14 Habits Holding You Back (on guitar)

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  • čas přidán 19. 06. 2024
  • Get exclusive footage, become my Patreon: / theartofguitar
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    Take lessons with me at: www.the-art-of-guitar.com
    Just wanted to put this out there in case anyone out there can relate to a few, or most, of these. I know I've had my fair share of bad habits come my way.
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Komentáře • 2,2K

  • @TheArtofGuitar
    @TheArtofGuitar  Před 2 lety +20

    If you want to learn how to play guitar from me, be sure to check out my entire lessons program at www.the-art-of-guitar.com. 👍🎸🎸

  • @shurdi3
    @shurdi3 Před 5 lety +2019

    If you just crank the distortion up enough, you can ignore all this advice

    • @notoriusdrifter40
      @notoriusdrifter40 Před 3 lety +96

      And open the portal to the void

    • @marshwiggle9676
      @marshwiggle9676 Před 3 lety +56

      @@notoriusdrifter40 infinite delay ushers in chtulu

    • @pan.vyblitku
      @pan.vyblitku Před 3 lety +8

      lol true

    • @michaelsmusic3532
      @michaelsmusic3532 Před 3 lety +4

      And you'd sound monotone and everyone including yourself would tired of listening to it really quick ! Trust me ... I thought that 40+ years ago
      Michaels Music ~
      czcams.com/channels/h5GY7QF25vsjvc86i2r7gQ.html

    • @thfreakinacage
      @thfreakinacage Před 2 lety +35

      Delay + wah = just slap the thing around it'll still sound like a sick solo :P

  • @aragorn1079
    @aragorn1079 Před 4 lety +1464

    He protec
    He attac
    But most importantly
    He tell me 14 guitar habits that are holding me bac

  • @Weifu7
    @Weifu7 Před 5 lety +2276

    Timestamps for people returning to this video and just want a list:
    1. Playing out of tune 0:06
    2. Over/Under Bending 1:09
    3. Pushing Way Too Hard 2:46
    4. Lack of Vibrato 4:08
    5. Overthinking 5:14
    6. Lack of/Bad Sense of Rhythm 7:45
    7. Being clueless about your tone 9:22
    8. No knowledge Guitar Maintenance 11:31
    9. Not Playing well with others 12:57
    10. Poor Muting Skills 14:41
    11. Bragging/Boasting 17:41
    12. Lack of Improvisation Skill 19:28
    13. Not Standing While Playing 21:50
    14. Having A Lack Of Theory Knowledge 23:03

  • @gemlouise1260
    @gemlouise1260 Před 4 lety +502

    Yesterday, I spent ten whole minutes trying to tune my guitar with the clip on tuner, getting progressively more frustrated and baffled, and at one point even shouted at my D string, because every time I got it to C, I thought 'ok, we're nearly there', and then it would just skip straight to G.
    Yep, it took me ten entire minutes to finally realise that I would never get to D, no matter how hard I lectured the fourth string, because my tuner had set itself to Ukele mode 😭😂

    • @GlucoseGarbage
      @GlucoseGarbage Před 4 lety +22

      oof that sucks. I suggest learning how to tune by ear. It's pretty easy with practice

    • @TheGoldDragon100
      @TheGoldDragon100 Před 4 lety +8

      @@GlucoseGarbage I've been trying for a while now but can never get it as precise as my snark does

    • @nuke8672
      @nuke8672 Před 4 lety +1

      This got a good laugh outta me😂😂😂

    • @MClark-bv9tn
      @MClark-bv9tn Před 3 lety

      That's funny!

    • @MClark-bv9tn
      @MClark-bv9tn Před 3 lety

      @@TheGoldDragon100 I heard those are hard to come by

  • @Baaaaaaaandyyy
    @Baaaaaaaandyyy Před 6 lety +1752

    "Sucking at something is the first step to being sort of good at something"
    - Jake the Dog

    • @kadenisgr8
      @kadenisgr8 Před 6 lety +42

      Baaaaaaaandyyy watching that episode as a kid legitimately helped me in life, I think.

    • @mikeyfoulke
      @mikeyfoulke Před 6 lety +42

      kaden is gr8 Don’t say “watching it as a kid” that shit makes me feel too old

    • @Gorgun2010
      @Gorgun2010 Před 6 lety +16

      And being sort of good at something is the start of being good at something.

    • @thunderballz74
      @thunderballz74 Před 5 lety

      maverik33452 adventure guitarist lol

    • @kezziekz
      @kezziekz Před 5 lety +2

      maverik33452 nice one

  • @AllHailZeppelin
    @AllHailZeppelin Před 5 lety +255

    "And now with just a little vibrato"
    *adds a shit ton of vibrato, pinch harmonics, and more bending*

  • @twitterydock4075
    @twitterydock4075 Před 6 lety +626

    "I have know idea what these strings are called, but wow watch this" - Angus Young

    • @benparsons4979
      @benparsons4979 Před 4 lety +25

      I can honestly see him saying that

    • @joandrumz3176
      @joandrumz3176 Před 4 lety +9

      Well, I like you, you like Foo Fighters

    • @michaeljoseph8229
      @michaeljoseph8229 Před 3 lety +1

      Toon link main! Any good results in ult?

    • @gohjohan
      @gohjohan Před 3 lety +6

      A few people I know do that. Don't know how to read chord charts and tabulature but comes to playing, they nail it. For example they know what a F minor and a F# minor sounds like but they do not know the name for that chord.

    • @bojangles6444
      @bojangles6444 Před 2 lety +5

      @@gohjohan if it’s only rock and roll they don’t need to if they sound right. Only problem is communicating with other people.

  • @HEWfunkingKNEWit
    @HEWfunkingKNEWit Před 5 lety +224

    One of the best feelings ever when you make that transition from overthinking to just feeling the playing.

    • @BrockRodriguez
      @BrockRodriguez Před 3 lety +8

      Absolute freedom

    • @bethspahr9582
      @bethspahr9582 Před rokem +2

      I can't seem to get there as much as I try.

    • @user-yo3cg9ev8y
      @user-yo3cg9ev8y Před rokem +3

      @@bethspahr9582 it comes naturaly when you get more confident in your playing and you dont have to think hard what to play next, it just kinda flows.
      try playing things without looking and focusing on the guitar neck 24/7 and just have fun and feel the groove and musik.

    • @antwanelynch87
      @antwanelynch87 Před rokem

      ​@Tim But then when you do that ppl complain and say your just noodling and wasting your practice sessions🤷🏿So being self taught by taking advice from advanced or Vet technical Players, it confuses me, by making me feel im doing the wrong things while practicing that way🤦🏾So idk WTF is the correct approach and/or practice techniques and lessons for Beginning Self-Taught players, Tbh🤦🏾...BTW thats my POV, and My own Opinion. So im over-thinking bc Im confused of what Noodling and whats the PROPER Approach and What is considered "Over-Thinking" & Noodling is what im trying to Say, and Explain, Bro🤔🤷🏾🤦🏾...???

  • @ryanduray1
    @ryanduray1 Před 6 lety +665

    I'm a really great guitar player except for my timing, phrasing, bending, improvisational skills, muting, picking, and I don't know any chords or scales. Other than that, I'm Jimi freakin' Hendrix.

    • @isaacabraham5842
      @isaacabraham5842 Před 5 lety +22

      BlackDogsMatter
      Wow i thought i was the only one who never knew this stuff. Rock on man

    • @AaronAJaeger
      @AaronAJaeger Před 5 lety +38

      You forgot to mention not having a guitar. This should really be Habit #1.

    • @kingturtle2197
      @kingturtle2197 Před 5 lety +2

      😂😂😂😂

    • @therayven3147
      @therayven3147 Před 5 lety

      I'm the best guitar player in n the world... I don't know first thing about guitar...
      Actually, I play pretty well, but this guy is a good teacher... Even to intermediate or higher players...

    • @Terrysoddy
      @Terrysoddy Před 5 lety

      BlackDogsMatter that’s a good one

  • @HOWYOUDOIN884
    @HOWYOUDOIN884 Před 5 lety +1269

    You missed one: playing an electric guitar without an amp, for years and years.

    • @12377Bobo
      @12377Bobo Před 5 lety +21

      What is the problem with doing this?

    • @Hennu_TRM
      @Hennu_TRM Před 5 lety +205

      @@12377Bobo I don't know if this is a problem for everyone, but I've tried practicing without an amp but then when I try to play that song or riff plugged in to an actual amp it just doesn't sound right... either the articulation or dynamics are not great or there is a string ringing out that I didn't notice without the amp.
      The best way to make sure you have a good sound and feel when you're playing through an amp is to practice with an amp. You can make fine adjustments to your playing and tone, and you can know exactly what it sounds like.
      If you don't think your tone and the way your guitar responds are significantly different unplugged vs amped, you may not be very aware of your tone and sound. (of course that's not necessarily true, I maybe just suck at playing/practicing unplugged...)

    • @rachelmcgahey6302
      @rachelmcgahey6302 Před 5 lety +22

      HOWYOUDOIN884 thanks ...I always play without an amp so I’ll try stop that

    • @jeremywynohradnyk4993
      @jeremywynohradnyk4993 Před 5 lety +49

      I disagree been playing for 20 years and practicing without amp or effects can help you tremendously imo

    • @Jay-lr3me
      @Jay-lr3me Před 5 lety

      Yep very true!

  • @berni2905
    @berni2905 Před 6 lety +142

    20:50
    "Take a solo!"
    "You know what? I'm just gonna go home to practice, see ya"

  • @keithscott5580
    @keithscott5580 Před 5 lety +153

    Mistake #11. Just realized the other day that when Zappa said "Shut up and play your guitar", what he meant was SFTU and actually LEARN how to play the guitar, and the comment might have been aimed at many players out there, like me, who never did learn how to play it right, cheating anyway you could, and avoiding the painful practice needed to overcome playing difficult chords, and nailing certain chord changes that will seemingly haunt you your whole life.
    In my recent travels, I picked up this information I'd like to share;
    "To get the basic guitar chords down put one finger down at a time and check for buzzing, if it buzzes it's not right. Make small adjustments in your finger placement so that it works.
    Now once you have got to the place where the chord is not buzzing, raise your fingers off the fretboard and place them slowly into place, Keep doing that until you are confident that your can grab a chord quickly.
    You are building memory in your nervous system and that works best if you move slowly and as relaxed as you can.
    Memorize and learn each basic guitar chord so that it is an automatic reflex you can use without thinking.
    Be patient with yourself. I've found what seems to be impossible is possible if you take your movements very slow and relaxed at first and then speed up slowly until they are a lightning fast reflex."

    • @jordandangelo180
      @jordandangelo180 Před 5 lety +4

      That... anddd those albums were live guitar solos he recorded over a number of years form the 70s to the early 80s and Frank did a lot of talking during his songs and singing in his own inimitable way. Those albums have no singing or really any vocals at all. Just one guitar solo after another taken from concerts he performed. But you me point makes sense and it solid and true.

  • @PrepperAction
    @PrepperAction Před 6 lety +758

    Muscle memory... practice slowly, "slow is smooth and smooth is fast."

    • @matthewclark7952
      @matthewclark7952 Před 5 lety +18

      Good point and speed comes with accuracy as they say.

    • @MrAdravix
      @MrAdravix Před 5 lety +9

      Because of this stuff I slightly disagree with the tip about tone. Practicing should be done clean and extremely clear, making every note ring out properly and not over playing, and then when you're in a live situation or jamming or whatever. Then you add that distortion or whatever effect you want.
      Some songs need some effects to sound properly but as a rule of thumb when playing stuff with distortion, master it completely without first and have it be perfectly smooth.

    • @akaThaJordan
      @akaThaJordan Před 5 lety +30

      Yes and no. Tone and Technique are a double edged sword. You could perfectly master a solo on a clean tone only tot turn on your distortion just to realize you have to start over because your attack is having a profoundly different impact on your sound. See point 10 in the video. Base your playing on the intention of the part your playing, not purely the notes themselves.

    • @akaThaJordan
      @akaThaJordan Před 5 lety

      @adra btw

    • @someguywithamic9
      @someguywithamic9 Před 5 lety +5

      I heard that phrase a couple years ago and it's really true. the slower you can get through something the smoother it'll seem and smoother you can get it to become the faster it can happen

  • @BrettFunkGuitar
    @BrettFunkGuitar Před 6 lety +276

    I'm easily twice your age, and I've been teaching for over 25 years, and you pull me in every time kid. You're a wonderful instructor, players, and video producer. I appreciate all you do. Keep up the good work!

  • @ryadachaibou8098
    @ryadachaibou8098 Před 5 lety +95

    The "people don't wanna play with you" one hit hard

    • @gohjohan
      @gohjohan Před 3 lety +1

      I know, been there too many times, especially when I was living in Singapore because the standard of music is so high.

  • @odudi
    @odudi Před 5 lety +34

    1 of the biggest mistakes i made in the early days of my playing was always practicing fully distorted. When it came to playing clean i was bad, so when i started practicing clean so many things became more accurate during regular play. Some music jokes...how do you know when a drummer is knocking at your door? the knocking starts speeding up. How do you get a bass player to leave your porch? you pay him for the pizza. How many lead singers does it take to screw in a lightbulb? He doesn't have to do anything because the world revolves around him. How do you get a lead guitarist to turn down the volume? you put a music chart in front of him.

  • @pippipster6767
    @pippipster6767 Před 6 lety +2136

    Beginners mistake number one.
    Failing to pick up the guitar.
    You see, the guitar is very hard to play unless you're actually holding it. Free tip. 🤘

    • @ThatRandomBeast
      @ThatRandomBeast Před 6 lety +89

      Jesus, now you tell me!!! That's where I've been going wrong all this time! I wondered why it wouldn't play anything while staring at it intently! :P

    • @MrDmadness
      @MrDmadness Před 6 lety +35

      this comment = TRUTH

    • @SHineWhon
      @SHineWhon Před 6 lety +24

      finally someone giving advice that actually make sense

    • @kehnyonlohrum4652
      @kehnyonlohrum4652 Před 6 lety +5

      Life changing hack😱😱😱

    • @ashfordartcornwall3790
      @ashfordartcornwall3790 Před 6 lety +1

      Obvious, yeah - but it's surprising how many don't really get this, y'know, practically speaking. Although I s'pose it depends on the weight of the d*mn thing if it's heavy and weighs a tonne etc. As opposed to a Classical or some other string thing, lightweight.

  • @Logan-AI
    @Logan-AI Před 6 lety +517

    The tip about "not overthinking it" was literally just saying "get good at guitar so you don't have to concentrate".. thanks lol

    • @weho1233
      @weho1233 Před 6 lety +15

      Logan Goldberg listening to the music from a different perspective and keeping rhythm is what will help

    • @abberss
      @abberss Před 6 lety +55

      More like: spend a lot of time practicing until playing guitar feels as natural as eating a sandwich. For example, exercise your chords and scale shapes while you watch TV, that way you learn how to make those motions by feel without needing to stare at your hand. Your sense of touch should factor into your playing more than your sense of sight. By learning to follow the way it feels you will be able to play by muscle memory.

    • @congealedlegacy4673
      @congealedlegacy4673 Před 6 lety +1

      just practice

    • @MaximumJoy
      @MaximumJoy Před 6 lety +2

      Logan Goldberg rest of the fucking owl

    • @adams8589
      @adams8589 Před 6 lety +3

      You’re kind of right but if you overthink on any instrument it really throws off how good it sounds

  • @Galinn_Arts
    @Galinn_Arts Před 5 lety +436

    Earth bending
    Fire bending
    Water bending
    Air bending
    Guitar bending

    • @oneburrito_
      @oneburrito_ Před 5 lety +5

      Ah, yes. My favorite element

    • @VinnyBRotten
      @VinnyBRotten Před 4 lety +1

      1/\

    • @u2dva
      @u2dva Před 4 lety +1

      @cameron worsley Yes. Guitar will probably crack if you try to bend it :-)

    • @kkoch666
      @kkoch666 Před 4 lety +4

      Gender bending

    • @LRM12o8
      @LRM12o8 Před 4 lety +1

      @@u2dva Nah, it won't.
      some pro guitarists (forgot who) actually bend the neck of their guitar to get vibrato on an open string, if their guitar doesn't have a tremolo system.
      It's probably not good for the guitar, I guess you'll have to adjust the trussrod more often if you do this, but it is a thing.
      Or you could just press the string down on "fret 0" to get vibrato, but if you don't have locking tuners that will bend it out of tune immediately...

  • @Djozer
    @Djozer Před 5 lety +30

    The over-thinking thing I was taught in grade school. My band teacher brought me up to the front of the class and had me read the sheet music. He blocked it off to represent thinking. Then he took his hand away so I could read "ahead", leaving me options to play, rather than being so focused on the next note. That little lesson really stuck with me.

  • @vzguitars
    @vzguitars Před 6 lety +460

    ""just add a little vibrato, I'll show you how much of a difference it makes" - does a full step bend. Good advice though.

  • @Mr.M1STER
    @Mr.M1STER Před 6 lety +85

    Dude, you're a great teacher. You seem so patient and your tone of voice is really good and sounds very positive. Great stuff.

  • @vielumiereg9794
    @vielumiereg9794 Před 4 lety +39

    Also don’t forget. Don’t rush anything.. getting honestly good at any instrument, or just any skill in general, is gonna take some decent time, and the more time you put into it, the better it’ll be. You’re not gonna be the next James Hetfield in 2 months, or even in a year in some cases... it takes time.

    • @kaurpoiss1
      @kaurpoiss1 Před 2 lety +8

      Your comment implies that most people reach hetfield level in less than a year 😂

    • @noahraab2429
      @noahraab2429 Před 2 lety +6

      @@kaurpoiss1 Or ever. It's his job after all.

    • @ab_0625
      @ab_0625 Před rokem

      Every night I have to remind myself of this to sleep in peace.

  • @dannykent6190
    @dannykent6190 Před 3 lety +9

    20 years I've been playing... I've known for almost that entire time that it's the metal fret that makes the sound... Never once thought about how that means I don't have to press into the wood... Twenty years of practice and you just made me better with one sentence.

  • @LevitatorMusic
    @LevitatorMusic Před 6 lety +421

    sometimes under-bending can be awesome if you know how to use it right. BB King did it a lot. 1/4 bends and such.

    • @TheArtofGuitar
      @TheArtofGuitar  Před 6 lety +86

      True but many do it without realizing it. ;) haha

    • @MasterP48HD
      @MasterP48HD Před 6 lety +13

      guthrie govan does too, the thing is, if you're doing it on purpose and are aware of it then you'll use the microtonal bends in the right spots and not when you should be bending to a certain note

    • @d1zzyd1
      @d1zzyd1 Před 6 lety +5

      Often between the minor and the major third...

    • @allenblackwell2508
      @allenblackwell2508 Před 6 lety

      LevitatorMusic
      Thank You, because bending a note, is "sweet & sour", as long as it's in the "Key"; it sends out emotions, which comes from The Blues( making the guitar "scream or cry"), a very good effect, which is not the used on other instruments, although they compensate somehow to extend the capabilities of what the instrument does. And yet we still have a long way to go, to what is untapped on this particular; you can never master it, so "shut up and play your guitar" ( it just feels better; especially when you "stumble up" on something which is not frequently used. You hear saying "look what I created", when it should be "look what I discovered"( music by frequencies, is layed out, on every musical instrument), as The Great Sun Ra said "there is nothing new in music( what you think you are doing, it's already been done), we are only "recycling", just with "less hot sauce"(😂😂😂😂😂)!!!

    • @jaysonscott187
      @jaysonscott187 Před 6 lety

      LevitatorMusic mu

  • @MrHandyfrank
    @MrHandyfrank Před 5 lety +17

    Mike, really do appreciate your lesson (advice). I'm a late learner, 76 years not playing guitar and now 3 years learning, so I am guilty of most of your 14 habits that I'm sure are holding me back. You are a good teacher. Thanks.

  • @dezza72
    @dezza72 Před 5 lety +41

    You can use the guitar itself to check your bends e.g. a full step bend on the 15th fret will sound the same as the 17th fretted note.

  • @AlonzoWhite
    @AlonzoWhite Před 3 lety +6

    You are so right about "standing." It's really a trip until you get used to it.

  • @charliefoxtrotthe3rd335
    @charliefoxtrotthe3rd335 Před 6 lety +169

    Damn, I wish I would have watched this video about 10 years ago. Would have saved me soooo much time effort, frustration, headaches and all manner of bad things. I can just see myself in all 14 of the stages at some point. Great compilation.

    • @alanmares8643
      @alanmares8643 Před 6 lety

      Charlie Foxtrot The 3rd i thought this was from that stupid yousician ad 😂

    • @spartan8390
      @spartan8390 Před 6 lety +1

      Charlie Foxtrot The 3rd Same here. I've been playing just over 20 years and I have so many bad habits.

    • @j3in725
      @j3in725 Před 5 lety

      Same

  • @tuomike7023
    @tuomike7023 Před 6 lety +55

    I must say I really like your style of teaching. Wish I could be your student. Not just a virtual student... Thank You very much for interesting content on CZcams.

  • @jimsonbrown9768
    @jimsonbrown9768 Před 5 lety +27

    When I first started playing, before I even learned a chord I would practice Pete Townsend windmills....out in my front yard.......I looked ridiculous.....as a 42 year old I should have known better.

  • @matthewfraney9108
    @matthewfraney9108 Před rokem +2

    this is a great mental checklist even for experienced players. i would summarize the first 4 points plus 7 and 10 as "improve you listening skills". thanks for the video!

  • @uriahduncan9029
    @uriahduncan9029 Před 5 lety +8

    I've been playing guitar for about ten years now, and I can say that I've unknowingly worked through everyone of these issues, and I'm glad I stuck with it

  • @santiagoferrer9513
    @santiagoferrer9513 Před 3 lety +13

    when your ear is so bad that the "out of tune" You Shook me all night long part sounds the same as the "in tune" one

  • @alexbetty5896
    @alexbetty5896 Před 6 lety +3

    A lot of the points made are definately applicable to me!! Poor vibrato skills, unable to improvise, not standing up to play, serious lack of theory knowledge etc etc!! Having these things talked about in a "friendly" way gets the point across so much better than someone telling you you're not very good at certain things!! Gives me hope and determination to improve on my shortcomings. Thanks for sharing your tips and knowledge.

  • @Murphy4747
    @Murphy4747 Před 4 lety +7

    I'm day 3 into learning and the tip about pressing too hard on the frets is something I've never even heard from anyone and you'd think that would be the first thing people want to tell you. Insane tip that immediately affected how trying to play feels 👌🏻

    • @superadventure6297
      @superadventure6297 Před 4 lety

      If you're on day 3 (well maybe it's day 15 now?) watch Simon's video. I watched it over and over again. After a couple weeks didn't need it anymore, but on day 1 I didn't know how to fret a dam note. I was playing his ascending/descending exercise later the same day. This vid seems more for the beginner/intermediate phase, like after a few months up to few years.

  • @meowtherainbowx4163
    @meowtherainbowx4163 Před 6 lety +156

    The-Art-of-Guitar > Music Is Win
    Fight me.

    • @TheArtofGuitar
      @TheArtofGuitar  Před 6 lety +40

      Ah shucks. ;) I'm just glad there are a lot of cool options for aspiring guitarists these days. When I was a kid it was me and a crappy old cassette tape that I had to keep rewinding to figure out what was happening. haha

    • @meowtherainbowx4163
      @meowtherainbowx4163 Před 6 lety +3

      +The-Art-of-Guitar Wow, that was fast! Anyways, I see what you're saying. I don't even think Music is Win is bad. I just don't find the instructional videos as useful as yours. I still haven't completely dug into this channel, but I am definitely considering subscribing. Thank you for the time and effort you put into these videos.

    • @TheArtofGuitar
      @TheArtofGuitar  Před 6 lety +18

      Thanks Meow. Many more to come. I gotta hustle if I wanna get those music is win-type views. haha

    • @gamesandguitars3901
      @gamesandguitars3901 Před 5 lety +1

      MeowTheRainbowX for learning yes but for pure entertainment I’d have to say music is win not saying this isn’t interesting or entertaining i watch this channel all the time for entertainment

  • @NealKlein
    @NealKlein Před 5 lety +3

    Your pointers are detailed as Hell, and I couldn't be happier that someone expanded on the list of things holding me back. Good on you.

  • @MrJoshDrums0490
    @MrJoshDrums0490 Před 5 lety +4

    When you said “I’ve been a drummer longer than a guitarist” I saw myself in that. Been a drummer since I was 5 and just a month ago I picked up the guitar (I still drum obviously, drums are my heartbeat) and have been trying to learn and incorporate many of the things I’ve seen on your channel and others. Thank you for your videos and your insight!!! Much love.

  • @randomgaygirl
    @randomgaygirl Před 5 lety +1

    This is the second video I watch from you and it is very helpful. You seem genuine and your tips are actually real things I deal with as a beginner, and you come across like you really want to help others. Thank you for that.

  • @SuspiciousPenguins
    @SuspiciousPenguins Před 6 lety +10

    Also, the tip on practicing precise bends with a live tuner attached is brilliant. I'm going to start doing that for sure.

  • @TheCrustiCroc
    @TheCrustiCroc Před 6 lety +51

    Wow, that pressing too hard habit was exactly what I did wrong for so many years omfg.

    • @blackllistd5752
      @blackllistd5752 Před 5 lety +3

      From what it seems, this is a habit that comes from playing acoustic. I don’t know anything about guitars but it always seemed easier to hold the chords on electric.

    • @Sealedaway
      @Sealedaway Před 4 lety +1

      Blackllistd That’s probably what it is. More specifically, nylon strings. Since nylon strings are mounted further from the board, you have to push them much harder than steel strings. I use both and I’ve definitely needed some time to get used to steel when switching. I’ve always felt that steel strings are more forgiving and generally easier to play, but they also hurt more and sound very different.

  • @dennishrmn1
    @dennishrmn1 Před 6 lety +8

    Man, I wish this guy was my personal teacher!!! I watch ALOT of tutorials, but this guy has an amazing way of not only explaining the technique, but also making you feel comfortable, and not like an idiot. Good job brother!! You're awesome!! Also, you hit one thing on the head with me. As much as I hate to admit it, I was that guy that talked like I could play like Dimebag Darrell, then when it came time to jam,I looked like a fool!! Lesson learned!! Lol

    • @hillers54
      @hillers54 Před 2 lety

      Would be great to have lessons with Mike... if only😘😘😘

  • @myguitarjourney3002
    @myguitarjourney3002 Před 4 lety

    You're an amazing teacher. Clear, concise, straight to the meat with no BS. Us beginners appreciate you so much. Thanks for everything you do.

  • @dylangraef715
    @dylangraef715 Před 6 lety +4

    man.. this is my 20th year to have been playing the guitar.. so much of the problems you said for beginners i actually went through.. this is a really really good video for new guitar players.. i wish i had this back when i started playing.. thanks for the video man!

  • @helixxharpell
    @helixxharpell Před 5 lety +3

    Glad I found this video. Instant subscriber!
    Extremely grateful for your efforts! Excellent instructional and informative video! Soft-spoken, humble, knowledgeable and talented! Thank you young man. Keep em coming!

  • @dylancrowe2788
    @dylancrowe2788 Před 5 lety +1

    I've seen every one of these done by guitarists I've met over the years, this is a bloody great video! Very coherent, well delivered, and even one of them can really take alot out of a persons apparent skills. Great job getting a list like this together!

  • @MichaelEMJAYARE
    @MichaelEMJAYARE Před 2 lety +5

    This really makes me realize that while Ive been playing for 13 years, I havent progressed past that “intermediate” stage. I am so comfortable on the instrument but I have a lot of blind spots - mostly theory.
    It is so easy to neglect learning new stuff, I feel like there are simply too many options to choose from when it comes to learning something “new” - and a lot is skewed towards beginners.

  • @ChookaParkerTV
    @ChookaParkerTV Před 5 lety +3

    I'm learning guitar right now and it's come fairly naturally as I've transitioned from piano, understand my thoery and play by ear, but I'm so so glad I watched this video because I didn't realize how many bad habits I had!! Like pressing too hard on the strings (a habit from acoustic steel string playing) amongst other bad habits I noticed I have which I can address now! There's no shame in making mistakes, and it's always nice to know how to fix them so you don't fall into ruts. There's always room for improvement.
    Really enjoyed the lesson!
    Cheers

  • @ragingdane7923
    @ragingdane7923 Před 6 lety +4

    I love when you intentionally do something to make your sound bad and it accidentally sounds amazing

  • @leftylugnutz9117
    @leftylugnutz9117 Před 4 lety +1

    Your examples are so good, really helps drive the point home. I've only been learning acoustic but still enjoyed this video. You are a great instructor

  • @younic
    @younic Před 5 lety +1

    This is one of the most sensible guitar-basics videos I've ever seen. Congrats, man!

  • @denniscasey2883
    @denniscasey2883 Před 4 lety +3

    Your Patience and careful explanations make you an excellent teacher I am sure. I have been browsing videos here on you-tube. Most are Brittish which isn't easy to understand when you are trying to learn and watch at the same time. Best vids here for sure. You raise the bar several levels. With being left-handed, I already have real Barriers already. I am also disabled and cannot afford to buy lessons. I still cannot play a thing but you encourage Practice with clues that matter. Thank you

  • @grantknott
    @grantknott Před 3 lety +3

    You’re great to listen to my friend. Thanks for the tips. No wonder you have so many subscribers. Keep up the good work

  • @zacziegler9235
    @zacziegler9235 Před 4 lety +1

    Excellent content, been playing for years and your videos always open my mind

  • @jamescapodilupo3034
    @jamescapodilupo3034 Před 5 lety +1

    I learned really well with your laid-back demeanor and teaching style. Thanks for the upload!

  • @brandonmarks3438
    @brandonmarks3438 Před 4 lety +3

    Overthinking definitely is me right now, pushing way too hard, vibrato, not knowing theory, and I need to learn more about maintenance and tone. I haven't even attempted to play with anyone except a couple very basic training videos lol. Thanks for this video, I'm about to go work on a few of these! I was getting frustrated at being stuck, and you definitely helped me realize some things!

  • @richardjordan6518
    @richardjordan6518 Před 4 lety +3

    3:21 minutes is me for sure! I've stopped pushing so hard this week. Also, I was overthinking! Been practicing all this week and have jettisoned those bad habits! Thanks for the advice!!
    God Bless!

  • @87BruceH
    @87BruceH Před 3 lety +1

    This video is right on point. Timing is literally EVERYTHING! If you’re out of time, everything else will go wrong too. Overthinking is still an issue, especially when playing improv lead. I tend to get nervous when people are watching me jam and I overthink and it doesn’t have that “soul” it did earlier.
    And using a clip on tuner to hit those bends, you helped me sooo much. It takes a community to make a good guitar, lol,

  • @KeithH02
    @KeithH02 Před 4 lety

    Excellent teaching channel, my friend. I am not a complete beginner , just a home guitarist and not advanced - these clips explain a lot, I wish I had them when I was a beginner ! There is lots to learn at any playing level - fantastic instructions

  • @yllausunutcartsba6697
    @yllausunutcartsba6697 Před 6 lety +375

    how did you not vibrato that dude. that was probably actually difficult

    • @andrewbooker3364
      @andrewbooker3364 Před 6 lety +18

      yllausunu tcartsba that's what I was thinking, I got antsy cause I wanted to vibrato it 😂😂

    • @kevinwesel2472
      @kevinwesel2472 Před 6 lety +3

      What song is that

    • @dr.derplols8312
      @dr.derplols8312 Před 6 lety +4

      Kevin Wesel for the love of God Steve Vai (Idk if any of that is right)

    • @TYSuggested
      @TYSuggested Před 6 lety +3

      Thought the same thing man. Vibrato is something I do by default.

    • @Roescoe
      @Roescoe Před 5 lety +6

      it's like putting spin on in table tennis, once you learn it, it's really part of the hit.

  • @swingingharnessofdoom8260
    @swingingharnessofdoom8260 Před 6 lety +203

    I knew I sucked before but after watching your video I know I really suck! So what is the first step other than smash the guitar?

    • @TheArtofGuitar
      @TheArtofGuitar  Před 6 lety +104

      We've all sucked but that's what makes not sucking feel so good over time. ;)

    • @piotrbraszak3394
      @piotrbraszak3394 Před 6 lety +43

      A great mind once said:
      We all suck in the beginning. But sucking in the beginning is the first step to not sucking.

    • @MrDmadness
      @MrDmadness Před 6 lety +2

      you learn more from failure than success.... learn from it and work... you never, ever stop learning the guitar.

    • @fazesway3110
      @fazesway3110 Před 6 lety +2

      Swinging Harness Of Doom dont give up or give in, you will only suck once. You can only get better from there

    • @scottcaldwell5806
      @scottcaldwell5806 Před 6 lety +3

      Grasshopper, you can't NOT suck, without having sucked. But knowing you suck is a big step. Lots of people just keep on sucking without even realizing it.

  • @armaanansari4922
    @armaanansari4922 Před 3 lety

    i've had this video on my watchlist for over a year since i found it and am finally watching it. Love your stuff

  • @sims4u422
    @sims4u422 Před 3 lety +2

    Thank you so much, your videos are really helpful.

  • @TeddyZ83
    @TeddyZ83 Před 6 lety +2

    Good tips. Thanks for posting, Mike!

  • @str8harry
    @str8harry Před 4 lety +3

    Way better than most other guitar channels. I feel like they have so much fluff that they just put in to make their videos longer.
    Your stuff was to the point and made sense. My biggest problem from this list is muting strings. I'll get cleaner eventually. Makes such a huge difference :(

  • @Itiswhatitispartna
    @Itiswhatitispartna Před 4 lety +2

    Bang on man, very orecise detailed info. Very important stuff for any level

  • @Foxtango1776
    @Foxtango1776 Před 4 lety +1

    This instructor is so insightful I am glad I am taking his course.

  • @tombeals8980
    @tombeals8980 Před 6 lety +10

    Thank you for the video. I do not have a good ear. I do not have a good sense of timing. And I am old. BUT I do have a great sense of humor and enjoy playing for my own entertainment. The best phrase that I picked up from this is: "A little bit of inadequacy." LOL, Thanks for doing this.

  • @donniedarkestra7771
    @donniedarkestra7771 Před 6 lety +4

    Expanding on the standing and playing live thing- I'd recommend going through all the motions including flipping your toggle switch while playing (even when your not plugged in) and setting up pedals to hit for changes. These things can become overwhelming if you never practice them. Also make sure if you have pedals you have some sort of light to illuminate them. I've played a lot of underground gigs and most of the time the lighting was terrible. Good video for starting out.

  • @jeremymayville6799
    @jeremymayville6799 Před 4 lety +1

    Really enjoy your videos, you dont make me feel overwhelmed with things i need to practice!

  • @miyannaable
    @miyannaable Před 2 lety +1

    All I ever say about my own playing is that I love to practice. Every point in this video is incredibly helpful to me - thank you!

  • @wendyg1059
    @wendyg1059 Před 2 lety +3

    12:30 Dude, I've been playing guitar for 31 years (professionally for 27) and I don't change my strings unless they break, lmao! Well-worn strings can give you *hella* tone, yo! Now, if one breaks I *do* change them all and start fresh; however, I don't change them every so often, as is recommended. I just don't like my guitar sounding *that* bright. 😉
    Oh, and regarding 12:50 -- learn to *not* leave your instrument sitting in the lights on the stage while you're waiting to perform. Yeah..... out of tune *real* quick, lmao! Learned that one the hard way -- thank god for bending!

  • @lordMaroza
    @lordMaroza Před 6 lety +24

    I'm fat, so my guitar is always tilted while standing.... :D Great vid, man! The only thing I'm lacking is theory. I do know stuff, but not enough to create those smooth transitions while playing with others, although I did have a knack for improv during those high school band days.

  • @kozyraur7
    @kozyraur7 Před 5 lety

    Great great video. I watch a lot of these as a guitar teacher to gain ideas and I have to say you covered a lot of excellent ground that I deal with on a daily basis. Truly appreciate this particular video more than most. Keep it up my man. Great job.

  • @Top-Jimmy
    @Top-Jimmy Před 5 lety

    Ive said it before, You my friend present your lessons in such a way that it is truly an Inspiration to tune into this channel, In turn, An Inspiration to pick up my Guitar and Practice. Thank You.

  • @SeemsLikeSomething
    @SeemsLikeSomething Před 4 lety +3

    Awesome advice! It’s all important stuff! I think one of the worst habits is definitely that “maybe later” mentality about practicing/playing. Try to push yourself to play regularly. Can’t stress how much you will regret not just doing it. This is an obvious one and basically falls under the practice-makes-perfect idea. Just PLAY and try to explore multiple styles and techniques too. Work on your weakest points, play sitting, standing, with other tracks and without. The more the better, but do your best to identify problems and avoid ingraining bad habits. Unlearning is harder than learning! Cheers 👍

  • @flwolf2000
    @flwolf2000 Před 6 lety +3

    A lot of good advice for beginners. I really like the one about good players/bands don't need to be overly loud to impress an audience. My advice: It's the tightness of all players in a band, beginning with bass & drums. That's what will make you good.

  • @ronwencel3755
    @ronwencel3755 Před 5 lety

    Love this perspective on learning to play better, keep preaching brother!

  • @kylergarcia7359
    @kylergarcia7359 Před 5 lety

    Great video Mike! A lot of these are things I try to tell to my friends who are just starting out. Really useful stuff.

  • @lunarscorpio3987
    @lunarscorpio3987 Před 5 lety +3

    One thing about timing, don't feel disheartened when you can time the notes or chords right. I felt that way too while I was trying to play along to my favorite songs. It doesn't mean you're a terrible guitar player if you have one of these habits, it just means you're learning and progressing if you notice you're one or more of these.

  • @Beau76712
    @Beau76712 Před 4 lety +3

    15:07 I really identified with that. It’s happened in the same scenario. I’ll be explaining something with an example thought of on the fly. Comes out way better than intended.

  • @dariusphillips9613
    @dariusphillips9613 Před 6 lety

    Thanks for the video. I feel like this video gives me confidence in alot of things I have been learning recently on my own. I also love your teaching method and examples

  • @jeffhinneburg75
    @jeffhinneburg75 Před 5 lety

    Pressing to hard held me back for a long time; Your videos help me a great deal easy to understand. Thanks a lot.

  • @bizarrefruit
    @bizarrefruit Před 6 lety +3

    All good tips, but I don't think a strat is the best example of how tone can be sapped, clean it might have done better but I am personally a big fan of a treble cut on the neck pup with a nice drive, not all the time though of course.
    Getting to know your controls is well worth it as you said.
    Nice video, very clear.

  • @JackWoodman
    @JackWoodman Před 6 lety +4

    I think I'm the one who had all 14.... But already got rid of some, because of that video! Thanks!

  • @benjaminturney9788
    @benjaminturney9788 Před 5 lety

    Great video. Glad I found you. Can't argue any of your points as I'm certain I've done each of them. A few things on here such as the tone/personal instrument sound, suggestion really hit home. Thanks a bunch and nice to meet you!

  • @phillipwesson8785
    @phillipwesson8785 Před 6 lety +1

    I whole heartedly agree with and have suffered from pretty much everything on this list. Subscribed!

  • @danielhughes3758
    @danielhughes3758 Před 5 lety +3

    I could add a few things I've been doing wrong almost 15 years. I found myself almost only improvising after a while, playing the same stuff over and over or just playing random stuff rather than learning from other people's solos etc. I've played a lot without a metronome and trying to play it fast right away which means it becomes sloppy. Playing random stuff also doesn't really equal practicing.

  • @Lisbonized
    @Lisbonized Před 6 lety +8

    Habit #13. A useful tip I was once taught was to set your guitar strap so that it hangs the same distance whether your standing or sitting. The stuff you've practised whilst sitting will be comfortable to play standing up and not having to adjust wrist angle etc and struggling because the guitar is now too low. Hope that makes sense!

    • @elliotskunk
      @elliotskunk Před 5 lety +1

      nah bro that'll look bouukey it's best to just practice both. At least via practicing both you will get a better feel of the guitar

  • @jackwilson9824
    @jackwilson9824 Před 4 lety +1

    I would just like to thank you for the great lessons. Your subjects are super, but what really makes it is you personality. You are very patient, but thorough..very fluent and friendly! Keep up the great work.

  • @mtg187
    @mtg187 Před 4 lety +1

    This guy is a great teacher awesome approach. He really talks to you on your level and everyones level for that matter. Ive been playing 17yrs and still some of these i can work on. Always quality videos subscribe to this guy it will help your playing if you apply it

  • @StatesEdge
    @StatesEdge Před 3 lety +6

    20 years you’ll be considered a guitar god because of how many people you’ve helped and taught

  • @maoriboi3487
    @maoriboi3487 Před 6 lety +103

    16:53 You have a dirty mind mate... “once you get all your other fingers in the mix, you’ll be pretty good at masterba... aahhh mastering the art of muting...”

  • @coffeecomics3583
    @coffeecomics3583 Před 5 lety +2

    This is a good video for "intermediate" players & beginners too.
    Thanks mate!!!

  • @bruce8042
    @bruce8042 Před 6 lety

    Your comment about playing about overthinking your playing is so true! At a certain point, you observe and get a feel for your playing instead of thinking about it.

  • @michaelluczak3019
    @michaelluczak3019 Před 6 lety +2

    Good points.

  • @DanielNester
    @DanielNester Před 6 lety +3

    15:04 is my favorite part -- "actually that sounds kinda cool." :)

  • @csj9619
    @csj9619 Před 2 lety

    That is a HUGE point bro. It's crucial to understand the mechanics of the hardware. Being able to recognize what's causing your sound to be "off" and how to fix it is just as important as technique, theory, etc. At minimum, know how to set intonation, truss rod adjustment, pickup height, string action and how to change the strings. Myself for example, my playing hasn't really improved, but my sound HAS improved due to learning to work on my guitbox.