incredible interviewer. He asks his question and then allows the artist to answer without interruption. This gives the artist plenty of room to give complete answers.
What I have learned from Tommy Emmanuel is to keep playing.
Only reason people lose their skills with age - aside from the cruel fact of nature that muscles atrophy with age - but that if we keep using them we can keep those skills, to a large degree!
Note to self: never stop playing. Keep your passion.
What a beautiful man and artist. Humble. Respectful and brilliant.
Good lord, that rendition of Slow Dancing in a Burning Room at the end. I must have heard Mike play it hundreds of times already but Tommy's accompaniment is absolutely stunning. That's one of the things I love about Tommy, he can sound amazing by himself but when playing with other people, he really knows how to make you look good. He can take an already amazing song and shoot it up straight into the stratosphere.
I can vouch for that. A while back, at the Chet Atkins convention, I was playing in the guitar builders room, working through one of my own arrangements. I'm a decent player, but that's about it. While I was playing, I heard someone playing with me - not playing against or over me, but adding little fills and runs, making me sound GOOD. I looked over my shoulder...and it was Tommy Freakin' Emmanuel. He didn't care that I was nobody, he was just having fun making music. He slapped me on the shoulder and busted out laughing. I felt better knowing that he felt that playing with me was worth his time. :D
@@DavidCHollingsworth such a cool history man... I would be totally star struck if I was in your place
@@DavidCHollingsworth What a fantastic experience. I'm truly happy for you. What a great role model that man is. I'm glad you shared that too, Best Regards
@@DavidCHollingsworth This rules. What a memory to hold on to.
@@DavidCHollingsworth Spent some time with him at Key West show just before the shutdown last year. We talked about his song halfway home, which I play. He spent time talking about it and then showed me some stuff and then said he now plays it capoed at 2nd fret vice 3rd as he likes that sound better. I tried it and I agreed. it was so much fun, but there are hundreds of not thousands of stories like this. he spends time with everyone and loves to share music and ideas etc.
The legends you have been interviewing recently are unbelievable. You are insane and unstoppable Rick!
He personifies everything that is great about acoustic guitar and has mastered everything an acoustic guitar can be. Plus, he personifies enthusiasm and warmth. Tommy is a true hero and a top 5 guitar player of the world. I'd love to chat with him someday.
I saw him live in Auckland New Zealand about 30 years ago. He wasn't super well known here, and I think his local representation did him a massive disservice as only 15 people turned up to a venue that could easily accommodate 400 people. He took it in his stride and showed no less trademark enthusiasm. He gathered the few of us into the two front rows. It became more of a sitting room performance at that point, and a conversation between everyone there in between songs. It was beyond informal and to date is still my favourite ever gig.
@@kwerk2011 awesome!
@@kwerk2011 what a fantastic experience that must have been!
Keep your eyes peeled. He regularly visits small venues and holds clinics wherever he's touring!
Tommy is too humble !
He praises the best but doesn't realize that's who he is . And he's bettering himself every day with every duel , every solo and every expression that he puts his soul into .
He is the best and he is sharing his soul with so many .
Beyond Tommy’s obvious mastery of the guitar, he’s having fun every time he picks up a guitar. It’s a delight to watch him.
He loves to play and obviously is in heaven to play for someone who can appreciate what he is doing.
Rick, you are blowing things out of the water (per usual, but especially lately). Tommy is one of my favorite guitarists also. I contend, your interviews are some of the best I have ever seen. The guests, the questions, the Audio and video quality et al. Thank you for bringing us these ICONs of music in such an incredibly engaging and professional way.
Tommy's performances are amazing, but this interview is a large step beyond amazing. To hear Tommy talk us through what he is doing as he is playing is priceless. I really appreciate how Rick asks a question and then stays out of the way and lets his guest talk. Two thumbs up Rick!
Just an insanely sublime interview.
I remember Tommy working at the local music shop in Melb
The guy has always been otherworldly.
great word - saintly perhaps - he certainly is cut from a different cloth.
Here’s a sign of a musician truly being “next level”: As Rick listens to the musician playing something that’s relatively easy or second nature to him (in this case, it’s Tommy improvising), Rick just starts chuckling at how impossible it would be for him to duplicate it. And Rick’s quite a good player himself….
Not just “next level” ….Top Level!
How can anyone NOT love Tommy! He's such a fabulous player and (seemingly) genuine, nice person! Thank you, Rick
More than just "seemingly." He's an awesome guy, gentle and sincere, a real everyman. He's even been known to have impromptu jam sessions just for fun before a concert with a fan who happened along backstage. A bonza bloke in every respect. 👍
Not many people talk about this in relation to ANY guitarist, but Tommy is a master of dynamics. Love the way he makes melodies speak, and pulls back the volume for dramatic effect. Amazing.
Yes and he's such a true intertainer!
Always loved listening to him talk or play
The word ”Amazing” cant be repeated to much, when it comes to Tommy Emmanuel!!
Amazing.
😱🙏🏼
Rick, if you keep these interviews going, in a couple of months incredible artists (or at least their PR team) will contact YOU for an interview instead of the other way around!
All these musicians have a great time with you and can actually talk music. You give them space and ask just the right questions to make them shine. It definitely doesn't hurt that you have a large following of people that are into paying money to own a physical copy of a good album, too.
EC, pls call Beato
Already happening. Rick said Stings's PR guy called him for interview. . .
I saw Tommy live in Baton Rouge in 2010. Within 30 seconds of his first song, a woman came down to the front row and knelt down and tried to inconspicuously take a photo. Tommy saw her, stooped playing, walked down to her and had someone else take a photo of the two of them. The whole place roared with laughter and we were all putty in his hands after that. Complete master performer.
I love how everytime Tommy plays an example, he gets so into it he has to pull himself back out. That's passion. What an inspirational legend!
@@mbanton8937 Most welcome, M. That's exactly how I feel about a great piece of music. Overwhelmingly beautiful.
About 30 years ago I went to s Clapton gig and Tommy was opening for him. Tommy blew me away, he was playing a Maton guitar with a bit of delay etc and used the acoustic like it was a drum kit, his playing was amazing and so good that Clapton was a real let down and I felt like going home. Yep he blew Clapton away, God bless him.
I watched Lee Anderton’s interview with Tommy last night, and now this one this morning. Tommy is humble and generous with his praise of others, yet is a virtuoso in his own right. Saw him in Melbourne last time he was in town. Always memorable. When he plays with others like he does with Mike Dawes, he gives them room to shine also. Speaks to the spirit of the man and his love of music over love of self.
This. The praise of other artist is something I really love about Tommy Emmanuel: he never stops giving credit to other musicians and pays tribute to their art. Truly inspiring.
I know the sound guy who tours with Tommy when he's in Europe and he told me that Tommy is always practicing, hours and hours a day. If travelling in the car he gets his guitar out. In the hotel, in the airport lounge, wherever. It's all about hard work and dedication to his art. An incredibly modest and humble man.
❤️ yes and of course his devotion to music and his beautiful application of his talent within it
As a fingerstyle player primarily, Tommy is one of my personal heroes. The thing I love about him the most is that he never forgets to give credit to his own heroes. Whenever someone praises him he's always quick to remind people that what he does wouldn't be possible without Chet Atkins.
Or, late great elder brother Phil Emmanuel, especially. RIP.
@@matthewtayloryowieresearch1912 exactly! A lot of people don’t know how good Tommy’s brother was as well! He was also a beast specially at being a lead!
@@kingzriot976 for sure bra, Phil's blues riffs were off-tap, just superb stunning sublime guitarasaurus-rex he was - a proper weapon. 🎸🤘🏻
I re-watch this video about every six months to recharge. An hour of him demonstrating - and describing - how how he creates his magic. Have seen him several times in the US, hoping he comes back here to the UK where we now live.
As an Australian Im so glad you’re appreciated as a world class musician Tommy, you have given me many years of music pleasure.
Had the pleasure of seeing Tommy live at the Civic Theatre, Newcastle NSW a few weeks ago, and that is probably coming home for him. I had not seen him live since he payed with Phil as The Emmanuel Bros, who played some Fridays in the Tavern Bar at the pub I worked at. He and Phil were always nice, happy to chat to a young new glassie! The nice personality is 100% genuine.
@@brianglendenning1632 saw the brothers play every Saturday at our local (Eastwood Hotel) over several weekends. Good times
I always thought that Phil Emanuel was the better guitarist as an Aussie who 1st saw em play Duelling Banjo's on TV as a kids act. Saw Goldrush & The Emanuel Brothers multiple times.
In my opinion Phil was always the better guitarist as I saw The Emanuel Brothers & Goldrush multiple times as a kid in concert in OZtralia. Love this show but why does Tommy always get the acolytes when Phil is always largely ignored even though he always played the lead bit & hardest bits when playing as a duo. Love em! Vale Phil Emanuel RIP mate!~
Tommy always says Phil was the better electric guitarist. And certainly he was no slouch on the acoustic. Amazing players, both.
Don't matter one bit where you're from, genius is genius any way you cut it.
What a class act... the very definition of humility!
I did NOT want this interview to end!!!
Tommy recorded 3 CDs at our studio, and I got to be a fly on the wall for part of it. His energy and focus are amazing. He entered the studio ready to go, and was seated in from of a mic within minutes of arrival! Such a nice guy!
That’s a clue of his mastery right there
Just watching Rick's reaction to Tommy's interludes is delightful. Tommy draws you in to his world and for a moment, nothing else exists. Absolute top draw.
perfectly said - in this day and age, creating an expereince where 'nothing else exists' is near on miraculous.
Rick has built not just a great TH-cam channel but an entertainment venue that rivals anything on TV, streaming, podcasts, etc. Brilliant interviews.
The 30:00 - 31:30 minute mark is elite guitar work. Simply insane.
Agree completely!
The most incredible aspect of what Tommy does, is (I think), that everything he plays is ad lib and absolutely in the moment. I've been listening to him play "Initiation" for 32 years, and the most recent performance here on TH-cam sounds nothing like I heard in 1992. But it's his best version yet. :P
I studied classical guitar, I like obscure rock, King Crimson, etc, and of course as all musicians, anything that's good, but this man..., what I feel hearing him play, every time, is SO unique, no matter how much I love EVH, Pat Metheny, Satriani, Fripp, no one makes me feel the joy and wonder I feel hearing and watching him play the guitar, it's as though he was playing from within the instrument. Totally wonder-full , emotional.-
"Playing within the instrument." Perfectly put.
Rick’s giggles and amazement is exactly how I feel when Tommy plays. This is all wonderful.
He giggles like a school girl....love it!!!!
At his age, his body and mind sharper than any young musician today. Just unbelievable what hard work and dedication can make of a person!
I really like how generous Tommy is with his playing here. He seems not to need the pyrotechnics he's so often playing in public. So refreshing since as a mediocre guitarist to see him do things more subtly. I can learn better watching him here. And he's one of Rick's best interviews.
I saw Tommy perform several times on stage. He is an underrated guitar phenomenon! Why this guy doesn’t get more recognition is beyond me?
??? He is an internationally revered artist. "Underrated" is the least applicable descriptor you could have found.
@@blackletter2591 Tommy Emmanuel’s fans are either other guitar players or hardcore guitar enthusiasts. The general public are not familiar with him
What strikes me is that both men have high self esteem but very little ego (in the negative sense). Rick is genuinely open to learning from Tommy and representing the kind of questions he thinks his audience might want to ask and Tommy seems genuinely open to his audience -- in this case Rick -- and willing to share his passion.
High self-esteem and very little ego - beautifully put, thank you!
People all over the world need to know about Tommy's genius and heartfelt intuition. He is a world treasure...wow.
What a bloody marvellous interview... And that final jam melted what was left of me. ❤️❤️❤️
I just LOVE the mood of these interviews. Like good old friends "catching up" and talking of oh so many good things and having a laugh and sharing their stories and knowledges.
Thank you, both of you. These things enrich who watches and listens, as a PERSON, not "just" as a musician (which I am not). I love you guys, you're so human. Thank you.
When a legend says, "I watched your video with that OTHER legend (Sting), and what HE said is so true. . . "
I always knew Rick was bringing contact with greatness to the mortals like me, but now I can actually see that even for legends, he's bringing THEM into contact with other musical thinkers that THEY might not have gotten to meet.
I'm just absolutely blown away by Rick's growing legacy.
"There are people who play rings around me".
Got to love that he's humble enough to say it. Obviously, there are alot of guitarists doing stuff Tommy doesn't but if we talk specifically about his style... I think he's still there at the top.
Much respect!
I always look at Tommy a little like I do at Muhammed Ali, who was a boxer. Muhammed Ali is known as the greatest of all time, but not just for his boxing as there were better boxers (ofcourse people have their own opinions of this). But Muhammed's energy, what he did outside of the boxing ring, ... made him the greatest. And it's the same with Tommy for me. If you've seen this guy live you'll know that, his insane playing aside, his energy and stage presence is a very big aspect of him too. A guy who plays insanely good but just sits and stares at his fingers doesn't get you going the same way Tommy does.
I think for a lot of guitarists there is always going to be someone who does something different, and (in their eyes) better.
When talking about playing with the late Doc Watson and trying to imitate his style, Uwe Kruger pretty much said 'you can't out-Doc Doc". The greats have their own strengths and style that even other great players can't approach.
Ditto on Tommy's energy though. The man just beams out into the audience as he's laying it down.
I wish I knew who he was talking about!?!?!?
Saw Tommy at byron bay bluesfest 2019. Whoa. He wasn't the cliche of my (Australian) childhood.. He's a champion who filled a festival yet he then walks quietly among us. Don't miss a chance to see him play or say hello to him.
Tommy is a very good guitar player, but far from the best. He lacks subtlety and restraint in most cases, which is crucial in my book. You have to be able to just breeze through a song without always making it something that it's not. I get that he's passionate but restraint and release is very much part of a performance. That's something he's not very good at, and that's why I can not count him as one of the best. There are plenty of guitar players out there who does it just as good, only with more class.
That being said, Tommy Emmanuel is really good. I thought his performance of "Secret Love" in this video was out of this damn world. Absolutely beautiful.
@@hastobe303 In my book he's what this craft is all about; great musicianship and entertainment. Tommy pulls you in with that wether you're a musician yourself or not.
I hope it's still ok to listen to him? ;)
I've had the privilege of meeting Tommy and speaking with him a couple of times, and seen him live several times, including in a pub where it was a gathering of guitarists and he was encouraging others to play (though as a veteran player, I did find the idea a bit intimidating, so I remained seated!). He is truly one of the greatest guitarists of all time. His humility is so genuine. He's such an inspiration, not only as a musician, but as a human being.
And yeah, there is no one who can "play rings around" Tommy. That he says that speaks volumes about who he is. He really is a master. I think he knows that he is, but he has so much reverence for music. He sees it as bigger than him. So humbling. A true virtuoso.
I love how humble Tommy Emmanuel is, always crediting others in such a selfless way... what a beautiful ambassador of sound and, as always, I feel privileged to be in the presence of such an informed, educating and engaged interview. Fantastic, Rick.
TE is a musical genius. Truly. No one has ever mastered so many techniques and genres. He has no peers.
I bow down to Emmanuel's greatness. What a musical god. As a humble orchestral musician his music and skill brings me to tears.
Only the most talented reach that degree of humility.
This interview is a real treasure, thank you so much Rick for such a fantastic gift.
This guy is the world’s greatest. I told my father about him and sent him some of his music as a Christmas present. My father was a local country/gospel musician in Arkansas. He passed Tommy’s music around to his friends, and they went crazy. They went crazy enough they got Tommy to appear and play at the civic center in Mountain View. Thank you for interviewing him. May be your best.
Being an Aussie I can definitively say that Tommy is as true blue as it gets. Humble, works on his trade, not out spoken n gives ya the time of day no matter who u r. I've been watchin Ricks ch for years n I've never seen him look like a giddy school girl getting asked to Grad by the most handsome dude in school😂 Absolutely fantastic all round.
I agree. But TE is now a US citizen.
@@steve--smith you can take a lad out of the country...but u can't take the country outta the lad😎
What I love about these two is you can plainly see they LOVE music. They care about the songwriting above all. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻❤️❤️❤️
Tommy is incredible but Rick is a spectacular guitarist himself.
This is one my favorite interviews. T E's skill level is unreal. The interaction is very cool.
Lets not underestimate that the superstars are willing to work with Rick. Rick has made music theory approachable and resonates with, and brings us the very best from the best. Thank you Rick.
Yes but when you have many millions of subscribers you do become a very attractive to artists for a whole variety of reasons….
Rick is a guitar God himself....and the best teacher alive.
And here with a ?? superhero who neither reads nor writes music. Is this possible? Perhaps I have been misinformed.
man, the giggles and the chops in this video are out of this world! Tommy is unbelievably humble and down-to-earth. Rick, you bring the best out of these geniuses, exposing their secrets to us mortal, while gaining their trust with your extraordinary knowledge. fantastic stuff. please, please, please keep this up!
Yes, this and the Eric Johnson interview are two of the best ever done IMHO. Both these artists are truly transcendent. I find myself perpetually inspired and lifted up by both of them. Rick knows just what to query and most importantly does not interrupt...
Tommy makes the guitar speak and sing. Australia's national treasure.
Despite, or perhaps because of, the personal losses he's suffered in his life, Tommy radiates warmth humour and goodness. He is a man with effortless charisma that everyone would want as a friend. And boy can he make that guitar sing and shout.
I've seen Tommy numerous times, he's been a guest in my home on multiple occasions, and it's great to see an interview which is long enough and in-depth enough for his true genius and musicality to really come out. He truly has no technical limitations, in spite of his modesty, so he can focus on musical spirituality. Well done, Rick.
I saw Tommy January 24, 2013 in Reno Nv. I know the date because I still have the autographed ticket stub in my wallet. It was one of the best performances I've ever experienced. His story telling is just as great as his playing. If you ever have the chance, take the time, spend the coin, just GO. You will never regret it.
I’ll be absolutely honest and say I had never heard of Tommy Emmanuel-ever. This is what makes Rick and this channel so great. Now I feel like I not only know this great artist, I understand and appreciate great music and how it’s created. Thank you Rick for shining a light on great artists like Tommy. You are a national treasure and I really appreciate what you bring to us lay people every week. Keep up the great work!🔥🤙
You been hiding under a rock mister. An Aussie icon.
@@rayklein1125 No lie. Spectacularly myopic. Tommy’s phenomenal. So good! Cheers!🍻
@@caseymoe816 😄 great response 👍
Tommy does live one man shows - he is amazing to watch, and he tells some funny stories
I met Tommy and his brother Phil as a teenager. Their performance changed how I listened to guitar. Decades later, while traveling my musical knowledge collection walkabout of the Americas,
I was surprised to find how many musical people on the West coast knew who Tommy was. A great ambassador for guitar technique and internationally influenced Australian guitarists.
Weeding out what we don't need in a tune (placing more space) matters.
I appreciate this clip.
Tommy is such a treasure we need more musicians like him in the business.
Bravo Rick. I thought you'd peaked early with Sting. Tommy is a national icon for us Aussies. Wonderful genuine down to earth human being we are all better for having listened to you talk with Tommy. Thank you Rick.
It's clear that Tommy still gets so much joy from playing and that Rick gets joy from Tommy playing and we get joy from watching them both. Another great interview, Rick!
Most of us have the jaw dropping experience even after many years of Tommy but gotta love how RickB laughs as he watches - he knows exactly what’s going on and that laugh really underscores us jaw dropping mere mortals. Fabulous interview and the Tommy-Dawes finale was a hell of a treat!!
Wow!!
Yes. Rick’s grinning like a Cheshire cat as Tommy pauses mid-sentence to let rip with some of the sweetest playing you’ll ever hear before casually finishing what he was saying as if nothing has happened.
What a Bloke and What a Guitarist, just Incredible and yet so humble.