Playing music isn't a competition. It's about expressing yourself, making others feel what you feel and enjoying yourself. No matter how good you get, there will always be someone better. It doesn't matter. I've always enjoyed your playing.
Technical proficiency is however being good at an instrument doesn’t have to take away from the “meaningful ness” of the music or whatever. Tbh it’s all just sine waves at the end of the day so it’s just cool that you can minipulate them to fit the human ear
@Tristan Walser True. But take Keith Richard for example. From a technical point of view, not a great player. But how many people have written and played so many memorable riffs? Technique is great and I certainly wish mine was better. But in the end, it's all about soul. It's cliche but true.
i think people get too inspired by technical skill quite often, it makes you wanna sound like it... I guess its best to listen to what actually made you feel somehing first, the music that made you start playing, because most of the times your favorite music isnt the most technical
The unfortunate reality is that playing music IS a competition. Artist are competing for your time. There are more and more home brewed musicians (which is a good thing overall) and less and less attention span from the audience. If you dont capture attention, you don't go anywhere. There is more than one way to do that... but if you want an audience, it absolutely is a competition.
It’s not your playing, brother, it’s you. Your passion. Your spirit. Your soul. What an amazing gift to share with the world. You never, ever need to apologise or make excuses for that. Ever.
The following is my story. Few years ago I started to buy equipment (top expensive pedals, top mics, recording interfaces...), just to sound better on IG... for others... And few months ago I noticed that I don't enjoy in it, that something is missing. Problem was that connecting and tuning and positioning all those equipment, just to sound right for others, was pain in the a*s for me. About a week ago I stopped recording/playing for others, sold ALL my pedals, and started to playing for myself with just guitar plugged into amp. Best music desicion in my life! Joy I get from simply playing is 10x higher than any likes on IG or TH-cam. So, my point is to go into whatever direction makes YOU better for yourself!
@@matijabo for real that’s what I did too, all to sound better, I realised I need to get better through my playing rather than equipment, now I do produce and record music and have done so for 10+ years, but that’s because I like to make music, and if I entertain some people with my art/craft along the way then thats cool too, I mean if you make music then why not share it with others who may like it, I like to express myself through the music I make, I take great joy in listening to a song that I myself created from scratch, to be honest a lot of my stuff has never been uploaded, I make a bunch of stuff sometimes that I don’t intend on putting online, just made for practice or pure amusement lol, but whatever I was doing, I thought gear and money was the answer, I couldn’t be more wrong, find peace and entertainment in yourself is first and foremost important just as you also said.
"I'm church good." As a former worship leader, that completely resonates with me, Jeremy. I started out playing and leading music. Before you know it, some folks were saying how much they enjoyed my playing and then I got to teach young people to play and lead. I've never been a great guitar player. I'm much better at bass. I didn't feel worthy as a teacher either. None of that matters. The light was shared. I'm happy being a street light. Keep shining, brother.
Sometimes I wish I was the praise band leader (or had more say so in the church music). They basically play only one style of music, they focus on the keyboard and give it most of the volume in the mix (~80-90%), they repeatedly turn down the guitars and your microphone. You can (almost) never hear yourself, unless you have an in ear monitor and sometimes that doesn’t work. After over 5 years in the band I finally had to insist on having an amplifier on stage(platform) to hear myself. And nobody to work the sound board, no bass player, many times no drummer. So I’ve started my own band.
@@coolramone Nice! Hope the band works out. Yeah, a good tech team is so valuable in worship. Keyboards can easily be overplayed. The more instruments, the greater the temptation to play louder.
As a guitar player who grew up in the days of shred in the late 80s and who had a father who was a jazzer I gave up on technical virtuosity pretty early. But that didn’t make me stop learning or trying to get better. It just pushed me towards the simpler ways of being able to serve the song. Find the sweet stuff and play it with heart and confidence. Who cares if my short stubby fingers can’t do the fanciest licks. I know I can find something that fits and will excite Your ears… hopefully with heart and intent.
Congratulations you have fallen into the YT trap and gained a small amount of self awareness in the process. Follow Tomo's advice and don't compare yourself and just be happy with yourself and grateful for what you have. You just gained a sub. Outstanding video.
I think maybe .05 percent of guitar players could be considered virtuoso. I gave up on it and decided to be myself and let the instrument speak to me and then share that with others. Nothing compares to the feeling of expressing yourself with a unique voice. It blesses others and brings us fulfillment. I love the channel, have learned a lot and hope you never stop making them.
@@maynardtrendle820 Same me. Problem: as a (former) professional musician suddenly it was not enough to be the "best in the block" or "area" but needed to compete with the best of the best from all over the World! 'Cause for any moneymaking Gig it was (and is still) thanks to YT and Others so very easy to call any Guitarist you like on the whole damn Planet to play your Presentation, Corporate Event, Tour, Video Demo - you name it. And suddenly i (must) realized: man, i am NOT a good Guitarist, i just plain SUCK big times!!
I’m practically masterful in music theory and knowledge but my playing is ass lol, I need to work on that because I currently make cows cry and birds die when I attempt to play what I have the ability to write on paper 😂
Hang in there brother! This is the first video of yours I've seen and I'm now a subscriber. For the record, I am 67 years old, singer songwriter and frontman. Ten years ago I had a heart attack on stage with my band in the middle of a show. They rushed me to the hospital, where I flat lined while they were prepping me for surgery. I got great care and made a full recovery. I have been playing for around 50 years, and consider myself a decent player. Definitely NOT a virtuoso! But not bad, not ashamed to pick up a guitar in any crowd, even though I just assume there will be better players than me. The vast majority of players are like you and me... not great, not bad, but love playing the guitar! I have even managed to teach some younger players enough to get them started. So keep the faith, keep the passion, and keep spreading the love of making music!
I support this message 1000%. I used to want to be a rockstar when I was a teen. Helping my partner take care of her dad has taught me a lot and now I’m thinking about music therapy as a career.
That is such a great idea! I am autistic/ADHD and coming out of a near decade of being bedridden/housebound. Because of undiagnosed/recognized learning disabilities (as well as stress-disorders, due to my home-life - making it extra difficult to learn. God bless my guitar instructor and his patience), I always skirted around playing music (though, lived in LA prior to getting sick. Live shows every night). Music has always been the main focus of my life; and my love of it, and my feeling I am meant to be a musician (the type I have always envisioned myself becoming) - that’s why I fought so hard to survive, what I did (“gruesome” and “horrific” doesn’t even begin to convey my near decade tenure of pure purgatory). This year, as I have begun to rebuild my life (as well as my guitar collection/gear, as I lost everything - other than my very first guitar - in California’s most deadly and destructive wildfire, a few years ago) - I began having to take care of my grandmother, with SEVERE Alzheimer’s dementia. She knows I am her granddaughter, though, no recollection of memories. She would always take me to country music concerts, either at the county fair or local Indian casinos. She was the first to recognize my passion, for music. As I began taking care of her, I’d always put on Johnny Cash - which, she loved. It didn’t matter who else I’d put on (unless it was Elvis), from back in the day- everyone is Johnny Cash. Even Stevie Ray Vaughan, lol. My mother and I took her to see Christmas lights. She’s been in memory care, as we have been having to handle her property and assets (she lost everything in the fire, also - began living in a motor home and hoarding). So, us coming back - though, she was thrilled to see us - yet, it triggered a lot of things, for her; as she has narcissistic personality disorder, also, and has always had a very difficult time accepting reality, she doesn’t like. I put a Christmas album on, from someone I enjoy - who’s a bit more modern. The whole way through the drive-thru Christmas light event, she was rather upset; about losing her license, not being on her property, etc. My mother and I thought perhaps we shouldn’t take her out of memory care, again (she’s in a freakin’ resort, on top of a mountain. Top notch facility, almost no need for anyone to leave, lol. Thankfully, she is able to afford it, due to the payout from losing her home. God is always working in our favor). Once we stopped at a gas station, on the way back - Johnny Cash’s ‘Silent Night’ came on autoplay. Heard her singin’ in the backseat; totally calmed down. Drove back through the light display - she enjoyed it, while singing all Johnny Cash’s Christmas songs, to her self. AND! We took her through it, again, two nights later - and she remembered! She said how nice it was to see all the lights, again (She LOVES Christmas). However, she really only recognizes Johnny Cash, when I am around. My mother said when I turn the CD on, in her room, and I leave the room - she has no idea where the music is coming from, and thinks it’s someone talking or what have you. Yet, every time I am around and put him on, she always lights up, and says “Johnny Cash!” The activity director will bring her guitar in and sing, sometimes. And the other’s in the unit always love when I put music on, during dinner. And what’s so neat, is I have learned there is such a correlation between autism, ADHD, and Alzheimer’s (a lot of it has to do with the consumption of vegetable/seed oils. If I didn’t happen to cut those out, a few months prior to taking in my grandmother - I wouldn’t have been able to do so, so successfully. Cutting ‘em out changed my life - physical pain AND mental function - beyond words). So, in this time of taking care of my grandmother, I have been able to provide her with the care and understanding I wished I would have had even one percent of, during my tenure of being ill. From my understanding, those with Alzheimer’s/dementia still connect to music, because of the part of the brain it affects. I haven’t had much of a chance to look into it, yet. Though, I look forward to learning more. This entire experience - both between what I have survived, as well as what my grandmother is going through - has, truly, shown me the healing power of music. And I couldn’t be more grateful, for everything I have experienced and learned, as result. As fun as being a rockstar is, I am sure.. I think a career in music therapy would be so, so rewarding. Best wishes and warmest regards, in your endeavors - as well as to you, your partner, and her father. ❤
@@XOChristianaNicole That’s so interesting. My partner’s dad had a stroke and we believe he is also having signs of early Alzheimer’s. I think that your experiences have made you more sensitive and aware to suffering so you would be an amazing music therapist if you decided to go that route!
So, I really appreciate your video. I’m proud to say that I’m an average guitar player. I learned early on that if everyone could be as good as Clapton, Billy Strings, Hendrix and the like, then those names wouldn’t really mean all that much. My Dad taught me how to play. I don’t think I ever saw him go above the fifth fret, and he played cowboy chords exclusively. He always preached that you should know your majors, minors, and sevenths and you’ll have everything you need. Young me didn’t really see what he was saying and, of course, was trying to show off and be flashy (and not really succeeding). I had an epiphany one day while I was at a jam session with the old man. He was the only member of a core group of jammers to show up that day and he didn’t have his song book. He led a group of young guys for about 4 hours from memory. He knew every chord and every lyric to every tune played and I don’t think we repeated much. It was a real lesson in what it meant to be a musician. To this day, I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything musically more impressive. My Dad died a few years after that in a car accident. He left me is 58 000-28. Now, I was just finishing college and was trying to figure out what to do with myself. The 2008 crash had just happened and I had no plan. I was living different places from year to year and I didn’t want to risk dad’s guitar with such a life style, so it sat at my moms for about 10 years. Finally, I started a family and purchased a home and felt good enough to have the 000 with me. I hadn’t played much in about 10 years. I didn’t realize once I got back in it just how much I missed my Dad. I realized that playing the guitar was a good way to be closer to him and to allow my children to get to know who he was. I got into bluegrass and I’ll be damned if the old man wasn’t right: majors, minors, and sevenths are about all the chords I play. I don’t try to be as good as people like Molly Tuttle and Billy Strings. However, I do work really hard on learning as many bluegrass tunes as I can. It gives me so much more to share with the people I love than a million fancy licks ever could.
That was such a sweet comment. Really beautiful how life works, and how music can bring people closer to each other even when they're gone. Thank you for sharing!
Great story. Reminds me of my Dad and his brother. Amateurs, but consummate musicians is just the sense you describe. Cowboy songs and harmonies.....warmth and laughter. I just inherited my dad's old nylon string and it's in storage until I have a good home for it! (Til then I still have the rosewood 00-17 NY I found years ago and love).
Tremendous story. You are a guitar player and not everyone is. Continue to share your gift. I am sure your Dad will be looking down and smiling with pride.
Music is truly one of the greatest gifts God has given man. Brings me to tears thinking about the impact it's had on my life and how blessed I was to grow up around it through my father. Still learning something new through it every day.
I share Miles thoughts on this: It’s not your playing, brother, it’s you. Your passion. Your spirit. Your soul. What an amazing gift to share with the world. You never, ever need to apologise or make excuses for that. Ever. I bought a guitar during Covid, locked down in my garage for what seemed like forever...I taught myself some basic campfire chords. I felt really good about that and it really helped me get through that very dark time (as I'm sure most of us can agree). I have a few close friends who are professional musicians (singer, songwriters, cover bands etc.) and in the last few months they have invited me out to play/jam with them at casual get togethers. I always leave those sessions feeling shitty. I know, that I'm not a good guitarist or a good singer, but I'm not bad either. After watching your video today, I feel much better about my situation, and most likely will try to find better environments to enjoy my playing. After all, I didn't start playing for anyone else to listen to, I played for my own enjoyment. Thanks for you videos, I thoroughly enjoy them, as well as your honesty. Keep going man. Dan
Wow …. I needed to hear this. Sometimes I feel like an imposter too. Thank you Jeremy. You’re a good soul. You keep me, and I’m sure everyone in the Hunter community, inspired.
Dude, I am a bass player who like you , LOVES acoustic guitars. I love the wood, I love the sound, I love the craftmanship. I love to restore and improve them. I can play guitar, but I suck next to "good" players. However, I have played with some great pros, and I am not ashamed to play with them. Because, I am having a great time doing what I love and having fun. This is our joy in life. Also, you are bringing joy to others. There is always better and that is something to strive for. Do what you love! Life is a journey.
Hey Jeremy, this is the first video that I have watched on your channel (it was a recommended video). To hear you tell your story with such transparency and rawness, without hearing you play a single note or riff, you deserve to be where you are. This is exactly what I needed. Thank you.
You are not mediocre. For me, your playing is extremely sensitive and musical. It touches. Most social media virtuosos are impressive, but become boring within minutes. Also, your TH-cam approach is very special. The car trips in search of a unique guitar, the people's stories, your sincerity, your conscience about life and music... I was tired of watching guitar videos. But, when I discovered your channel, I fell in love and devoured the videos one by one. Like an awesome Netflix series or something. You have a admirer here in Brazil. Don't stop, keep being you! God bless.
Jeremy, I really appreciate your vulnerability. I, too, am far from virtuosity, and have for many years let that keep me from using the gift I do have. Glad you’re finding you’re not an imposter. Thanks for the video that is helping me get over my own imposter syndrome! I agree-we need more normal guitar players!!!!
Thank you so much for this. I started playing at 13 because my scout troop needed a new player and I had always been the most musical kid around. I fell in love with the guitar and became ‚scout good‘ very fast. At 15 I had earned a reputation as the one who tunes all the guitars by ear before every event. I was a beast at transposing real fast, because every group needs a different key to sing in, and by 17/18 I had developed a keen ear for chord progressions and harmony (also thanks to singing in choirs since birth) and began experimenting. That’s when I realised I was shit at everything outside of campfire folk, simple song writing and choir. I met people who blew my ego away and made me realise that on top of this, I could have achieved so much more in those years. It didn’t help that I quit piano, my favourite instrument, at 13. I went to live with my mother and never looked for another teacher. Long story short, I felt ashamed and useless and lost my (quite good) singing voice over night, it was like a wall had been slammed between me and my 18 years of singing lessons. I hated myself for it. Then I decided to become a luthier at 20. In school, my ego got crushed even more but I loved the work. After 6 months I had to quit due to serious health problems and spend the pandemic recovering and barely picking up any instruments. I gradually felt better physically but lost. Like I had lost myself to the expectations of others and myself. Mid 2022 I picked up a guitar again after debating if I should sell them or not, fell in love once more and have been playing almost daily ever since. This time around I am learning classical music and jazz. I realized that I don’t need to be the best. It’s too late for music school, a lifelong dream, and that’s ok. My health and my past is what it is, and it won’t get better from fighting and hating it and myself. I just need to play. And through playing, I have and will become better. I was pleasantly surprised when, after a month of feeling like a total beginner, muscle memory kicked in and the last 10 years of practice started to show again. I now like to think of myself as a recovering intermediate who is starting again from scratch to build a stronger foundation. I started singing again too. I have no idea if this helps anyone, but thank you for reading my story. Maybe you can see some of yourself in it.
Beautiful story. I related very much with it. It sounds like you are discovering the joy of living mindfully in the present. The past has a lot of things that might make us want to give up the things we love but we are not obligated to live in the past. We we should not compare ourselves with others, only our past selves. I hope you enjoy many more years of music.
The reason you are so important to these makers and manufacturers is that the vast majority of their instruments will be owned and played by ordinary people like us. Having some virtuoso players in the mix raises the profile for the makers. But internationally, the guitar market IS us ordinary players. I also hope that you find your way back to the content that you yourself find interesting and fulfilling.
Hey Jeremy, I watch your videos though I don't often comment. I want to say thanks for sharing your perspective and the kinds of stories about guitar that go deeper than specs and general consumerism. You're an asset to the guitar community on youtube. It's not easy to be self employed, especially with the pressure of an audience and scheduled content. Thanks for doing what you do and I hope you find more room to grow and enjoy playing guitar in the coming years.
Dude. You're not the only one. I totally get it. I wouldn't even call myself a mediocre player and I've been at it for a long time. It can be very discouraging. Don't let it get you down.
I’m in a long time guitarist since 1974 I struggle like everybody else I almost quit too but something told me there was something in this for me so I can continue to play now I am solo instrumental guitarist it wasn’t given to me I had to work I had to earn it and you know what I’m talking about👍👍🎸🎸😀
No I love guitar too much to let it get me down. Hey just pick up the pieces and move on. It’s a beautiful instrument. I have a wonderful time playing it guy I will never quit. I’ll probably still try to play after I am dead ha ha.👍🏼🎸💖
What a refreshing message. Whether you're a guitar virtuoso or an ordinary player, you definitely have a story to share that can help others. Good on you for that.
I think what makes your channel so much different is it feels like we're all sitting around in a living room talking about guitars, especially the live streams. The vast majority of other channels is the uploader showing off, lessons, or they're retail stores. There aren't many channels where it feels like the uploader is "just one of the guys."
Yes I agree spot on. And those guys showing off are light years ahead of me and I just turn them off. I so like the guys from casino guitars but most of the TH-cam guys are just too advanced. Why bother.
I hate the competition mentality with guitar players, lots of people forget that there was a time they didn't even know how to hit a note. I've had people think my playing was great and ask for tips, and I've met people that absolutely blew my mind that I had the privilege of learning from. That's all it should be about man regardless of what skill level someone is at or wants to achieve.
I am not a virtuoso. You are not the best guitar player I've ever seen on TH-cam, but your advice is worth more than your guitar playing. You've helped me examine what I want/need in a guitar, and get the right guitars faster. Nobody else on TH-cam does exactly what you do. Thanks for the encouraging video. I too have been surrounded by much better players, and it's good to be reminded about what's important.
I don’t watch your channel for the most awesome guitar player. I watch you for one of best guitar people. You’re human with all the wrinkles and flaws of the rest of us. You are making connections with the story of guitars that make us better as people. Regular people who love the music that resonates within us. Keep on the journey because you are good enough for those that know the way forward is not looking in the rear view mirror but looking out the windshield to see the road ahead. Thanks
This was likely the most inspiring contribution on a guitar channel I’ve come across. You made an excellent point. Thank you so much for sharing it. From a fellow ordinary guitar player. Thumbs up to you, Jeremy 👍🏻
We are here to hang out with Jeremy, one of the more real unfiltered channels where life/guitar/life/music and life intersect. There are many, many of us still aspiring to reach your level of playing with the goal of just making ourselves happy where maybe our playing becomes less annoying to those who hear it. This is the time of year we all take a drink of truth serum and plan for a better year ahead.
Props to you. In a way as musicians we are drawn to amazing players, you can't help it. It can definitely bring your spirit down when you chase it for a long time and get to the point of "I just can't do it like they do". Know I've felt that way too, and it takes the wind out of your sails to the point where you don't even feel like practicing. But the message you're putting out here and constructing actually is going to make a lot of us, self included think about how the point isn't to be the best, just be. Play your way, feel good about it. There's probably hundreds of thousands of people who wish they could play a few open chords and look at us the same way we look at virtuoso players. Stay up Jeremy!
Love your thoughts on this my man. Couldn’t agree more. I just started my channel about a month and a half ago and I’m going to crush it this year. In fact, this video was so inspiring, I’m going to put out a couple of shorts today on this very topic. I am the best musician looks at others, appreciates what they do, and then incorporate some of that technique into their own craft. Keep on crashing it and congrats on your success. I can’t wait to create more musicians in the world just like you. That’s my entire mission of my channel.
I’m a nobody who often feels similarly unqualified to be holding a guitar. However, I really enjoy your channel, your stories, and passion for the instrument and music. You do assist us as consumers, but more importantly, you extend our network of folks we can talk about this instrument with. And, tbh, I can always use more guitar friends.
You are totally worthy! Please keep taking us on your journey to discover new old treasures, cool guitar stores, with the gorgeous views, interesting people, around what we all love which is music and guitars. Love your playing and the tone of honesty that your channel is all about.
Hey Jeremy, thank you for your honesty and your truth. at best I’m a mediocre guitar player and one of the things I miss the most is playing with other people. I haven’t done that in a long time mostly because I feel inept compared to other players. I hope to find some mediocre players to play with in the new year. I appreciate you and this channel and all of the people who are a part of it. Happy New Year!
It’s true, the guitar players that can tear it up and play awesome guitars are so very cool. I am sure they spent untold hours working on there craft, my hat is off to them. For me, I Truly enjoy watching and listening to someone playing simple chords and pouring there heart out. I’ve been playing about seven years now and wouldn’t even call myself Mediocre but when I play it fills my heart, it puts my mind at ease. When I go to some local jams am I the best, not even close but I enjoy it. Not everyone can be Babe Ruth or Payton Manning. The wold needs folks just doing there best. You have an awesome channel and I am glad to be a member. Keep on keeping on my friend.
So true! It is nog about being the best player, it’s about spreading joy through music and having fun while doing it. I enjoy your channel because of the stories you tell about beautiful and meaningful guitars and for the inspiration you give to me and so many others. Keep doing what you do and don’t forget there are plenty of us ordinary players who absolutely enjoy every second of your channel!
I love guitars and the sounds they make. I have been taking lessons for 4 years and the kids before and after my lessons play better with a couple of months of noodling. I don’t have any friends that make music so I tell my teacher that more than anything I am buying a music friend for a half hour a week. Guys like you sharing your passion is my only other outlet. I appreciate you! We are in this experience of life together.
Well said Jeremy! I really enjoy your channel. It’s unique and your genuine joy of guitars is obvious in every video. Looking forward to what you have in ‘23!
Thank You Jeremy. My Father-in-law said Everybody is born with a gift. Yours is spreading music and taking ”us normies” on guitar-safari-magical mystery tours, and verrry enjoyable ones as such. Love, Music and Food are the necessities and languages of the world. Sharing either or all is what makes People happy…. And healthy. and sharing with Family & Friends… What can be better. Yawning and smiling are verrry contagious… and You do spread smiles… and great music vibes🙏😊😊😊
This is the first video I’ve seen from Jeremy, and his honesty surprised me. It is great when people can be real and not put on airs. New sub here. Can’t wait to see what else he has. Continue doing you!
As someone learning guitar with cerebral palsy, being an "ordinary" guitar player is about all I expect to achieve, and I've learned to be happy with that goal! I'm 18 and play for my youth group worship team, which isn't normally a big achievement, but I have to put it into perspective, and realize how blessed I am to be able to play at all given my disability! Let alone the fact that I'm able to play with a band (church or not). I'm not a great player, and I've definitely been stuck in a rutt lately, but I've learned to be content, and incredibly proud of myself! I may never be even a mediocre player, but I'm okay with that, and love where I am! I hope this is some encouragement!
We’re all on our very own journey in music as in life! You bring a lot of pleasure to other people who very much share your great love of the guitar! Not everyone can be Segovia or Eric Clapton! You deserve everything that your enthusiasm and your video efforts have brought you! Keep enjoying and loving what you do - because nobody does what you do better!
-KEITH RICHARDS not a virtuoso -IZZY STRADLIN not a virtuoso -NOEL GALLAGHER not a virtuoso -….. Those guys reached everything. Proves You don‘t have to be a virtuoso at all!!!!
You’re absolutely right. It’s about creativity. Kurt cobain was by no means a technical player, but he created memorable riffs and seemed to have a good instinct when it comes to harmony and good song writing
Ron Asheton? Tim & Neil Finn? Andy Summers? just another 3 of the literally dozens upon dozens of musical household 'names' & famous if not well-known guitarists, all are successful muso's who are certainly no guitar monster virtuoso's by any stretch of the imagination. Been snappin' Dr. Thomastik .12's for 4 decades & I can play almost anything but I sound like ME! I've found if you play guitar & friends, acquaintences, random garden-variety strangers or punters dig it - it's good - savvy? If other people like what you play, if they say that's cool that's awesome that's wicked, that's as good as you need to be as long as the most important person of all is satisfied comfortable & knows what they know - you! If you think it's cool; it IS. N.B. Don't blow all your cookies in the first 4 bars & if it sounds pretty bloody good then it f*ckin' is - don't sweat it; have FUN. 🧐'69 model Curmudgeonly Lecturer & Anthropocene Guitarcheopteryx since '79😱 🪃Didyabringyabongalong Station🎸455,000sq./a🤘Central Queensland🦘The Magical Land of Oz🧙♂
Never play the comparison game in your mind. I just stumbled across your channel and subscribed. I suck at playing, after 40 years of carry a guitar around the world I've decided to make a real effort to learn to play in retirement. I can see your channel is going to be very helpful for me. You nailed it in your title, the world does need ordinary guitar players. More people like me can relate to ordinary guitar players and it's less intimidating than being around people who are excellent players. The knowledge gap is smaller and I feel more comfortable, like maybe I can get there. Your channel will have a lot of value for me. Not being a virtuoso makes you more relatable, and us average people need that.
One of the best TH-cam messages I have heard!! I'm not even a guitar player but I can so relate. I'm an ordinary songwriter, who has limited talent on the piano, although I'm continually trying to improve. I watch other pianists on TH-cam, only to reaffirm how average I am, but you are right, not everyone can be a virtuoso and the world needs ordinary musicians. This video is so inspiring!! I've subscribed!!
J, we love you just the way you are. You’re a regular dude like the rest of us dudes and dudettes. You’re a kind hearted person, you’re not afraid to try new things like building guitars or traveling who knows where for the next story. I think the pandemic led you to doing mostly guitar reviews, and that’s fine because you still helped many people by doing that. I can’t afford to buy guitars, but I learned a lot about materials, parts, how guitars are built, etc. Knowing how guitars tick helps with maintaining and caring for our instruments as well as helping us connect better with the instruments we are holding. This all leads to better playing when we are excited and passionate about the guitars in our hands. So please know that you have really helped others even if it’s not what you intended on doing. The good news is that you can now get out and find those stories you’ve been itching to tell. You did some of that during the pandemic, but now you can do even more. No matter what you do, I’m sticking around and I’m sure mostly everyone will too. Also look at many other TH-camrs. Most are also no-frills kinda players. It’s not a contest as you said, but there are more average players in the guitar community than virtuosos. We are all passionate about listening to music and making music. We will never be Slash, but we can be our best selves. You play better than you think and you don’t need lessons to improve. Just get a couple of apps like Fender Play, Gibson, Yousician, Justin Guitar, Ultimate Guitat, etc. They’re all useful in their own right. I used these apps to take me from zero to playing more than I ever could have dreamed. If you want to improve in your own time at home, I highly recommend doing this. And if you stay the way you are, that’s cool too - it’s awesome to be able to play with a Church band and on TH-cam. I think you’re really good, and it’s okay to repeat songs you play because we all do it. Wishing you health, happiness, joy, and all you wish for yourself in the coming year!
In 2019 I went through this exact thing....then I found your channel and many others and it reinvigorated me. I totally understand what you are going through, but remember that Spreading Music and Friendship is something that helped me out in a very dark time in my life. You were a part of helping bring joy to my life when I really needed it.
Hallelujah brother, keep up the good work and keep on being honest. I’ve never kidded myself that I’m ever going to be a virtuoso guitar player, but I will never lose the feeling of happiness I get when I play. Wishing you a happy and healthy new year 👏
I love the acoustic arrangements and open celestial chords Jeremy plays when he demos. I have been inspired by some of the things he does. He is also a tremendously kind man that is providing us with excellent content. Keep going brother. We all feel like this. You da man.
This really is one of my favorite channels to watch. Your just a down to earth and cool dude man keep your head up. I am in one of the worst spots of my life but just hearing your story really did bring me some comfort. Thanks Jeremy!!!
My significant other and I, also in Mississippi, pick several instruments and sing together. We are nowhere near virtuosos, but we have had so much fun picking with others and once made a 90-year-old man get up and dance 😀 I’ve sung babies to sleep with my imperfect voice. I’ve harmonized with another woman singing lead on an old Irish ballad that made people listen to a haunting story. I play several instruments, none perfectly, but had have fun and entertained and comforted others with music. Please keep on your musical journey.
Thank you for your honesty Jeremy. It's refreshing. We need more songwriters than anything else. Many of the greats over the last 60 years were not virtuoso players. They wrote songs that connected with people. That kind of connection is what you're doing with your channel. Keep it up and stay true to yourself. 👍
Great points!!! When you said songwriters and connection - I think those things are key. A songwriter that connects with me is Aurora. She has been a songwriter since 10 years old. She played piano and guitar at that age, but she gave up on guitar. BUT her gift is songwriting and connection. And she does that in a way no-one else can do... Honesty, connection, and songwriting are the keys... Not technicals...
Man that was amazingly said. I'm 53 yo. Been playing 30 years. When I listened too and saw with my own eyes 9 and 10 yo children ripping the strings off a guitar I thought about slinging mine out the window. But then it hit me. No I'm not as talented as many musicians out there technically speaking. But I have really good feel and emotion that I pull out in my own way. I don't sound like them. But they don't sound like me.
Thanks Jeremy, playing guitar is definitely not for the faint of heart. What I have noticed as a new player is that it opens up a whole new world and teaches you grit and perseverance. I have connected with with many more musicians at church and they are TALENTED.
Two years ago you gave me great advice. That has helped my playing and purchasing. When I find myself chasing the next "great" thing I can't live without, I always think about what you wrote... "Stop buying so much and learn to play". You're honest and you do this for the right reasons. Thanks buddy.
Jeremy, this is the first video of yours that I’ve watched. I felt saddened by some of the things you said about not feeling good enough playing guitar. I learned guitar about 3 years ago when I turned 50. I know a few chords, can barely do a barr chord and I’m not getting much better. But, I do it because I like it. There is no other reason to do it
You have to keep on keeping on! You make the types of videos that I love to watch! It's not always the subject matter that catches me, it's you, your personality, and your videos inspire me to practice more. I'm just church-ok, but I'm loving the journey!
As a 53 year old “ordinary” guitar player. I have more money than developed talent. I own two guitars that are “ heirloom” quality. I’m fortunate to still enjoy every success in practicing. There is nothing wrong with getting back to basics. Do not covet. That includes other peoples talents and prior investment in time practicing.
This video is everything. What a real feeling. I’ll say this, I had trouble accepting that I’m not Tim Henson. The moment I did, and just played to express myself, I found something deeper in myself and playing than I did looking to players around me on the internet. Play for you. Enjoy music for you. If you wanna film it, film it, I’ve dazzled people with the same 6 riffs in different keys live every night all over the south. Do what you love man.
I think a lot of us go through this. I have periods of time as to why I continue to play after 32 years. I don't play out - I just hang out at the house. Occasionally I get to play with others, which is fun. I have a ridiculous collection for what I do. I am still trying to learn and get better. I take occasional lessons and take TrueFire courses. But, I definitely go through "ho-hum" periods with it. Sometimes they are hard to get out of.
Yeah everybody has those moments once you reach certain points, everybody is different too and encounters those moments at different times in their life, rock on buddy.
I’ve always been impressed by your playing! Performed at my first open mic this week, your videos and passion for guitars and people are an inspiration! Appreciate you man!
First, I like your playing. But your gifts go beyond a mere guitar player. You are a blessing and a breath of fresh air to many of us who subscribe. Thank you for being you, and may the Lord richly bless.
To have a voice like johnny mathis vince gill and steve perry and you can sing while playing the guitar very well too is beyond normal for me. Its an ultimate gift,
Jeremy, this is a terrific message, that a lot of people need to hear, and not just musicians. Thank you for sharing all of this wisdom and encouragement.
I've never seen any of your videos until this one, but I can assure you that I will check out more of you videos now because you seem like most of us average players, and you're genuine about it. True virtuoso guitar players are born with an inherent ability that the other 99% of us are not born with. Sure, they have to work to learn the instrument, but their ears, wrists, hands, and fingers are made for this. The really really good guitar players have the time and means to work on being that good despite not having all of those inherent abilities. The rest of us work for a living, have families, kids, and responsibilities that come first and foremost. Our playing and learning time is severely reduced on account of that. I've been playing for 30 years. 20 of them were while I was married, working 60-90 hour weeks, and trying to get enough rest in order to balance all of that. I'd get to play the guitar a few hours a week. I'm now newly divorced, don't need to work as much, and back to playing again on the daily. I've improved more in the last 6 months than I had during my 20 year marriage. I've got more time and more money to invest in it, and no boat anchor of a wife to get in my way anymore. I've actually started studying music theory again on my own in order to regain knowledge of where I was, where I am, and where I'm going in a melody progression along the fretboard. I don't want to learn it all though, and I don't want to be a virtuoso, because those guys generally play some of the most boring formulaic shit I've ever heard. Anyway... Just be you, man. We all get in ruts and plateau in our playing. Start finding other music to inspire you the way you once were. Maybe cut back on making videos about guitar, and start playing more. Start forcing yourself to play outside of your box. Start trying different chord shapes, learn how to move them around to different positions, different rhythm/strumming patterns, learn a few scales and a few techniques to get your lead playing progressing. That's the only way you get out of a rut and moving up from a plateau; shear determination.
This is why I decided to kick off upload more of my music creation process. I've never saw music as something I 'need' to be good at. It's fun for me, and a lot of people. I've felt very self concious about sharing that with the world because of how many godly guitar players are in main-view on social media. I agree we need more 'regular' everyday guitar players/musicians sharing their joy of music.
I just came across your channel! You are very talented acoustic guitarist and singer! Don't ever feel bad! It's about loving to play guitar and enjoying music!
Just came across this video and channel and I really appreciate your message. Comparing ourselves to others (I have done this way too much) is a good way to loose the joy in music and in living. Thank you for this!
about 10 years ago i found myself in your situation.... I started teaching beginner guitar players, not only did it reignite my passion but during teaching i was also re learning things i had forgotten, and that made the ideas flow again and i became inspired to write new stuff. Maybe take on a student....Just an idea 😉
Good message brother, I don't want people to stress about virtuostic guitar playing, I don't think I'm a virtuoso at all but I feel like I play virtuoustic pieces and practising constantly is a massive mental drain, can be very stressful to maintain that level of playing and sometimes I wish I never went down this path.. I think as long as we play the best we can, and most importantly focus on the music, is all that really matters in the end.
Wow, this was deep. Beautiful message, and resonates with me a lot with my art. I compare myself to others and it crushes me, to the point where I don't even want to draw anymore. The idea that I don't have to be amazing, that it's enough in and of itself, is a powerful idea.
I gotta be honest, I just recently started watching your videos. Your older videos. They really have heart, are very interesting, and make me feel something. The new ones truly didn't have as much heart, I felt, but you still have it in you, why wouldn't you. Everybody loses their way sometimes, that's completely normal. Keep it up, I believe in you. You are not a guitar god, but you change lives in your way. You are the guitar hunter.
Dear Jeremy, wow man maybe this is the best video of you I´ve ever seen and listened to since the video of Joshua, his grandad and the D28. Tears in my eyes man ... what a honoust testimony and so humble. I think you are a good player because you play with your heart and fell your instrument. That is a language not everybody understands. I am just an ordinary player, but music is such a great gift from the Almighty. Jimmy Martin onces said in a video with the Nitty Gritty Dirtband: "Music is friendship!" And that's a very true statement. I'm 65 now and there is always music in my life. My best friends play music or love music. I have been a teacher for a long time in a secondary school. My best audience were the children in my classroom. Many times I used my songs and my guitar to tell my stories. What an awesome gift God has given us in music. Hope to see more of you in 2023, be blessed, you and your family!
Wonderful message! I couldn’t agree more! I think it’s easy to forget that social media comparison happens on absolutely every element of life whether it’s luxe, money, relationships, or skills… Comparison is the thief of joy.
Jeremy I am here to tell you that I have been playing guitar since I was 10 I'm 68 now I sympathize with you but here it is God gave me the blessing to play by ear and I am not a master by no means I just love playing the guitar and people appreciate what I played through the spirit we are not perfect and never will be just be real and enjoy ❤️
New sub! Wow, intense video and I mean that in the best way. Respect for being so honest and open. I often feel terrible about my playing and to know I’m not alone in that is refreshing
Hey there Jeremy, your channel came up on my feed and this is the first video I’ve ever seen if yours. I could absolutely relate to how you feel as a guitarist 100%. I exist in mostly the progressive metal world where there are an abundance of sweeping arpeggios, light speed alternate picking, two hand tapping that sounds like 2 players at once, and rhythmic lines that make my head swirl. I love seeing these amazing players that seem to be everywhere now with social media and it’s truly inspiring. But if I’m being honest, I really feel like I am so far behind as a player of almost 35 years now. There was a time when I won guitar contests and battle of the band competitions and was viewed in my hometown as one of the really good players around. Fast forward 20 years later, I have a family and still play my guitar several days a week, but I’m no longer in a band and don’t know squat about recording my own material with computer software. I feel useless. Even where I live now I’ve gotten the reputation somehow for being “the man” on guitar from the people in our extensive social circle, but I’m so unconfident about my playing anymore, that I’ve even turned down requests to play for friends and family. I completely feel self conscious with all of my weaknesses playing wise that I literally quit playing for a 2 year period believe it or not. Didn’t touch a guitar in that entire time. I realized finally that it was a part of my identity though, even if I feel like I’ve peaked and can’t seem to get past my current sticking points. It DOES make me happier to at least connect with my instrument on occasion even if there aren’t screaming applauding fans in the audience anymore. Nobody cares if I play the guitar these days and my own wife and kids could really care less bless their hearts. But I guess at some point we need to realize that it makes ourselves happy to keep putting the guitar in our hands even if just to hold it. Sometimes I feel like I could have made a career out of it had I only tried a bit harder, but I could never regret becoming a family man and having a close relationship with my wife and children. Someday maybe my kids will want me to teach them some guitar and that will make me happy enough. Loved your personality from the start Jeremy I could totally relate to how you feel. The next video I watched of yours was the tour of Casino Guitars and was so impressed with their shop wow. And brother, your playing sounded beautiful to me I think you’re hard on yourself about your playing as I am about mine. Cheers I’ll be watching your channel closely my friend. I’m consolidating all of my electrics and acoustics (I’m a lefty) and rebuying 2 new electrics…a 7 string Schecter and 6 string PRS SE Custom 24…and 2 new acoustics but not sure which ones yet so I’ll be watching your vids to help with that. I have a 20 year old Martin DCME that was left unstrung in a hot garage for several years so I don’t know if it’s trash or I need to spend money on getting it set up again. In any case thanks I’ll be following ya!
That's a great story. Like yourself, I recently had heart trouble and ended up in hospital given 3 weeks to live. They didn't want to do the heart valve surgery, as it was Covid times, and they were overloaded with patients, but mainly because it was a result of my lifestyle. I was lucky that a surgeon came and talked to me, and then changed his mind, and they did the surgery. 7 months in hospital watching youtube guitar videos(yours included) while recovering gave me the idea to start playing guitar again. I played in high school, but stopped when i was about 18. Im 39 now, reasonably healthy(albeit a weak heart), and playing guitar whenever I get the chance. So yeah, your videos inspire people. You dont have to be the best player, just enjoy it. Thanks
I started watching your channel when I started playing guitar just 1.5 years ago, and I very much doubt I would have continued playing and loving it if not for the enthusiasm and unique content you post here! Truly picking up guitar has gotten me through the most difficult year I've had and you are been a huge part of that, Jeremy! Your metrics can't define the impact you've made on peoples lives! Seriously, thank you!
You are courageous. Thank you for your honesty and bringing us along on your journey. You will find your way. I, and all your other subscribers, are cheering you on. 💛
I’ve been watching you for quite a while and I love and appreciate what you do and who you are! Great content, but you really have a fantastic way to communicate with such honesty. Thanks!
It's you brother. YOU. Your energy. The think you offer being a unique human expression. I don't need you to be a virtuoso. I just like spending time with you doing guitar stuff. Thanks for being one-of-a-kind.
Such a great metaphor about the high beams and virtuosos, Jeremy! And I appreciate all your hard work on your channel and all the great information you put out 🤘🏻
Jeremy, this is probably one of your best videos. I have followed you for a long time. Every morning I get up and go to the kitchen to get coffee but, before I pour a cup I look for a new video from you and immediately get excited when there is one! I needed to hear everything in your video. You rock Jeremy! I am 47 and only been playing for 2yrs. I am sure a lot of people feel that way but it was awsome to hear you are normal and like a lot of people that watch your videos. I love you man!
![[DRIP] ‘BILLIONAIRE’ PREVIEW](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/m0eXQD0gIeE/mqdefault.jpg)
Playing music isn't a competition. It's about expressing yourself, making others feel what you feel and enjoying yourself. No matter how good you get, there will always be someone better. It doesn't matter. I've always enjoyed your playing.
I totally agree with you all the way I love your comment👍🏼🎸🎼🎶💖
Technical proficiency is however being good at an instrument doesn’t have to take away from the “meaningful ness” of the music or whatever. Tbh it’s all just sine waves at the end of the day so it’s just cool that you can minipulate them to fit the human ear
@Tristan Walser True. But take Keith Richard for example. From a technical point of view, not a great player. But how many people have written and played so many memorable riffs? Technique is great and I certainly wish mine was better. But in the end, it's all about soul. It's cliche but true.
i think people get too inspired by technical skill quite often, it makes you wanna sound like it... I guess its best to listen to what actually made you feel somehing first, the music that made you start playing, because most of the times your favorite music isnt the most technical
The unfortunate reality is that playing music IS a competition. Artist are competing for your time. There are more and more home brewed musicians (which is a good thing overall) and less and less attention span from the audience. If you dont capture attention, you don't go anywhere.
There is more than one way to do that... but if you want an audience, it absolutely is a competition.
It’s not your playing, brother, it’s you. Your passion. Your spirit. Your soul. What an amazing gift to share with the world. You never, ever need to apologise or make excuses for that. Ever.
Rest yourself we all feel this way sometimes..REMEMBER WHY did I start Playing....that's YOUR PASSION..NOT SWEEP PICKING ST 200BPM A Clip
The following is my story.
Few years ago I started to buy equipment (top expensive pedals, top mics, recording interfaces...), just to sound better on IG... for others... And few months ago I noticed that I don't enjoy in it, that something is missing. Problem was that connecting and tuning and positioning all those equipment, just to sound right for others, was pain in the a*s for me. About a week ago I stopped recording/playing for others, sold ALL my pedals, and started to playing for myself with just guitar plugged into amp. Best music desicion in my life! Joy I get from simply playing is 10x higher than any likes on IG or TH-cam.
So, my point is to go into whatever direction makes YOU better for yourself!
... and don't worry about it! People even troll Joe Bonamassa... :D
@@matijabo People are stupid sometimes..they say Hendrix is overated..if they rag on him they..they will do it to everyone
@@matijabo for real that’s what I did too, all to sound better, I realised I need to get better through my playing rather than equipment, now I do produce and record music and have done so for 10+ years, but that’s because I like to make music, and if I entertain some people with my art/craft along the way then thats cool too, I mean if you make music then why not share it with others who may like it, I like to express myself through the music I make, I take great joy in listening to a song that I myself created from scratch, to be honest a lot of my stuff has never been uploaded, I make a bunch of stuff sometimes that I don’t intend on putting online, just made for practice or pure amusement lol, but whatever I was doing, I thought gear and money was the answer, I couldn’t be more wrong, find peace and entertainment in yourself is first and foremost important just as you also said.
"I'm church good." As a former worship leader, that completely resonates with me, Jeremy. I started out playing and leading music. Before you know it, some folks were saying how much they enjoyed my playing and then I got to teach young people to play and lead. I've never been a great guitar player. I'm much better at bass. I didn't feel worthy as a teacher either. None of that matters. The light was shared. I'm happy being a street light. Keep shining, brother.
Sometimes I wish I was the praise band leader (or had more say so in the church music). They basically play only one style of music, they focus on the keyboard and give it most of the volume in the mix (~80-90%), they repeatedly turn down the guitars and your microphone. You can (almost) never hear yourself, unless you have an in ear monitor and sometimes that doesn’t work. After over 5 years in the band I finally had to insist on having an amplifier on stage(platform) to hear myself. And nobody to work the sound board, no bass player, many times no drummer. So I’ve started my own band.
@@coolramone Nice! Hope the band works out. Yeah, a good tech team is so valuable in worship. Keyboards can easily be overplayed. The more instruments, the greater the temptation to play louder.
As a guitar player who grew up in the days of shred in the late 80s and who had a father who was a jazzer I gave up on technical virtuosity pretty early. But that didn’t make me stop learning or trying to get better. It just pushed me towards the simpler ways of being able to serve the song. Find the sweet stuff and play it with heart and confidence. Who cares if my short stubby fingers can’t do the fanciest licks. I know I can find something that fits and will excite Your ears… hopefully with heart and intent.
Very well said, Im in the same boat and try to play what I feel is appropriate for the songs I write.
Congratulations you have fallen into the YT trap and gained a small amount of self awareness in the process. Follow Tomo's advice and don't compare yourself and just be happy with yourself and grateful for what you have. You just gained a sub. Outstanding video.
I think maybe .05 percent of guitar players could be considered virtuoso. I gave up on it and decided to be myself and let the instrument speak to me and then share that with others. Nothing compares to the feeling of expressing yourself with a unique voice. It blesses others and brings us fulfillment. I love the channel, have learned a lot and hope you never stop making them.
It's funny, but I thought I was really good until TH-cam came along. 😂
@@maynardtrendle820 lol, you and me both. Now I tell people “yeah, I sorta play”.
@@maynardtrendle820 Same me. Problem: as a (former) professional musician suddenly it was not enough to be the "best in the block" or "area" but needed to compete with the best of the best from all over the World! 'Cause for any moneymaking Gig it was (and is still) thanks to YT and Others so very easy to call any Guitarist you like on the whole damn Planet to play your Presentation, Corporate Event, Tour, Video Demo - you name it. And suddenly i (must) realized: man, i am NOT a good Guitarist, i just plain SUCK big times!!
I’m practically masterful in music theory and knowledge but my playing is ass lol, I need to work on that because I currently make cows cry and birds die when I attempt to play what I have the ability to write on paper 😂
@@Worlds_Worst_Guitarist you don’t suck
Hang in there brother! This is the first video of yours I've seen and I'm now a subscriber. For the record, I am 67 years old, singer songwriter and frontman. Ten years ago I had a heart attack on stage with my band in the middle of a show. They rushed me to the hospital, where I flat lined while they were prepping me for surgery. I got great care and made a full recovery. I have been playing for around 50 years, and consider myself a decent player. Definitely NOT a virtuoso! But not bad, not ashamed to pick up a guitar in any crowd, even though I just assume there will be better players than me. The vast majority of players are like you and me... not great, not bad, but love playing the guitar! I have even managed to teach some younger players enough to get them started. So keep the faith, keep the passion, and keep spreading the love of making music!
I support this message 1000%. I used to want to be a rockstar when I was a teen. Helping my partner take care of her dad has taught me a lot and now I’m thinking about music therapy as a career.
That is such a great idea!
I am autistic/ADHD and coming out of a near decade of being bedridden/housebound. Because of undiagnosed/recognized learning disabilities (as well as stress-disorders, due to my home-life - making it extra difficult to learn. God bless my guitar instructor and his patience), I always skirted around playing music (though, lived in LA prior to getting sick. Live shows every night).
Music has always been the main focus of my life; and my love of it, and my feeling I am meant to be a musician (the type I have always envisioned myself becoming) - that’s why I fought so hard to survive, what I did (“gruesome” and “horrific” doesn’t even begin to convey my near decade tenure of pure purgatory).
This year, as I have begun to rebuild my life (as well as my guitar collection/gear, as I lost everything - other than my very first guitar - in California’s most deadly and destructive wildfire, a few years ago) - I began having to take care of my grandmother, with SEVERE Alzheimer’s dementia.
She knows I am her granddaughter, though, no recollection of memories.
She would always take me to country music concerts, either at the county fair or local Indian casinos. She was the first to recognize my passion, for music.
As I began taking care of her, I’d always put on Johnny Cash - which, she loved.
It didn’t matter who else I’d put on (unless it was Elvis), from back in the day- everyone is Johnny Cash.
Even Stevie Ray Vaughan, lol.
My mother and I took her to see Christmas lights. She’s been in memory care, as we have been having to handle her property and assets (she lost everything in the fire, also - began living in a motor home and hoarding).
So, us coming back - though, she was thrilled to see us - yet, it triggered a lot of things, for her; as she has narcissistic personality disorder, also, and has always had a very difficult time accepting reality, she doesn’t like.
I put a Christmas album on, from someone I enjoy - who’s a bit more modern.
The whole way through the drive-thru Christmas light event, she was rather upset; about losing her license, not being on her property, etc.
My mother and I thought perhaps we shouldn’t take her out of memory care, again (she’s in a freakin’ resort, on top of a mountain. Top notch facility, almost no need for anyone to leave, lol. Thankfully, she is able to afford it, due to the payout from losing her home. God is always working in our favor).
Once we stopped at a gas station, on the way back - Johnny Cash’s ‘Silent Night’ came on autoplay.
Heard her singin’ in the backseat; totally calmed down.
Drove back through the light display - she enjoyed it, while singing all Johnny Cash’s Christmas songs, to her self.
AND!
We took her through it, again, two nights later - and she remembered!
She said how nice it was to see all the lights, again (She LOVES Christmas).
However, she really only recognizes Johnny Cash, when I am around.
My mother said when I turn the CD on, in her room, and I leave the room - she has no idea where the music is coming from, and thinks it’s someone talking or what have you.
Yet, every time I am around and put him on, she always lights up, and says “Johnny Cash!”
The activity director will bring her guitar in and sing, sometimes. And the other’s in the unit always love when I put music on, during dinner.
And what’s so neat, is I have learned there is such a correlation between autism, ADHD, and Alzheimer’s (a lot of it has to do with the consumption of vegetable/seed oils. If I didn’t happen to cut those out, a few months prior to taking in my grandmother - I wouldn’t have been able to do so, so successfully. Cutting ‘em out changed my life - physical pain AND mental function - beyond words).
So, in this time of taking care of my grandmother, I have been able to provide her with the care and understanding I wished I would have had even one percent of, during my tenure of being ill.
From my understanding, those with Alzheimer’s/dementia still connect to music, because of the part of the brain it affects.
I haven’t had much of a chance to look into it, yet. Though, I look forward to learning more.
This entire experience - both between what I have survived, as well as what my grandmother is going through - has, truly, shown me the healing power of music.
And I couldn’t be more grateful, for everything I have experienced and learned, as result.
As fun as being a rockstar is, I am sure.. I think a career in music therapy would be so, so rewarding.
Best wishes and warmest regards, in your endeavors - as well as to you, your partner, and her father. ❤
@@XOChristianaNicole That’s so interesting. My partner’s dad had a stroke and we believe he is also having signs of early Alzheimer’s. I think that your experiences have made you more sensitive and aware to suffering so you would be an amazing music therapist if you decided to go that route!
So, I really appreciate your video. I’m proud to say that I’m an average guitar player. I learned early on that if everyone could be as good as Clapton, Billy Strings, Hendrix and the like, then those names wouldn’t really mean all that much. My Dad taught me how to play. I don’t think I ever saw him go above the fifth fret, and he played cowboy chords exclusively. He always preached that you should know your majors, minors, and sevenths and you’ll have everything you need. Young me didn’t really see what he was saying and, of course, was trying to show off and be flashy (and not really succeeding).
I had an epiphany one day while I was at a jam session with the old man. He was the only member of a core group of jammers to show up that day and he didn’t have his song book. He led a group of young guys for about 4 hours from memory. He knew every chord and every lyric to every tune played and I don’t think we repeated much. It was a real lesson in what it meant to be a musician. To this day, I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything musically more impressive.
My Dad died a few years after that in a car accident. He left me is 58 000-28. Now, I was just finishing college and was trying to figure out what to do with myself. The 2008 crash had just happened and I had no plan. I was living different places from year to year and I didn’t want to risk dad’s guitar with such a life style, so it sat at my moms for about 10 years. Finally, I started a family and purchased a home and felt good enough to have the 000 with me. I hadn’t played much in about 10 years. I didn’t realize once I got back in it just how much I missed my Dad. I realized that playing the guitar was a good way to be closer to him and to allow my children to get to know who he was. I got into bluegrass and I’ll be damned if the old man wasn’t right: majors, minors, and sevenths are about all the chords I play.
I don’t try to be as good as people like Molly Tuttle and Billy Strings. However, I do work really hard on learning as many bluegrass tunes as I can. It gives me so much more to share with the people I love than a million fancy licks ever could.
That was such a sweet comment. Really beautiful how life works, and how music can bring people closer to each other even when they're gone. Thank you for sharing!
Great story. Reminds me of my Dad and his brother. Amateurs, but consummate musicians is just the sense you describe. Cowboy songs and harmonies.....warmth and laughter.
I just inherited my dad's old nylon string and it's in storage until I have a good home for it! (Til then I still have the rosewood 00-17 NY I found years ago and love).
This story is so touching.. God bless you and your father
Tremendous story. You are a guitar player and not everyone is. Continue to share your gift. I am sure your Dad will be looking down and smiling with pride.
Music is truly one of the greatest gifts God has given man. Brings me to tears thinking about the impact it's had on my life and how blessed I was to grow up around it through my father. Still learning something new through it every day.
I share Miles thoughts on this: It’s not your playing, brother, it’s you. Your passion. Your spirit. Your soul. What an amazing gift to share with the world. You never, ever need to apologise or make excuses for that. Ever.
I bought a guitar during Covid, locked down in my garage for what seemed like forever...I taught myself some basic campfire chords. I felt really good about that and it really helped me get through that very dark time (as I'm sure most of us can agree). I have a few close friends who are professional musicians (singer, songwriters, cover bands etc.) and in the last few months they have invited me out to play/jam with them at casual get togethers. I always leave those sessions feeling shitty. I know, that I'm not a good guitarist or a good singer, but I'm not bad either. After watching your video today, I feel much better about my situation, and most likely will try to find better environments to enjoy my playing. After all, I didn't start playing for anyone else to listen to, I played for my own enjoyment.
Thanks for you videos, I thoroughly enjoy them, as well as your honesty.
Keep going man.
Dan
Wow …. I needed to hear this. Sometimes I feel like an imposter too. Thank you Jeremy. You’re a good soul. You keep me, and I’m sure everyone in the Hunter community, inspired.
Dude, I am a bass player who like you , LOVES acoustic guitars. I love the wood, I love the sound, I love the craftmanship. I love to restore and improve them. I can play guitar, but I suck next to "good" players. However, I have played with some great pros, and I am not ashamed to play with them. Because, I am having a great time doing what I love and having fun. This is our joy in life. Also, you are bringing joy to others. There is always better and that is something to strive for. Do what you love! Life is a journey.
Hey Jeremy, this is the first video that I have watched on your channel (it was a recommended video).
To hear you tell your story with such transparency and rawness, without hearing you play a single note or riff, you deserve to be where you are.
This is exactly what I needed. Thank you.
You are not mediocre. For me, your playing is extremely sensitive and musical. It touches. Most social media virtuosos are impressive, but become boring within minutes. Also, your TH-cam approach is very special. The car trips in search of a unique guitar, the people's stories, your sincerity, your conscience about life and music... I was tired of watching guitar videos. But, when I discovered your channel, I fell in love and devoured the videos one by one. Like an awesome Netflix series or something. You have a admirer here in Brazil. Don't stop, keep being you! God bless.
Jeremy, I really appreciate your vulnerability. I, too, am far from virtuosity, and have for many years let that keep me from using the gift I do have. Glad you’re finding you’re not an imposter. Thanks for the video that is helping me get over my own imposter syndrome! I agree-we need more normal guitar players!!!!
Thank you so much for this. I started playing at 13 because my scout troop needed a new player and I had always been the most musical kid around. I fell in love with the guitar and became ‚scout good‘ very fast. At 15 I had earned a reputation as the one who tunes all the guitars by ear before every event. I was a beast at transposing real fast, because every group needs a different key to sing in, and by 17/18 I had developed a keen ear for chord progressions and harmony (also thanks to singing in choirs since birth) and began experimenting.
That’s when I realised I was shit at everything outside of campfire folk, simple song writing and choir. I met people who blew my ego away and made me realise that on top of this, I could have achieved so much more in those years. It didn’t help that I quit piano, my favourite instrument, at 13. I went to live with my mother and never looked for another teacher.
Long story short, I felt ashamed and useless and lost my (quite good) singing voice over night, it was like a wall had been slammed between me and my 18 years of singing lessons. I hated myself for it. Then I decided to become a luthier at 20. In school, my ego got crushed even more but I loved the work. After 6 months I had to quit due to serious health problems and spend the pandemic recovering and barely picking up any instruments. I gradually felt better physically but lost. Like I had lost myself to the expectations of others and myself.
Mid 2022 I picked up a guitar again after debating if I should sell them or not, fell in love once more and have been playing almost daily ever since. This time around I am learning classical music and jazz.
I realized that I don’t need to be the best. It’s too late for music school, a lifelong dream, and that’s ok. My health and my past is what it is, and it won’t get better from fighting and hating it and myself. I just need to play. And through playing, I have and will become better. I was pleasantly surprised when, after a month of feeling like a total beginner, muscle memory kicked in and the last 10 years of practice started to show again.
I now like to think of myself as a recovering intermediate who is starting again from scratch to build a stronger foundation. I started singing again too.
I have no idea if this helps anyone, but thank you for reading my story. Maybe you can see some of yourself in it.
Beautiful story. I related very much with it. It sounds like you are discovering the joy of living mindfully in the present. The past has a lot of things that might make us want to give up the things we love but we are not obligated to live in the past. We we should not compare ourselves with others, only our past selves. I hope you enjoy many more years of music.
The reason you are so important to these makers and manufacturers is that the vast majority of their instruments will be owned and played by ordinary people like us. Having some virtuoso players in the mix raises the profile for the makers. But internationally, the guitar market IS us ordinary players. I also hope that you find your way back to the content that you yourself find interesting and fulfilling.
Hey Jeremy, I watch your videos though I don't often comment. I want to say thanks for sharing your perspective and the kinds of stories about guitar that go deeper than specs and general consumerism. You're an asset to the guitar community on youtube. It's not easy to be self employed, especially with the pressure of an audience and scheduled content. Thanks for doing what you do and I hope you find more room to grow and enjoy playing guitar in the coming years.
Dude. You're not the only one. I totally get it. I wouldn't even call myself a mediocre player and I've been at it for a long time. It can be very discouraging. Don't let it get you down.
I’m in a long time guitarist since 1974 I struggle like everybody else I almost quit too but something told me there was something in this for me so I can continue to play now I am solo instrumental guitarist it wasn’t given to me I had to work I had to earn it and you know what I’m talking about👍👍🎸🎸😀
No I love guitar too much to let it get me down. Hey just pick up the pieces and move on. It’s a beautiful instrument. I have a wonderful time playing it guy I will never quit. I’ll probably still try to play after I am dead ha ha.👍🏼🎸💖
What a refreshing message. Whether you're a guitar virtuoso or an ordinary player, you definitely have a story to share that can help others. Good on you for that.
I think what makes your channel so much different is it feels like we're all sitting around in a living room talking about guitars, especially the live streams. The vast majority of other channels is the uploader showing off, lessons, or they're retail stores. There aren't many channels where it feels like the uploader is "just one of the guys."
Yes I agree spot on. And those guys showing off are light years ahead of me and I just turn them off. I so like the guys from casino guitars but most of the TH-cam guys are just too advanced. Why bother.
Agreed!
Agree
I hate the competition mentality with guitar players, lots of people forget that there was a time they didn't even know how to hit a note. I've had people think my playing was great and ask for tips, and I've met people that absolutely blew my mind that I had the privilege of learning from. That's all it should be about man regardless of what skill level someone is at or wants to achieve.
I am not a virtuoso. You are not the best guitar player I've ever seen on TH-cam, but your advice is worth more than your guitar playing. You've helped me examine what I want/need in a guitar, and get the right guitars faster. Nobody else on TH-cam does exactly what you do. Thanks for the encouraging video. I too have been surrounded by much better players, and it's good to be reminded about what's important.
I don’t watch your channel for the most awesome guitar player. I watch you for one of best guitar people. You’re human with all the wrinkles and flaws of the rest of us. You are making connections with the story of guitars that make us better as people. Regular people who love the music that resonates within us. Keep on the journey because you are good enough for those that know the way forward is not looking in the rear view mirror but looking out the windshield to see the road ahead. Thanks
This was likely the most inspiring contribution on a guitar channel I’ve come across. You made an excellent point. Thank you so much for sharing it. From a fellow ordinary guitar player. Thumbs up to you, Jeremy 👍🏻
We are here to hang out with Jeremy, one of the more real unfiltered channels where life/guitar/life/music and life intersect. There are many, many of us still aspiring to reach your level of playing with the goal of just making ourselves happy where maybe our playing becomes less annoying to those who hear it. This is the time of year we all take a drink of truth serum and plan for a better year ahead.
Props to you. In a way as musicians we are drawn to amazing players, you can't help it. It can definitely bring your spirit down when you chase it for a long time and get to the point of "I just can't do it like they do". Know I've felt that way too, and it takes the wind out of your sails to the point where you don't even feel like practicing. But the message you're putting out here and constructing actually is going to make a lot of us, self included think about how the point isn't to be the best, just be. Play your way, feel good about it. There's probably hundreds of thousands of people who wish they could play a few open chords and look at us the same way we look at virtuoso players.
Stay up Jeremy!
Thank you for being so candid Jeremy. This is a perfect message to take into the new year.
Love your thoughts on this my man. Couldn’t agree more. I just started my channel about a month and a half ago and I’m going to crush it this year. In fact, this video was so inspiring, I’m going to put out a couple of shorts today on this very topic. I am the best musician looks at others, appreciates what they do, and then incorporate some of that technique into their own craft. Keep on crashing it and congrats on your success. I can’t wait to create more musicians in the world just like you. That’s my entire mission of my channel.
I’m a nobody who often feels similarly unqualified to be holding a guitar. However, I really enjoy your channel, your stories, and passion for the instrument and music. You do assist us as consumers, but more importantly, you extend our network of folks we can talk about this instrument with. And, tbh, I can always use more guitar friends.
You are totally worthy! Please keep taking us on your journey to discover new old treasures, cool guitar stores, with the gorgeous views, interesting people, around what we all love which is music and guitars. Love your playing and the tone of honesty that your channel is all about.
Hey Jeremy, thank you for your honesty and your truth. at best I’m a mediocre guitar player and one of the things I miss the most is playing with other people. I haven’t done that in a long time mostly because I feel inept compared to other players. I hope to find some mediocre players to play with in the new year. I appreciate you and this channel and all of the people who are a part of it. Happy New Year!
It’s true, the guitar players that can tear it up and play awesome guitars are so very cool. I am sure they spent untold hours working on there craft, my hat is off to them. For me, I Truly enjoy watching and listening to someone playing simple chords and pouring there heart out. I’ve been playing about seven years now and wouldn’t even call myself Mediocre but when I play it fills my heart, it puts my mind at ease. When I go to some local jams am I the best, not even close but I enjoy it. Not everyone can be Babe Ruth or Payton Manning. The wold needs folks just doing there best. You have an awesome channel and I am glad to be a member. Keep on keeping on my friend.
All guitarist are awesome, you play to to your ability the best you can , that's awesome . 👍🇦🇺
So true! It is nog about being the best player, it’s about spreading joy through music and having fun while doing it. I enjoy your channel because of the stories you tell about beautiful and meaningful guitars and for the inspiration you give to me and so many others. Keep doing what you do and don’t forget there are plenty of us ordinary players who absolutely enjoy every second of your channel!
I love guitars and the sounds they make. I have been taking lessons for 4 years and the kids before and after my lessons play better with a couple of months of noodling.
I don’t have any friends that make music so I tell my teacher that more than anything I am buying a music friend for a half hour a week. Guys like you sharing your passion is my only other outlet. I appreciate you! We are in this experience of life together.
Well said Jeremy! I really enjoy your channel. It’s unique and your genuine joy of guitars is obvious in every video. Looking forward to what you have in ‘23!
Such humility is hard to find! Hang in there man, you can always grow as a musician, if you feel you need to that is.
Thank You Jeremy. My Father-in-law said Everybody is born with a gift. Yours is spreading music and taking ”us normies” on guitar-safari-magical mystery tours, and verrry enjoyable ones as such. Love, Music and Food are the necessities and languages of the world. Sharing either or all is what makes People happy…. And healthy. and sharing with Family & Friends… What can be better. Yawning and smiling are verrry contagious… and You do spread smiles… and great music vibes🙏😊😊😊
Im sorry about your mom. You seem like a awesome, great person. You are worthy of the guitar brotha!
This is the first video I’ve seen from Jeremy, and his honesty surprised me. It is great when people can be real and not put on airs. New sub here. Can’t wait to see what else he has. Continue doing you!
As someone learning guitar with cerebral palsy, being an "ordinary" guitar player is about all I expect to achieve, and I've learned to be happy with that goal! I'm 18 and play for my youth group worship team, which isn't normally a big achievement, but I have to put it into perspective, and realize how blessed I am to be able to play at all given my disability! Let alone the fact that I'm able to play with a band (church or not). I'm not a great player, and I've definitely been stuck in a rutt lately, but I've learned to be content, and incredibly proud of myself! I may never be even a mediocre player, but I'm okay with that, and love where I am! I hope this is some encouragement!
We’re all on our very own journey in music as in life! You bring a lot of pleasure to other people who very much share your great love of the guitar! Not everyone can be Segovia or Eric Clapton! You deserve everything that your enthusiasm and your video efforts have brought you! Keep enjoying and loving what you do - because nobody does what you do better!
-KEITH RICHARDS not a virtuoso
-IZZY STRADLIN not a virtuoso
-NOEL GALLAGHER not a virtuoso
-…..
Those guys reached everything. Proves You don‘t have to be a virtuoso at all!!!!
You’re absolutely right. It’s about creativity. Kurt cobain was by no means a technical player, but he created memorable riffs and seemed to have a good instinct when it comes to harmony and good song writing
Awesome that you named Izzy too he's super underrated such a damn good songwriter...
Ron Asheton? Tim & Neil Finn? Andy Summers? just another 3 of the literally dozens upon dozens of musical household 'names' & famous if not well-known guitarists, all are successful muso's who are certainly no guitar monster virtuoso's by any stretch of the imagination. Been snappin' Dr. Thomastik .12's for 4 decades & I can play almost anything but I sound like ME!
I've found if you play guitar & friends, acquaintences, random garden-variety strangers or punters dig it - it's good - savvy?
If other people like what you play, if they say that's cool that's awesome that's wicked, that's as good as you need to be as long as the most important person of all is satisfied comfortable & knows what they know - you! If you think it's cool; it IS.
N.B. Don't blow all your cookies in the first 4 bars & if it sounds pretty bloody good then it f*ckin' is - don't sweat it; have FUN.
🧐'69 model Curmudgeonly Lecturer & Anthropocene Guitarcheopteryx since '79😱
🪃Didyabringyabongalong Station🎸455,000sq./a🤘Central Queensland🦘The Magical Land of Oz🧙♂
Never play the comparison game in your mind. I just stumbled across your channel and subscribed. I suck at playing, after 40 years of carry a guitar around the world I've decided to make a real effort to learn to play in retirement. I can see your channel is going to be very helpful for me. You nailed it in your title, the world does need ordinary guitar players. More people like me can relate to ordinary guitar players and it's less intimidating than being around people who are excellent players. The knowledge gap is smaller and I feel more comfortable, like maybe I can get there. Your channel will have a lot of value for me. Not being a virtuoso makes you more relatable, and us average people need that.
One of the best TH-cam messages I have heard!! I'm not even a guitar player but I can so relate. I'm an ordinary songwriter, who has limited talent on the piano, although I'm continually trying to improve. I watch other pianists on TH-cam, only to reaffirm how average I am, but you are right, not everyone can be a virtuoso and the world needs ordinary musicians. This video is so inspiring!! I've subscribed!!
J, we love you just the way you are. You’re a regular dude like the rest of us dudes and dudettes. You’re a kind hearted person, you’re not afraid to try new things like building guitars or traveling who knows where for the next story.
I think the pandemic led you to doing mostly guitar reviews, and that’s fine because you still helped many people by doing that. I can’t afford to buy guitars, but I learned a lot about materials, parts, how guitars are built, etc. Knowing how guitars tick helps with maintaining and caring for our instruments as well as helping us connect better with the instruments we are holding. This all leads to better playing when we are excited and passionate about the guitars in our hands. So please know that you have really helped others even if it’s not what you intended on doing.
The good news is that you can now get out and find those stories you’ve been itching to tell. You did some of that during the pandemic, but now you can do even more. No matter what you do, I’m sticking around and I’m sure mostly everyone will too.
Also look at many other TH-camrs. Most are also no-frills kinda players. It’s not a contest as you said, but there are more average players in the guitar community than virtuosos. We are all passionate about listening to music and making music. We will never be Slash, but we can be our best selves. You play better than you think and you don’t need lessons to improve. Just get a couple of apps like Fender Play, Gibson, Yousician, Justin Guitar, Ultimate Guitat, etc. They’re all useful in their own right. I used these apps to take me from zero to playing more than I ever could have dreamed. If you want to improve in your own time at home, I highly recommend doing this. And if you stay the way you are, that’s cool too - it’s awesome to be able to play with a Church band and on TH-cam. I think you’re really good, and it’s okay to repeat songs you play because we all do it.
Wishing you health, happiness, joy, and all you wish for yourself in the coming year!
In 2019 I went through this exact thing....then I found your channel and many others and it reinvigorated me. I totally understand what you are going through, but remember that Spreading Music and Friendship is something that helped me out in a very dark time in my life. You were a part of helping bring joy to my life when I really needed it.
Hallelujah brother, keep up the good work and keep on being honest. I’ve never kidded myself that I’m ever going to be a virtuoso guitar player, but I will never lose the feeling of happiness I get when I play. Wishing you a happy and healthy new year 👏
I love the acoustic arrangements and open celestial chords Jeremy plays when he demos. I have been inspired by some of the things he does. He is also a tremendously kind man that is providing us with excellent content. Keep going brother. We all feel like this. You da man.
This really is one of my favorite channels to watch. Your just a down to earth and cool dude man keep your head up. I am in one of the worst spots of my life but just hearing your story really did bring me some comfort. Thanks Jeremy!!!
My significant other and I, also in Mississippi, pick several instruments and sing together. We are nowhere near virtuosos, but we have had so much fun picking with others and once made a 90-year-old man get up and dance 😀 I’ve sung babies to sleep with my imperfect voice. I’ve harmonized with another woman singing lead on an old Irish ballad that made people listen to a haunting story. I play several instruments, none perfectly, but had have fun and entertained and comforted others with music. Please keep on your musical journey.
Man this hits home on so many levels, just the message I need 👏👏👏
I started making videos seriously in 2012. I'm still here teaching and making videos. Cheers Jeremy.
Thank you for your honesty Jeremy. It's refreshing. We need more songwriters than anything else. Many of the greats over the last 60 years were not virtuoso players. They wrote songs that connected with people. That kind of connection is what you're doing with your channel. Keep it up and stay true to yourself. 👍
Great points!!! When you said songwriters and connection - I think those things are key. A songwriter that connects with me is Aurora. She has been a songwriter since 10 years old. She played piano and guitar at that age, but she gave up on guitar. BUT her gift is songwriting and connection. And she does that in a way no-one else can do... Honesty, connection, and songwriting are the keys... Not technicals...
thank u for making this i think everyone had a hard year last year. keep being you and have fun doing it
Man that was amazingly said. I'm 53 yo. Been playing 30 years. When I listened too and saw with my own eyes 9 and 10 yo children ripping the strings off a guitar I thought about slinging mine out the window. But then it hit me. No I'm not as talented as many musicians out there technically speaking. But I have really good feel and emotion that I pull out in my own way. I don't sound like them. But they don't sound like me.
My story exactly. Down to the age and everything. Gonna keep playing til I die.
Thanks Jeremy, playing guitar is definitely not for the faint of heart. What I have noticed as a new player is that it opens up a whole new world and teaches you grit and perseverance. I have connected with with many more musicians at church and they are TALENTED.
Two years ago you gave me great advice. That has helped my playing and purchasing. When I find myself chasing the next "great" thing I can't live without, I always think about what you wrote... "Stop buying so much and learn to play". You're honest and you do this for the right reasons. Thanks buddy.
Thanks for this. I've been really down feeling like I'm not good enough or that I don't belong in music. I feel you on this.
Jeremy, this is the first video of yours that I’ve watched. I felt saddened by some of the things you said about not feeling good enough playing guitar. I learned guitar about 3 years ago when I turned 50. I know a few chords, can barely do a barr chord and I’m not getting much better. But, I do it because I like it. There is no other reason to do it
Me too, I just turned 50 and stopped drinking and decided to take up guitar. I'm also no good but its so fun to learn even basic songs!
You have to keep on keeping on! You make the types of videos that I love to watch! It's not always the subject matter that catches me, it's you, your personality, and your videos inspire me to practice more. I'm just church-ok, but I'm loving the journey!
As a 53 year old “ordinary” guitar player. I have more money than developed talent. I own two guitars that are “ heirloom” quality. I’m fortunate to still enjoy every success in practicing. There is nothing wrong with getting back to basics. Do not covet. That includes other peoples talents and prior investment in time practicing.
This video is everything. What a real feeling. I’ll say this, I had trouble accepting that I’m not Tim Henson. The moment I did, and just played to express myself, I found something deeper in myself and playing than I did looking to players around me on the internet.
Play for you. Enjoy music for you. If you wanna film it, film it, I’ve dazzled people with the same 6 riffs in different keys live every night all over the south.
Do what you love man.
I think a lot of us go through this. I have periods of time as to why I continue to play after 32 years. I don't play out - I just hang out at the house. Occasionally I get to play with others, which is fun. I have a ridiculous collection for what I do. I am still trying to learn and get better. I take occasional lessons and take TrueFire courses. But, I definitely go through "ho-hum" periods with it. Sometimes they are hard to get out of.
Yeah everybody has those moments once you reach certain points, everybody is different too and encounters those moments at different times in their life, rock on buddy.
I’ve always been impressed by your playing! Performed at my first open mic this week, your videos and passion for guitars and people are an inspiration! Appreciate you man!
First, I like your playing. But your gifts go beyond a mere guitar player. You are a blessing and a breath of fresh air to many of us who subscribe. Thank you for being you, and may the Lord richly bless.
Amen!! We’ve all been there! Make your next series about various ways you are trying to break out of the rut!!
To have a voice like johnny mathis vince gill and steve perry and you can sing while playing the guitar very well too is beyond normal for me. Its an ultimate gift,
Okay dude that was the best thing you've ever done! Loved it Loved every minute of it. Thank you Jeremy!
Jeremy, this is a terrific message, that a lot of people need to hear, and not just musicians. Thank you for sharing all of this wisdom and encouragement.
I've never seen any of your videos until this one, but I can assure you that I will check out more of you videos now because you seem like most of us average players, and you're genuine about it.
True virtuoso guitar players are born with an inherent ability that the other 99% of us are not born with. Sure, they have to work to learn the instrument, but their ears, wrists, hands, and fingers are made for this.
The really really good guitar players have the time and means to work on being that good despite not having all of those inherent abilities.
The rest of us work for a living, have families, kids, and responsibilities that come first and foremost. Our playing and learning time is severely reduced on account of that.
I've been playing for 30 years. 20 of them were while I was married, working 60-90 hour weeks, and trying to get enough rest in order to balance all of that. I'd get to play the guitar a few hours a week. I'm now newly divorced, don't need to work as much, and back to playing again on the daily. I've improved more in the last 6 months than I had during my 20 year marriage. I've got more time and more money to invest in it, and no boat anchor of a wife to get in my way anymore. I've actually started studying music theory again on my own in order to regain knowledge of where I was, where I am, and where I'm going in a melody progression along the fretboard. I don't want to learn it all though, and I don't want to be a virtuoso, because those guys generally play some of the most boring formulaic shit I've ever heard.
Anyway... Just be you, man. We all get in ruts and plateau in our playing. Start finding other music to inspire you the way you once were. Maybe cut back on making videos about guitar, and start playing more. Start forcing yourself to play outside of your box. Start trying different chord shapes, learn how to move them around to different positions, different rhythm/strumming patterns, learn a few scales and a few techniques to get your lead playing progressing. That's the only way you get out of a rut and moving up from a plateau; shear determination.
This is why I decided to kick off upload more of my music creation process. I've never saw music as something I 'need' to be good at. It's fun for me, and a lot of people. I've felt very self concious about sharing that with the world because of how many godly guitar players are in main-view on social media. I agree we need more 'regular' everyday guitar players/musicians sharing their joy of music.
Appreciate you and your work. Keep on keeping on.🎸
What a sweet sentiment! Thanks for starting the year off with some positivity. 🤩
I just came across your channel! You are very talented acoustic guitarist and singer! Don't ever feel bad! It's about loving to play guitar and enjoying music!
Just came across this video and channel and I really appreciate your message. Comparing ourselves to others (I have done this way too much) is a good way to loose the joy in music and in living. Thank you for this!
For what it's worth, I think you're a great guitar player - I enjoy your 15 riffs. Thanks for the videos!
about 10 years ago i found myself in your situation.... I started teaching beginner guitar players, not only did it reignite my passion but during teaching i was also re learning things i had forgotten, and that made the ideas flow again and i became inspired to write new stuff. Maybe take on a student....Just an idea 😉
Jeremy keep your head up and we will always walk with you and thank you for all that you do to brighten our lives up your the man and we love you.
Good message brother, I don't want people to stress about virtuostic guitar playing, I don't think I'm a virtuoso at all but I feel like I play virtuoustic pieces and practising constantly is a massive mental drain, can be very stressful to maintain that level of playing and sometimes I wish I never went down this path.. I think as long as we play the best we can, and most importantly focus on the music, is all that really matters in the end.
Wow, this was deep. Beautiful message, and resonates with me a lot with my art. I compare myself to others and it crushes me, to the point where I don't even want to draw anymore. The idea that I don't have to be amazing, that it's enough in and of itself, is a powerful idea.
I gotta be honest, I just recently started watching your videos. Your older videos. They really have heart, are very interesting, and make me feel something. The new ones truly didn't have as much heart, I felt, but you still have it in you, why wouldn't you. Everybody loses their way sometimes, that's completely normal. Keep it up, I believe in you. You are not a guitar god, but you change lives in your way. You are the guitar hunter.
I totally agree. I'm working on stuff focusing that again. I'm turning down a lot of projects this year that I would have taken last year.
Keep rocking and enjoy what's happening in your life. Don't worry about getting better, focus on living and enjoying it man. You got this.
Dear Jeremy, wow man maybe this is the best video of you I´ve ever seen and listened to since the video of Joshua, his grandad and the D28. Tears in my eyes man ... what a honoust testimony and so humble. I think you are a good player because you play with your heart and fell your instrument. That is a language not everybody understands. I am just an ordinary player, but music is such a great gift from the Almighty. Jimmy Martin onces said in a video with the Nitty Gritty Dirtband: "Music is friendship!" And that's a very true statement. I'm 65 now and there is always music in my life. My best friends play music or love music. I have been a teacher for a long time in a secondary school. My best audience were the children in my classroom. Many times I used my songs and my guitar to tell my stories. What an awesome gift God has given us in music. Hope to see more of you in 2023, be blessed, you and your family!
Wonderful message! I couldn’t agree more! I think it’s easy to forget that social media comparison happens on absolutely every element of life whether it’s luxe, money, relationships, or skills… Comparison is the thief of joy.
Jeremy I am here to tell you that I have been playing guitar since I was 10 I'm 68 now I sympathize with you but here it is God gave me the blessing to play by ear and I am not a master by no means I just love playing the guitar and people appreciate what I played through the spirit we are not perfect and never will be just be real and enjoy ❤️
New sub! Wow, intense video and I mean that in the best way. Respect for being so honest and open. I often feel terrible about my playing and to know I’m not alone in that is refreshing
I'm so glad we're in it together!
Hey there Jeremy, your channel came up on my feed and this is the first video I’ve ever seen if yours. I could absolutely relate to how you feel as a guitarist 100%. I exist in mostly the progressive metal world where there are an abundance of sweeping arpeggios, light speed alternate picking, two hand tapping that sounds like 2 players at once, and rhythmic lines that make my head swirl. I love seeing these amazing players that seem to be everywhere now with social media and it’s truly inspiring. But if I’m being honest, I really feel like I am so far behind as a player of almost 35 years now. There was a time when I won guitar contests and battle of the band competitions and was viewed in my hometown as one of the really good players around. Fast forward 20 years later, I have a family and still play my guitar several days a week, but I’m no longer in a band and don’t know squat about recording my own material with computer software. I feel useless. Even where I live now I’ve gotten the reputation somehow for being “the man” on guitar from the people in our extensive social circle, but I’m so unconfident about my playing anymore, that I’ve even turned down requests to play for friends and family. I completely feel self conscious with all of my weaknesses playing wise that I literally quit playing for a 2 year period believe it or not. Didn’t touch a guitar in that entire time. I realized finally that it was a part of my identity though, even if I feel like I’ve peaked and can’t seem to get past my current sticking points. It DOES make me happier to at least connect with my instrument on occasion even if there aren’t screaming applauding fans in the audience anymore. Nobody cares if I play the guitar these days and my own wife and kids could really care less bless their hearts. But I guess at some point we need to realize that it makes ourselves happy to keep putting the guitar in our hands even if just to hold it. Sometimes I feel like I could have made a career out of it had I only tried a bit harder, but I could never regret becoming a family man and having a close relationship with my wife and children. Someday maybe my kids will want me to teach them some guitar and that will make me happy enough. Loved your personality from the start Jeremy I could totally relate to how you feel. The next video I watched of yours was the tour of Casino Guitars and was so impressed with their shop wow. And brother, your playing sounded beautiful to me I think you’re hard on yourself about your playing as I am about mine. Cheers I’ll be watching your channel closely my friend. I’m consolidating all of my electrics and acoustics (I’m a lefty) and rebuying 2 new electrics…a 7 string Schecter and 6 string PRS SE Custom 24…and 2 new acoustics but not sure which ones yet so I’ll be watching your vids to help with that. I have a 20 year old Martin DCME that was left unstrung in a hot garage for several years so I don’t know if it’s trash or I need to spend money on getting it set up again. In any case thanks I’ll be following ya!
You are right, Jeremy. We just love what we do, for the sake of doing it. If anyone is listening, hope they have a happy day.
That's a great story. Like yourself, I recently had heart trouble and ended up in hospital given 3 weeks to live. They didn't want to do the heart valve surgery, as it was Covid times, and they were overloaded with patients, but mainly because it was a result of my lifestyle. I was lucky that a surgeon came and talked to me, and then changed his mind, and they did the surgery. 7 months in hospital watching youtube guitar videos(yours included) while recovering gave me the idea to start playing guitar again. I played in high school, but stopped when i was about 18. Im 39 now, reasonably healthy(albeit a weak heart), and playing guitar whenever I get the chance. So yeah, your videos inspire people. You dont have to be the best player, just enjoy it. Thanks
I started watching your channel when I started playing guitar just 1.5 years ago, and I very much doubt I would have continued playing and loving it if not for the enthusiasm and unique content you post here! Truly picking up guitar has gotten me through the most difficult year I've had and you are been a huge part of that, Jeremy! Your metrics can't define the impact you've made on peoples lives! Seriously, thank you!
You are courageous.
Thank you for your honesty and bringing us along on your journey.
You will find your way. I, and all your other subscribers, are cheering you on. 💛
do not give up!
your guitar playing is great enough to inspire new players!!!
Thanks
I’ve been watching you for quite a while and I love and appreciate what you do and who you are! Great content, but you really have a fantastic way to communicate with such honesty. Thanks!
It's you brother. YOU. Your energy. The think you offer being a unique human expression. I don't need you to be a virtuoso. I just like spending time with you doing guitar stuff. Thanks for being one-of-a-kind.
Such a great metaphor about the high beams and virtuosos, Jeremy! And I appreciate all your hard work on your channel and all the great information you put out 🤘🏻
Thanks so much for your openness and honesty - it has helped me. Best Wishes for a blessed and happy 2023!
Bro, I totally understand. And trust me you’re not the only one. Thanks for sharing.
I for one appreciate your videos and your open honesty, Jeremy. Be safe keep doing what your doing and Happy New Year! Cheers
Jeremy, this is probably one of your best videos. I have followed you for a long time. Every morning I get up and go to the kitchen to get coffee but, before I pour a cup I look for a new video from you and immediately get excited when there is one!
I needed to hear everything in your video. You rock Jeremy! I am 47 and only been playing for 2yrs. I am sure a lot of people feel that way but it was awsome to hear you are normal and like a lot of people that watch your videos. I love you man!
That analogy of the grass hit me hard. Thanks for putting yourself out there.