A musical genius | Usman Riaz | TEDxGateway

[@violetlantern]

Now this very guy is set to debut his first animated movie called "The Glassworker". He has been working on this project for the last 10 years. As a fellow Pakistani, I'm really proud that our country has talents like him.

[@scottpitner4298]

Cool, I’d like to see that!

[@DeanRobinsonMusic]

He never called himself a genius. He said he has an aptitude for music. He wants to encourage people to be resourceful and put time into expanding their talents. If someone else has the opinion that he is a genius, that's that - an opinion. Everyone always regurgitates Bach, Beethoven, Einstein, Plato etc. - People who are widely accepted to be geniuses. Show some originality. Everyone loves to label, classify, restrict, put down. Positivity is the way forward. Take his advice and improve yourself, no matter what you're good at. That's the only way to create a genius.

[@porteal8986]

Exactly

[@uditmurthy]

^true

[@bluegreenmonkey]

Yes, I highly doubt he called himself that. So many posters writing back as if he did. It was a silly way to title it though. Some "genius" at TED decided it would look good.

[@cccpredarmy]

do you know actually why "Everyone always regurgitates Bach, Beethoven, Einstein, Plato"? because they ARE. they were jumps (if not warp jumps) ahead of their time, created pieces of beauty in every aspects and brought every aspect of music further

[@cccpredarmy]

***** yep. he didn't invent anything new or placed something in new order so a new music or breakthrough accured!

[@irun_mon]

A:What do you learn from internet? B: I learn about music C: I learn about film maker D: I learn about engineering E: I learn about science Me: I learn that cats are cuter than dogs :D

[@SaberBenSalem]

Irun Mon most importantly : you learned how to be honest and self criticizing, and that's good enough

[@desertwhaler]

+Irun Mon They taste better too!

[@madhawaudawatta6333]

+Irun Mon :D

[@ientityxf668]

+Irun Mon Fuck cats, am I the only that prefer dogs or what?

[@madhawaudawatta6333]

Dogs for life

[@deanaccords6644]

This is by far the most amazing humble brag I have ever witnessed. Bravo man bravo.

[@milleh1912]

Not very humble.

[@deanaccords6644]

@Heisenberg Rather than asking rhetorical questions like 'why not do x, y, z?" - it would have been more sincere if he just put it out there "I went to KZbin, learned x, and by the way, hold my beer while play this incredibly hard thing."

[@warison.3152]

Internet bro internet

[@deanaccords6644]

@@warison.3152 what's the internet

[@Born2Losenot2win]

The only value of learning how to play an instrument is to brag lol Been there, done that

[@myaa22]

according to the comment section being able to play the piano, guitar, harmonica, compose, paint and direct a short film without a teachers and learning most of the techniques from just watching videos is so ordinary and normal and anyone can do it yet almost no one does LOL

[@thewomanwithnohead]

Yes it is. Way more common than it seems. Just look out on KZbin, because there's many people doing those things at the same time, and there's nothing special about it. I include myself in it, playing electric/acoustic guitar, bass, drums, ukulele, synth, piano, i'm also a painter, illustrator, graphic/web designer, tattoo artist, photograph, writer, filming and editing movies ... But i can also clean cat poop, don't worry...

[@Nor1ar]

It is true though.....Everyone can....

[@donezo116]

yea I know, right? people are stupid.

[@unconcernedperson87]

Everyone CAN, it's just that people don't have the willpower/determination to do so.

[@Billyboy191]

+Concerned Person Fuck that I've been playing piano for over 15 years and still can't play like he showed off, and that involves one instrument. The title is rather self explanatory, this guy is a GENIUS

[@brinkman4925]

So many people missed the point of the video was that we live in an era where we can teach ourselves highly impressive and complex skills from the web despite our cultural and geological background. He used his skill simply as an example not a showcase.

[@GianniRivero]

Holy Crap, Everyone thinks they know everything. Guys, The guy learned all of this just from watching videos, with very little professional help. And all of a sudden everyone becomes a music critic, Cant you guys just enjoy the music and not ruin the experience for others by squabbling or judging him in the comments, This guy is Good, he is extremely talented and deserves even the slightest bit of respect. Jesus.

[@zoemack1903]

Some people learn better off the internet then with someone with experience.... I play guitar by watching/listening to videos/music. It's easier because there's no pressure and you can go at your own pace.

[@ssimon8719]

+Dwarven Gaming People cant accept the fact that they dont take action and just going on just talking hating because they cant stand the fact someone is "better" or became mor then the ordinary ...People hate and hate to admit that they could have or be the same in a way but, wont because they are not willing to!! Simple leaving their own comfort zone to get something done for themselfes once ! Its also a big lack of believe and confidents and maybe passion as well.... cheers ^^

[@bharatbhargava5352]

+Dwarven Gaming I agree with your statement that he is good but he can be so much better but that takes time I have been playing music for about 15 years and know that his talent is something else but I wasn't satisfied with his presentation of his skill so if did a better speech he would have executed a better performance

[@MrbombasticD]

+Dwarven Gaming most people learn this way though lol

[@maeb9131]

But he doesn't produce worthwhile music. That's the whole point of the criticism. He shows off, he practices for the sake of being better than others. But he doesn't produce any music that anyone would want to listen to, even if it is impressive. He lives on a high horse, and I'm amazed they allowed him to give this mess of a speech.

[@dhavalparmar4472]

All it takes is "practice","patience","Efforts" and "Dedication"

[@clintgahm1495]

Agreed, creating art only takes two fundamental ingredients, pain and practice.

[@amnasyed1173]

He also launched his first ever hand drawn animation movie "the glass worker "show support the trailer is out now ❤❤

[@LazyFoxLore]

He is representing his country as a figure of what is possible for kids whose creativity are closed at a young age. He isn't claiming to be a genius. He never said he was, the title of this video is which I don't believe he uploaded this. His message is to show whats possible.

[@steelfoot98]

People don't seem to understand that he didn't do what he did just by "watching the internet". As he said in the beginning he was trained in piano since he was six, meaning by the time he had a deep understanding of music theory and a developed musical ear. Using these, he was able to examine the placement of people's handling of the instrument and listen to and pick apart a chord to figure out how it works. While this is no small feat and this guy deserves every drop of praise he gets, people need to understand you can't reach that level of skill just by "watching the Internet".

[@ArthurTabbal]

Other than that, every professional musician that I know learn things by ear. And none of us are called geniuses.

[@shakingbabies5ever397]

This guy is definitely insanely talented and passionate. He uses his talent to create something no one else can and his passion to make sure it happens and it's the way he wants it

[@pitbulllaw7772]

Also economics plays a big part on your attitude

[@dhanieshdhaniesh3222]

Valid💥

[@cryptomanual2920]

@@ArthurTabbal Again you are not a genius and you will never be one. Don't hate on those who are.

[@Endisupertramp]

I dislike the fact that everyone is a critic today. I'm not saying let's do away with criticism, I'm simply saying let's not squander it needlesly...

[@MississippiDave]

+Enđi Supertramp I totally agree. Sometimes I do think the titles of certain vids can invite this unnecessary competitive edge. People become immediately defensive or skeptical of videos with these grandiose titles. It almost automatically makes them want to hone in on every flaw and imperfection just to be contrary. But there comes a point where it becomes petty know-it-all speak instead of valid criticism.

[@jameswillmus600]

+Enđi Supertramp That's great and I agree, but if there was ever an example of necessary criticism, it would be this video. There's a difference between noise and music, and the lack of critiquing and demanding more from artists gives us videos like the one above. If he improves his techniques and can actually use them to make people feel something, then it will be music. Until that time, it's just fancy guitar noise.

[@MississippiDave]

James - Keeping in mind this guitarist's age, his sense of time and rhythm, and the simple fact that most who would critique this player couldn't remotely emulate what he's actually doing- I respectfully beg to differ. While the technique is certainly lacking, and at times it seems like he's beating the crap out of the guitar- There is still a load of talent, creativity and potential here. But the title of this video isn't doing this kid any favors either. Calling him a genius just invites the hate. But he started playing at what? 16!? And in this video he is 21? That is only 5 years! Should we be demanding him to be on the level of Antoine Dufour in 5 years?

[@3e3op88]

+Enđi Supertramp People have always been critics; it's not a new phenomenon. I'll bet some cavemen were critical of the hunting and rock-throwing technique of other cavemen. : )

[@TomasWille]

+3e3op88 You are right, peope always been critics. But before the internet people could give critics with dignity. Now being all anonymous it's easy to give 'rude' critics and you don't have to worry about consequences. Also before the internet, people that gave critics about a subject, mostly knew stuff about the subject aswell. Nowadays, even a 10 year old who had NEVER played a guitar , think he is a university graduate in guitarplaying. So exactly Endi. I hate the internet community. The video's are awesome, but can't say that for the people commenting on it. In my opinion , the world is a better place if KZbin, Facebook, Twitter or any other social media discontinued the use of commenting.

[@micmillist2588]

Being a musician and playing a couple of instruments, I recognise clever, when I see it. Not only is this guy clever, he GETS the whole thing about playing music. That is to FEEL what you are playing. No teacher can teach you this...it comes from deep within.

[@guycollishaw1957]

Difficult to 'feel' what you're playing when you change tempo every 10 seconds... and go off tempo just to fit as many notes as you can into a section. This really isn't feeling the music.

[@ConnorJMC41]

Guy Collishaw so true this dudes literally just playing 1000 notes per second like we haven’t seen any other talent Asian do. This whole ted talk was pointless. Just fishing for compliments.

[@GerardVaughan-qe7ml]

He's like those little lasers that are so cheap. Quite amazing, but still looking for a job. Maybe its a Prayer. Maybe just a thing that he was asked to do. Think about applying to TED to tell "The World" your Autobiography. More Balls than me. I have only 2 !

[@AlfredoZauberer]

He is on his way .... there is a big "Talent" ...i see hin on a way like "Tommy Emanuele" ...maybe this kinda way!? Yes BPM's was not the importend thing in that presentation!

[@relative2you438]

@submalevolent grace its more that he plays music that has a pretty simple sound of just mixing random notes for the impression of something really hard to play, its not that its not okay but its tricks that a lot of people use to make something sound more complicated than it is and when you play guitar after seeing it a lot it leaves a bit of a sour taste in your mouth when the get so much praise as with everybody that hones a skill just to see someone else rewarded for a lower amount of time, admitably not a good thing but it will never the less end up residing in your thoughts and at time you want to say them.

[@3rickHerrera]

Can people stop criticizing and just respect the guy as a musician.

[@OnreleTehMusicPlayer]

Ehh... I don't respect him as a musician. More like somebody who just copied things from the Internet and whatnot rather than studying intensely with an instrument or two and knowing the ins and out and being able to play whatever. I'm a violinist and honestly, I can do everything he can besides the guitar. But I probably could if I dedicated a few weeks to learning it. It seems rather simple. No crazy rhythms or runs

[@3rickHerrera]

Then at least respect him as a person and let him to what he wants. He doesn't have to be like you,he can be himself.

[@OnreleTehMusicPlayer]

+erick herrera I mean yeah I just don't see him as a musician

[@Elbownian]

+erick herrera Just listen and believe, amirite

[@menzoznem]

+erick herrera Respect is something you have to earn and calling yourself a musical genius and being out of tempo without composing anything interesting is not really something I respect.

[@daniel10alien]

I won't say I didn't get the feeling that we was bragging, but I think there was another message in there besides 'look what I can do'. For me the main message was about the great opportunities that the internet has given us and that it's possible to be anything you want to be if you're willing to commit time to it.

[@josipskledar]

yep

[@dean0o0o]

+daniel10alien just wait till the tpp gets signed

[@dawnqwerty]

Well as a genius, he understands what he can do is incredible. He knows that he has talent most don't and he has no way to share it without bragging. Social cues don't come easily enough to figure a way to hide the bragging. And/or he seeks to have confirmation that what he is doing is indeed good. I tend to brag quite alot, and by writing this and the next line I am bragging about my ability not to brag. But I have tried my hardest not to brag in this paragraph. In my years of school I've learned to play dumb and instead of straight out saying "I know this" to say "Am I right in thinking this and this?" That way I have the reaffirmation of my knowledge and makes me for lack of a better phrase "more cocky"

[@kathrynhettinger1321]

I agree. as much as I was like "fuck you, kid!!" I never thought he was showing off or anything.

[@tiredrummertube]

+Epcot lp (dawnqwerty) oh get over yourself; one line would have been enough! (just kidding)

[@DaveFair404]

So many people here projecting their own insecurities. He may or may not be a genius, but he can play the shit out of that guitar.

[@ronhernandez8857]

+Dave Fair What's wrong in being ACCURATE and not write stupid click baiters

[@aminaomar5379]

awesom very brilliant intereting 4 youthgood luck young maninspiratinal

[@amnasyed1173]

He also launched his first ever hand drawn animation movie "the glass worker" show support the trailer is out now ❤❤

[@connerallen642]

"This is the first thing I learned" *shows led zepplin* all my respects my man.

[@Sergio_deus]

one of my first songs was Stairway to heaven intro, then l jumped to Mason Williams Classical Gass ,is not that hard bro.

[@connerallen642]

@@Sergio_deus been playing guitar since I was 5 my man..... And I'm 21. My respects are going out to his band of choice... Not really the skill it takes to play their songs.

[@Sergio_deus]

well l guess in the end it all comes to play the music you want

[@FelipePerestrelo]

The influence in his harmonica playing is very clear!

[@amnasyed1173]

He also launched his first ever hand drawn animation movie "the glass worker "show support the trailer is out now❤❤

[@annoythefish]

his timing is all over the place when hes playing the guitar

[@TheLevidance]

You don't have to keep to a distinct beat when playing music, you feel the rhythm, I thought that he played well

[@imtypingwords]

+Lev agreed, his whole speech was about how to push to bonds of music and combining all that he has learned about music. not to play by the books of what we know and is considered to be correct. he was amazing. and will only become better the older is gets

[@HawxGaming]

+imtypingwords 41 That's not an excuse for bad time.

[@annoythefish]

Hawx its just that avante garde fluid bpm

[@HawxGaming]

+annoythefish no that's different, he's playing percussive guitar with a solid pulse and going off time...

[@chingasofarkaso]

Im proud to be a guitar player watching this. Because those who don't know how to play don't really understand how FUCKING AMAZINGLY DIFFICULT his final performance really is to pull off. I'm proud, as a guitar player, to say....I can't even fuckin do that because I know how talented one must be to do it.

[@hansijawns]

+Mitch Farkas I agree, however as a composer i am massively disappointed

[@ryl3343]

+Mitch Farkas please... i can do that with my eyes closed! (i call it dreaming)

[@Zobokolobozo]

+Mitch Farkas Watch Tommy emmanuel, probably the best guitarist alive.

[@Zobokolobozo]

***** Name one guitarist more advanced

[@fudruckers3916]

+Mitch Farkas You're a basic guitarist then... Its been a year for me and i can do what he just did

[@ac711sk8]

He is showcasing the ability that us humans of the 21st century have, of learning everything we want. This is the century of limitless knowledge at our fingertips, for the first time in all human history.

[@interesting2491]

Yet we use it for instant gratification and are consumed and controlled by it. I use internet for knowledge

[@FindTheTRUTH337]

He’s not just a genius. He’s a genius who worked very hard.

[@yeheyz]

Slave of Art; Master of Craft. That's what people do. We stand on other people's shoulder to reach higher and become greater. This guy right here used the Internet to perfect his craft by learning from the great artists from before and learned from them and perhaps become greater. He's awesome.

[@masterminds1852]

He is inspiring to those who waste their time doing nothing important in their life. He is experimenting things and utilizing his time to the fullest. Bravo!!

[@nicksedla123]

This guy is so pleased with himself . What is his ultimate point "look what I can do guys"

[@mrrandomcuber]

i think it was more for leaving a message, saying that you can do anything using the internet if you really try

[@cocoarecords]

+MrRandomCuber yup

[@quetzalicruz284]

is it wrong to be proud of yourself for achieving so much and getting to show everyone your passion

[@depecheddurand]

+Nicholas Sedlacek he is just a kid give him a break its human nature when we do something we want the whole world to know .What about led zeplin they loved their music and wanted people to hear it they didnt play it in their room .

[@Johny123B]

+Nicholas Sedlacek You are jealous because he is of a different race, so you are not giving his credit he deserves.

[@amnasyed1173]

He also launched his first ever hand drawn animation movie "the glass worker "show support the trailer is out now ❤❤

[@deered6661]

A huge talent and an incredible amount of work. I can only say BRAVO !

[@ConservativeAnthem]

WRONG. Terrible. Self-trained bore.

[@quarkyquasar893]

IDK if I should consider "Self-Trained" as bad...

[@vinxvbbxbxb8190]

+ConservativeAnthem so what have you done ?you do not know anything . you wanto observe but you do not listen.

[@ConservativeAnthem]

Vincent Vanheerden My analysis is not based on what I have, or have not, done.

[@rtogurl]

Peyton Chan Wouldn't stop me from listening.

[@ZeGuillotine]

It saddens me to see people who proclaim themselves as "musicians" ridiculing this guy. Music isn't a competition of who's better or belittling each others creations/talents.

[@kingjesi23]

My thoughts exactly. The next time these "musicians" master an instrument without lessons, but instead through observation and a sharp ear they should record it for all to see, perhaps then their opinions will hold a little weight.

[@thisisaegis]

So good and the fact that he learned everything from the internet motivates me to a great extent. GG man

[@thomkennan7118]

Imagining infinite possibilities in the growth of creativity through a positive use of the internet for expanding musical boundaries. A musical prodigy blesses us with his art and wisdom.

[@samuelcvinod8804]

Well said!💯

[@Marcel-Marcel]

I don't know if he's a real guitar player, he didn't play Wonderwall by Oasis

[@saintshaggy1372]

Marcel well also he didn't play smoke on the water so I highly doubt he's a musician.

[@charliesouza5158]

0 3 5 is the real thing

[@martim2810]

i bet he can't. it's too hard

[@haziqmalik8273]

And 12 year’s letter that little guy from Pakistan Mr Usman released his first hand made animated movie “THE GLASSWORKER” what a multitalented guy 💚

[@TheOriginalMrBadaBing]

That kid is genius. He operates at such a high level, his intelligence allows so many things to seem so easy for him. But, you know he's a dedicated soul, he practices and has advanced beyond just an expert level... he's truly amazing. BRAVO!

[@AlexandrBorschchev]

lol

[@amnasyed1173]

He also launched his first ever hand drawn animation movie "the glass worker "show support the trailer is out now ❤❤

[@bernarddecker3576]

August Rush is one of my favorite movies. It sounds like Unman Riaz played the actual music for the August's early performances in the park. Amazing performance.

[@doodlebugcandiecane]

If more people could be as determined as this young man to learn everything they can, this world we live in would be a different place! Well done!

[@MrSimoxin]

inspiring... he played what he loved and felt...

[@InfectedBlowjob]

Whole lotta musical geniuses in the comments section.

[@bendover8738]

I'm one myself! :D

[@carlsong6438]

Too bad there isn't a whole lotta love in the comment section

[@nayantiwari807]

👍

[@ryl3343]

+Edward Cullen you, sir, deserve my upvote...

[@zeeshanmahmood4024]

haha

[@Justin-uw3ly]

As a guitar player, I can say that to play the guitar like he does, for most people, it gonna take around 6 years with 2 hours of practice every day minimum. This guy is a pure genius.

[@ballsondustinsface]

That is way underselling his ability and how difficult it is to get to that level. 6 years @ a couple hours a day is not going to get you this.

[@Justin-uw3ly]

@@ballsondustinsface Well like I said, 2h a day minimum, I think it is totally possible to get to that level in 6 years with in average 6h of practice every day

[@dareelantonio.3056]

His technique is flawless. To be able to develop something entirely to your name takes pure dedication

[@enumaelish11]

My greatest accomplishment at 16 was getting expelled from school I admire his talent, but most of all, his dedication :O

[@justinsk2241]

+Andrew BMc. dang dude what happened

[@enumaelish11]

The principal said I'd end up as a bum on the streets and I told her to go f**k herself. She wasn't thrilled :P I've proved her wrong ever since :)

[@justinsk2241]

good on you man, fuck the establishment

[@mattfreeman927]

*WARNING: Envy abound all over the comment section. Stop scrolling down.*

[@GeetaSingh-so9sg]

Frederick Ironheart Got me

[@ILYANSKER]

this guy looks like main character from "PERFUME: THE STORY OF A MURDERER" =)

[@Topself24]

Lolol the truest comment I read today

[@thefreethinker4441]

+Whatever, Fuck Usernames :D whatever fuck usernames :D fucking concept man

[@PrashannaGauta]

jean baptiste granuie

[@Mensagensdevoz]

hahaha true

[@samuelkuloba7985]

+Ilya Aganichev i love that movie

[@Petrozini3]

Usman, that was an incredible 11 minutes. Thank you. You have demonstrated that humanity has no idea of what it is capable of. Much love from Melbourne Australia.

[@BilalAhmad-ow8wo]

Now usman is premiering his debut hand drawn animated film at the cannes film festival. He made the first hand drawn animated pakistani film called The Glassworker which premieres next month

[@nosamnosam123]

To the people who say his rhythms were off while playing guitar, who's to say he wasn't playing diverse time signatures. You don't know what he was trying to do, other than to entertain. The same goes for the repetition in his solos. Bach used themes/choruses whatever you'd like to call it, and so does nearly every composer out there. This kid just added some tasteful harmonic and rhythmic variety to each of his themes. Its obvious when you're jealous, just don't talk out of your ass like you know anything.

[@ripjjjsphrbggsk6292]

Impossible is nothing .. he nailed it

[@clispi]

My god these comments. Just appreciate his effort, his amazing talent and his fantastic performance on that stage. He learnt everything on the internet, just watching videos on yt, and he's fcking good at every instrument he plays. I find it just so incredible. Beautiful.

[@flaysx]

first of all, why is you username mycroft? are you an ai? second.. he did not learn everything from youtube, don't get fooled. He just came here braging about his family and that he can play some instruments. I do not understand why this had to be a Ted talk. I mean I know I am not a genius but is he one? How many kids are amazing at playing instruments on youtube? you don't see them getting to brag on Ted talks. And if he is THAT good and "A musical genius".. HOW THE F***K HAVE I NOT HEARD OF HIM UNTIL NOW? not one song, not one memorable riff nothing.

[@cowl6867]

@@flaysx Someone is salty. He has all the right to brag, if he got his teaching from the internet or not he is still a great musician, and is a great example that anything can be achieved if you put your mind and time into it.

[@dman2188]

@@cowl6867 robert has a point .. there are thousands of street musicians that play incredible music .. many instruments .. what next a guy who juggles all the furniture in his house .. that's why the have shows like America has talent . ..

[@mushyomens6885]

@@flaysx " HOW THE F***K HAVE I NOT HEARD OF HIM UNTIL NOW? not one song, not one memorable riff nothing. " Well, there are a few of his pieces you can find on youtube. But besides that, I believe the answer to your question is that Usman doesn't play music any more (for the same reasons you dont like him for, said playing music in front of a crowd always feels like you're bragging, and then you do it again and then again, bragging the same piece. The audience loves it even if you make mistakes. He mentioned this in a podcast. So yea, left music.) . I believe it's been about 5-6 years. He is a full-time animator now, working on Pakistan's first ever hand-drawn movie. I hope that somewhat answers your question. Cheers :)

[@amnasyed1173]

He also launched his first ever hand drawn animation movie "the glass worker "show support the trailer is out now ❤❤

[@vedikaaggarwal4364]

If possible ask this man to make to a video on how he perceive music , what image it creates in his mind and exactly what goes in his mind when he writes them . Its refreshing to see such creative pursuits . Simply Amazing!!!!

[@editforcontent]

It's funny how many musicians commenting on this video are so jealous of Usman's good fortune and his audience. He went out and got the TED gig, they did not. Good for him. Sour grapes aside, his musicianship and composing skills are incidental. The point that the negative commenters are completely missing is that he learned all these techniques to expand his creative musical expression on the world wide web -- the most powerful distance-learning tool ever devised by humanity.

[@looganne9598]

but can he play smoke on the water?

[@morissmor]

Loog Anne that's too advance.

[@plot267]

Loog Anne bet he can't play draude sandstorm

[@ezekieldiaz]

plot267 thats *actually* hard

[@sekkusupisutoruzu]

It really isnt hard at all

[@naxwit]

or Smells like teen spirit?

[@brogurtt-bone614]

listening to his last piece, my ears kept trying to relate it to something I've heard before. When I realized I've never heading anything like it, it just sounded amazing! Truly, this guy is amazing!

[@abelamen8361]

andie mc kee's drifting

[@tricuspid2199]

John butler ish

[@rogerweafer2179]

people ALWAYS refer to ACQUIRED skills as Genius...NO! NOT finding them and assimilating them is LAZINESS when the Knowledge for ALL these things is readily AVAILABLE...think about it. That is his point!

[@whatsmyname9690]

Logically you are right.

[@TheOriginalMrBadaBing]

But, his genius is in figuring things out, not quitting, and having a high level of intelligence that permits his skills and talents, and to present it as if it is the most simple thing in the world! What he played was not easy, simple. He has applied himself, but without the talent already being there, it won't be like this. His mind operates at such a high level, to be able to play like that, not just one instrument but several.

[@AllCopsAreCriminals]

@@TheOriginalMrBadaBing What you call genius I call it passion...

[@TheOriginalMrBadaBing]

All Cops Are Criminals you can have passion for a lot of things and not apply yourself to the creation of them. This goes beyond, IMO.

[@amnasyed1173]

He also launched his first ever hand drawn animation movie "the glass worker" show support the trailer is out now ❤

[@averyjackson2699]

This kid is a GENIUS. A modern-day Bach or Beethoven.

[@2355Kyle]

No, he is wonderful but not a genius. People are labeled genius too liberally these days.

[@ineedmoneymeng]

You have no understanding of Bach's genius whatsoever if you think this guy compares. This guy's great but Bach was so groundbreaking its unreal.

[@elementblue780]

Jovan Ignatich Have you done any research on this guy to be able to judge him so thoroughly? If not, then you're just as bad as Avery Jackson, and quite a bit more arrogant. Also, this guy has not lived his entire life yet. You have absolutely no idea what he might be capable of in his lifetime.

[@ineedmoneymeng]

elementblue780 Bach perfected counterpoint. This man hasnt earned my attention with what I have heard. Why would I spend time studying a musician that seems bland?

[@DavidSpecialis]

Jovan Ignatich It's not him I would be studying, His drive, his motivation... those are things worth studying.

[@ihavecojones]

It takes 10,000 hours of practice to get to his level

[@qarimanable]

ihavecojones lol I saw that talk too.

[@Vegardriise]

ihavecojones No it doesn't. Just a lot of dedication.

[@Octavio12341000]

In normal people, yes. This dude was very lucky

[@Octavio12341000]

Yes, he was a good sperm

[@dexterlecter7289]

ihavecojones Malcom Gladwell is not a genius. The 10000 hour crap is common sense. To suggest that any person, with practice, could play basket ball like Kobe or solve complex capital allocation problems life Buffet is retarded. It's mostly genetics but with practice you can become really good in a field. By that logic all attorneys will be million dollar lawyers after 10 years of practice... We know that couldn't be further from the truth. Or politicians for that matter.

[@sonnymoon6465]

One of few videos I started clapping at the end of and forgot I was not there ! AMAZING AND WONDERFUL !!!

[@mujeebahmad3458]

7:45--- august rush jamming of father and son ❤️

[@bsmith8943]

Yep. Was thinking the same thing

[@jugobugo]

"It's about the music, it's not about just showing people what you can do with a piece of wood with strings on it" John Frusciante

[@tasfa10]

But being able to do more with a piece of wood with strings gives you more possibilities in terms of music making. For some reason he did like having synths and machines as a vehicle to his music. In PBX and Letur Lefr you can hear lots of fast arpeggios played by a synth and he wasn't doing that kind of thing when he was a rock musician because his technical ability was very limited...

[@tasfa10]

I just meant that there's a certain struggle between the man and the instrument and it puts some boundaries to what you can do. If you extend your skill with the instrument you extend those boundaries. Frusciante never did with his guitar what he now does with his synths and there's no way he could have. His ability is just not enough. Altho I love his music I have to be realistic and admit he has some serious technical limitations. We all know his best technical effort was probably the don't forget me solo in that show in France and it was still a very basic lick and some sloppy playing. Compare that with any serious guitarist with a solo career, AS A GUITARIST, not as a songwriter and singer and producer and whatever else he does... I love him as musician in general, but he's a weak instrumentalist for a professional.

[@nuke2625]

Yes but he was damn musical.. It's been stuck in my head since I first heard it.. Specially that last musical piece

[@christopherperry487]

he's just flipping out , and showing off . it's annoying

[@jimjim3394]

tasfa10 ur right but at the same time it’s about the music u create. Who cares how many skills you know if you can make amazing music I feel that’s all that matters

[@vagabondx3]

purely and surely i hope he stays this way...and am sure..this kid is blessed! god bless you...good things are waiting! just dont let the dsitractions way you out! which i doubt they will!and thank you!

[@ursaproxima]

He works hard to learn all the things he does, and you say it's thanks to God...

[@vagabondx3]

Guess you need to read again what I wrote ,

[@ursaproxima]

You said he's blessed, what did I read wrong?

[@gabrielcornea9119]

Proxima Centauri Vaga bond apparently doesn't know the meaning of the word "blessed"...

[@vagabondx3]

thanks gabriel....

[@matthewsimpson9737]

I'm sure I'm not the only one who thought that was freaking amazing

[@BeadlesUnite]

Matthew Simpson that is

[@mstraceehouston3018]

Matthew Simpson You're Fine😁

[@Yubelrus]

Riaz inspired me to break my fingers multiple times, to play his style😍

[@osamarizwan8110]

He's from Pakistan and is currently working on an animated hand drawn film named "The Glassworker"

[@alexeyvarenukha1532]

I would also say that english lalguage is very important tool for exploring internet. as a russian, I realized how useful Internet is only after I've learned english in more or less decent level.

[@sad_is_fiction]

+Eyob Sisay (Edge) shut up dude

[@sebastiansuarez9883]

But... But does... But does he... BUT DOES HE DJENT??????

[@Strafprozessordnung]

thank you, I was looking for this comment for allmost half an hour :D

[@Esetipodeahi]

+Sebastian Suarez baaa what a pussy he dun't djent :v

[@Knosferatu]

+Sebastian Suarez haha

[@emagdali]

+Sebastian Suarez Well... He did harder things than djent in this video, so I suppose he does.

[@Strafprozessordnung]

Manolis Grifoman Nothing is harder and heavier than djent. Be gone unfaithful fool!

[@オルワ]

身体的有利(指が長い関節が柔らかい)や生まれながらの才能…努力…そして何より音楽に巡り会ったこと…それらが奇跡と言うくらいの可能性が交わった先にできること…

[@mani-oz7sj]

The guitar composition in the end had a beautiful eastern touch sounded like sitar tabla drums and guitar at the same time

[@hedzd18]

I noticed most negative comments are coming from indians, please guys atleast respect the talent!

[@VishalAnand24]

Hedz DV So sorry about that!

[@harryputtar9090]

the literate lot of us definitely do :) ignore the uncivilised

[@harryputtar9090]

the literate lot of us definitely do :) ignore the uncivilised

[@amnasyed1173]

He also launched his first ever hand drawn animation movie "the glass worker" show support the trailer is out now ❤

[@shadoxir]

To teach yourself through the internet and compose that brilliant piece of art is a work of Genius.

[@kimberleychapman8313]

Well if you didn't see his family line... they're all kind of genius ;_;

[@shadoxir]

Ah. Fair point.

[@kimberleychapman8313]

Haha yeah but I mean. Still genius work.

[@shadoxir]

Indeed!

[@kimberleychapman8313]

Haha :) definitely

[@Lorellehb]

the last piece on guitar was amazing!

[@GrantConnor96]

Fast isn't necessarily good, you need spaces between the notes to give you a chance to breathe and feel the emotion of a piece of music, also before anyone rips on me I'm not saying the guys not got talent, he obviously has, just not to the extent that the word "genius" is warranted.

[@Evanthesurfer]

the rests in between notes that you are referring to are necessary, but you can have very few of them or a lot, depending on the emotion you want to convey. if it's fast paced it creates a different feeling than something slow. It entirely depends on the type of music and emotion that the composer is trying to create. plus in these peices they are there but they're just really short 16th or 32nd rests

[@GrantConnor96]

+Slowest not going to lie this kid grew on me the more I watched him play, I'm generally a blues listener so I'm usually anticipating looooots of spaces between the notes :P but I completely get what you mean, a perfect example that contradicts what I said before is stevie ray vaughan's rude mood, remember buying the tab book for texas flood and when I got to that tune there was barely any white on the page lol

[@jotbindra2551]

Yea theres a difference between skills and art. He’s showing off sone of his skills which are insane so he did it purposely

[@abyssmanur3965]

Grant Connor Genius is knowing where not to play a note....its what you don't play that gives music it's identity....a a bit like light in that all colors together is just plain white.

[@withinmyself]

Abyssman UR Yep, just listen to John Cage. He knew exactly where not to put the notes. Everywhere. He performed and recorded an entire musical composition without playing a single note. The audience shuffling and random misc. noise was meant to be the musical arrangement.

[@nickPOPmusic]

Impressive. Speed isn't a replacement for feeling though. Sometimes, silence between verses speaks volumes, and the ability to be precise, but maintain the feeling of a song really defines musical brilliance. I'm not implying that he isn't good, because he's obviously very talented, but I don't think he is a musical genius per say.

[@daniel10alien]

I think you'd like Evelyn Glennie's talk on How To Truly Listen. It's about what you just said :)

[@nickPOPmusic]

thanks, ill definitely check that out.

[@jmitterii2]

+nickPOPmusic He's young still, he'll learn. As all musicians usually do. Some of the stuff was very good, means he has lots of potential. This was like a sample. I wish he would have provided a little more thesis to his presentation; I got out of it, you can learn music on a limited budget or little access by watching other musicians. I'm not sure if that's what I was supposed to get out of it though. But I agree. And maybe, "we ought to encourage music more". Not sure. It was fun though.

[@lionrawr92]

please post video of you playing better

[@Gattobuono]

Max Abugov Yawn .... I can't even be bothered to explain to you why your comment is the product of a simplistic mind .....

[@adsvx]

Been playing over 50 years and I have a few skills, but this is incredible, truly. Amazing artist.

[@bassinblue]

If you have few skills, trust me, you haven't been playing for 50 years.

[@theeguy9022]

@@bassinblue not everyone plays constantly in an attempt to get better some just play for fun and dont want to become big or whatever

[@amnasyed1173]

He also launched his first ever hand drawn animation movie "the glass worker "show support the trailer is out now❤

[@vladavasiljev]

He is not musical genius. Just another hard working man with a lot of practice. Genius is a creator of new levels, in anything.

[@DefinitiveMedia22]

Absolutely AWSOME!!, Btw I loved that painting too👍🏼

[@waheedkhan1325]

Absolutely fantastic hats off to the lad ✌🏻️

[@nishitshah495]

I always love to watch TEDx videos online as I get to know sooo many things and get inspired to do what I love and continue doing what I love. I don't have proper words to describe this guy's skills and his passion for music has actually inspired me even more.. Listening to his last piece of music made me tap my feet and I really enjoyed it.... Great going Usman Riaz.. Keep rocking.... Love from India

[@ram3473]

How else would you call this guy?! To learn things he just told and showed through the internet is simply incredible and awesome!

[@livedeliciously]

I want to see more piano!

[@TheJaredtheJaredlong]

I saw a video about how the internet is a valuable tool for learning new skills, but from the comments it looks like some people saw a very different video.

[@ILYANSKER]

Looks like DADGAD tuning of guitar

[@paulhuff4134]

Definitely.

[@TreBlass]

+Ilya Aganichev please tell me how to figure out the tuning and what difference does it make?? like how do one knows that this should be played in DADGAD or EADGBE or in any other tuning??

[@ИванАганичев-х4ц]

+Sanchit Agarwal In generally there is no difference how guitar has been tuned.. I heard about at least 5 knid of tuning. Traditional celtic tunes more simply played at DADGAD tuning. Zeppelin's "Mountain side" (and many more) J.Page plays with this tuning. Of coarse other chords are at DADGAD, but the sound is bewitching. Excuse me for poor English..

[@ajbowers44]

+Sanchit Agarwal he said that it looks like it tuned to "drop d" because the guitarist was playing full bar chords, simply holding the finger across all the strings at the same frett. looking at the guitar, it's impossible to know the tuning. but watching the player, you can deduce that it is in some variation of open tuning such as drop d or drop c, hope this helped.

[@TreBlass]

Yeah this indeed helped..thank u :)...

[@jojo.s_bekaar_adventures]

i know it's like 7 years late, but be sure to check out his piece "Blue Moon Waltz", written, composed and orchestrated by him

[@hieuphungminh6690]

but can he run crysis?

[@spencerjacobs3686]

The Persona thank you for this gift

[@zachary_smith1]

Haha

[@viramune9994]

🤣🤣

[@sarahhz7596]

I am HELLA impressed, inspired me to attempt to learn piano at 11 pm but then realize that I couldn't because my parents are sleeping

[@boblazar316]

Your queen songs can wait till 12 pm when u wake up

[@smileawhile3788]

Bravo kid! How inspiring! Great job! Keep going and never stop learning

[@fishheadlemonsnack824]

As of February 15, 2020, there are 4.5K haters without reasonable explanation. This young man warms my heart. May he keep on rockin'!

[@LumeoEdits]

Mozart of guitar. His film was also amazing, he is definitely a genius.

[@Tritdry]

Not really.

[@MasonRantsnGamesRC]

'Mozart of guitar.' Please. Mozart as an 8 year old performed for the queen, and had written some of my favourite operas in his short 35 year life. No where comparable to most musicians today. The Titan of the Classical Era will never be challenged by a guitarist...

[@andreashort310]

How do you know he's not just exceptionally skilled?

[@MasonRantsnGamesRC]

Well, because it's the guitar. A lot of people could be considered 'exceptionally skilled' when it comes to one of the simplest modern instruments to date. Exceptionally skilled in guitar also leads to a brick wall. There's not much to improve on after a while, other than just speeding up, I suppose. Learning the guitar is a short route, (IMO), but learning piano, flute, tuba, etc., well, there's a reason people prefer violins over guitars in orchestras, or in professional settings such as cocktail parties. Guitar seems rather lax I would think. No offense to any guitarists, but personally I feel like it's degrading his name to consider someone a 'Mozart' of an instrument, especially if it's one that's not quite as advanced as, say, a clarinet or piano. It's like if I called John Doe* the 'Frank Sinatra' of harmonica. First, it doesn't make sense, and second, no where near, because the Harmonica is completely different and much easier to learn than singing is.

[@andreashort310]

Mason Fan I should have stated it, but I was actually talking to Ruben R Films who calls the guy a genius. Anyway, when it's a guitar it's about speed, dextrity, understanding music and other things, so he can be just very skilled and not talented.

[@evasetina1529]

So many jealous people in the comment section. I think he is pretty amazing.

[@snoolee7950]

You've never been to music school, have you?

[@JonathanBrandonBissoo]

Eva Šetina It's coming from people who know how to play guitar

[@snoolee7950]

Eva Šetina Nine years? wtf you are a beginner and do not even know it. You think of what is music based on how long you personally have played an instrument? Yes, take that to your music school entrance interview and see how far that gets you. This video is a stupid fucking lie is what it is. And now you are a fantasy fanboi. Well have fun but don't confuse it with the real stuff. It is absurd.

[@snoolee7950]

Eva Šetina You are a good-news-only fascist who is now demanding self-censorship from another person. What next, human trafficking and "good intentions?" You're pretty mixed up, chick. Someone says, "Hey that bullshit sucks!" And you say, "Good news only, please." Yes, I know the routine.

[@aesiryan]

Snoo Lee You are implying Usman isnt a good musician when music is subjective. People judge musicians based on how they feel a good musician should be like. For example, some guitarists think people who can sweep are good, while others are more into the emotion of the song. You cant fully judge someone based on a rubric. Tbh his technical skill is pretty good.

[@AvilPorwal]

WHAT DID I JUST SEE !! This kid is magical.. loved the way he played those instruments.. Hats Off..

[@nooralam4201]

Is it that hard to appreciate this guy?

[@RaineCarosin]

If I'm inspired by anyone today, it's this Dude! Thank you Usman! I've had these ideas flitting around in my head since way back and I'm still floundering... but, thank you... you do it for me!

[@mvictor8379]

AMEN Beautiful Raine!! Now… DO IT FOR YOURSELF!!❣️🌟💫 ….…& for OTHERS💖✨💫

[@RaineCarosin]

Thank you, M Victor... I do for myself, yes, but, at the time of my comment on the day I was privy to this awesome vid, I realized to have the grace to leave it all in the hands of the younger ones, and not try to cling to dreams that I have learned I haven't the stamina to reach for anymore... physically, mentally and spiritually, I am content to watch, sleep, watch, sleep, watch... as those who are creative rise to the occasion, and those who are destructive fall to their demise ... They do for themselves ... I have found a firmament that is solely mine, and am happy to stand apart, yet touched by their sound and sight... Without going on ad nauseum, and boring myself and others who may pass here, I am glad that each has it in them to do for themselves ... In doing for one's self, one automatically does for another without any effort ... It is, though, always nowadays, struggling with distance between Friends, Family and Neighbours... Though necessary to prove individuality, it is still a sad moment of separating the paint from the brush... and hearing that from the heart and soul of the inners of the being of self...

[@tatyanahideg]

I so envy his guitar skills! He's incredible! So amazing to listen to...

[@jefflosey1561]

Brilliant! He was VERY Humble! Just simply sharing without any boasting at all! What you may not see is a mastery that almost seems natural...

[@harisurya1234]

I like the way he questions everything.. and the hunger he has in order to be a better musician

[@Lord.loss_]

Am I the only one who thinks he looks and sounds like a Pakistani Andrew Garfield

[@xs2mubashirable]

I was thinking the same

[@tooney012345678910]

Yes, he looks like his double on the thumbnail

[@hameed_ludba]

hahaha ya...

[@nightspicer]

yeah, i can see that

[@rudraroy1311]

He is creating his own identity. 👍

[@faizansikandar4665]

The whole of Pakistan has been waiting for his animated movie Glassworker. He is so talented.

[@reynaldogarcia643]

Nice! Will be eagerly waiting to see

[@daydreaming9432]

on the last part of this video, He reminded me August Rush movie. the best way to use a acoustic guitar!!

[@michaelbonner6836]

Some can do it but most others cannot. This guy has a gift, thanks for sharing, Usman

[@emosexparty8126]

I think it would be awesome if he used his Eastern influences and style and made a Pakistani jazz group. Could be pretty dope

[@rubinatahir6834]

Check out bone shaker coke studio by usman riaz. The exact thing you're looking for

[@secretsoundband]

amazing use of alternate techniques on the guitar - really really cool stuff to watch would you listen to that music without video though?

[@abelamen8361]

you have right! i tried (before many years) to listen to andy mc kees songs.without view of that he is doing on guitar, is very boring

[@amiqai]

And now, this man runs his own animation studio called 'Mano Animation Studios', that is inspired by Studio Ghibli (he is a complete Ghibli geek (in a respectable way) and knows the guys in Japan relating to that field). You can all search his first film (unreleased as of now) called 'The Glassworker' on KZbin or follow him on Instagram with the name of his studio. Kudos to this guy. 🇵🇰❤️

[@GerardVaughan-qe7ml]

(....not released yet) ?

[@amiqai]

@@GerardVaughan-qe7ml yes, not released yet. It is still in the making.

[@amnasyed1173]

Yes the trailer is out now ❤❤

[@amnasyed1173]

​@Gerarthe dVaughan-qe7ml the trailer is out now

[@RFWMusic]

I liked the message about the great power we have, to use the internet to learn.

[@g-rex8513]

Why can't people just be happy for other people?

[@WilsonEatsASMR]

+G-Rex jealousy and laziness

[@menzoznem]

+G-Rex Do you make that conclusion for people who don't think this guy has any real talent or what are you trying to get across here?

[@g-rex8513]

Oznem Derks Well the comments are full of "He;s not even that good" etc I don't know the required skill level needed to be called a good musician, but he's better than me and he seems to enjoy it, so don't criticise

[@menzoznem]

So let me get this straight: Because he enjoys playing guitar which he does better than you I'm not allowed to criticise him?

[@g-rex8513]

Oznem Derks You're campaigning for your right to openly criticise someone? I don't get why you'd feel the need to downsize someone's achievements on a video that they possibly read the comments to. Why can't you appreciate what he's accomplished without complaining that you could do better or whatever?

[@RichardsWorld]

I see lots of complaints here. But he is young. Perhaps his music will developer some soul as he grows older. He definitely has speed and accuracy, and learns very fast.

[@Dayyal]

Wow... You are amazing...

[@cameronf1460]

Natural Talent+years of building skill=this.