As I begin this journey teaching the fledgling rock stars of the world what I know, I feel inspired. Inspired in that I have to go way back to where I was at that moment when I first discovered guitar. I think I received an acoustic guitar on my 9th Christmas, accompanied by a chord book. This was possibly the most exciting gift I could imagine and maybe too large a proposition for me. I didn’t touch it more than once to actually try to figure out how to play it, but used it more as a prop when I would open the living room curtains (like a stage) and perform for anyone who would look as I mimicked to Santana, Miles Davis, and Beatles records.
When I was 13, I decided enough – time to get an electric and rock. I bought a cheap Matteo SG and knew I was ready. I took some lessons from jaded teachers that basically ate sandwich’s through my lessons as they showed me “Greensleeves” and exciting (not) stuff such as that. Very uninteresting. It was then that I met a country player who taught me Van Halen songs. A country player who plays Van Halen? That didn’t sound like a conflict of interest at all! Once I knew the intro to “Running with the Devil” and then the major parts of “Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix, I knew my place in the world of guitar divine was set. This teacher who’s name eludes me, had a magnificent Fender Strat that sounded like butter.
After putting that thing in my hands, it seemed reasonable to purchase a real guitar – after all, I knew the better part of two songs, how could I be denied? I saw a 1976 Starburst Les Paul Custom (like the one the other Jimmy played) in a music store for $350, and had to have it. But I wasn’t sure if I deserved that magnificent Les Paul until I felt comfortable with my ability. Sort of a self worth thing, or possibly paying my dues. He told me to get it because I would then be inspired to earn my dues.
Long story short, choosing a teacher who not only shows you the technicalities of playing, but to believe in what I was doing as well – made all the difference. I will never forget him. But his name still eludes me. 