It’s not every day you encounter a musician whose very strum can transport you to uncharted realms. Carlos Rios is one such visionary, a session guitarist whose work has not only colored albums with his unique tones but reshaped what it means to be a guitarist in today’s music landscape. As a fingerstyle guitarist, I … Read more
The first time I heard Steel Guitar Rag, I was transported to a smoky honky-tonk, the twangy melody weaving through the air like a time machine. Little did I know that this iconic tune would become my lifelong passion and the subject of countless hours of study and practice. As a long-time editor of ‘Acoustic … Read more
As I sat in my studio, a student’s frustrated sigh caught my attention. “I just can’t get this pull-off to sound right!” he exclaimed, his fingers fumbling over the fretboard. It was a moment that took me back to my own journey, reminding me why I wrote ‘Guitar Aerobics‘ and dedicated my career to demystifying … Read more
As I stood on stage, my fingers poised over the fretboard, I could feel the audience’s anticipation. They were expecting another run-of-the-mill metal solo, but I had something different in mind. With a deep breath, I launched into a blistering Locrian scale run that left jaws hanging. The haunting dissonance filled the venue, transforming the … Read more
I’ll never forget the day I stumbled upon a hidden guitar fingerpicking technique that revolutionized my playing. It was like unlocking a secret door to a world of musical possibilities. As someone who’s been strumming since childhood, I thought I knew it all—until that moment. What if I told you that this technique could transform … Read more
As a long-time editor of ‘Acoustic Guitar’ magazine, I’ve witnessed countless guitarists grapple with the enigmatic G# minor chord. It’s a shape that has brought both frustration and epiphany to players of all levels. I remember the day a young guitarist walked into our studio, her fingers calloused and her spirit nearly broken. She had … Read more
I strummed my beloved Stratocaster, expecting the searing wail of rock ‘n’ roll. Instead, a mellow, acoustic-like twang filled the room. My electric guitar sounded acoustic, and I was baffled. As the editor of ‘Acoustic Guitar’ magazine and a seasoned electric guitarist, I’ve encountered this perplexing issue numerous times. It’s a common problem that can … Read more
The year was 1990, and the metal world was about to be shaken to its core. As I held the freshly pressed vinyl of Megadeth’s ‘Rust in Peace’ in my hands, little did I know that this album would redefine thrash metal and become a guitar virtuoso’s holy grail. Fast forward three decades, and I’m … Read more
The first time I heard a bass guitar slide, I was mesmerized. It was like the instrument was singing, weeping, and laughing all at once. That moment changed my perception of bass guitar forever, opening up a world of expressive possibilities I never knew existed. As I delved deeper into this technique, I discovered that … Read more
The first time I heard jazz guitar, I was mesmerized. Those sultry tones and intricate rhythms seemed like an impossible dream for a beginner like me. But here’s the secret: jazz guitar isn’t as intimidating as it appears. In fact, with the right approach, anyone can start their journey into this rich musical world. As … Read more