I fucking love that he shared this! People just don’t understand the mind of the artist man! And when one of us sends a message out like this…it’s like a group hug for lack of a better expression. We are of the same family from different walks of life. Thank your brother, this message lives in us all and it will until we go!
I'm 71 now. I gave up on Music some few times. I must confess those were the very worst periods in my life. Thanks those days are gone. I gave up my 'sanity' in order to be happy and follow what I really was supposed to do in life: Music!
At 65 & getting started after 3-4 years rehabilitating myself learning Music Theory & Guitar from Mech Engineering after stroke in 2016 MUSIC sounds totally New to me. the passion for me to KNOW this is my Pursuit. I do NOT know any Previous RULES and coming at it MY WAY. If it winds up Poop, it is on me but I tried. Barry I have followed you for 3+ years. Keep the Faith Bro. You Get Christmas & New Years & LOVE. The Best Buddy.
I’ve been blessed to have been told this at a very young age by another artist who has been my musical mentor since I was a kid. He told me I will always be an artist and it doesn’t matter what is going on around me in my life music will always be at my core. When I feel like giving up I just remember his words and all of a sudden the thought of giving up hurts and you just find a way to dust yourself off and get back on track. This is a great reminder to everyone. It’s very very hard to explain fully but we all know that feeling. Keep going.
I'm just 26 but one time I sold everything, instruments, interface, the whole home studio. It was really painful and I just felt horrible. I had an existencial crisis, months passed but, one day (as barry says) I decided to come back. I even droped what I was studying at university at that time and started my formal studies as a professional musician. It is okay to stop sometimes, wait and rest a bit because is really hard to be an artist. It's okay to feel scared, depressed and dissapointed, most beautiful things in life are dark and pretty nostalgic. Please don't give up. Everything will be all right ❤️
I am sorry for you. I am in the same situation since 2 years. I think that the general state of the world post covid, the war, the economic crisis, the sadness of many people who don't have enough to eat anymore makes me so vulnerable that I can't write a song anymore. And I have written so many since I was 15 years old. It's happened to me before, but not for so long. I wish you well and pray for you.
I'm with you, Barry. Years of ups and downs has taught me the same thing. It's all about balance. And learning that it is ok to walk away when I needed to was the biggest thing I ever did for my music. Like you said, it never goes away! Thank you for sharing.
This is the most emotional, uplifting, and inspirational message I've ever er heard you deliver. Thank you for sharing this!! This is much needed among many creators of music, including myself.
I got very close to getting some music placed with Flyte Time. They loved the music, but needed lyrics and a singer. I could get neither. I got a gig working with Charles Earland and he passed away. There are a few others scenarios where I got really close, and the bottom fell out. after these things happened, I didn't play for 7 years. I may have been clinically depressed and didn't know it... LOL! But Barry is right. I came back to music after 7 years because it is part of me. When I learned that whether I make it or not, I am going to continue in music because I enjoy it, everything has been okay since. Perhaps, that is where all musicians need to be. You do it because you love it. And taking a break from it is healthy too. If it isn't flowing, step away and come back later. Your gift isn't going anywhere, you will always have it.
There is a technique for dealing with a drop in inspiration when it comes to music writing. Sometimes you're just not in the flow and thing stagnate. There is a method to overcome this. 1. If you are working on a song and you ARE in the zone & things are flowing, take all mechanical aspects and leave them for later. Then, when you are uninspired you can work on the piece by doing mechanical things which don't need inspiration. Like you do obvious transpositions, you fix the articulations to make them better, you search for small errors, you work on lyrics, you try doublings and all other manner of mechanical busy work. What you'll find out is that most of the time this work will put you in the zone and you'll flip right into composition. If you're just starting a piece, you can also do this. Just write something, don't worry if its good or magical. Just work on it. You'll either turn it into something magical later on or you'll throw it away because something amazing hit your imagination! Whatever you do, GET TO WORK!!
Like you music is a part of me that will never go away. In my younger days, I satisfied the itch by playing in bands which ultimately took it's toll on my family. For me getting into recording and having a home studio was my way of balancing my music and my home life. You give up the rush of performing live but there's nothing like putting a mix you've just finished in your car, giving it a critical listen, and realizing you've nailed it!
I feel your pain, Barry. You got me a bit emotional watching you speak your truth. I have been at this for 30 years as a DJ and music producer. There are more layers than you can count. I have had success and continue to get it when I put that work in. My studio room didn't get my attention for about 4 years at one point. I was so turned off by a multitude of things. I still pay monthly for my huge vinyl collection even though I will probably never use them. Everything is digital. You are 100% spot on. Sometimes you need that spark. I was so fed up and recently realized I needed to get out of my feelings and create shit I like. I only remix or work with th artists I personally am interested in. I can't fake it. So music is getting better and the mumble rappers are disappearing. Now is the time to put that work in. Respect, dude. Feel free to hit me anytime. Let's build a studio desk lol
Wow, just found your channel. New sub. I've been involved in recording, writing, playing & listening to all kinds of music my entire life. I'm now 68 years old 😵💫 & totally identify with what you said in this video. Thank you for what you do.
Barry, I really appreciate you and all of your knowledge. Thank you so much for keeping up the positivity and sharing all that you do, I’m also excited to watch your woodworking journey. Love from Melbourne Australia
It must be God speaking to me! In my experience, I feel that we are artists in heart and it’s our being! I know that flow that comes and goes....and a break is sometimes what it takes. Im 55 and have broke my neck twice...my back....and now have arthritis in my hands....but I can’t quit. It’s born in me thru and by Jesus! I can’t waste this creative gift. I don’t play in bands anymore... I find glorifying Gods gift is heart humbling for me and it will never leave! God bless you sir and I know....we....all of us with this.....will never give up!!!
The Man upstairs has your back. I too have had issues like yours, two back surgeries, one major 14 hours on the table and I’m beginning to develop arthritis in my hands, I’m gonna keep on keeping on, and of Gods plan is for me to help others in different creative ways, I’ll follow. God Bless brother!
I love your content Barry. I watch every single episode of Studio Talk and this message of hope is exactly what I and the world needs to hear right now. Thank you for your wise words and the gift of hope that you provide for us all.
I never sold my equipment (except to upgrade) or thought of giving up, but there were times in my life - because of my dedication to my kids - that I slowed down a lot with music. My daughter was a competitive swimmer on a club team and my sun played basketball and traveled with his AAU team in high school during the summers so I spent lots of time (and money) working out with them and helping them get better and traveling to their meets/games. I still dinked around with music during those times but my daughter has graduated from college (masters in Accounting - yes, I'm proud of her) and my son is a senior in college (majoring in Animation and business - also very proud of him). I've had more time over the past few years to focus more on music (I need to record and produce more) - mostly guitar playing but a little writing and recording. I was really touched when my family went around the table for my birthday and they each listed things they love most about me (we do that for everyone's birthdays). My daughter and son both said that they loved that I still work/practice the guitar and write music to "keep the dream alive." They said it gives them hope and enjoyment. My wife is also SUPER supportive of my love and expensive habit. That validated everything for me - the support I give to them continuously as a father is being reciprocated (I never doubted it) and that it's ok to take some time for your self doing things you love (good, constructive things, that is).
I never try to force write, if you relax your mind and let it open the creative process naturally then you will get ideas coming in floods. I find when the mind is constantly processing and active, there is too much info happening for the melodic ideas to come through. Wow, I’m into woodworking myself. I made a 2x12 cab with 7 different exotic woods with the first stimulus check and that has opened up my world to woodcrafting. Yeah Barry, it is a blessing and a curse. The mind is also constantly developing and it’s a gift to speak the language of notes. Thank you for this video!
Barry, thank you for your advice; your words have reached my soul which has been broken, musically speaking, for a very long time. And your words comfort my soul.
For me Barry I am thankful for finding this channel. You’re a really great teacher / explainer / etc for me personally. I stopped playing guitar and didn’t touch it for about 5 years after stopping from playing live after almost 20 years. I just lost interest for some reason. Then I found Pete Thorn. Then I found Rick Beato and you are part of the group I have found that make me interested in playing again. You’re personable and I almost feel like you talk to me directly and I appreciate it. Just keeping doing what you do and when you want to do it. I’m 53 and love that music has came back and you and a few others are part of what has made making music fun again. So I personally appreciate you and your delivery and your time. Thank you !
Fantastic video Barry! This really speaks to me as I do this professionally as my career and I completely relate to this. Thank you for sharing and being real. I'm sure you reached the masses with this one. Be well
I was recently in a slump for a while with my music and guitar playing. I have been playing guitar for 50+ years and have experienced this a number of times. But I aways come back to playing guitar. And the music is now fun and flowing again. Barry is right, once music and creativity are in you, it will never go away. Great episode!.
Dude all I can say is you made me cry and it is a blessing and a curse. I'm not burned out I have many song's that I have to get recorded, mixed, processed and mastered before I die. I just wish I had the equipment to finish my one and only goal. What I need is not that much, I need rme!!! It's costly just lost my job and that's where I sit in all of this. Thanks for giving me a vent today. Love your videos. 2023!!!! May it be the year of good blessings for us all. Jeff from Georgia
Hello Barry. I have been watching your channel for several years now. Thank you for all your content and great information you have provided. Job well-done. I am in the boat of having too much to do and never enough time to do what I want. Like you mentioned "there needs to be a ballance" as with all things we must determine where we focus our attention. I have A full time job which I thank God for every day. Then weekends are to work on projects for the house and studio pay bills laundry etc. With any luck get the chance to play guitar for a few uninterrupted hours. I have been working on my home since 2016 after an F4 tornado came through the neighborhood. By the grace of God along with many others have been able to survive that. This required me to do extra work on the home that was not planned on when I set forth to build my studio. The priority now shifted to repairing the home. Fortunately, I was able to build my soundproof live room durring the home rebuilding process. I am now working on the control room with acoustic treatment. Oh and collecting some gear in the process as funds permit. We all know that when we play an instrument it is all about what we are going through in our life emotionally and what we feel deep down inside. If your happy it will come out in your playing as well as if your angry, annoyed or sad. What were going through allways seems to come out in our playing. If you have a problem that is comming out in your music certainly step away for a while and go back with fresh eyes ears and heart. We all love those times where we pick up an instrument the creative process flows and you are simply amazed at what you are doing. Channeling good music which comes from the heart and what I believe comes from God. Then remembering what was played and continue to work on it. For this reason alone is why I am building my studio. It will allow me to capture and record the audio and video to reference when that awe inspiring music comes flowing through my heart into whatever I am playing. I am sure we all had that tune that we played only to forget what we played and got away. God Bless you all.
As my older bro( who is a prolific musician and recording engineer) says " Some days you get the bear and some days the bear gets you." It's life. I have walked away from my home studio and drums for months and some moments I live in the studio. I think that is part of the creative mind. It is not static on inspiration. It comes and goes and I think sleep and time away makes folks more creative. Last time I checked most of us are not making a living doing this so no pressure. When it starts to be a job is when I will walk away for good.
I got scared when I saw the title of this video. I love that sense of flying when writing a song. It feels like so much is possible. It’s so hard to give that up. But yes I walk away when it’s too much.
Great video. I am just struggling with negative thoughts actually and I was just thinking should I just give up ? So your video came in the proper time. F it .. our gift is too precious to walk away. Thank you
100% relate as a writer/producer more than a player, though like you I play multiple instruments adequately. I tried walking away too - sold everything and “retired” from music for three years, but it didn’t stick, and I ended up buying all the stuff again to make records with a new band. Once it’s in you, it’s in you. Take a pause when you need to, but don’t ever think you can escape. :)
Thank you for sharing the intimate side of how we all feel inside about music, it's a hugely important driving force of what heals and keeps society at sane levels. We need the listeners feedback and enjoyment of our songs and they need us to entertain/heal the soul.
Barry, Barry, Barry, That was beautifully heart felt. I'm sure many of us can relate. I could not help but think of the recent Howard Stern Interview With Bruce Springsteen. #1 Bruce really opened up to give us a peek at the man behind the curtain. #2 He decscibed how his song writing passion ebs and flows, has'nt writen a new song in six years. My own experience is, that my original songs are inspired by human experiences and observations that stir my emotions. With no emotions, there are no new songs. I've discovered that obsessing over gear is a creativity killer. As much as I enjoy your gear discussions, I'm much more productive when I turn it all off and let the music within me flow. Best to ya, Take care
Me and my wife were just arguing 30 minutes ago And I get on my phone and see this. Music has always been core of my soul and as much as sometimes it hinders my finances I don’t know how to drop my craft and MoveOn. All I tell myself. Yes, I work too hard and games so much to just let it all go. It’s difficult sometimes, it’s frustrating sometimes, and it’s very draining. But I can’t stop. thanks for sharing.
True say Barry, everything you said just chimes with feelings and emotions most, if not all of us have had at some point on our musical/hobby journies! Great stuff, keep rockin'. I'd like to wish you a lovely merry Christmas and a healthy, happy and successful 2023! Merry Christmas and a healthy New Year to all!!
You’re so right. I may only have a couple good songs in me, but that’s fine. I’ll keep trying until I’m happy with my creations. Still trying to figure out a workflow that works for me right now… I know that I’ll get there, I think… Thank you for your message.
Very well said and great advice for anyone at any age. I also struggle with balance, and I think this has inspired me to get back into an old passion of mine, the gym. Thank you!
May God bless you today Because you are talking to me personally Today i’m going through that exact thing I’ve been producing music for 40 years I’ve lost two marriages because this music And I still can’t seem to let it go I’ve been high been low Just to hear that someone else knows how I feel Makes me feel so much better May God continue to bless you
I really needed to hear that. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I can't tell you how good it is hear someone say that. I'm 45 now and have pursued music all my life. But the struggles in life can sometimes leave me questioning everything. Thanks again, This really hit home for me.
I've been saving up a recording setup for at least 8 years now. Bought one drum at a time. One microphone at a time. Zzounds was my best friend, got an analog synth, and, how I found your channel, an Apollo x8p, bot took me a year to pay off each. A ll of it is studio grade premium equipment. I've never heard any of it. Most of it just collects dust. Thunderbolt 3 was insanely expensive when I got the Apollo, never could get financing. And now it's yesteryear's tech. And magically right when I finally had things going right, I got hit with some gnarly rootkit/ virus/hacker something or rather, killed 2 macs and 3 PCs. Trying to save my kid's baby pictures from corruption, recovering fragments that reinfect whatever I put them on. All of them had an issue, in one form or another, all the way down to the root. Not unlike a lot of us creative types. The curse of needing to create, the blessing of a passion understood by few. I've gone from only knowing how to run Ableton to being totally comfortable in terminal on Linux/Mac and Windows. In the 20 years I've been a musician, only ever been part of 3 good songs, but that i have thousands of masterpieces. Quick snapshot first day of school, absolute gold. The look in his eyes first time hearing a synth, Platinum. What's another work season's worth of dust? For $3000+, you cannot find a better monitor controller than the Apollo. Anywho , I've been the feel of this video for 3 years now. I appreciate your work, this just hit home a little more
I really appreciate watching this video. I have been watching your Studio talk videos the past month or so. I walked away from music in 1995. I tried adding it back in 1997 but dropped it again. then tried again in 1999 and did the same, 10 years later, I tried it again and was actively for 5 years but then gave it up again. It's now 7 years later my kids are grown up and not living at home anymore. I have the time and space to be more active in music and I really enjoy it. The music was always in me. It's about the journey as you say "learning is a part of the journey".
Great message , I’m around your age and I’ve walked away many times , but I know it is as blessing and a curse, When I don’t feel it , I don’t force , but when it comes back it feels like magic , I’ve been addicted to guitars since I was 7 years old and saw a Sunburst strat hanging on the wall of my local music store , I’d go in everyday and stare at it , couldn’t play but knew I wanted it , and I never got it , my parents bought me a cheap plastic / wood Yamaha acoustic for Christmas , and I loved it , I’m still learning haha , anyway great video about something we don’t talk about
Solid video. Much love for you, brotha man!! I’ll NEVER sell my hard earned gear. I don’t have kids so my music toys are my kids, and you never give up on family! LOL … Happy holidays, Barry.
Am so glad I found out this early before I started investing big amounts on this passion. Am never selling any of my equipment again, it really hurts when ideas come flowing and I have no way to capture them properly.
Music for the musician becomes part of your soul. You cannot separate the music from the artist anymore than you can separate the soul from the body. We are artists till the end of our life. Enjoy the process Barry, and take breaks when needed. It soothes the soul!
Thank you very much for this message. I found your channel days ago, while on the search for outboard gear topics and semi pro interfaces and got hooked with your videos and mindset!
Thanks Barry. I have always felt that being a creative was both a gift and a curse, at the same time and in equal measure. The gift of being able to release stress and anxiety through music/art has incredible value and can be euphoric. On the flip side, the isolation one often feels can be crushing. The process really is an emotional pendulum. Thanks for opening up!
The muse is a fickle mistress certainly. We all love your channel so just take a break from music for a while. Kudos for your candour and bravery in making this video
I’ve found that when it isn’t flowing … is when you should dig in more. Its an opportunity to push your creativity to new levels… Through repetition we learn to find comfort in our creativity… it feels really good when you can sit down and make something that you’re proud of on command… But when that slows up… or stops completely… it’s a sign that you’re ready to grow. It’s a terrible feeling… that overwhelming doubt … Embracing that uncertainty and using it as fuel will unlock parts of you that we’re previously unavailable… Just trust yourself and don’t be afraid to make something terrible . Because in the end … it’s never really about what you created … it’s just about creating
Sir, I'm so glad I found this video. I'm so glad I'm not alone in this creation "struggle". Just like you, I love creating music and woodworking. This is why I started repairing and building guitars. Thank you and bless you. Keep up the great work.
Also - as I look at the comments - I’m seeing all these wonderful musicians, people that I’ve never known, have the same feeling as me…you are connecting our hearts…that’s Big man! So dope!!! We needed that man!!!! Thank you so much
Funny that he mentioned that he gave it all up a couple of times and then he rebought everything again. I went through the same thing over 7 years ago.. i got to the point I hated music, I hated the entertainment industry, and hated the artists I worked with. I was so fed up that I quit my audio engineering job, sold all my gear and guitars, and joined the Army. Don’t get me wrong, joining the Army was one of the best decisions I ever made. The last 1.5 years I fell in love again w music and I’ve been building my home studio again. This time is my hobby and I love it, i’d never make this my job tho. Best of luck to those who are grinding out there in the industry
Music is just a personal journey for me at this point. I don't collaborate with artists, engineers and other musicians at all. I've saved tons of time and money wasted on sessions that don't transition into bigger opportunities. Well into my 30s now and this is a part time passion/business for me. Royalties are less than what these plugins developers make. They've sucked the soul and enjoyment out of music by marketing everything as tech gear.
Thank you for sharing that. I'm with you on this...music writing and playing guitar is my passion, but I've brought other passions into my life for this very reason. I switch between music, pedal building, programming, and networking. It's like a cycle for me. If I can't feel creative in one area, then I can fill myself up in one of the other areas. I mean sometimes I can get over the hump by just picking up a different instrument, but sometimes I just need to walk away and start building pedals or programming something cool.
Barry, this was great! Thank you for opening up to us. I know this is a message that will resonate with many, many people. A few more like this, & you could change your channel name to, "Real Talk with Barry Johns."
Wow. Thank you for this. I’m about your age, and I too have walked away from it all several times in my life, only to come crawling back because it is a part of who I am. This last time, I sold my studio and was away from it all for 5 years! I was burned out. But then a switch was flipped, and my love for it all flooded back in all at once. It was only then that I realized what you have, that I will be doing this until I am physically unable to continue. But you’re so right, life is all about balance, and so is our love for music. Thank you for your heartfelt perspective. 😎
That's why I said flop it! I'm releasing music every week until all of my material is out there, I have to put my energy on something else and relax, la vida es buena!
Thank you for taking the time and for having the courage to make this video. I can certainly relate. I do not read or write music, nor have I had any training. I am nothing, just a vessel, like hollow bone. Wishing you and yours a joyous, safe and blessed Holiday. Bravo. Mitákuye Oyásʼiŋ 🙏🏽 👏👏👏👏
Motivational speech for anything in life. I am learning a skill outside of music that makes me want to give up. And did. Many times. I keep plugging away. Eventually, I will achieve that goal. Taking a break is fine, but always come back. If it has been a while, listen to the songs that get you excited about music. Clean the rust and grease the wheels. Thank you for the wisdom, Barry!
Thanks for this. So helpful and puts into a mutual perception what I have experienced many times. This and another recent video you did on hybrid setups helped me to find my lane in why I do this and see the balance of music production with the other parts of my life while spending my cash on just what I need at my present phase and not the next shiny thing that comes along. Also enjoyed and related to many of the comments this video generated.
I fucking love that he shared this! People just don’t understand the mind of the artist man! And when one of us sends a message out like this…it’s like a group hug for lack of a better expression. We are of the same family from different walks of life. Thank your brother, this message lives in us all and it will until we go!
I'm 71 now. I gave up on Music some few times. I must confess those were the very worst periods in my life. Thanks those days are gone. I gave up my 'sanity' in order to be happy and follow what I really was supposed to do in life: Music!
At 65 & getting started after 3-4 years rehabilitating myself learning Music Theory & Guitar from Mech Engineering after stroke in 2016 MUSIC sounds totally New to me. the passion for me to KNOW this is my Pursuit. I do NOT know any Previous RULES and coming at it MY WAY. If it winds up Poop, it is on me but I tried. Barry I have followed you for 3+ years. Keep the Faith Bro. You Get Christmas & New Years & LOVE. The Best Buddy.
I’ve been blessed to have been told this at a very young age by another artist who has been my musical mentor since I was a kid. He told me I will always be an artist and it doesn’t matter what is going on around me in my life music will always be at my core. When I feel like giving up I just remember his words and all of a sudden the thought of giving up hurts and you just find a way to dust yourself off and get back on track. This is a great reminder to everyone. It’s very very hard to explain fully but we all know that feeling. Keep going.
I'm just 26 but one time I sold everything, instruments, interface, the whole home studio.
It was really painful and I just felt horrible.
I had an existencial crisis, months passed but, one day (as barry says) I decided to come back. I even droped what I was studying at university at that time and started my formal studies as a professional musician.
It is okay to stop sometimes, wait and rest a bit because is really hard to be an artist.
It's okay to feel scared, depressed and dissapointed, most beautiful things in life are dark and pretty nostalgic.
Please don't give up.
Everything will be all right ❤️
I am sorry for you. I am in the same situation since 2 years. I think that the general state of the world post covid, the war, the economic crisis, the sadness of many people who don't have enough to eat anymore makes me so vulnerable that I can't write a song anymore. And I have written so many since I was 15 years old.
It's happened to me before, but not for so long.
I wish you well and pray for you.
I'm with you, Barry. Years of ups and downs has taught me the same thing. It's all about balance. And learning that it is ok to walk away when I needed to was the biggest thing I ever did for my music. Like you said, it never goes away! Thank you for sharing.
I learned this over time and just want to say thank you for articulating it so beautifully and honestly. This work matters.
This is the most emotional, uplifting, and inspirational message I've ever er heard you deliver. Thank you for sharing this!! This is much needed among many creators of music, including myself.
I got very close to getting some music placed with Flyte Time. They loved the music, but needed lyrics and a singer. I could get neither. I got a gig working with Charles Earland and he passed away. There are a few others scenarios where I got really close, and the bottom fell out. after these things happened, I didn't play for 7 years. I may have been clinically depressed and didn't know it... LOL! But Barry is right. I came back to music after 7 years because it is part of me. When I learned that whether I make it or not, I am going to continue in music because I enjoy it, everything has been okay since. Perhaps, that is where all musicians need to be. You do it because you love it. And taking a break from it is healthy too. If it isn't flowing, step away and come back later. Your gift isn't going anywhere, you will always have it.
This hits home. Thank you
Perfectly said and felt my Friend, Im 62 been at it since I was 7, it is part of our DNA
Lovely message, and so true! Much appreciated, and be the year 2023 a very good one for you, Barry!
I suck at music, and love playing and making it anyways. Cause it’s mine and makes me happy.
There is a technique for dealing with a drop in inspiration when it comes to music writing. Sometimes you're just not in the flow and thing stagnate. There is a method to overcome this. 1. If you are working on a song and you ARE in the zone & things are flowing, take all mechanical aspects and leave them for later. Then, when you are uninspired you can work on the piece by doing mechanical things which don't need inspiration.
Like you do obvious transpositions, you fix the articulations to make them better, you search for small errors, you work on lyrics, you try doublings and all other manner of mechanical busy work. What you'll find out is that most of the time this work will put you in the zone and you'll flip right into composition.
If you're just starting a piece, you can also do this. Just write something, don't worry if its good or magical. Just work on it. You'll either turn it into something magical later on or you'll throw it away because something amazing hit your imagination! Whatever you do, GET TO WORK!!
Thanks for sharing. I’ve literally bought it all and sold it, and always came back. Same story here brother. We are with you!!!
So glad I just stumbled on your channel! Awesome video!
Thanks for sharing dear barry
I’m Iranian and I understand this situation and pressure better than anyone! 😔
For freedom & music… ✊
Like you music is a part of me that will never go away. In my younger days, I satisfied the itch by playing in bands which ultimately took it's toll on my family. For me getting into recording and having a home studio was my way of balancing my music and my home life. You give up the rush of performing live but there's nothing like putting a mix you've just finished in your car, giving it a critical listen, and realizing you've nailed it!
Thanks so much for this comforting input. It’s often rough.
I feel your pain, Barry. You got me a bit emotional watching you speak your truth. I have been at this for 30 years as a DJ and music producer. There are more layers than you can count. I have had success and continue to get it when I put that work in. My studio room didn't get my attention for about 4 years at one point. I was so turned off by a multitude of things. I still pay monthly for my huge vinyl collection even though I will probably never use them. Everything is digital.
You are 100% spot on. Sometimes you need that spark. I was so fed up and recently realized I needed to get out of my feelings and create shit I like. I only remix or work with th artists I personally am interested in. I can't fake it. So music is getting better and the mumble rappers are disappearing. Now is the time to put that work in. Respect, dude. Feel free to hit me anytime. Let's build a studio desk lol
Sounds like you and I are the cut from the same cloth, probably the same age with the same experience. Great testimony Barry!
Wow, just found your channel. New sub. I've been involved in recording, writing, playing & listening to all kinds of music my entire life. I'm now 68 years old 😵💫 & totally identify with what you said in this video. Thank you for what you do.
Barry, I really appreciate you and all of your knowledge.
Thank you so much for keeping up the positivity and sharing all that you do, I’m also excited to watch your woodworking journey. Love from Melbourne Australia
Thanks for sharing Barry! I feel this 100%. Wow.
It must be God speaking to me! In my experience, I feel that we are artists in heart and it’s our being! I know that flow that comes and goes....and a break is sometimes what it takes. Im 55 and have broke my neck twice...my back....and now have arthritis in my hands....but I can’t quit. It’s born in me thru and by Jesus! I can’t waste this creative gift. I don’t play in bands anymore... I find glorifying Gods gift is heart humbling for me and it will never leave! God bless you sir and I know....we....all of us with this.....will never give up!!!
The Man upstairs has your back. I too have had issues like yours, two back surgeries, one major 14 hours on the table and I’m beginning to develop arthritis in my hands, I’m gonna keep on keeping on, and of Gods plan is for me to help others in different creative ways, I’ll follow. God Bless brother!
I love your content Barry. I watch every single episode of Studio Talk and this message of hope is exactly what I and the world needs to hear right now. Thank you for your wise words and the gift of hope that you provide for us all.
Just superb. Every word I relate too. Thank you.
I never sold my equipment (except to upgrade) or thought of giving up, but there were times in my life - because of my dedication to my kids - that I slowed down a lot with music. My daughter was a competitive swimmer on a club team and my sun played basketball and traveled with his AAU team in high school during the summers so I spent lots of time (and money) working out with them and helping them get better and traveling to their meets/games. I still dinked around with music during those times but my daughter has graduated from college (masters in Accounting - yes, I'm proud of her) and my son is a senior in college (majoring in Animation and business - also very proud of him). I've had more time over the past few years to focus more on music (I need to record and produce more) - mostly guitar playing but a little writing and recording.
I was really touched when my family went around the table for my birthday and they each listed things they love most about me (we do that for everyone's birthdays). My daughter and son both said that they loved that I still work/practice the guitar and write music to "keep the dream alive." They said it gives them hope and enjoyment. My wife is also SUPER supportive of my love and expensive habit. That validated everything for me - the support I give to them continuously as a father is being reciprocated (I never doubted it) and that it's ok to take some time for your self doing things you love (good, constructive things, that is).
I never try to force write, if you relax your mind and let it open the creative process naturally then you will get ideas coming in floods. I find when the mind is constantly processing and active, there is too much info happening for the melodic ideas to come through. Wow, I’m into woodworking myself. I made a 2x12 cab with 7 different exotic woods with the first stimulus check and that has opened up my world to woodcrafting. Yeah Barry, it is a blessing and a curse. The mind is also constantly developing and it’s a gift to speak the language of notes. Thank you for this video!
Thank you very much for this video.
🙏🍀
Barry, thank you for your advice; your words have reached my soul which has been broken, musically speaking, for a very long time. And your words comfort my soul.
God Bless. Thank you, Barry.
For me Barry I am thankful for finding this channel. You’re a really great teacher / explainer / etc for me personally. I stopped playing guitar and didn’t touch it for about 5 years after stopping from playing live after almost 20 years. I just lost interest for some reason. Then I found Pete Thorn. Then I found Rick Beato and you are part of the group I have found that make me interested in playing again. You’re personable and I almost feel like you talk to me directly and I appreciate it. Just keeping doing what you do and when you want to do it. I’m 53 and love that music has came back and you and a few others are part of what has made making music fun again. So I personally appreciate you and your delivery and your time. Thank you !
Great video! I hear you, I feel you! Thanks for the raw honesty.
Fantastic video Barry! This really speaks to me as I do this professionally as my career and I completely relate to this. Thank you for sharing and being real. I'm sure you reached the masses with this one. Be well
I was recently in a slump for a while with my music and guitar playing. I have been playing guitar for 50+ years and have experienced this a number of times. But I aways come back to playing guitar. And the music is now fun and flowing again. Barry is right, once music and creativity are in you, it will never go away. Great episode!.
Dude all I can say is you made me cry and it is a blessing and a curse. I'm not burned out I have many song's that I have to get recorded, mixed, processed and mastered before I die. I just wish I had the equipment to finish my one and only goal. What I need is not that much, I need rme!!! It's costly just lost my job and that's where I sit in all of this. Thanks for giving me a vent today. Love your videos. 2023!!!! May it be the year of good blessings for us all.
Jeff from Georgia
Happy Holidays, Barry. I hope your day gets better.
Hello Barry. I have been watching your channel for several years now. Thank you for all your content and great information you have provided. Job well-done.
I am in the boat of having too much to do and never enough time to do what I want. Like you mentioned "there needs to be a ballance" as with all things we must determine where we focus our attention. I have A full time job which I thank God for every day. Then weekends are to work on projects for the house and studio pay bills laundry etc. With any luck get the chance to play guitar for a few uninterrupted hours. I have been working on my home since 2016 after an F4 tornado came through the neighborhood. By the grace of God along with many others have been able to survive that. This required me to do extra work on the home that was not planned on when I set forth to build my studio. The priority now shifted to repairing the home. Fortunately, I was able to build my soundproof live room durring the home rebuilding process. I am now working on the control room with acoustic treatment. Oh and collecting some gear in the process as funds permit.
We all know that when we play an instrument it is all about what we are going through in our life emotionally and what we feel deep down inside. If your happy it will come out in your playing as well as if your angry, annoyed or sad. What were going through allways seems to come out in our playing. If you have a problem that is comming out in your music certainly step away for a while and go back with fresh eyes ears and heart. We all love those times where we pick up an instrument the creative process flows and you are simply amazed at what you are doing. Channeling good music which comes from the heart and what I believe comes from God. Then remembering what was played and continue to work on it. For this reason alone is why I am building my studio. It will allow me to capture and record the audio and video to reference when that awe inspiring music comes flowing through my heart into whatever I am playing. I am sure we all had that tune that we played only to forget what we played and got away.
God Bless you all.
Wow what a great statement! Thank you Barry
Your channel is one of the best about music making and production because you're honest
One time I gave up and packed up my whole studio. Unpacked it a week later. I’ve learned to take breaks every month.
As my older bro( who is a prolific musician and recording engineer) says " Some days you get the bear and some days the bear gets you." It's life. I have walked away from my home studio and drums for months and some moments I live in the studio. I think that is part of the creative mind. It is not static on inspiration. It comes and goes and I think sleep and time away makes folks more creative. Last time I checked most of us are not making a living doing this so no pressure. When it starts to be a job is when I will walk away for good.
I got scared when I saw the title of this video. I love that sense of flying when writing a song. It feels like so much is possible. It’s so hard to give that up. But yes I walk away when it’s too much.
FANTASTIC!! thanks for the that. i can relate on ALL levels. PEACE BROTHER.
Great video. I am just struggling with negative thoughts actually and I was just thinking should I just give up ? So your video came in the proper time. F it .. our gift is too precious to walk away. Thank you
Facts Barry! And thanks for your advice and wisdom sir!
thank you for your honesty. never give up.
This vid is one of your best. Thank you.
Wonderful talk. Thank you❤
Great truth. We all go through it. No matter what level one is at. Once the music big hits you, you’re screwed! Haha..
100% relate as a writer/producer more than a player, though like you I play multiple instruments adequately. I tried walking away too - sold everything and “retired” from music for three years, but it didn’t stick, and I ended up buying all the stuff again to make records with a new band. Once it’s in you, it’s in you. Take a pause when you need to, but don’t ever think you can escape. :)
I can totally relate from my own experience as well. Thanks so much for posting this.
Great video 👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿 I know exactly how you feel
Thank you for sharing the intimate side of how we all feel inside about music, it's a hugely important driving force of what heals and keeps society at sane levels. We need the listeners feedback and enjoyment of our songs and they need us to entertain/heal the soul.
Barry, Barry, Barry,
That was beautifully heart felt.
I'm sure many of us can relate.
I could not help but think of the recent Howard Stern Interview With Bruce Springsteen.
#1 Bruce really opened up to give us a peek at the man behind the curtain.
#2 He decscibed how his song writing passion ebs and flows, has'nt writen a new song in six years.
My own experience is, that my original songs are inspired by human experiences and observations that stir my emotions. With no emotions, there are no new songs.
I've discovered that obsessing over gear is a creativity killer.
As much as I enjoy your gear discussions, I'm much more productive when I turn it all off and let the music within me flow.
Best to ya,
Take care
Me and my wife were just arguing 30 minutes ago And I get on my phone and see this. Music has always been core of my soul and as much as sometimes it hinders my finances I don’t know how to drop my craft and MoveOn. All I tell myself. Yes, I work too hard and games so much to just let it all go. It’s difficult sometimes, it’s frustrating sometimes, and it’s very draining. But I can’t stop. thanks for sharing.
True say Barry, everything you said just chimes with feelings and emotions most, if not all of us have had at some point on our musical/hobby journies! Great stuff, keep rockin'. I'd like to wish you a lovely merry Christmas and a healthy, happy and successful 2023! Merry Christmas and a healthy New Year to all!!
Love your heart, God bless!
You’re so right. I may only have a couple good songs in me, but that’s fine. I’ll keep trying until I’m happy with my creations. Still trying to figure out a workflow that works for me right now… I know that I’ll get there, I think… Thank you for your message.
TRUE THAT.....I went through this emotional time as well. Thanks mate
Very well said and great advice for anyone at any age. I also struggle with balance, and I think this has inspired me to get back into an old passion of mine, the gym. Thank you!
May God bless you today
Because you are talking to me personally
Today i’m going through that exact thing
I’ve been producing music for 40 years
I’ve lost two marriages because this music
And I still can’t seem to let it go
I’ve been high been low
Just to hear that someone else knows how I feel
Makes me feel so much better
May God continue to bless you
I really needed to hear that. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I can't tell you how good it is hear someone say that. I'm 45 now and have pursued music all my life. But the struggles in life can sometimes leave me questioning everything. Thanks again, This really hit home for me.
Thumbs up for this! I have paused maybe three or four times, but have always come back. Once a musician, ever a musician.
this one hits home for me right now. thanks for posting.
I've been saving up a recording setup for at least 8 years now. Bought one drum at a time. One microphone at a time. Zzounds was my best friend, got an analog synth, and, how I found your channel, an Apollo x8p, bot took me a year to pay off each. A ll of it is studio grade premium equipment. I've never heard any of it. Most of it just collects dust.
Thunderbolt 3 was insanely expensive when I got the Apollo, never could get financing. And now it's yesteryear's tech. And magically right when I finally had things going right, I got hit with some gnarly rootkit/ virus/hacker something or rather, killed 2 macs and 3 PCs. Trying to save my kid's baby pictures from corruption, recovering fragments that reinfect whatever I put them on. All of them had an issue, in one form or another, all the way down to the root.
Not unlike a lot of us creative types. The curse of needing to create, the blessing of a passion understood by few. I've gone from only knowing how to run Ableton to being totally comfortable in terminal on Linux/Mac and Windows. In the 20 years I've been a musician, only ever been part of 3 good songs, but that i have thousands of masterpieces. Quick snapshot first day of school, absolute gold. The look in his eyes first time hearing a synth, Platinum. What's another work season's worth of dust? For $3000+, you cannot find a better monitor controller than the Apollo.
Anywho , I've been the feel of this video for 3 years now. I appreciate your work, this just hit home a little more
Love that you posted this!!
I really appreciate watching this video. I have been watching your Studio talk videos the past month or so. I walked away from music in 1995. I tried adding it back in 1997 but dropped it again. then tried again in 1999 and did the same, 10 years later, I tried it again and was actively for 5 years but then gave it up again. It's now 7 years later my kids are grown up and not living at home anymore. I have the time and space to be more active in music and I really enjoy it. The music was always in me. It's about the journey as you say "learning is a part of the journey".
Thank you, and this confirms so much of how if feel about the Arts and creativity. 🙏
Great message , I’m around your age and I’ve walked away many times , but I know it is as blessing and a curse, When I don’t feel it , I don’t force , but when it comes back it feels like magic , I’ve been addicted to guitars since I was 7 years old and saw a Sunburst strat hanging on the wall of my local music store , I’d go in everyday and stare at it , couldn’t play but knew I wanted it , and I never got it , my parents bought me a cheap plastic / wood Yamaha acoustic for Christmas , and I loved it , I’m still learning haha , anyway great video about something we don’t talk about
Solid video. Much love for you, brotha man!! I’ll NEVER sell my hard earned gear. I don’t have kids so my music toys are my kids, and you never give up on family! LOL … Happy holidays, Barry.
Am so glad I found out this early before I started investing big amounts on this passion. Am never selling any of my equipment again, it really hurts when ideas come flowing and I have no way to capture them properly.
Music for the musician becomes part of your soul. You cannot separate the music from the artist anymore than you can separate the soul from the body. We are artists till the end of our life. Enjoy the process Barry, and take breaks when needed. It soothes the soul!
We appreciate you.
Thank you very much for this message.
I found your channel days ago, while on the search for outboard gear topics and semi pro interfaces and got hooked with your videos and mindset!
Thanks Max, means a lot to me!
Thank you for posting this Barry.
Thanks Barry. I have always felt that being a creative was both a gift and a curse, at the same time and in equal measure. The gift of being able to release stress and anxiety through music/art has incredible value and can be euphoric. On the flip side, the isolation one often feels can be crushing. The process really is an emotional pendulum. Thanks for opening up!
The muse is a fickle mistress certainly. We all love your channel so just take a break from music for a while. Kudos for your candour and bravery in making this video
I’ve found that when it isn’t flowing … is when you should dig in more.
Its an opportunity to push your creativity to new levels…
Through repetition we learn to find comfort in our creativity…
it feels really good when you can sit down and make something that you’re proud of on command…
But when that slows up… or stops completely… it’s a sign that you’re ready to grow.
It’s a terrible feeling… that overwhelming doubt …
Embracing that uncertainty and using it as fuel will unlock parts of you that we’re previously unavailable…
Just trust yourself and don’t be afraid to make something terrible .
Because in the end …
it’s never really about what you created …
it’s just about creating
Respect for your truth and honesty. Thats the way it is. Great video. ❤
Important video Barry. Thanks for sharing and greetz. ✌🏼
This is exactly where I’m at! Great, great share! ❤
Totally feel ya, I try not to force music, I will quickly go "nope, not feeling it today" and revisit it later.
Sir, I'm so glad I found this video. I'm so glad I'm not alone in this creation "struggle". Just like you, I love creating music and woodworking. This is why I started repairing and building guitars. Thank you and bless you. Keep up the great work.
Also - as I look at the comments - I’m seeing all these wonderful musicians, people that I’ve never known, have the same feeling as me…you are connecting our hearts…that’s Big man! So dope!!! We needed that man!!!! Thank you so much
Funny that he mentioned that he gave it all up a couple of times and then he rebought everything again. I went through the same thing over 7 years ago.. i got to the point I hated music, I hated the entertainment industry, and hated the artists I worked with. I was so fed up that I quit my audio engineering job, sold all my gear and guitars, and joined the Army. Don’t get me wrong, joining the Army was one of the best decisions I ever made. The last 1.5 years I fell in love again w music and I’ve been building my home studio again. This time is my hobby and I love it, i’d never make this my job tho.
Best of luck to those who are grinding out there in the industry
Music is just a personal journey for me at this point. I don't collaborate with artists, engineers and other musicians at all. I've saved tons of time and money wasted on sessions that don't transition into bigger opportunities. Well into my 30s now and this is a part time passion/business for me. Royalties are less than what these plugins developers make. They've sucked the soul and enjoyment out of music by marketing everything as tech gear.
Thanks Barry 🙏🏾
Thank you for sharing that. I'm with you on this...music writing and playing guitar is my passion, but I've brought other passions into my life for this very reason. I switch between music, pedal building, programming, and networking. It's like a cycle for me. If I can't feel creative in one area, then I can fill myself up in one of the other areas. I mean sometimes I can get over the hump by just picking up a different instrument, but sometimes I just need to walk away and start building pedals or programming something cool.
Thank you. ❤️🙏
Barry, this was great! Thank you for opening up to us. I know this is a message that will resonate with many, many people. A few more like this, & you could change your channel name to, "Real Talk with Barry Johns."
Most definitely know what you're talking about and thank you.
Wow. Thank you for this. I’m about your age, and I too have walked away from it all several times in my life, only to come crawling back because it is a part of who I am. This last time, I sold my studio and was away from it all for 5 years! I was burned out. But then a switch was flipped, and my love for it all flooded back in all at once. It was only then that I realized what you have, that I will be doing this until I am physically unable to continue. But you’re so right, life is all about balance, and so is our love for music. Thank you for your heartfelt perspective. 😎
That's why I said flop it! I'm releasing music every week until all of my material is out there, I have to put my energy on something else and relax, la vida es buena!
Thank you for taking the time and for having the courage to make this video. I can certainly relate. I do not read or write music, nor have I had any training. I am nothing, just a vessel, like hollow bone. Wishing you and yours a joyous, safe and blessed Holiday. Bravo. Mitákuye Oyásʼiŋ 🙏🏽 👏👏👏👏
Motivational speech for anything in life. I am learning a skill outside of music that makes me want to give up. And did. Many times. I keep plugging away. Eventually, I will achieve that goal.
Taking a break is fine, but always come back. If it has been a while, listen to the songs that get you excited about music. Clean the rust and grease the wheels.
Thank you for the wisdom, Barry!
I very strictly use those valleys for learning. There’s always something new to discover.
Great words, !!!
Thanks for this. So helpful and puts into a mutual perception what I have experienced many times. This and another recent video you did on hybrid setups helped me to find my lane in why I do this and see the balance of music production with the other parts of my life while spending my cash on just what I need at my present phase and not the next shiny thing that comes along. Also enjoyed and related to many of the comments this video generated.