As kids learning to play guitar, how did any of us learn contemporary songs?
Tribal knowledge.
We passed the techniques and riffs along from one to another. Mates at school, rivals, friends - it didn't matter; all would sit and trade riffs in order to learn something new. That's what took place at jam sessions. We were teaching each other the art of our craft.
Youtube is making that somewhat passé.
Today I had an audition for a local band.
One of the songs on the set list is 'Hey Joe' - Jimi Hendrix. I had always played this song ala Deep Purple. Their arrangement is a Spanish/Flaminco opening that dissolves into the classic song.
Hmmmm...Corky is no longer around to show me a song I need...now. I mean right now!
We have a second audition set for Tuesday.
I went on YouTube and found exactly what I needed. I mean precisely what I needed.
An English gentleman takes 3:11 to show you how to play the entire intro. He breaks it down into easily digested bits. I have this down, now. Tuesday should be a slam dunk.
Now I am both gladdened that such a wonderful source exists as a repository for all things musical and also saddened that the ritual of sitting around in a circle while playing, 'Down By The River' is fading from use.
Unlike the great Library in Alexandria, you needn't leave your home to have access to all the knowledge this Earth has to offer.
Is this a good thing or a bad thing?
Tangent:
Incredibly dismissed and little credited group - The Carpenters.
She had a voice with a rich tone and great range. That they did many covers is a testament to crummy management, not a lack of talent. The few 'original' songs they released were actually very good.
I know I'm going to get flamed for this opinion.
I also like Tom Jones - sue me.
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