Learning the Banjo (w/ a Pro)

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  • čas přidán 19. 05. 2023
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Komentáře • 1,3K

  • @aryst0krat
    @aryst0krat Před rokem +6043

    I absolutely love the upright bass player just chilling in the back the whole video with his newspaper. Great vibes.

  • @HenhouseProwlers
    @HenhouseProwlers Před rokem +3671

    Thanks for having us Rob! Your ability to pickup and play was impressive as all get out...but your vibe and passion for inspiring people to learn about and play music is SO important and admirable. Love, Ben + the Henhouse Prowlers.

    • @bluesmcgroove
      @bluesmcgroove Před rokem +82

      You guys are so awesome! I loved the sort of visual subversion of a Bluegrass Banjo player wearing a Japanese pop tee shirt!

    • @pohldriver
      @pohldriver Před rokem +11

      Hope yous laid that down proper. That sounded fresh and modern. Not abusive like some of today's "bluegrass". More like Ricky Skaggs did in the '80s.

    • @ryanafeagin
      @ryanafeagin Před rokem +11

      Seeing you on here was extremely unexpected and awesome! Been a fan since 06 with 30 years of farming and homegrown tomatoes!!

    • @LCamm
      @LCamm Před rokem +2

      sweet!

    • @glacierwulf26
      @glacierwulf26 Před rokem +6

      @@bluesmcgroove a Tshirt for a video game store in Seattle of all things

  • @scope81
    @scope81 Před rokem +318

    "I think bluegrass is pretty punk rock" is one of the funniest sentences I've heard in my life, and the best part is that it's not wrong lol

    • @lordoftherats8215
      @lordoftherats8215 Před 8 měsíci +10

      There’s blackgrass too, rail yard ghosts, hell the goddamn gallows are good banjo punk

    • @nlothervoicessc4286
      @nlothervoicessc4286 Před 3 měsíci +1

      Yes it is wrong.

    • @josh___something
      @josh___something Před 3 měsíci +15

      ​@@nlothervoicessc4286 Pedant much? Yes, literally it is not the same genre, instruments, style etc.
      But there's similarities that AREN'T those that's being compared.

    • @TheSadistNat1on
      @TheSadistNat1on Před 2 měsíci

      Ya it's more metal actually ha. Vibe n technical n sound ​@@nlothervoicessc4286

  • @PatrickBoberg
    @PatrickBoberg Před rokem +1003

    Love how gatekeeping is just the antithesis of Rob's vibe, and somehow everyone he finds is the exact same way. Wish this video was eight hours long.

    • @nickpiazza5890
      @nickpiazza5890 Před rokem +99

      It's because Rob usually finds some of the best people at their instrument and when you get that good you realize gatekeeping and being "snooty" as he said in the video is the opposite of that music should be about.

    • @redlight3932
      @redlight3932 Před rokem +4

      ​@@nickpiazza5890 I don't want to waste my time with someone learning their instrument when I know how to play mine there's no snoot simple incompatibility I don't think people should be jamming and starting bands with people of a much higher skill level because it's wastes people's time music is about fun at the end of the day but you can't have fun if you can't play

    • @voltcorp
      @voltcorp Před rokem +46

      @@redlight3932 you're talking of something different. I feel both op's use of "gatekeeping" and Ben's use of "snooty" are both talking about " isn't real "; " is not how you play ". it's not about "experience", it's about "experimenting".

    • @Dr.Spatula
      @Dr.Spatula Před rokem +46

      Actual musicians are rarely the gatekeepers. It's usually the fans who think they know how it should be. And the old heads of course

    • @vogelvogeltje
      @vogelvogeltje Před 10 měsíci +35

      @@redlight3932 lmao this is such a dumb opinion. I’ve been playing multiple instruments for 18 years and playing with people that aren’t at your level can be an awesome way to see how differently people approach an instrument. I learn from those people.

  • @TheKirbyT
    @TheKirbyT Před rokem +1773

    Rob's "hang out with great musicians and vibe" era is amazing to see

  • @T6e6r6o
    @T6e6r6o Před rokem +553

    I love how Jon Goldfine (the bass player) spent most of the video just quietly reading his newspaper in the background. :D

    • @TheChillMelodist
      @TheChillMelodist Před rokem +1

      lol why did he decide to read his newpaper in the background shot of the camera?

    • @Thimon88
      @Thimon88 Před rokem +77

      @@TheChillMelodist comedy

    • @johndennison2769
      @johndennison2769 Před rokem +15

      ​@@TheChillMelodist adds to the atmosphere

    • @singleproppilot
      @singleproppilot Před měsícem

      Where did he get a newspaper these days? I didn’t know they still sold them.

    • @mattsnyder4754
      @mattsnyder4754 Před měsícem +3

      “Nah. You boys go have your fun. Let me know when you’re ready to play for real again.”
      Honestly… the most bass player sentence ever haha

  • @erinmalone2669
    @erinmalone2669 Před 11 měsíci +266

    I don’t think the banjo gets enough respect from the vast majority of people. I think we look down on it as a culture as unrefined and backwater. This guy absolutely slaps. it’s fantastic. Bluegrass is all too underrated

    • @yungpm
      @yungpm Před 7 měsíci +6

      We? Don’t drag us into your preconceived notions about instruments 😭

    • @erinmalone2669
      @erinmalone2669 Před 7 měsíci +18

      @@yungpm you need to re-read my comment. WE is the majority of the work-a-day folk. If you don’t think people have preconceived notions then you are mistaken. I didn’t say anything bad, just an observation of the masses listening to top 40 etc…

    • @yungpm
      @yungpm Před 7 měsíci +4

      @@erinmalone2669 yeah I’m well aware people have preconceived notions. but I’m saying don’t say WE like EVERYONE believes that banjos come from a “unrefined and backwater” culture. That’s all you who said that and thought it.

    • @iandunn989
      @iandunn989 Před 5 měsíci +2

      Fun fact until electric guitar came about banjo was the most popular instrument in the world. Used from everything from jazz to country to orchestras.

    • @alefuentes9058
      @alefuentes9058 Před 5 měsíci +1

      El principio del banjo es la guitarra clásica es simple si no sabes guitarra clásica sería muy difícil tocarlo !

  • @Overgis4058
    @Overgis4058 Před 5 měsíci +45

    Guy explaining to Rob what a hammer-on was was funny to me. "I know you're a pro musician" to " This is how you do a hammer on!" You can tell this guy loves his craft and really cares about teaching it as thoroughly as possible. Awesome!

  • @ChristopherBuecheler
    @ChristopherBuecheler Před rokem +1893

    You consistently get such interesting, personable people for these videos and it makes them so much fun and so informative regardless of the instrument!

    • @robscallon
      @robscallon  Před rokem +393

      Thank you so much!
      Getting to meet all these incredible people is one of my favorite parts about this job.

    • @iskandertime747
      @iskandertime747 Před rokem +22

      Right? It's like Chicago is some magical city where you can find sitar players, church organist, whatever, all personable, passionate and articulate.

    • @TheBigburcie
      @TheBigburcie Před rokem +14

      I know Rob already dug into pipe organs at a more local church but I'd love to see a trip to England to talk with Anna Lapwood and experience the Royal Albert hall organ. I'm sure Mary Spender would be happy to do a European road trip with him to visit other musicians and learn more about different musical traditions.

    • @whatever4065
      @whatever4065 Před rokem +6

      and he's got Twooba...

    • @Corkoth55
      @Corkoth55 Před rokem +6

      @@iskandertime747 all with good senses of humor too! Rob is a great soul that attracts amazing people!

  • @illdozerband
    @illdozerband Před rokem +142

    Love the dude reading the times in the background while the other two talk

    • @iamTMBTM
      @iamTMBTM Před rokem +5

      He has a soul and spirit that is so giving

    • @Zoubilable
      @Zoubilable Před rokem +5

      I appreciate Rob's consideration of gesamtkunstwerk in his videos

    • @user-mq8ku6cp4q
      @user-mq8ku6cp4q Před měsícem

      21 0:00

  • @dandogamez
    @dandogamez Před 10 měsíci +76

    I love how respectful Rob Scallon is of the instrument, the instrumentalists, the culture, and the history of the instruments and genre. It's very clear that this is just a man trying to learn as much as he can about something he's passionate about. Truly one of my favorite content creators out there.

  • @Fallub
    @Fallub Před rokem +99

    How cool is the guy just reading newspaper in the background? Great video. And very informative as usual. Thank you. The joy on Rob’s face is absolutely priceless.

  • @Yo-ji4ud
    @Yo-ji4ud Před rokem +929

    18:22 the disconnect between Rob throwing out American Football as the obvious midwest emo touchstone and Ben going "that's a band?" is very funny to me, it really shows how wide the music world is, where two professional musicians have completely different points of reference despite playing genres of music that are extremely american specific. Also Rob managing to find the kentucky sound only to go back to his roots the second his hands land on the cello banjo is very funny. Great vid as usual and the full band at the end sounds great!

    • @Synthulhu
      @Synthulhu Před rokem +34

      Earl Scurggs walked so Mike Kinsella could run.

    • @blew1t
      @blew1t Před rokem +28

      its wild to me that a performing musician wouldnt know american football but tbf if this man named 3 bluegrass bands and 1 memphis gang i wouldnt be able to point out which isnt a band

    • @albo3music
      @albo3music Před rokem +2

      Heavy metal was invented in england!! :)

    • @michaelkarlsson5966
      @michaelkarlsson5966 Před rokem +3

      Being a professional musican anywhere doesn't mean that you automatically know the national sports.

    • @screeeeeeemttv
      @screeeeeeemttv Před 11 měsíci +2

      @@albo3music Yeah, and banjo originated from Africa and yet it's still strongly associated with the American south instead. What's your point?

  • @bronsoncarder2491
    @bronsoncarder2491 Před rokem +54

    "I'm trying to figure out the directions to get my banjo to Kentucky."
    LMFAO I love this sentence so much... Like, it seems like such nonsense, but also I understand EXACTLY what you're saying. lmfao

    • @bronsoncarder2491
      @bronsoncarder2491 Před rokem +2

      Also, wouldn't a G scale with an F be G Mixolydian? (I barely know what I'm talking about lol)

    • @djsnowman06
      @djsnowman06 Před rokem +1

      God that would make an awesome lyric lol

    • @themightymcb7310
      @themightymcb7310 Před 11 měsíci +2

      @@bronsoncarder2491 I think they're just doing the blues thing where you solo in minor over major chords

    • @shanestachwick4784
      @shanestachwick4784 Před 8 měsíci

      @@bronsoncarder2491Correct. Mixolydian is a major scale with a b7.

  • @yedidyaweiner3443
    @yedidyaweiner3443 Před rokem +38

    Hey was my banjo teacher in Chicago over 15 years ago, Ben is awesome!

  • @SteveFye
    @SteveFye Před rokem +41

    There's something really magical when musicians get a chance to sit and talk with other musicians, especially when their individual styles and tastes are vastly different. Nobody besides musicians would initially think that bluegrass would have anything to do with metal, but here we are

  • @SeeMick1
    @SeeMick1 Před rokem +393

    That difference between the F over G and the F# over G is what's sometimes called the 'high lonesome sound' that comes from playing minor pentatonics over major chords.

    • @skateify31
      @skateify31 Před rokem +47

      yes! it's those minor pentatonics that make the 'blue' sound, both in bluegrass and in blues! bb king's characteristic modulation between the two really outlines this

    • @shambolicentity
      @shambolicentity Před rokem +21

      @@skateify31 Yeah, I immediately thought "oh, it's just a different style of playing the blues"!

    • @nicreven
      @nicreven Před rokem +12

      isn't that technically mixolydian btw?

    • @SeeMick1
      @SeeMick1 Před 11 měsíci +7

      @@nicreven Not exactly. It's still based out of a pentatonic scale. Some of the players are definitely using the mixolydian mode, but I would venture that they're not thinking of it in those terms.

    • @meeserbaker
      @meeserbaker Před 11 měsíci +8

      @@nicreven well mixolydian is major. Meaning it has a major 3rd. Its a major scale with a flat 7 is all. What everyone else is talking about is just doing the minor pentatonic over the major key. Like try playing an Emaj7 Amaj7 and Bdom7 chord progression(I-IV-I-IV-V-IV-I) and just play the e minor pentatonic over it and it sounds GREAT despite the flat 3 of the minor pentatonic being technically out of key it sounds so bluesy and great. You can also do E Maj pentatonic over it too, obviously, but i mean in the same jam, like just switch between them every 12 bars or something. Also mixolydian isnt the only mode with a flat 7. Phrygian has it same with Dorian. Oh and more obviously, aeolian aka minor. But just simply playing minor pentatonic over major is bluesy af you dont even need to add a flat 5th which is the blue note in a minor blues scale.

  • @apeheadboink
    @apeheadboink Před rokem +61

    the whole Illinois Kentucky sound thing Rob brought up is very interesting, especially since I've been listening to Sufjan Steven's Illinois record (as well as Michigan) and the banjo playing he does feels like what he's describing here making it distinctly not bluegrassy sounding when it does appear. Btw if you haven't heard those Sufjan albums... listen!!

    • @BlintVidz
      @BlintVidz Před 8 měsíci +1

      Sufjan got me into banjo playing years ago.. need to pick it back up… I got it when he said Illinois sound lol

  • @stevenmoorebanjo
    @stevenmoorebanjo Před 5 měsíci +20

    Ben is not only a great banjo player, but also a terrific speaker. He is also one of the nicest guys you could hope to meet! If you ever get the chance, go see him perform with the Henhouse Prowlers. They're a great group of guys and are always entertaining.

  • @DarthV506
    @DarthV506 Před rokem +90

    As a metalhead, I heard a lot of bluegrass growing up. My dad played banjo in a few bands and summer weekends were spent at the camp or bluegrass festivals. As a kid, you have an idea that it's fast but now as a middle aged adult, I really appreciate the skill level. Also his main banjo was way more expensive than even my EBMM, he had a Stelling Staghorn. And unfortunately a stand up bass that I was force to play when he was learning new songs :P

  • @ItsSauIGoodman
    @ItsSauIGoodman Před rokem +104

    Banjos are incredibly fun to play. If youre an intermediate or professional guitarist youll know how VASTLY it opens your mind to music in general.

    • @Da_TboneLife
      @Da_TboneLife Před 11 měsíci +1

      I can't wait to get one after learning in intermediate guitar at my school for the upcoming school year my senior year.

  • @johnensminger7675
    @johnensminger7675 Před rokem +79

    So fun! I play the upright bass...my fingers are itching!😊
    Way to go!

    • @michaelc3977
      @michaelc3977 Před rokem +7

      My late grandfather played double bass professionally, but banjo was his love. Give it a go!

    • @Bassalicious
      @Bassalicious Před rokem

      same :D

  • @5thearth
    @5thearth Před rokem +11

    My uncle played banjo in a dixieland jazz band. He played 4-string flat pick style, and was always a little irritated by people asking him about bluegrass and other finger-picking styles, but as a banjo player he always had the self-deprecating humor that comes with the instrument.

  • @familycraftdad
    @familycraftdad Před rokem +14

    My favorite part of every one of these, is that moment where the guest musician fully grasps just how quickly you're able to pick up instruments!

  • @uns33n
    @uns33n Před rokem +102

    This is killer. I absolutely love the banjo. Growing up my uncle (who happened to be blind) was a banjo player. I have always loved that sound. Add in some fiddle and I can't say no.

    • @JohnFaulkner56
      @JohnFaulkner56 Před rokem +8

      Thats pretty impressive to learn an instrument blind. Your uncle sounds like an absolute legend man💯

    • @uns33n
      @uns33n Před rokem +11

      @@JohnFaulkner56 His brother, who was also blind, played the trumpet. They were in a trio and played paid gigs for decades until the pandemic. They certainly were determined individuals. Both worked their whole lives as well as playing music, even though with their disability, they didn't have to work. Unfortunately, my uncle rick, the banjo player, passed away before they were able to play together again live.

    • @TheBigburcie
      @TheBigburcie Před rokem +1

      Playing an instrument while blind is not that challenging once you get past the initial familiarization. Once you get better, muscle memory takes over so you can focus more on performance.

    • @uns33n
      @uns33n Před rokem +10

      @@TheBigburcie Are you blind Bruce? Because if you were, and could really comment on the difficulties of being blind in relation to an instrument, you would realize that being blind also requires you to learn almost everything completely by ear. Not to mention playing llive shows without the aid of visual cues, especially in the improv heavy genres of bluegrass and jazz that the banjo is featured in.

  • @HattmannenNilsson
    @HattmannenNilsson Před rokem +141

    I love these videos. Not only do I get to learn about all kinds of instruments, but the best part is seeing the joy. No matter what instrument it is, it always seems like both you and the expert have fun and really enjoy what you're doing together.

  • @bbn_strouse
    @bbn_strouse Před rokem +18

    didn't realize how oddly similar the banjo and the koto are, so many lovely stringed instruments out there

  • @Benrob0329
    @Benrob0329 Před rokem +17

    I love how proud he is of Rob at the end of the video as he steps back in and they double up on the banjo.

  • @Joshleslie871
    @Joshleslie871 Před rokem +23

    I’m a music teacher and I spent some time in Boone North Carolina at app state for a class with some real folksy and bluegrassy folks and one of the things that I was most impressed by was their knowledge of modal stuff.
    That’s what that F is in “G major” you’re really using G as your anchor in what is c mixolydian.
    Mixolydian has always had a warm earthy feel to me and I love that it is something that you identify as bluegrass because I love bluegrass

    • @vitorribeiro2647
      @vitorribeiro2647 Před rokem +5

      Here in Brazil there is a regional genre called Baião in which mixolydian is really common, and I also associate it with this earthy feel. Check out the song Baião by Luiz Gonzaga.

    • @ArmchairBard
      @ArmchairBard Před rokem +5

      Interesting you should say that. I thought I was picking up on a mixolydian sound. That would probably align with the Irish roots of bluegrass he mentioned.

  • @error-rq1gx
    @error-rq1gx Před 9 měsíci +5

    Man, Rob nailed it when he said the banjo is literally just a drum head. You can almost hear a sort of short, snappy snare when they all go to play even though there is no drum kit in site. It's nothing short of amazing!

  • @semmel3008
    @semmel3008 Před rokem +27

    As a acoustic guitarist myself I always loved the banjo
    now after this video I have to get one for myself and try to learn this amazing sound
    thanks for inspiring me to finally try a other instrument and also genre
    PS: Rob pleeeease continue to make such great content I cant get enough and Ben Wright you are amazing, thank you for sharing your wisdom

    • @mikebastiat
      @mikebastiat Před rokem +1

      Bringing more hipsters in...wait til this dude finds Billy Springs..

    • @semmel3008
      @semmel3008 Před rokem +6

      @@mikebastiat do you mean Billy Strings?

    • @mikebastiat
      @mikebastiat Před rokem

      @@semmel3008 Damn, we're in trouble already. Another fan boi.

    • @semmel3008
      @semmel3008 Před rokem +5

      @@mikebastiat i just asked to confirm if you mean him and yeah im kind of a fan
      i like when people give me suggestion wich artist might be good in a specific genre
      but i guess you just wanna insult me for liking something new
      but if you have some other artist to recommend please do
      but if you feel the need to insult some random guy on the internet please feel free to do if you need it

  • @pyier8
    @pyier8 Před rokem +10

    I really love how the guests in the "instrument series" talk bout them with so much passion, it makes ma want to buy one and learn how to play it.

    • @nickp440
      @nickp440 Před rokem

      Do it! You will not regret it!

    • @pyier8
      @pyier8 Před rokem +3

      @@nickp440 One problem : money !!

  • @rob550
    @rob550 Před rokem +24

    Ben Wright is awesome and I appreciate how wholesome and encouraging he was during your lesson time.

  • @justie1220
    @justie1220 Před rokem +43

    Rob your ability to pick up any instrument on this earth and play it well is mind boggling! Shoutout to the band and to Ben for being awesome!

  • @woop4628
    @woop4628 Před rokem +18

    This video is so amazing. Ben's banjo looks just like how my dad's does after he'd been playing for over 50 years. Just absolutely wonderful. Really makes me remember dad.

  • @sambassmanstoner
    @sambassmanstoner Před rokem +41

    Bluegrass is my dad's favorite genre, but I've never really enjoyed it. Now that you've shown it a little deeper from a musical talent perspective, I've got something to connect with him over just in time for Father's Day :)
    Thanks for what you do man, and I'm looking forward to seeing more instruments!

    • @TheBigburcie
      @TheBigburcie Před rokem +1

      There's musicians who are bluegrass adjacent that could be great gateway drugs to get into it a bit more. Nickel Creek, Punch Brothers (both featuring the absolutely insane mandolin work and vocals of Chris Thile), Sarah Jarosz, Bela Fleck.... If you're coming at it thinking it's adjacent to country music, I could see resistance (I generally hate mainstream country and felt this way). I'm a guitar player but my mom was a choir director so I'm also drawn to the vocal harmonies in bluegrass.

    • @Dawn_Hannah
      @Dawn_Hannah Před rokem

      I agree with everything Bruce said here! I kinda thought bluegrass was a little hokey when my grandpa would blast it when I was younger, but Nickel Creek and Béla Fleck really got my attention. Now it’s one of my favourite things to listen to and play, plus the connections and crossovers it has with Celtic and trad music make it even more of a deep dive. Good luck with your music journey! I truly believe there is something for everyone in any genre if they’re willing to listen! ☺️

  • @Ondrix
    @Ondrix Před rokem +6

    This is what I love about Rob. He's a TRUE music lover. He may have his preferences that he leans towards more often than not..... but there is no musical style or instrument that he doesn't like.

  • @Dr.Dankinson
    @Dr.Dankinson Před rokem +20

    I found your channel when I started playing guitar and within a year I coincidentally owned a banjo because I loved the sound of it. Then I discovered your banjo covers and fell in love even more. Despite that, I didn't know where to start and it ended up being wall decoration as I kept learning guitar. This video made me bring it back out and I already feel better than I was. Thank you for all the time and effort you put into this channel!

  • @TS_Mind_Swept
    @TS_Mind_Swept Před rokem +9

    I always love the way Rob systematically breaks down different musical styles, probably why he's so good at picking up new ones

  • @Dernadu94
    @Dernadu94 Před 11 měsíci +7

    Dude those “slow” parts really give me Outer Wilds vibes and i’m all in for it ! Another great vid about an instrument i wasn’t interested in at first but finished by loving it, thanks for the content, you are the best !

  • @Raboon115
    @Raboon115 Před 7 měsíci +3

    Scruggs was from North Carolina. Learned to play banjo on a Carolina farm with Carolina folks.
    So in a big way this is Carolina style banjo.
    Not Kentucky, as was mentioned a number of times in this video.

  • @kithkani
    @kithkani Před 11 měsíci +6

    Growing up in the Blue Ridge mountains ironically I used to hate having to listen to bluegrass and country as a kid. I cut my teeth on metal and punk rock, but later in life learned to appreciate all walks of life and music, and always played many instruments coming from a musical family. It's full circle for me watching you try and play bluegrass. Amazing video, people, musicians all, thanks for this. I have such an eclectic taste for music now :D

  • @666wurm
    @666wurm Před rokem +13

    It's great watching two fellow musicians getting along so well and just having fun. One comment though as a bass player and drummer: whenever the bassist kicks in it all gets 10x better! 😀

  • @user-os9wf3qd7n
    @user-os9wf3qd7n Před rokem +33

    Great video! Keep up the great work! ☺👍 I really the videos where you introduce and learn about other instruments like this. Since you've looked into the theremin and the koto, I think you might want to check out Vanessa Vo Van-Anh, a Vietnamese-American instrumentalist who tries to push the boundaries of the "dan bau", a modern iteration of a traditional Vietnamese instrument that has only one-string and exclusively uses harmonics principle (some people have compared its appearance and sound to a theremin). She can play both the traditional Vietnamese repertoire, and modern ones-she even played Jimi Hendrix's "Purple Haze" on "dan bau" once. Love from Vietnam!

  • @_AVF
    @_AVF Před rokem +17

    These are the most interesting videos. Rob is so good at keeping up the engagement with the guests while making sure they feel welcome and comfortable.
    Rob's always so excited to learn.

  • @bardfinn
    @bardfinn Před rokem +6

    The bubbliest, bounciest _Foggy Mountain Breakdown_ I’ve ever heard. ❤

  • @karleick6679
    @karleick6679 Před rokem +12

    I said this before, but I just have to say it again. These videos are what I love this channel for, and I see myself in this kind of videos. Please! Keep them up!

  • @ringsystemmusic
    @ringsystemmusic Před rokem +4

    The bass player reading the newspaper in the background is a vibe.

  • @huliniswhoiam
    @huliniswhoiam Před rokem +8

    So I play the banjo. I know a lot of Rob's audience is probably heavy metal and rock guys. I want y'all to appreciate this instrument. I still hear him interpreting it from his point of view from someone who plays guitar and it's an interesting and fascinating dichotomy to me. Like I don't think of the f shape when he was doing that little lick. It's just part of the classic slide in lick that we do.

  • @ReignitedAuto
    @ReignitedAuto Před rokem +18

    I'm not even a musician, but this is my favorite video this month! I love watching people who are not only passionate about something, but are encouraging others to learn as well 👏

  • @rowdyrae8117
    @rowdyrae8117 Před 8 dny

    The way you both think about music is so beautiful.

  • @tobiasblackmoar
    @tobiasblackmoar Před rokem +7

    Every time i hear a banjo I feel like I’m in a car chase and that’s a good thing.

    • @itsdokko2990
      @itsdokko2990 Před rokem

      in an old ford f-100 on a dirt road, i love that vibe

  • @somarriba333
    @somarriba333 Před rokem +9

    Growing up, I was never into country music but when I heard this type of music, I liked it more. Eventually I found out this was bluegrass. I guess I like that folky sound. I feel like being in a cabin in the Appalachian mountains or taking a train ride.... through the Appalachian mountains in the late 1800's. I also figured out I like zydeco music.

  • @dumbee.3671
    @dumbee.3671 Před rokem +12

    I would LOVE to see Rob do a video on the Dobro. It’s such a beautiful instrument with a great sound

    • @zanioso
      @zanioso Před rokem +1

      Me too! I'm a dobro player and I think he'd be really fascinated.

    • @dumbee.3671
      @dumbee.3671 Před rokem

      @@zanioso that’s awesome! I’ve always wanted to try it

    • @Dawn_Hannah
      @Dawn_Hannah Před rokem +1

      I was thinking about him trying dobro during this video too! How fun would that be?

    • @-jank-willson
      @-jank-willson Před 6 měsíci +2

      also a 4-string tenor banjo, and a mountain dulcimer

  • @garageink74
    @garageink74 Před 7 měsíci +2

    My stepdad and my mom’s best friend were both bluegrass musicians when I was growing up. Going to bluegrass festivals when I was just a little kid are still some of my fondest musical memories.

  • @donm6578
    @donm6578 Před 11 měsíci +7

    This is really making me want to try the banjo again. My uncle has like 4 banjos, both 4 and 5 string and one without frets and he plays so effortlessly. It would be great to be able to learn a string instrument like that

  • @BomegaJohnson
    @BomegaJohnson Před 9 měsíci +6

    It’s fascinating how willing rob is to be taught, once u get to his level it’s hard to keep that attitude, like no shit rob knows how to hammer on and pull off but he’s willing to listen to his guest and re learn it. Takes a lot of humility

  • @robkingcomposer
    @robkingcomposer Před 11 měsíci +20

    The F natural Rob talks about around 12:25 - 14:30ish (etc.) is a part of the G mixolydian scale. This is probably derivative from European (most probably Irish) folk music, which is in turn derived from the 'church' modes, popular throughout all European music before about 1650. The mixolydian mode (a major scale with a flat 7th) and the dorian mode (minor with flat 7) are both automatic ways to make music sound 'folksy', because of their ancient European connotations.

  • @-chloe-8728
    @-chloe-8728 Před 3 měsíci +2

    as a historian, i deeply appreciate the fact that he honours the history of the instrument. it's so beautiful and important. what an incredible ambassador for the instrument.

  • @JohnFaulkner56
    @JohnFaulkner56 Před rokem +38

    You are literally a student of music. I love your videos amd that they are so damn diverse. You being so down to earth and overall a great player with a great personality just makes it so much better! All the best mister Scallon💯

  • @TSGEnt
    @TSGEnt Před 11 měsíci +5

    I love during the interview portion, Jon is just chilling reading the paper in the background. Great production call.
    11:03 play it back a 2x speed. That's would be how it is after a week of practice for me.
    Great episode. Thanks.

  • @Tirbhinnat
    @Tirbhinnat Před rokem +5

    Im just amazed that the person in the background finds the newspaper more interesting! Amazing video as usual :)

  • @PlasmicPenny
    @PlasmicPenny Před 9 měsíci +2

    I only moved to the US a couple years ago so I’ve never heard Banjo before then and there’s something so nice about the sound and speed of it. Great player and great video

  • @Bussinesman18
    @Bussinesman18 Před rokem +7

    This is one of the best series ever to be on youtube. So wholesome and fun to fall into every journey of interesting people and instruments!

  • @shambolicentity
    @shambolicentity Před rokem +6

    That was great, just like the whole series of "learn the instrument". Such a respectful and humble exchange of ideas from two excellent musicians, and we all benefit. 🥰

  • @simoneanthony9163
    @simoneanthony9163 Před rokem +5

    I mostly listen to heavy rock, but started listening to Earl Scruggs etc. a few years back just for the melodies and rolling licks. Ben Wright and Rob do a fantastic job of communicating the fun that can be had with this great instrument and genre of music. Thanks!

  • @matthewrogersmusic
    @matthewrogersmusic Před 11 měsíci +3

    That jam at the end is awesome! Super fun watching people learn bluegrass, or any new instrument in general

  • @GoCody
    @GoCody Před rokem +2

    Picked up a banjo to try and learn during the initial quarantine three years ago. Never ended up learning and seeing this video made me want to try and pick it up again

  • @MaxWre
    @MaxWre Před rokem +5

    My friend started to play the Banjo and he uses the Claw Hammer technique (or something like that). It would be great to have a similar session with that technique.

  • @mattfleming2287
    @mattfleming2287 Před rokem +8

    Always a treat😮to watch Rob’s joy at learning a new instrument. It’s so inspiring.
    Rob, you’ve got to start teaching more metal to these guys. Cross pollination of genres.

  • @Mickamo
    @Mickamo Před rokem +2

    Yes! This is awesome, I’m a bluegrass/jazz mandolin player and I’ve wanted this from rob forever!

  • @Eve.with.a.Y
    @Eve.with.a.Y Před rokem +2

    hearing Rob just directly reference towns I live near and the associated culture was so fun, I’ve played midwest emo since before I knew the genre had a name and can confirm that being sad in a Honda Civic while driving around Champaign is my favorite pastime

  • @jwv6985
    @jwv6985 Před rokem +3

    Rob could play a brick with a shoestring tied to it. He's a natural talent

  • @WillGordonBass
    @WillGordonBass Před rokem +9

    Love your videos man! Been watching for years and your content is always amazing!
    Thankyou 🫡

  • @explosivejohnny
    @explosivejohnny Před měsícem

    Brother, your enthusiasm is beautiful. Thank you 🙏🏿

  • @zsazsamorte
    @zsazsamorte Před 8 měsíci +2

    This was so much fun. I got my banjo for my birthday last year and am very excited to get better. Also, discussing the history about the banjo and they way y’all did, was very appreciated. Keep up the good vibes, y’all! 🤘🏾
    Oh my goodness, he’s playing the guitar with his picks?! Ah, rad!

  • @_trashvis_
    @_trashvis_ Před rokem +3

    thank you rob for constantly inspiring me to keep working towards music all these years. i absolutely love your content.

  • @joekim9790
    @joekim9790 Před 11 měsíci +4

    Right at the end, I could hear a perfect opportunity for a harmonica or a fiddle solo. Either way, this is some impressive stuff.

  • @zacharycranmer958
    @zacharycranmer958 Před rokem +1

    “I’m in my truck and I’m in Arlington Heights and I’m sad” is such a great line 😂 it’s like the exact opposite of “I’m in my Beamer hopped up on blow in Palatine, let’s PARTY”

  • @bvnnxtt5081
    @bvnnxtt5081 Před rokem

    such a beautiful thing you’ve created rob, these videos are always lovely and light my day up.

  • @NickkAtNyte
    @NickkAtNyte Před rokem +3

    This content is so awesome to watch. Seeing Rob, who loves music and playing instruments, talk to other musicians who share the same passion as Rob is so cool and just heartwarming. By far my favorite series of videos on CZcams.

  • @lonelyfloat2582
    @lonelyfloat2582 Před rokem +163

    Only Rob could make a video about an instrument I don't care about in the slightest and I would instantly watch it
    edit: i did not expect to get completely get blasted for this lol, the sound of banjo is just very different from sounds associated with types of music I like

    • @huliniswhoiam
      @huliniswhoiam Před rokem +7

      Let me ask you something. Why doesn't the banjo appeal to you? I love bluegrass music so I know people just like different things. I'm genuinely serious.

    • @mattfleming2287
      @mattfleming2287 Před rokem +20

      @@huliniswhoiam excuse me for jumping in…the banjo’s basic tone and lack of sustain make it much more difficult for guitar players to get into. And then you throw in insane fingerpicking and we are beyond intimidated. It’s the opposite of heavy rock guitar.

    • @huliniswhoiam
      @huliniswhoiam Před rokem +5

      @@mattfleming2287 Like the guy said in the video though I know it can be intimidating. But there are so many different ways to play it. I mean it's folk music so it's not like there's necessarily one right way to play it.

    • @lonelyfloat2582
      @lonelyfloat2582 Před rokem +15

      @@huliniswhoiam I just never listen to music that has banjos in it so I have a hard time really being excited about it. I feel the same way about something like cello.

    • @huliniswhoiam
      @huliniswhoiam Před rokem +7

      @@lonelyfloat2582 I would encourage you to get out there. Maybe listen to something that you don't. Maybe pursue something that has banjo in it and just see how it strikes you. I mean you'll never know until you dip your toes out there. I think being a good well-rounded musician or not just musician. But appreciator of music is about exposing yourself to as much as you can

  • @teterouge1472
    @teterouge1472 Před rokem +1

    You, Sir, are one of the finest musicians around. Love these journeys as you conquer them all.
    All the best to you and yours from North Nottinghamshire UK 🎸👌

  • @Blutzen
    @Blutzen Před rokem

    I genuinely love these videos so much, it is _so_ much fun watching you learn how to play an instrument from a professional. You are just so curious, and watching the pros have to stop and think about things that just comes naturally to them is one of my favorite parts of this whole series. Thanks for being rad, Rob.

  • @PintsofGuinness
    @PintsofGuinness Před rokem +4

    23:54 a wild Twooba sighting

  • @kristinicole2055
    @kristinicole2055 Před rokem +4

    Hearing y’all play makes me miss my sweet pawpaw 🙂

  • @edskodevries
    @edskodevries Před rokem

    Fantastic video as always, absolutely loved the atmosphere. But then the fully mixed version kicks in at the end and the sound opens up, literally tears of joy. Loved it!

  • @red_baron_cz886
    @red_baron_cz886 Před 4 měsíci

    Greetings from the Czech Republic. This is exactly the Bluegrass that is played in our country, I love country and Bluegrass

  • @prismaticc_abyss
    @prismaticc_abyss Před rokem +9

    Banjos always remind me of Balalaikas. Can you do a video learning it like this one?

  • @dielon5514
    @dielon5514 Před rokem +5

    Awesome video Rob makes me want to buy a banjo! Keep it up!

  • @paulstern8046
    @paulstern8046 Před 11 měsíci

    I love that you explore so many different types of music and instruments, and you do it so well. I hope you open people's eyes that there is greatness in all music.

  • @Ehrmann_Gregsson
    @Ehrmann_Gregsson Před rokem

    That's so inspiring to see stuff like that! Great job guys, you are all amazing!

  • @oldstone6501
    @oldstone6501 Před 11 měsíci +6

    Holy shit! That was amazing, i’m a big bluegrass fan and man that was pretty impressive! I could go on and on for days, about how well you picked that up, and also i could tell how much bluegrass music meant to you. Ben is just an absolute master at his craft, and you made it to kentucky my friend!🔥

  • @randomdestructn
    @randomdestructn Před rokem +3

    If you ever wanted to do more on the banjo, I think you might have fun learning clawhammer as well.

  • @dealt
    @dealt Před měsícem

    The banjo along with the accordion is one of those instruments that makes me smile everytime I hear it

  • @MrROTD
    @MrROTD Před měsícem

    This reminds me of when I took a gig to fill in as a bass player doing Bluegrass folk, I was a rock player playing guitar and bass, it was like a new language, thank god the bass player came back after his injury.

  • @pineapplepenappoodlepen
    @pineapplepenappoodlepen Před rokem +3

    Guitar to banjo is like qwerty to dvorak. You get a lot of action without a lot of movement.

  • @lorcang6242
    @lorcang6242 Před rokem +4

    did not expect Twooba to randomly appear

  • @wavetech_
    @wavetech_ Před rokem +1

    Rob for years you've made me smile and kept me in love with the discovery in music, that we so often tend to forget. I love ya man, you're really important!

  • @davidmfr3y
    @davidmfr3y Před rokem

    4:18 BEAUTIFUL screen wipe, great detail