"I'm not particularly special" ? Mate, you have brought me hours and hours and hours and joy since i found you in, what could be a decade ago. I realised very early on your music tastes, the bands and artists you like, were pretty well exactly the same as mine, here over in England. If i forget a chord i always turn to you, be it, a Jeff Lynne chord or key change, what is McCartney actually doing on an obscure b'side somewhere, a Beatles lick, whatever. Don't think of it as the hours you spent learning the songs, playing the, recording them, posting them, think of it as the hours that every person who then sees your videos then goes and spends practising what you have given freely to this world. You've been extraordinary to me. I was sad when you stopped. I enjoyed your playing, your accent :), your love of music, your company. If you ever still read comments like this, i hope you're well and happy. :)
We’ve all had that moment. It’s a good person to recognize a mistake that was made….a humble person to openly acknowledge it. Love your commentary and your approach to music.
I am a lurker for the most part and enjoy this channel immensely. You do positive work. We all have are moments. When one can reflect on these moments it shows great character. Thank you for your gift to share your love for the guitar. I am in my fifty’s and have picked up and put down the instrument though out my life. Your lessons have reached me though my lack of focus. Thank you for that and turning my stable of one guitar into seven. ✌️
I think people who are good at heart realize when they mess up and then do their best to correct it. It's the A-holes who cannot admit they were wrong. I've been a follower for years James and glad you shared this. PS - my request is.... Hmmmm maybe I will make it later!
It feels great to sincerely apologize to someone. I need to do it more often. I am part of a club where I have learned to make amends and to let go of my resentments. Just when I think I have checked everyone off my list that I may have offended or need to make amends to, I remember others that I still owe…;)
Same here , in fact I‘m following since the PT channel . Great guy , I‘d like to have a couple of beers with him . Even my wife likes his videos . Today he replied to one of my questions. Can‘tbelieve … I feel like I‘m blessed , kinda . Never thought he would .
Been here since the Privettricker days and learn from every video you do, to play with confidence and train your ear etc and its so much appreciated! Finest guitar / instruction channel on YT imho. Thanks a ton dude!!
Hey Guys!! Do you ever feel like JJ was related to you, in a musical sense? Figuring stuff out off of records, piece-by-piece, grabbing information from here and there, “I don’t know what chord that is, but here’s what it looks like.” “The Pete Townsend D” etc. Some theory, some guesswork. It’s the music to be sure, but not just that. Dig?
"I'm not particularly special". Well...you sort of are at least a little bit special! Amen to all of your sentiments. I too hate a lot of the crap on social media, and sometimes I too get angry at myself for succombing to the same crap. Yeh, it happens all too easily. I love your channel, it''s a fantastic resource, I'm a child of the 70s, and you've got it pretty well covered. A belated and hearty thank you from me. No requests from me!
James - I agree with your sentiments re social media. However, I’ve learned so much guitar playing from you. It helps we like the same bands 😃. I love talking shop with you and the others on your comments page. Please keep up the lessons. On a related note, I like that some of your videos don’t give a step by step lesson and instead make me follow you and and listen to the notes. I feel like it makes me a better player.
To be honest I agree you, it is important to be kind and help others with this complicated instrument, but man some people go so slowly and in depthly I can't even follow bc it's not just not fluid
Yeah I like to throw myself in the deepend sometimes and try and follow along. I feel like it's definitely something that has contributed to my watching of James and all his other vids!
You said it, Cid. James's lessons are great for intermediate level players like myself. I don't need to hear yet another instructor demonstrating the first position of the pentatonic scale. That level of lesson is very important for new players, but James is like, 'hey, you know your chords, know some scales, etc, here's another song you can try'. It's fantastic.
I've got a request, can you continue to do whatever songs excite you as long as you want to? I have been watching for years and you are my absolute go-to for accuracy and you have introduced me to so many great songs that I wasn't familiar with before!
James, I’ve been watching your channel for years and never left a comment before. I just want to say thank you for all your videos. You have taught me so much. I especially love it when you get around to doing songs from The Clash and X.
Good man! As an irish person you have always done Thin Lizzy justice, as a human being you have spoken for us all the words we werent big enough to speak. We all make mistakes you are bg enough a person to accept. Thank you for your talent and giving, please dont stop growing, you are teaching us more han guitar you know! Rock on brother
My mom always told me it takes a much bigger person to admit when they make a mistake, a smarter person to learn from this mistake, and an even stronger person to correct the mistake…James your moral compass is doing just fine my friend. Thanks so much for everything!
James James I love your channel !!! Anyone that doesn’t appreciate your insight and expertise….it’s their loss. If they want personal instruction they Need to pay you. I’m lucky to be good enough to learn what you show. Keep what your doing please you have one of the best channels.
I am quite late to this video but let me say this....I am also an old guy who has wasted many years picking up and putting down the guitar and have dedicated these final years of my life to sticking with it. I don't completely concentrate on learning songs, I am studying theory as well since I did play another instrument for many years BUT, when I do look for help to learn a song or songs, I am ALWAYS stoked to see that you, James, have a lesson on that song or songs and I ALWAYS go to your lesson before anyone else because I know, from following you and seeing your lessons, that YOU have the most authentic take and sound on the song and, if you have changed anything about it or prefer a slight variation, you ALWAYS tell us about that. I do sometimes have some difficulty following some passages and have to view over and over and over, but that is because you are so very far advanced from where I am at or maybe ever will be....but THANK YOU for all your efforts, they are so very much appreciated. AND it takes a real person to say what you do in this particular video. I hope you get as much from doing all this work as we viewers are getting from it!! And by saying "also and old guy" I am not referring to YOU...but to some other commenters I read in this thread! Whew!
Don't be too harsh on yourself mate. We all have shit days or make a mistake. Your channel is awesome, you do a great job at bringing people together and opening discussions about the one thing we all love....music!
You are such a good guy. I've been watching you for several years. I'm 52 years old and I've been playing guitar since I was 13. But I've learned so much from your videos it's not even funny. The fact that you would take time to make a video like this is just more proof of how cool of a guy you are.
Good for you! You were able to recognize that written conversation misses many points such as voice inflections, facial features, etc. that we all use to interpret what is being said to us. I learned that lesson the hard way at work when I did what you did and replied with a smart-ass answer. you cannot tell what the mood of the writer is. kudos to you.
Thanks for taking the time to make videos. I am totally blind and find that you are pretty good at describing what you’re playing. My only request is that if you could make sure to say what you’re playing especially when you switch positions. Instead of saying“Then go over here, “just say where over here is. I can usually figure out the notes once I have a reference. My ear sucks. About the best I can do is pick out the cords and AC/DC songs. I don’t have any song requests, as I don’t have enough time to learn all the cool songs you’ve done already… Thanks again!
You sir are a Gem. I’ve been butchering guitar for many years. You are a compassionate caring human and such a refreshing soul!! Thank you Sir! I save ALL of your vids and have learned ALOT 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
And to think I tuned in to see “oh, which song did JJ suddenly hear in a new way?” 😉 You’re a good person JJ. The proof is in this video right here. Let’s all strive to be better humans. It makes the world a better place. Thank you for this video to improve our humanity and ALL the others where your intent is to make us better guitarists. ✌🏼❤️😎
Don’t be so hard on yourself James, your contribution to this channel is amazing and your method translates to me easier than most I have seen. Keep it up man man !!
Part of what you said in this video really make me think. The fact that socials were very promising and totally backfired is a fact. The funny thing is that watching your videos contribute to me staying away and forget about Facebook and similar and learn something ways more important, useful and funny like playing guitar.
Man, I remember when you shut down that first channel. I recall that you were cheesed off about how it all went sour. I love this channel and you help folks a lot. I hope you continue to enjoy it as much as your Subscribers. Thanks man
Good words buddy. I've been following you from the start too and greatly admire and envy your talent and contributions. On a lighter note, I hear that you don't want requests, but I would like to request some soup :
Been following you since your first channel, and have always respected what you do. You having the character to say "I was wrong" just makes me respect you more. Your channel is an oasis in a sea of....... well you know.
A good person is one who has insight. It’s always good to get feedback from the teacher - it’s a two-way street for all of us. Love your channel and have learned so many songs that I otherwise still wouldn’t know :).
Joined your channel after listening to your post, "I was Wrong" simply to support your humanity and kindness expressed. I have watched and learned a lot from your guitar lesson posts over the years and appreciate you and the so many others who take the time and effort to essentially share their skills and talents to teach us guitar songs and maintain the passion for playing music whether one is a master or klutz (I am of the latter category). I also agree that this is an amazing time to be able to learn guitar and have often thought that I would have never graduated college had RUclips been around as I would simply stayed in my dorm room to learn songs ! I would have ended up a klutzy guitar player living in a van down by the river ! Thank you !
James, well said. I actually told someone to watch your stuff the other day. I've been watching for a few years or so and even songs that don't apply to my own stuff allows me to see how other players approach their songs and helps me improve the way I look at my stuff. Thanks for all you do.
That’s why I like watching your videos, your personality and human touch showing songs comes out. I do have trouble following you sometimes but that challenges me. Thanks for what you
Well said. The mark of a quality person is being willing to say you’re sorry. And, FYI, I finally got my colonoscopy done and they removed a huge polyp. A tip of the cap to you on that as well. 👍
Well done! I for one waited til I was 53 before I got a colonoscopy because of some classic symptoms. Rectal cancer stage 3. After radiation therapy and chemo, two surgeries (2 1/12" tumor), and another round of chemo here I am 4 years out. I felt healthy and thought I'd live forever. Lesson? Mother Nature doesn't give a fig! Watching this channel really helped me to pass the time. Love it! P.S. Get a colonoscopy!
James, absolutely LOVE your videos for all the reasons others have mentioned. I feel like I'm sitting down with a friend who is being amazingly generous and patient with me; i.e., this friend has no judgment about my novice-level playing ability, wants me to get better and enjoy playing the songs I love so much, and is just so darn kind with his time and talent. You are a positive force for good in this world, my brother, we all know the world needs it now so very, very much. I am so grateful for you and all you do!
James, I rarely comment on videos. I love what you do, and people can be the worst. keep on keepin' on, and don't beat yourself up. I have the same issues reading and sending texts. It's often hard to figure out the meaning of what someone says without being able to see them talk, or hear the inflection in their voice. Truly, thank you for what you do. You've taught me so much.
James ! You are awesome and I am old enough to be your father! You have taught me songs I couldn’t figure out ! We love you and hope to get to actually meet you someday! I would love to jam with you ! You are an awesome amazing person! Don’t apologize for anything! You don’t need to!!! Love from Florida!!! Left Coast !
Sir, dont beet yourself up. Saved me. 61 years old, hadn't touched my guitar in over 25 years, Seeing YOU, I new stringed, awoke my fingers, still drowsy, and started playing again. Just do your thing, helping at least one old man. 1979 LP Custom, tri pickup here, house fire, grab her before the cat.
After so many years, 3 is a lot, i still come here regulary, almost on a daily basis. This channel is soo good adn has so much content that you can spend a live here., And I still have the urge to thank you for ll the lesons and the good times I have spent here. I am literary learning guitar with you. Thanks James, wherever you are
Greetings from Italy...I want you to know that your videos are really appreciated.I thank you for sharing your guitar experience with people who love music and play guitar.Cheers!
Thank you for being so honest and caring enough to even post for our benefit. We all should learn from your example to lighten up, take responsibility for mistakes and move on. I am just a ham-handed strummer and stumbled across you a few years ago and stayed for the no-nonsense lessons for songs I love. So, again, thank you for being here and being you.
Well said! And man, you've been for years and counting the best guitar teacher I've had, since the times of the privettricker channel. The way you translate and communicate the playing and more important the grooves is second to none. Just wanted to thank you for your work, time and dedication through the years!
Hey James! If I may, i can walk into a park or beach in Florida where I live mind you. Armed w/an Acoustic and my beautiful little wife, find a bench sit down start playing, singing and attract a nice little crowd within like 5 mins or so. Anyway point is I never concern myself w/every chord or note etc to be perfect. I can also sound nearly spot on any song I choose, aided by, according to my friends "killer voice and range" lol. And if I miss a note or chord etc. Never a problem, Point is! It's always about the "groove and feel" of any song. And add to the "Soul" as well. And sorry a bit long getting to my point. Which is you are a master!! At this approach and incredibly generous in showing, and your time involved. Your words and thoughts while doing so add to your style. Let's just say you're like hanging w/a buddy while jamming, shootin' the breeze and bringing up great Classic Rock and more. You're hand positions etc reveal so much on that alone. Your explanations, love of Stones, Zep etc all beyond cool. Plus you are an incredible and versatile guitarist! And your stories intertwined, comments etc. all just adds to all you offer. Fellow Rocker here and even at 63 yrs old, still pick up good stuff just watching your approach. You Rock bro! And keep Rockin' and as for your Axes? Amazing! Thanks for all. PS some very cool and real people in your comments, telling them Rock on! As well.
You are the man James! Thank you for your honesty and I love your lessons and have learned a lot. Thanks man. We all fail sometimes, don’t beat yourself up.
Thanks for your thoughts and words James . And for helping us all to learn the guitar parts to so many songs. You are so very much appreciated. 🌌💕🌠🙋♂️
That’s what make a person great not all the talent an ability but, humility an honesty as with most virtues I don’t naturally possess but merely practice like all the songs you show us.. Thanx pal
We all make mistakes and I appreciate what your saying. Your right on many points and I love what you do! I truly appreciate your work and shared knowledge!! A big Thank You!!
Thanks for this. I am a longtime listener and for my time, you are the best. You are my go-to RUclips teacher for most of the stuff I want to learn. And I like the covers. I'm able to pick up the chords for most of the songs you play. Not always, but mostly. Thanks much for your efforts!
My attitude is this. Love you. Love your channel. If you are playing it then it’s a great song. At the very least I will learn a new chord or technique. And you are funny and entertaining always! What you do is hard and takes a ton of time. You are so appreciated!!!
James, I’ve never received anything but a blessing watching and listening to your videos. You are my favorite person to watch when it comes to guitar videos. It is admirable for you to apologize to someone you feel you have wronged or disrespected, especially in the world we live in. It shows your true character. You’re a good man.
James, I have searched through your list of songs and feel that it must be said, you have put an enormous amount of work into this and we (that benefit need to have the correct respect of your time and energy). Your channel is great and I thank you for all you do.
Social media is now truly reflective of humanity…it shows all sides of humanity…the good and the bad…it was inevitable. It could never be a panacea of good cheer 24/7…unfortunately. Humans just aren’t built that way….If any society had these capabilities at anytime in history I’m sure it would have turned out just about the same. As far as your slight social media indiscretion…it’s awesome you felt that you should have done a better job on that comment…you’ll sleep better because of it. If I’m learning a song and I want a quick look see on the chords…I can always see how you did it…btw I love that you play along to the actual songs you’re teaching…. Love all your guitars too…I have an embarrassment of guitar riches myself..like you I worked for every one of them and make no apologies about owning them… Just keep going…you’re doing great! Love all the t-shirts too!
I've been watching your vids for many, many years...I was in garage bands back in the late 60's....and wish a resource like yours was available back then to refer to. Like you, I had cheap equipment back in the day and our band hacked through songs. Also like you, I worked all my life to acquire better gear and now reward myself with guitars that actually stay in tune! I visualize you as a perfectionist ...your house is neat....your guitars are polished....you have no kids so THAT is why your guitars are your babies. Yeah, sometimes you're cocky, sometimes you're passionate, sometimes humble. You've been blessed with a great ear. You are my "go to guy" for guitar dissection of songs. I think it's plus that you carry an attitude...Keep up the GREAT work!
I really find it hard as well to read tone into typed comments (I struggle with this at work with email quite a bit too) and sometimes the poster can't win. Post an innocent comment and it gets taken the wrong way, post an innocent comment and include a winky face emoji and that gets taken the wrong way. I applaud your courage to make this video and it is just another learning experience we all have to go through. Thank you for taking the time to do what you do. Your channel has been very educational in my guitar side of life.
I didn't need to hear this, but I appreciate so much what you said. Since I found your channel, I have learned SO much! Not just how to play a certain song, but the technique. I'm left handed, and my coordination was screwed up as a child by adults forcing me to make my right-hand dominate. (Yeah, I'm 67) So, seeing how you form chords, get certain sounds... teach me SO much that I was "faking" or avoiding. My only wish/complaint is that I can't get a closer view of your left hand. (everything I know about playing is either self taught or being able to watch someone like you & play along. You're my go to source, James, & I appreciate what you do! Semper Fi? Kewl. I was Navy.
Dude, I have learned so much from you. I appreciate your humility. There are at least 5 songs on my set list that I learned directly from you. Songs that would have taken forever to figure out. Please keep doing what you do. Thank you so much!!
Dang, James James, we’ve discovered you are, in fact, human. You’re my go to if I need to learn a new song. Correct, none of us play it right but you’re damn close most of the time. Or, you have a fine way of playing around any issues with a tune. So, keep posting, please. Peace, out.
I follow 3 channels and yours is my (arguably) my favorite. I love learning covers and most of what you put out is of immediate interest to me (especially Stones songs in Standard Tuning). I've never made any specific requests, but I have mentioned that I get EXTRA excited when you do Kinks lessons, and would love to see more of them. Not a specific song, and not a demand. Just an open request as a devoted member of your fan base. You have a fan base. An audience. As a performer we both know that respect for your audience is number 1 as a general rule (there are exceptions, of course). You've shown that today which is highly respectable and makes me appreciate you more. So, great vid J.J. w/ regards to all of your sentiments. I haven't harped on The Kinks at all, and everything that's come after that request has kept me well-nourished and never at a loss b/c I'm not seeing Kinks lessons. You go through phases and every once in a while one will pop-up. So, if you ever feel the vibe to approach their style of playing which is very unique, I look forward to it. Always watching regardless. Just keep them in mind. I mean how could anyone forget about the greatest band of all time? :) That aside, blessings to you my man. People are very quick to anger these days for very illegitimate reasons. We enjoy seeing our enemies fail and we don't even know them, or why they are our enemies in the first place. A mass emotional impulse of negativity. I say, let's rebel and "commune" w/ a sense of decency and dare I say kindness to one another. It doesn't take a lot, and it amazes me as to how much of an impact it actually has. A simple smile and a "hello" to a passing stranger has a tremendous effect b/c it feels so unusual to that person, these days. And it spreads. Kinks, or no Kinks. Keep it up J.J. Don't forget what you said today. It was important. :)
FWIW, I find you to be an extremely generous and patient person and I think I speak for many others here when I say that I greatly appreciate all the help and information that you've so selflessly given me... you have undoubtedly helped me become a better guitar player - so thank you...thank you very, very much...Cheers...
Thanks JJ; You brought me back in touch with what the Hippies were all about, and which sadly, somehow, faded over time. It was the real deal back then, and now and then, in brief flashes, it shines through again
Enjoy your videos and like that you have a sensibility and honesty. We are flawed by nature of being human. Cheers and Thanks for great help with guitar playing.
Well said, can totally understand the frustration with social media. I really enjoy your channel & have learned a lot from watching it, keep on rocking!
Everyone gets irritated now and then. Your humility about this couldn’t speak louder. I’m sure that guy was blessed by your words. Class act. I know for a fact you’re the reason I was able to play a number of songs!! Thanks! PS. I would love to see you play the slowed down version of “Tangled up in blue” there’s a live version out there from 75-76. So dang cool! I know how much you love BD!!
I want thank you...THANK YOU...your site has a very Authentic feel to it..let's just face it w are all different,so it stands to reason we hear differently as well,or sadly not hear the whole layers of this reproducing music...now as for perfection in nailing everything exactly,well that is not realistic ..these critics have their own baggage,and it not ours...you are highly accurate 95+...that is as good as it gets...yes this is a very powerful learning tool,once you have found competent sites..you can cut the learning process down 80 ,90 percent...it is a fabulous time to be a guitar enthusiast...you have a great feel for Richards,Townsend,Page...your relentless passion to absorb essence of their performance,live and studio has certainly not been missed. Thx do not let ugliness keep you away from the beauty it will never be
I almost never leave comments but I have learned so many songs that I love here. I can't remember how many songs you Demo first and then break them down; but those are good for me as it gives me a choice of just watching and learning or if I need more info then I can watch the breakdown. But regardless I'm grateful for all the tunes that I've learned here. Keep it up
I always love to watch your videos and am thankful for all who take the time to post as it's free learning and whatever I extract from a post is a bonus to me. Thanks for all you do! It's totally appreciated here.
Love your videos. So helpful. I’m willing to learn whatever song you want to learn. Keep em coming. Thanks. Also you do have the best guitars and T shirts of all the guitar teachers.
I always look to your channel first when I’m looking for a lesson for new song I’m working on. I value your approach and appreciate your honesty. Keep it up.
"I'm not particularly special" ? Mate, you have brought me hours and hours and hours and joy since i found you in, what could be a decade ago. I realised very early on your music tastes, the bands and artists you like, were pretty well exactly the same as mine, here over in England. If i forget a chord i always turn to you, be it, a Jeff Lynne chord or key change, what is McCartney actually doing on an obscure b'side somewhere, a Beatles lick, whatever. Don't think of it as the hours you spent learning the songs, playing the, recording them, posting them, think of it as the hours that every person who then sees your videos then goes and spends practising what you have given freely to this world. You've been extraordinary to me. I was sad when you stopped. I enjoyed your playing, your accent :), your love of music, your company. If you ever still read comments like this, i hope you're well and happy. :)
Things are great on my end, and I hope the same is true for you, my friend.
Self reflection is not encouraged in our society. Good move James.
I’m an old guy and you have given my guitar playing a rebirth, thank you.
James James did the same for me.
Me too 🎸
Me three.@@MarkSlagle-k2r
Meeeee TO Buddy!!! 58 year old Retired Navy Chief who loves my guitars..
We’ve all had that moment. It’s a good person to recognize a mistake that was made….a humble person to openly acknowledge it.
Love your commentary and your approach to music.
agree with you 100%. LOVE this channel!
I gotta say your one of my favorite people on YT and we have an appreciation for the same music so I thank you for all you do, for us.
I am a lurker for the most part and enjoy this channel immensely. You do positive work. We all have are moments. When one can reflect on these moments it shows great character.
Thank you for your gift to share your love for the guitar. I am in my fifty’s and have picked up and put down the instrument though out my life.
Your lessons have reached me though my lack of focus. Thank you for that and turning my stable of one guitar into seven. ✌️
I think people who are good at heart realize when they mess up and then do their best to correct it. It's the A-holes who cannot admit they were wrong. I've been a follower for years James and glad you shared this. PS - my request is.... Hmmmm maybe I will make it later!
It feels great to sincerely apologize to someone. I need to do it more often. I am part of a club where I have learned to make amends and to let go of my resentments. Just when I think I have checked everyone off my list that I may have offended or need to make amends to, I remember others that I still owe…;)
sorry id the world's most under used word- it will always make the victim feel better
The music business is full of people who are as you describe.
Same here , in fact I‘m following since the PT channel . Great guy , I‘d like to have a couple of beers with him . Even my wife likes his videos .
Today he replied to one of my questions. Can‘tbelieve … I feel like I‘m blessed , kinda . Never thought he would .
Been here since the Privettricker days and learn from every video you do, to play with confidence and train your ear etc and its so much appreciated! Finest guitar / instruction channel on YT imho. Thanks a ton dude!!
Hey Guys!! Do you ever feel like JJ was related to you, in a musical sense?
Figuring stuff out off of records, piece-by-piece, grabbing information from here and there, “I don’t know what chord that is, but here’s what it looks like.” “The Pete Townsend D” etc. Some theory, some guesswork. It’s the music to be sure, but not just that. Dig?
100% agree, PT was my favourite channel by far. So pleased to have found it again! Love this guy.
I've been following you for more than 10years ! Tks for everything
"I'm not particularly special". Well...you sort of are at least a little bit special! Amen to all of your sentiments. I too hate a lot of the crap on social media, and sometimes I too get angry at myself for succombing to the same crap. Yeh, it happens all too easily. I love your channel, it''s a fantastic resource, I'm a child of the 70s, and you've got it pretty well covered. A belated and hearty thank you from me. No requests from me!
James - I agree with your sentiments re social media. However, I’ve learned so much guitar playing from you. It helps we like the same bands 😃. I love talking shop with you and the others on your comments page. Please keep up the lessons.
On a related note, I like that some of your videos don’t give a step by step lesson and instead make me follow you and and listen to the notes. I feel like it makes me a better player.
To be honest I agree you, it is important to be kind and help others with this complicated instrument, but man some people go so slowly and in depthly I can't even follow bc it's not just not fluid
Yeah I like to throw myself in the deepend sometimes and try and follow along. I feel like it's definitely something that has contributed to my watching of James and all his other vids!
You said it, Cid. James's lessons are great for intermediate level players like myself. I don't need to hear yet another instructor demonstrating the first position of the pentatonic scale. That level of lesson is very important for new players, but James is like, 'hey, you know your chords, know some scales, etc, here's another song you can try'. It's fantastic.
As has been said, I like getting to see and hear how to play a song in a short video.
I've got a request, can you continue to do whatever songs excite you as long as you want to? I have been watching for years and you are my absolute go-to for accuracy and you have introduced me to so many great songs that I wasn't familiar with before!
James, I’ve been watching your channel for years and never left a comment before. I just want to say thank you for all your videos. You have taught me so much. I especially love it when you get around to doing songs from The Clash and X.
Good man! As an irish person you have always done Thin Lizzy justice, as a human being you have spoken for us all the words we werent big enough to speak. We all make mistakes you are bg enough a person to accept. Thank you for your talent and giving, please dont stop growing, you are teaching us more han guitar you know! Rock on brother
You have a great selection of songs. It takes a while to scroll through them all. That was a lot of work for little reward, but it's all appreciated.
I have learned so much from you.......I play every day.........and I appreciate you and your time! Thank you
My mom always told me it takes a much bigger person to admit when they make a mistake, a smarter person to learn from this mistake, and an even stronger person to correct the mistake…James your moral compass is doing just fine my friend. Thanks so much for everything!
James James I love your channel !!! Anyone that doesn’t appreciate your insight and expertise….it’s their loss. If they want personal instruction they
Need to pay you. I’m lucky to be good enough to learn what you show. Keep what your doing please you have one of the best channels.
I am quite late to this video but let me say this....I am also an old guy who has wasted many years picking up and putting down the guitar and have dedicated these final years of my life to sticking with it. I don't completely concentrate on learning songs, I am studying theory as well since I did play another instrument for many years BUT, when I do look for help to learn a song or songs, I am ALWAYS stoked to see that you, James, have a lesson on that song or songs and I ALWAYS go to your lesson before anyone else because I know, from following you and seeing your lessons, that YOU have the most authentic take and sound on the song and, if you have changed anything about it or prefer a slight variation, you ALWAYS tell us about that. I do sometimes have some difficulty following some passages and have to view over and over and over, but that is because you are so very far advanced from where I am at or maybe ever will be....but THANK YOU for all your efforts, they are so very much appreciated. AND it takes a real person to say what you do in this particular video. I hope you get as much from doing all this work as we viewers are getting from it!! And by saying "also and old guy" I am not referring to YOU...but to some other commenters I read in this thread! Whew!
Don't be too harsh on yourself mate. We all have shit days or make a mistake.
Your channel is awesome, you do a great job at bringing people together and opening discussions about the one thing we all love....music!
Not a guitar lesson, but still a lesson. Thank-you! Your channel is pure gold! We subscribers are very lucky...
You are such a good guy. I've been watching you for several years. I'm 52 years old and I've been playing guitar since I was 13. But I've learned so much from your videos it's not even funny. The fact that you would take time to make a video like this is just more proof of how cool of a guy you are.
I'll second that.... & I'm 63 years old!
I’ll third that and I’m 65!
I'll fourth that.... I'm 66!
62 here.
Good for you! You were able to recognize that written conversation misses many points such as voice inflections, facial features, etc. that we all use to interpret what is being said to us. I learned that lesson the hard way at work when I did what you did and replied with a smart-ass answer. you cannot tell what the mood of the writer is. kudos to you.
Thanks for taking the time to make videos. I am totally blind and find that you are pretty good at describing what you’re playing. My only request is that if you could make sure to say what you’re playing especially when you switch positions. Instead of saying“Then go over here, “just say where over here is. I can usually figure out the notes once I have a reference. My ear sucks. About the best I can do is pick out the cords and AC/DC songs. I don’t have any song requests, as I don’t have enough time to learn all the cool songs you’ve done already… Thanks again!
I appreciate all your videos, I wish they had RUclips when I started playing in 1964. Thanks for all you do.
What? You didn’t enjoy endlessly moving the tone arm back until you figured out a passage?
Music is like therapy and education and I thank you for all the play along session lessons. 😎✌
You sir are a Gem. I’ve been butchering guitar for many years. You are a compassionate caring human and such a refreshing soul!! Thank you Sir! I save ALL of your vids and have learned ALOT 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
And to think I tuned in to see “oh, which song did JJ suddenly hear in a new way?” 😉 You’re a good person JJ. The proof is in this video right here. Let’s all strive to be better humans. It makes the world a better place. Thank you for this video to improve our humanity and ALL the others where your intent is to make us better guitarists. ✌🏼❤️😎
Don’t be so hard on yourself James, your contribution to this channel is amazing and your method translates to me easier than most I have seen. Keep it up man man !!
Whenever I want to learn a song, I try to find your channel! Excellent work!
Part of what you said in this video really make me think. The fact that socials were very promising and totally backfired is a fact. The funny thing is that watching your videos contribute to me staying away and forget about Facebook and similar and learn something ways more important, useful and funny like playing guitar.
You're a good man, James James, and this is a great channel that I always come back to. Your presentation style and enthusiasm are great.
Man, I remember when you shut down that first channel. I recall that you were cheesed off about how it all went sour.
I love this channel and you help folks a lot. I hope you continue to enjoy it as much as your Subscribers.
Thanks man
Good words buddy. I've been following you from the start too and greatly admire and envy your talent and contributions. On a lighter note, I hear that you don't want requests, but I would like to request some soup :
Been following you since your first channel, and have always respected what you do. You having the character to say "I was wrong" just makes me respect you more. Your channel is an oasis in a sea of....... well you know.
JJ - Thank you. Always love your "non-song specific" dialog. Great words!
A good person is one who has insight. It’s always good to get feedback from the teacher - it’s a two-way street for all of us. Love your channel and have learned so many songs that I otherwise still wouldn’t know :).
Joined your channel after listening to your post, "I was Wrong" simply to support your humanity and kindness expressed. I have watched and learned a lot from your guitar lesson posts over the years and appreciate you and the so many others who take the time and effort to essentially share their skills and talents to teach us guitar songs and maintain the passion for playing music whether one is a master or klutz (I am of the latter category). I also agree that this is an amazing time to be able to learn guitar and have often thought that I would have never graduated college had RUclips been around as I would simply stayed in my dorm room to learn songs ! I would have ended up a klutzy guitar player living in a van down by the river ! Thank you !
James, well said. I actually told someone to watch your stuff the other day. I've been watching for a few years or so and even songs that don't apply to my own stuff allows me to see how other players approach their songs and helps me improve the way I look at my stuff. Thanks for all you do.
That’s why I like watching your videos, your personality and human touch showing songs comes out.
I do have trouble following you sometimes but that challenges me.
Thanks for what you
Well said. The mark of a quality person is being willing to say you’re sorry.
And, FYI, I finally got my colonoscopy done and they removed a huge polyp. A tip of the cap to you on that as well. 👍
Well done! I for one waited til I was 53 before I got a colonoscopy because of some classic symptoms. Rectal cancer stage 3. After radiation therapy and chemo, two surgeries (2 1/12" tumor), and another round of chemo here I am 4 years out. I felt healthy and thought I'd live forever. Lesson? Mother Nature doesn't give a fig! Watching this channel really helped me to pass the time. Love it! P.S. Get a colonoscopy!
James, absolutely LOVE your videos for all the reasons others have mentioned. I feel like I'm sitting down with a friend who is being amazingly generous and patient with me; i.e., this friend has no judgment about my novice-level playing ability, wants me to get better and enjoy playing the songs I love so much, and is just so darn kind with his time and talent. You are a positive force for good in this world, my brother, we all know the world needs it now so very, very much. I am so grateful for you and all you do!
James, I rarely comment on videos. I love what you do, and people can be the worst. keep on keepin' on, and don't beat yourself up. I have the same issues reading and sending texts. It's often hard to figure out the meaning of what someone says without being able to see them talk, or hear the inflection in their voice. Truly, thank you for what you do. You've taught me so much.
James, I appreciate your lessons. THanks for all you do. Keep them coming.
I have always enjoyed your videos. I Have learned many songs on your channel. Continue to do what you do. 👍👍👍
It takes a real stand-up man when he admits when he's wrong-much respect!
You are a God's gift to all of us Guitar lovers. U are gift to me 🎸. I watch you all the Time. Your playing is unsurpassed 🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸
James ! You are awesome and I am old enough to be your father! You have taught me songs I couldn’t figure out ! We love you and hope to get to actually meet you someday! I would love to jam with you ! You are an awesome amazing person! Don’t apologize for anything! You don’t need to!!! Love from Florida!!! Left Coast !
Sir, dont beet yourself up. Saved me. 61 years old, hadn't touched my guitar in over 25 years, Seeing YOU, I new stringed, awoke my fingers, still drowsy, and started playing again. Just do your thing, helping at least one old man. 1979 LP Custom, tri pickup here, house fire, grab her before the cat.
After so many years, 3 is a lot, i still come here regulary, almost on a daily basis. This channel is soo good adn has so much content that you can spend a live here., And I still have the urge to thank you for ll the lesons and the good times I have spent here. I am literary learning guitar with you. Thanks James, wherever you are
James you are a great teacher and I appreciate your humility.
Greetings from Italy...I want you to know that your videos are really appreciated.I thank you for sharing your guitar experience with people who love music and play guitar.Cheers!
Thank you for being so honest and caring enough to even post for our benefit. We all should learn from your example to lighten up, take responsibility for mistakes and move on. I am just a ham-handed strummer and stumbled across you a few years ago and stayed for the no-nonsense lessons for songs I love. So, again, thank you for being here and being you.
Well said! And man, you've been for years and counting the best guitar teacher I've had, since the times of the privettricker channel. The way you translate and communicate the playing and more important the grooves is second to none. Just wanted to thank you for your work, time and dedication through the years!
You have one of my favorite channels, learned lots of great songs from you. Rock-on
I've been following you and lessons for like 7 years. Your the best at showing the songs the way they go in tune with the record...😎✌
Hey James! If I may, i can walk into a park or beach in Florida where I live mind you. Armed w/an Acoustic and my beautiful little wife, find a bench sit down start playing, singing and attract a nice little crowd within like 5 mins or so. Anyway point is I never concern myself w/every chord or note etc to be perfect. I can also sound nearly spot on any song I choose, aided by, according to my friends "killer voice and range" lol. And if I miss a note or chord etc. Never a problem, Point is! It's always about the "groove and feel" of any song. And add to the "Soul" as well. And sorry a bit long getting to my point. Which is you are a master!! At this approach and incredibly generous in showing, and your time involved. Your words and thoughts while doing so add to your style. Let's just say you're like hanging w/a buddy while jamming, shootin' the breeze and bringing up great Classic Rock and more. You're hand positions etc reveal so much on that alone. Your explanations, love of Stones, Zep etc all beyond cool. Plus you are an incredible and versatile guitarist! And your stories intertwined, comments etc. all just adds to all you offer. Fellow Rocker here and even at 63 yrs old, still pick up good stuff just watching your approach. You Rock bro! And keep Rockin' and as for your Axes? Amazing! Thanks for all. PS some very cool and real people in your comments, telling them Rock on! As well.
You are the man James! Thank you for your honesty and I love your lessons and have learned a lot. Thanks man. We all fail sometimes, don’t beat yourself up.
Thanks for your thoughts and words James . And for helping us all to learn the guitar parts to so many songs. You are so very much appreciated. 🌌💕🌠🙋♂️
You given so much!! You’re allowed to be human!! Thanks for all you do.
I was wondering who sings “I was wrong”. Thanks for what you do James. I’m not good enough to do much of it but I enjoy your lessons and demos.
Chris Stapleton?
Learned a lot listening and watching over the years. Thank you! ☘️🌻
That’s what make a person great not all the talent an ability but, humility an honesty as with most virtues I don’t naturally possess but merely practice like all the songs you show us..
Thanx pal
We are community, James. Thank you for all the things you do, the way you do. You´re a great human being, master as guitarist and as a teacher.
We all make mistakes and I appreciate what your saying. Your right on many points and I love what you do! I truly appreciate your work and shared knowledge!! A big Thank You!!
Thanks for this. I am a longtime listener and for my time, you are the best. You are my go-to RUclips teacher for most of the stuff I want to learn. And I like the covers. I'm able to pick up the chords for most of the songs you play. Not always, but mostly. Thanks much for your efforts!
My attitude is this. Love you. Love your channel. If you are playing it then it’s a great song. At the very least I will learn a new chord or technique. And you are funny and entertaining always! What you do is hard and takes a ton of time. You are so appreciated!!!
James, I’ve never received anything but a blessing watching and listening to your videos. You are my favorite person to watch when it comes to guitar videos. It is admirable for you to apologize to someone you feel you have wronged or disrespected, especially in the world we live in. It shows your true character. You’re a good man.
James, I have searched through your list of songs and feel that it must be said, you have put an enormous amount of work into this and we (that benefit need to have the correct respect of your time and energy). Your channel is great and I thank you for all you do.
Social media is now truly reflective of humanity…it shows all sides of humanity…the good and the bad…it was inevitable. It could never be a panacea of good cheer 24/7…unfortunately. Humans just aren’t built that way….If any society had these capabilities at anytime in history I’m sure it would have turned out just about the same.
As far as your slight social media indiscretion…it’s awesome you felt that you should have done a better job on that comment…you’ll sleep better because of it.
If I’m learning a song and I want a quick look see on the chords…I can always see how you did it…btw I love that you play along to the actual songs you’re teaching….
Love all your guitars too…I have an embarrassment of guitar riches myself..like you I worked for every one of them and make no apologies about owning them…
Just keep going…you’re doing great!
Love all the t-shirts too!
I've been watching your vids for many, many years...I was in garage bands back in the late 60's....and wish a resource like yours was available back then to refer to. Like you, I had cheap equipment back in the day and our band hacked through songs. Also like you, I worked all my life to acquire better gear and now reward myself with guitars that actually stay in tune! I visualize you as a perfectionist ...your house is neat....your guitars are polished....you have no kids so THAT is why your guitars are your babies. Yeah, sometimes you're cocky, sometimes you're passionate, sometimes humble. You've been blessed with a great ear. You are my "go to guy" for guitar dissection of songs. I think it's plus that you carry an attitude...Keep up the GREAT work!
Very honorable of you. Your doing a great job. You are one of my references. Keep it up and more power to you.
Love your channel, you have taught me so many songs and improved my guitar playing
I really find it hard as well to read tone into typed comments (I struggle with this at work with email quite a bit too) and sometimes the poster can't win. Post an innocent comment and it gets taken the wrong way, post an innocent comment and include a winky face emoji and that gets taken the wrong way. I applaud your courage to make this video and it is just another learning experience we all have to go through. Thank you for taking the time to do what you do. Your channel has been very educational in my guitar side of life.
My theory is that's why emojis were created. I find them cringey and embarrasing, but I use them for exactly that purpose.
I didn't need to hear this, but I appreciate so much what you said. Since I found your channel, I have learned SO much! Not just how to play a certain song, but the technique. I'm left handed, and my coordination was screwed up as a child by adults forcing me to make my right-hand dominate. (Yeah, I'm 67) So, seeing how you form chords, get certain sounds... teach me SO much that I was "faking" or avoiding. My only wish/complaint is that I can't get a closer view of your left hand. (everything I know about playing is either self taught or being able to watch someone like you & play along. You're my go to source, James, & I appreciate what you do! Semper Fi? Kewl. I was Navy.
Keep up the great work and thanks for so many songs!!
Dude, I have learned so much from you. I appreciate your humility. There are at least 5 songs on my set list that I learned directly from you. Songs that would have taken forever to figure out. Please keep doing what you do. Thank you so much!!
You're a good guy, it takes real character to admit when we're wrong. I've learnt a lot from you since I started playing guitar
It’s amazing how different things come across when we write them versus how they sound in our heads - btw I enjoy the talking videos.
Dang, James James, we’ve discovered you are, in fact, human. You’re my go to if I need to learn a new song. Correct, none of us play it right but you’re damn close most of the time. Or, you have a fine way of playing around any issues with a tune. So, keep posting, please. Peace, out.
Don't worry about it, man. You are not that person; we all know that James. You have always been patient and respectful. Cheers from Oz.
I follow 3 channels and yours is my (arguably) my favorite. I love learning covers and most of what you put out is of immediate interest to me (especially Stones songs in Standard Tuning). I've never made any specific requests, but I have mentioned that I get EXTRA excited when you do Kinks lessons, and would love to see more of them. Not a specific song, and not a demand. Just an open request as a devoted member of your fan base.
You have a fan base. An audience. As a performer we both know that respect for your audience is number 1 as a general rule (there are exceptions, of course). You've shown that today which is highly respectable and makes me appreciate you more. So, great vid J.J. w/ regards to all of your sentiments.
I haven't harped on The Kinks at all, and everything that's come after that request has kept me well-nourished and never at a loss b/c I'm not seeing Kinks lessons. You go through phases and every once in a while one will pop-up. So, if you ever feel the vibe to approach their style of playing which is very unique, I look forward to it.
Always watching regardless. Just keep them in mind. I mean how could anyone forget about the greatest band of all time? :)
That aside, blessings to you my man. People are very quick to anger these days for very illegitimate reasons. We enjoy seeing our enemies fail and we don't even know them, or why they are our enemies in the first place. A mass emotional impulse of negativity.
I say, let's rebel and "commune" w/ a sense of decency and dare I say kindness to one another. It doesn't take a lot, and it amazes me as to how much of an impact it actually has. A simple smile and a "hello" to a passing stranger has a tremendous effect b/c it feels so unusual to that person, these days. And it spreads.
Kinks, or no Kinks. Keep it up J.J. Don't forget what you said today. It was important. :)
FWIW, I find you to be an extremely generous and patient person and I think I speak for many others here when I say that I greatly appreciate all the help and information that you've so selflessly given me... you have undoubtedly helped me become a better guitar player - so thank you...thank you very, very much...Cheers...
Thanks JJ; You brought me back in touch with what the Hippies were all about, and which sadly, somehow, faded over time. It was the real deal back then, and now and then, in brief flashes, it shines through again
Enjoy your videos and like that you have a sensibility and honesty. We are flawed by nature of being human. Cheers and Thanks for great help with guitar playing.
Okay, this explains a lot. Now I see why she loves you. It's not just the talent and great playing.
Well said, can totally understand the frustration with social media. I really enjoy your channel & have learned a lot from watching it, keep on rocking!
Everyone gets irritated now and then. Your humility about this couldn’t speak louder. I’m sure that guy was blessed by your words. Class act. I know for a fact you’re the reason I was able to play a number of songs!! Thanks!
PS. I would love to see you play the slowed down version of “Tangled up in blue” there’s a live version out there from 75-76. So dang cool! I know how much you love BD!!
You are The Kindness, thanks much for all that you do!
Nobody's Perfect, but this is one of the many reasons why your such a good teacher. Rock on sir!
I want thank you...THANK YOU...your site has a very Authentic feel to it..let's just face it w are all different,so it stands to reason we hear differently as well,or sadly not hear the whole layers of this reproducing music...now as for perfection in nailing everything exactly,well that is not realistic ..these critics have their own baggage,and it not ours...you are highly accurate 95+...that is as good as it gets...yes this is a very powerful learning tool,once you have found competent sites..you can cut the learning process down 80 ,90 percent...it is a fabulous time to be a guitar enthusiast...you have a great feel for Richards,Townsend,Page...your relentless passion to absorb essence of their performance,live and studio has certainly not been missed. Thx do not let ugliness keep you away from the beauty it will never be
I almost never leave comments but I have learned so many songs that I love here. I can't remember how many songs you Demo first and then break them down; but those are good for me as it gives me a choice of just watching and learning or if I need more info then I can watch the breakdown. But regardless I'm grateful for all the tunes that I've learned here. Keep it up
Thanks for the great work you do. Excellent video. Great message. We all need to do better from time to time.
Fair play JJ, well done for explaining why it happened! And thank you for all your lessons and tips on guitar playing!
I always love to watch your videos and am thankful for all who take the time to post as it's free learning and whatever I extract from a post is a bonus to me. Thanks for all you do! It's totally appreciated here.
Love your videos. So helpful. I’m willing to learn whatever song you want to learn. Keep em coming. Thanks. Also you do have the best guitars and T shirts of all the guitar teachers.
No resent here mate, just appreciate all you do. You’ve taught me heaps of songs I didn’t think I would ever be able to play. Peace & Love ✌️
I have learned a lot of songs from your channel and really appreciate all your work.
Thanks James. So many years of inspiration from you. Keep the faith mate. From one of your (no doubt many) fans from Down Under.
I always look to your channel first when I’m looking for a lesson for new song I’m working on. I value your approach and appreciate your honesty. Keep it up.
Glad I watched this - I was gonna request a song :) You taught me "Easy To Slip" - I'll never want anything again!! Thanks, love your channel