To play in places where they cannot pay the expenses for an entire band, I travel with only my guitar and a CD where I have my own backing tracks. And I noticed that the public reacts very well to these concerts!
Well, the Internet is a great thing, everyone now can have their own spot and sell their music. But it is becoming a jungle where everyone just thinks about themselves. There is too much quantity, and too little quality; too much competition instead of collaboration.
If you want respect, get out of the music business (laughs)! If you love what you are doing, it will show and you will gain respect. People who buy records like how songs move them no matter the skill level.
I got picked up by Mike (McDowell) at Shred Guy; apparently Mike was interested in adding a "fusion" flavor to his rather "metal" guitar-oriented label, and my sound seduced him.
Phrasing is what makes the big difference between just mindless noodling and a great guitar solo in my opinion. Think more about which notes you play and when you play them.
Instrumental music is pure and real music! It has all the focus on the music and not on some cheap love story. The most exquisite music does not need words to express itself.
I believe the Internet it`s a great window to the world, it`s a great tool to communicate with other musicians, and people who can help you with your career; it`s definitely great for business!
Today it is quite hard to set yourself apart in the instrumental rock domain. There are a lot of great guitarists! Unfortunately, lots of them do the same kind of stuff.
I had several proposals with major labels, but now the music business is really hard - no one does anything serious for you.
You need to roll up your sleeves. Play well, have a great sound and offer a proper show - not just a demonstration of your skills and abilities.
Another thing when making living as a guitarist is to be sure to make good songs. The majority of listeners doesn`t care about flashy solos, they want to hear cool songs.
My listening isn`t biased towards guitar players. In fact, I think I might even avoid seeking out guitar players` recordings, because I`ve had better luck trying to get clear about my own approach to the instrument.
