how to transform your life with a harmonica

This is NOT a harmonica lesson. It is a series of life lessons that present themselves to any seeker who is using, or considering using, a harmonica as a way of expressing what's inside and pushing beyond whatever fears is holding them back.
With Adam Gussow of Modern Blues Harmonica. Gussow is the subject of an award-winning Netflix documentary, "Satan & Adam"
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[@johnahenkel7167]

Hi Adam, I got my first Harmonica when I was 16 in my Christmas stocking, 1969, the next year I dropped out of High school and started hitchhiking around California. I spent many lonely nights in the middle of nowhere waiting for a ride and my harp was my only companion. I wasn't very good but it was my music. Over the years I began to practice blues and got better, I always wanted to be in a band but never thought I was good enough. I started to find open mics and jams and gained more love of the instrument, but life took me in many directions. After raising two kids, now doing great on their own, I still had this yearning to play with other musicians in public. Yes I have played under bridges in Paris and Basel, and early on in gas station bathrooms for the reverb. Lately, at work, I play in the stairwell and do get some love. One day a few months back I was on a walk around the parking lot playing my harp with my earbuds in jamming like crazy and a guy on a Harley pulled up along side of me and stopped. He asked if I was in a Band, I said not right now, he invited me to play with their band, I've been Playing with them a few months now. I it really amazing when things click and I feel appreciated for my musical contribution. I'm looking forward to where this might lead. Thanks for your videos!

[@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726]

What you've describe is exactly what I'm talking about in the video. Thanks for sharing that. I hope that others will read your comment, more than once, and maybe take that first step.

[@WolfsBlues]

Wow that's awesome John, what an inspiring story, I hope my journey has a very similar outcome.. Keep harping man!

[@mrtambourineman6107]

Hope to see some of your music on KZbin my bro!! Nice one peace n love and good music on the road 🤘😎

[@wesjturnerturner2161]

I found the bathroom reverb awesome too! The other day I was playing and someone walked in, so I played more quite, but then he said it was cool and I kept playing. I personally like a mix of beat boxing and blues, so I did a mix of that and he started recording! I don't know where that went, maybe his friends enjoed it, but I found it absolutly fun to play for someone, and I'm still only starting my musical career. I hope to meet more people to play with as I get better. Thanks for the inspiration that keeps me playing!.

[@patmcdonagh748]

Good stuff

[@Arrick]

When my son was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, I fell into a deep depression. I was staying up all night long searching Google for cures, treatments, causes, etc. I had my grandpa's Hohner sitting on my desk, but could never figure it out. I searched KZbin for "How to pay blues harmonica" and found your videos and forum. One at a time, I started chipping away. I'll never forget shouting out loud (in a room all by myself) when pulled down a 2-draw bend and it stuck! I was obsessed with my son's condition and replaced that with an obsession of blues harmonica. You helped me convert something deeply difficult into something that gives me peace and comfort. Thank you, Adam!!!

[@stephenkatko3236]

Now time to teach him to play. Good on ya.

[@paporamon8181]

It's 100% true.

[@warrenfloyd1484]

Yessir@!!

[@ahfoonyork7119]

After nearly 40 years of playing rock guitar, I got colon cancer. During chemo, I lost the sensation in my fingers... I tried, but cannot play anymore. I just picked up the harmonica, and it's a new starting point. One day, I hope to be at least as good on the harp as I was on my guitar... it's hard not to be proficient on an instrument. Thanks for the video, it's very inspiring.

[@ahfoonyork7119]

@@jivanbansi9640 thanks!

[@GustavoFil350]

Hi, man. Did you stick with the harmonica? Hope you're doing well.

[@MrSpanky2001]

"You're never too old to live the life you could have live." I started harp when I was 61. Fairly advanced now. I am able to express whats been in my heart with this instrument all my life. I don't think I'll ever stop exploring. It's a lifelong persuit.

[@blackhorse11thACR]

I'm a Disabled American Veteran. I've only been playing for two months. I deal with incredible pain issues having 41 operations and need more. I have been bed ridden for over a month. I also deal with PTSD. I'm in my 60s. I am so determined to learn to play and It actually eases my pain. Something about the harmonica has become my passion. I just keep practicing and appreciate your videos the best. I can't thank you enough for your help and your acceptance of your fellow human being. I have read Joseph Campbell and love "The power of myth" with Bill Moyer's. I sometimes practice for several hours daily and hopefully will be a decent player one day. All I know is I love it and won't quit no matter what.

[@winstonchurchill624]

Blackhorse 11th ACR God bless you, and thank you for your service. I’m sure that with time you’ll be able to play some great harp.

[@blackhorse11thACR]

@@winstonchurchill624 thank you my friend. I appreciate your kind words. God bless. Peace and love always.

[@Harp_and_Guitar_Moving_Forward]

2 months in here too man

[@janecheer]

Thank you for sharing your story, I'm totally sure pretty soon we'll be watching your harping videos and enjoying the music you're giving to the world. God bless you!

[@mrtambourineman6107]

The only sure fire way you wont succeed is if you dont try my brother 😎🤘 wishing you the best from the UK

[@tnysteph]

At age 52 I picked up the harmonica and started the journey. At 61 I love the harmonica and I am still on the journey.

[@davidelucchesi6531]

Thanks for your words Adam. I'm going through a difficult time in my life. I lost my job at 57. But the blues and the harmonica together with my family help me move forward. I was looking for some blues licks to study and I came across this video of yours. Almost a prophecy.... Thank you very much 🙏🙏🙏

[@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726]

I'll be playing with my Blues Doctors duo this weekend (July 12-13, 2019) at the Greenwood SC blues cruise. Come on down! Make the drive! Buy me a drink!

[@benaycock1646]

I would most definitely love to come, that’s only 2 hours away! Unfortunately, I can’t because I am currently in one of those hero’s trials you spoke of. I just started getting really connected with the music scene in Charlotte, NC (playing out almost every night) and last weekend I got a DWI coming back from a gig (like a fucking idiot), lost my driver’s license because of it, car got broken into while I was in jail, everything stolen, every single harmonica I own stolen, bulletini mic and cord gone. Most of my money I’ve made goes towards bills and it took me a long time to collect $1,500 worth of harmonicas. All gone now. Truly humbling; my ego is slammed to the ground. I’ve been lucky to make some amazing friends, though, and they have been giving me rides to/from work and helping me cope with the guilt and grief. I’m going to keep on walking and use this as a lesson to drive me. Remembering and recognizing the helpers in my life and not taking anything I have for granted is paramount in these trialing times. Thank you so much for the video, it really helped me keep from the darkness this morning. These are powerful words of love & respect and are great life lessons. A lot of what you talk about in the video parallels my journey and start on the harmonica and how it’s gotten me so many friends when I was so lonely and opportunities I never knew existed. The harmonica pulled me out of a 10 year, extremely abusive relationship and kept me from suicide and a chronic state of despair. It gave me an identity that she had stolen from me and it made me feel so proud of myself when she had convinced me so perfectly to hate myself. I love these little things to death and I can’t wait to build my collection up again. I‘m going to work so hard to be fucking amazing and make these dreams be real. I’ve gotten a taste of it, I am not about to belly up.

[@austinknowlton1783]

Dang I just moved back to Maine from SC last August. Would love to actually hear you play in person. I picked up the harp this past winter after discovering that my hands go numb when I play guitar after 30 years of playing. I've always loved Blues so have the advantage that I'm already familiar with a lot of tempos and progressions. Anyways, thanks for being a teacher and a huge influence on me.

[@tay7806]

What a good harmonica for beginners because I hav a hohner sportsman

[@benaycock1646]

Army Gamer I started with a crappy Hohner Blues Band for $10 and learned a ton on it! Hohner Marine band and Hohner Special 20 are also a good start. Pretty much anything $30 and up is good. Fender Blues Deville is a bit cheaper for about $30

[@hodjatbita1055]

I'll buy you a drink and the brightest star! if you allow me to harmonically mess around with you!!! In Paris right now, there's always a next time Buddy! will meet you on the bloomy crossroad !

[@frasjjbbsi9673]

Should be a " Ted Talk" thanx Adam.

[@jameslowe3254]

I was encouraged to play at my very small church by our piano player. At first I was so nervous that I swore I would never do it again. It kept getting easier. Next I joined the band at a bigger church and learned three or four songs every Saturday so I could play them the next morning. I have improved tremendously and started playing at open mics. Now I'm never nervous and have played solos at funerals with a large audience of strangers.

[@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726]

That's an inspiring success story. Your experience dovetails with mine. If you walk towards your fear, you'll slowly conquer it--and you'll keep moving forward.

[@javadkhazen586]

i am 69 years old and it is nearly 6 months that i am trying to learn and play harmonica ,believe me it has taken me out of loneliness and thank u that i have seen a lot of ur utube lessens god bless u.

[@pattiboersma5184]

That's completely AWESOME:)

[@vernonsteinkamp1088]

Well you're 71 now and trust you are still playing. I am 68 (2021) and am toying with my harp I've had for 2 years. I've been a drummer all my life and I'm thinking a harp is much easier to pack around than a kit.

[@andydunn5673]

Adam You are my guru My music master My blues inspiration And harmonica teacher par excellence Thank you Thank you Thank you

[@Absorption77]

Dang, this is good. I pulled out my harmonica about 5 years ago and began playing hymns and folk songs for my hospice patients. Changed me, changed my work and care for people. This is the first bit of coaching and philosophy on using the instrument to make life better and more pleasurable that I’ve come across. I hope you talk about this some more. Inspiring!

[@warrenfloyd1484]

Well you probably already know my story, I started playing at 13, laid it down at 14, picked it back up at 54,as I was going through a divorce, it brought me peace,and then I learned to play blues style, and you, john gindick and sonny boy Williams got me going! God bless you all!!!, I play blues very well now, thanks brother!!!!!

[@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726]

Excellent!

[@AfricanFlightStar]

You will never know how much you were talking to me in this video. Thank you for it 🙏🏻

[@NOTAFULLUN]

Can I add humbly that I hope we are all talking to each other. The commonalities in each of us, bring us together. I hope Mr Gussow feels us reciprocating the affection he is sharing with us. Ride safely, everyone.

[@mrtambourineman6107]

Praise the lord brother!! 🤘😎

[@davidkeys4284]

Same here

[@DamoBloggs]

Ha! I just turned 60, and someone gave me a blues harmonica for my birthday. So I went browsing for help, and I found your channel. Just meant to be I guess. Help me Obe Gussow Nobi, you're my only hope!

[@rjp63vip]

Adam you're one of my soul helpers . I'm from Nawlins Louisiana I've been living in Edmonton Alberta for about 32 years . I've been playing music since I was 11 I started playing Organ then piano I still do play those instruments . Then in 2018 I read Buddy Guys book called When I left home and it made me wanna learn to play guitar. However I found the guitar to big so started playing the Guitarlele then the Ukulele and this year the perfect sized guitar was given to me by surprise! I grew up listening to Stevie Wonder and loved his keyboard playing and harmonica playing . Little did I know the harmonica seed was planted! In 2018 my son and daughter gifted me with a set of harmonica's which I played here and there. Anyways once I started getting more serious about learning to play I came across your channel and I loved the rawness of your video. I loved the soul you put into each lesson and story and omg! I loved your stories u shared in this video! Very inspiring! And very timely because today I invested in a Lee Oskar harmonica and right away I noticed I much easier it was to play than the plastic harp I been playing off and on. Anyways I love Joseph Campbell... Follow your Bliss! I will leave you with a lyric from a song I wrote called follow your bliss! Follow your bliss without care It will open doors everywhere! Follow your bliss and feel The magic in the air! Thank you for showing up Your a Jedi Master of Harmonica! With you the Blues is Strong 💪💪👍🙏💯

[@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726]

Thanks for a great post, Roylin. I'm glad to know I've got a fellow Joseph Campbell fan! Funny thing: I love that Buddy Guy autobio and have taught it several times in classes at Ole Miss. His descriptions of meeting Muddy Waters in Chicago is priceless. Muddy takes him out to his car and makes the hungry kid a sandwich. And when Buddy starts throwing his guitar slim thing on the Chicago blues club audiences--it's the MORNING and people have just come in off the graveyard shift, and he blows their minds. It's some of the most evocative blues writing ever put onto the page. Thanks for reminding me! I wish you continued good fortune with the instrument.

[@carlgrimsley7019]

I have a huge amount of respect for Adam, not withstanding his brilliant harmonica playing, he has a great soul too.

[@MegaSimsie]

Recorded 3 years ago, but just as important now than it's ever been. At 38, I've been a musician most of my life playing guitar and bass. I played hundreds of shows in punk rock bands around the UK and Europe, but I've always loved the blues, ever since I was a kid. I stopped being a professional musician a long long time ago. But the harmonica is an instrument I've always admired and I was already very familiar with your work from over here in Ireland. Thank you for your music and for your years dedicated to the craft. After watching this, you've inspired me to start my own journey into the blues. Harmonica on the way too. It'll be a ride.

[@BuzzhawgProductions]

It was my dad's dream to learn to play the harmonica. He could never whistle so needless to say, he had a hard time with it. He recently passed away and I got his collection of Hohner Marine Band harps. It's a full set. Every key plus quite a few extra harmonicas to play around with. I've been practicing my butt off for the past month or so.. for dad. I've been watching your videos and you've been a great help. I'm at the point where I'm hitting solid single notes and learning to bend easily. Thank you for making this process easier for me.

[@snakemont]

i heared the calling of the harmonica in 2013.... i found xour channel back than and got myself a Honer Blues Harp. In 2014 I decided to get real with myself and finally went all in and became a comic Writer/Artist. The First year was very hard, but music, the Guitar and the harp really helped me. now after kinda makin it in comics, i hear the calling of the guitar and the harp. i know i cannot do all at once.... but i have the urge and calling of the blues harp deep in me. thanks Adam, for beeing here.

[@JLee-bi4es]

Sitting here with depression and anxiety. I have something that helps me cope and that's my harmonicas, so much power in such a little instrument.

[@user-rh6un5rh9s]

Hello Adam - I’ve always had a love for music, spent most of my working time as a disc jockey and radio broadcast engineer- retired in 2021 at 62, now at 70, I purchased my first Harmonica - I chose a Lee Oskar. I practice for a few minutes each day, now know how to play a few songs and looking forward to sitting in the park and playing… I love watching you - Thanks….

[@Melanie-50036]

I'm 47 years old too...I'll be 48 this July and just started playing at Christmas...you are one of my favorite teachers....I have been practiceing for several hours almost every single night since

[@minderDOTorg]

Great video. For years playing guitar I thought stuff like "that's too hard" or "I'll never be able to play that". It's all nonsense, I realised that "I will be playing that" or "How hard can it be?" really helped me get over idolising the not so impossible after all. Fear is a negative force, that needs putting outside the door.

[@t.t.kelsey3167]

I dig...i blow too..BUT I pick dobro...& it does the same thing for me..im a delta St.Louis boy of 60years old...love the blues..your advice is right on...

[@tobiecinqmars]

Adam you just spoke to my heart !! I started playing the harp 3 year's ago now after getting into old time blues music and you instructional videos , I have gone trough pretty heavy personal hardships and the blues harp is like a therapy to me and like you advised me I went and searched for a teacher with I found ,and I also put a lot of woodshed time . and now I can go out and I can sing the content of my heart to people around me and jam and share with other musicians It is an enormous blessing!!!

[@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726]

Excellent! I'm sure that your success story--your journey--will inspire others. Thanks for sharing.

[@joecrumb1798]

Hello Adam. Everyone in my family are musical. Now me, I was into sports and the outdoors. Now I’m almost 70 now. I have health issues so I have to change hobbies. During this pandemic I picked up the guitar and harmonica. I’m learning both but harmonica is my passion now. This video really picked me even gave me a higher passion. Thank you for your help. Your videos brought me to a better place in my life. 😁

[@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726]

That's great. Just what I was hoping for. Please continue!

[@LittleLouieLagazza]

Lost an arm in the wars and my beloved guitars are gathering dust. Bought a Big River and going for the gusto. THANK YOU!!!

[@steves1970]

This is one of the most sensitive, meaningful and inspirational "life" talks on You Tube - from for me, a most unexpected source - Thank You Adam.

[@larrymogen6943]

I had a stroke when I was 65, and can no longer play my guitar,I want to enjoy music on an instrument again You are so right!

[@billstunes]

Timely. Thanks Adam.

[@aluminumshapingobsession2814]

From 4 yr ago…A timeless presentation.

[@giusepperesponte8077]

Honestly, this video had more of a positive impact on me as a person than any psychologist, teacher, friend, etc. Busking specifically, it changed my life. Busking is putting yourself out there and taking a chance when you don’t know the outcome. I had never done that before. I didn’t know how to relinquish control. Life is uncontrollable and if you try to control it, life will wear you out and drain the color from your existence. Busking taught me how to let go and just take the ride for what it is. It taught me how to stop worrying about things that don’t matter. Really gave me a sense of clarity and perspective that I wasn’t able to achieve through any other means. Anything great in life comes with risk of failure and busking forced me to accept that.

[@deanjameson6668]

He’s so fxxxin cool. Only watch guss. He breaks it down to the bare bones. Never played an instrument. Always loved harmonica. So Christmas I’ve done 15-45 mins every night. Learning but it’s so difficult. Love it. He’s the man

[@nickolasmiranda5958]

I don't own a harmonica myself but here I am watching this video.. But thanks Adam this video really encouraged me to buy and wanting to have my very own harmonica someday and maybe I too will take that my very first step.. Love the vid :)

[@jamcamp06]

Brilliant! And so right on!

[@naninani2795]

Hey really late comment, But I recently bought one , a Marine Band . I have only had it for 3 days but im deeply in love with it and I play it every min that my family is kind of annoyed now, I live in a suburb in a full city also in a full house. But I love it so much I play it out loud in my room and I hope to go far into the country side where my aunty lives and sit in the meadows under the sun or moon and play as loud as I want. Im in love

[@johntreadaway47]

All I can say Mr. Gussow is THANK YOU !

[@Tomlateralus3]

Adam! I've been watching your videos since I was 15 years old... that was 15 years ago. All I can say is THANK YOU! When I feel stressed I just play and life is great again...I overcame anxiety, lack of self confidence and fear thanks to this instrument and you. I am a regular joe with job and kids and I love it, but I never took that trip to try and play professionally but I did play many gigs! GREAT times. However nowadays, when shit hits the fan, it helps to go on solitude and play and get to know myself deeper. So once again, thank you for being so selfless and teaching the world what you know. You probly have no idea of the HUGE impact you've made in many lifes..including mine. You are a HERO, you are THE MAN. Cheers friend!

[@tommiematherne2842]

40 years old, and decided recently to purchase a new harmonica. It has not arrived yet, and I haven played since I was 19. From 16-19, my grandfather taught me. When he died, I couldn't bring myself to pick the Marine Band up again. Eventually, either a partier or a roommate lifter it from my nightstand in college. Couldn't bring myself to play it, but it reminded me of my grandfather. Fast forward 20 years, and I'm determined not only to be reminded, but to have a few more conversations with the old man.

[@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726]

I approve.

[@The_MAD_Qyuber]

I’ve thought I’ve been playing harmonica for 20-ish years. Until I found your videos.

[@firebros3322]

Your passion speaks just as much as your playing. Thank you sir, please never stop changing YOUR life and your journey. 🙏

[@gobuns2]

I'm seventeen and been relatively lonely in the past few years, I was playing guitar and that thing you mentioned, sitting by yourself at night, playing and getting inspired, happened to me with guitar in the past. I felt bad about it too, sometimes. Thinking these occurrences late at night was messing with my body clock and causing me to skip my work. I'm feeling somewhat better of those nights now. And I'm going through harder times these days and this really motivated me, beyond just reassuring, it motivated me to do something. With harmonica and also more importantly with my life, in general sense. Thank you, sir.

[@guitardizzle1]

Been playing guitar since I was 9. I’m 38 now, and have been out of my band for about 5 years. I know how to play the hell out of a guitar, so a ton of the hard work, muscle memory stuff, etc is already second nature and just a matter of keep working it. But the harmonica is so different and awesome. There’s something about it being your air that makes it feel different. I practice every day. And I’m getting better because of that and teachers like you Adam. You rock! And I bet you end up playing pro again before it’s all over. 💪😎🤘

[@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726]

Hey, I'm still playing gigs! I'll be at the Greenwood (SC) Blues Cruise this weekend.

[@guitardizzle1]

Gussow's classic blues harmonica videos I could barely be farther away and still in the lower 48! 😩 I’m super happy you’re still gigging! I still miss playing shows with the boys. My lead singer was also a harp player, and it really helped us stand out. Now I’m practicing harmonica every day when I’m not on my guitar. It’s nuts but it’s fun, and the connection you get by using your own breath really is something else. Cheers Mr Gussow, and I can’t wait to see more! 💪

[@KipMartin01]

Love love love this!!!

[@1urbanbaker]

All I wanted is one day I can stand at some street corners and play some music and hopefully, I could see some smiling faces. Thank you!

[@goranpavic5377]

Fell in love with harp few years ago,because of your video!now i am a full tonque blocker and love playin practising have one in my pocket allways!thanks adam!

[@TCS_Aquatics]

I'm a guitarist and singer who picked up the harmonica on a whim to sort of add to my guitar playing. It's turned into my main instrument and the instrument I love the most, and it's been with me through so many things, family in the hospital, heart PVCs that I had a bout with, dealing with anxiety and depression and loneliness and the HEALING from those things..... There is something so healing about how your harmonica can be RIGHT THERE with you, I've taken mine on many a mile of healing and down many a Mississippi road.

[@spencer30000]

Damn. What a gem this video is. Thank you harmonica wizard

[@user-ov4iz6zh9x]

Thanks for the video. I got a harmonica for Christmas when I was 10 years old (52 now). I never got past some simple songs. I'm pretty much a loser, and a total failure at every aspect of life. I recently got myself a new harmonica and I'm enjoying tinkering around on it. Not very good at all, but its only been. About six weeks . Anyway, this video gives me hope. I feel like you actually care about us. Thanks again.

[@MarcoGarineiWriterOfficial]

Your videos are always inspiring, but this one really resonates with me. I'm 32, been in a really dark place for a long time and I thought there was no way out. Then I picked up the harmonica and started practicing. Didn't really wanna deal with people before, especially crowds, and now I'm planning to get good enough to go busking around Europe, maybe with a friend. You see what a 180° there? I still can't believe it myself: I've started not just considering it, but even *planning it*! And I'm feeling exactly like you said: a part of me thinks I'm just nuts... but another part of me is saying, no, shouting, "I gotta friggin' do it", even if I don't consciously know why. Maybe it's the blues callin', or maybe I'm just starting a "hero's journey" as you said. Whatever the case, thank you, Adam, you're an awesome man. Bless ya.

[@mrtambourineman6107]

Carl Jung talks about that 'midlife point' and compares it to adolescence, particularly in men around 40 in reference to how much change you have to go through

[@danagreen6518]

...Dr. Gussow, This was a great “person to person” talk. Really struck a cord with me. Excellent presentation and motivating. Thanks, dana

[@hodjatbita1055]

One of my dearest wish is meeting you one day Buddy!

[@johnmurphy3215]

I’m going to buy a harmonica! Love your videos man

[@Bert4Prez]

Dude! I bought a bunch of harmonica 20 years ago and never really played them because I was afraid... My wife bought me a cardboard harmonica last Friday and with a few of your videos, my playing got 100% better and can now hold a tune. I love your video style and attitude! Thank you

[@Papin47]

December 5, 2021. At the Crossroad indeed. Of late (and perpetually)been steeped in woeful contemplation of a desperate "need to follow my bliss" or bust. Thank you sir for this 'come to Harmonica' lesson today. Wow!

[@robertbrunston5406]

Great pep talk! I play but mostly camp fire type music, I am very interested in the blues now and putting my self in pre school so to speak learning about the blues. I really live your music and some one I just found has a great sound for me is Will Wilde you are both a great inspiration for me. Thank you so much.

[@aishakatayysha]

Thank you Adam...i too bite the tin sandwich for a few hours each day...inspired by your zestful and spirited videos...thank you...

[@stefaniemaier6756]

Thank you for bringing Jack Kornfield and Joseph Campbell to my attention. A huge enrichment for me and my current reading.

[@javierf55]

Tinkle, tinkle, London Bridge, Mary had a little lamb, row row row your boat are my current challenges now as I'm a 60 years old man having fun with my first harmonica. 😂

[@heiko6983]

Hi adam, thanxx for your thoughts. You have so much to say about music and live. Thanxx for that. Keep on. You‘re helping me

[@professorpopkiss]

Hi Adam I've been "playing" at Harmonica for a few years and i'm not that good at all, then I followed you, great inspiration., i would tell all my friends about you, how cool you are and how you share your lessons for free !, I was at a low with my capability and my heart was in it but well you know you stop practising etc., then my son took me to an open mike session, oh boy that was good, I didn't play, he did on guitar. then I got in with the people who went to the open mike and i got to understand that fear. I never used to have it in fact i was the opposite, I was an altar boy out there in public, i sang in the choir (sorry). So i'm just saying that I plan to accompany my son on harp key of A to Folsom Prison Blues at the next OM. Thank you for your help and inspiration Adam, you make me proud to be me.

[@tkeleth2931]

I didn't know you existed before today, but you've put into words many feelings I've been only on the cusp of discovering as of late, and I say that as a guy who makes quite the hobby of putting things into words. Thank you for the lesson.

[@djpete1959a]

You are such an inspiration. Thank you

[@frodrickfronkenstien582]

I'm only 20 and I recently understood (through the study of Marcus's meditations) fully that I am going to die. That awoke something in me with to many layers to talk about. But I know that I will not waste the time I have with meaning less work or idleness, and most definitely not what people think about me. I find your instructions incredibly useful already, thank you.

[@shebenka_1]

Thank you Adam. I feel very strong inspiration and go to the street to show myself. Thank you

[@indianxbullet]

You are quite the Dragon Slayer. Thank you for the Sage advise, and the work you put into your video's. Time to sharpen the sword.

[@SeanDoylePoet]

Adam, I stumbled across this looking for beginning blues harmonica lessons. Oh, this was so much better. Thanks.

[@mlb61375]

Everything he says is right. I got a harmonica today after being inspired by another video. I was playing riffs and adding them together within a couple of hours. It will definitely become a way for me to express myself when i have always been lacking in that aspect. I didnt realize how magical the harmonica is as a musical instrument. edit: Im 45.

[@kiwi1fruit]

Well Adam, I'd say this is a fortuitous video for me. I'm 81 and just love music. Not sure what to make of myself. My love for music and the chance that somehow I could actually make recognizable music keeps me going. Harmonica, piano and ukulele, I have them all at hand. Only one obstacle, my wife's hearing is superb and I truly don't want to push any sounds that are not acceptable to her so I mainly play if she is out of the house. The piano I can play in quiet mode but it's just not the same. Still I am working on a solution/s. You have given me encouragement to continue. Only one life to live so onward and forward. Thanks!

[@billbrusca2790]

I haven’t played an instrument in about 40 years.. I decided to try to play harmonica I’m playing 2 months I learned more from him than anyone else. It is transforming my life like he says.. time to let crap go and enjoy yourself.. learn harmonica

[@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726]

Thanks so much for that. Yes: time to let go and enjoy.

[@billbrusca2790]

@@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726 I should be thanking you, I go to Waikiki beach a few times a week a lot at night I watch the moon over the ocean.. I moved here 14 years ago from New York.. a big difference my life went haywire this relaxes me big time.. I look forward to watching u I put the iPad on play along with all great songs like isn’t she lovely.. I’m playing since Christmas.. 3 hours a day usually.. thank you again..

[@fabianmitrache5799]

ooo man, you are not talking from your head , you are sparkling from your heart and this is love spread around! thank you! I just purchsed your beginers course, let's see what comes out of it !!!

[@johndeer4250]

i actually started playing yesterday with the neck holder and a guitar and i felt in love so quickly I love the harmonica as much as my guitar thanks for this videos Luke!

[@lienhard10]

Thanks for making this video. Funny enough...I was watching this last night and noodling around on my harp on my back porch; and unbeknownst to me, my neighbor filmed me and posted it to Facebook. I'm just learning so I was messing around with some of the simple ideas for beginners that you've shared. Anyways, she said it made her night to hear me play and really that's thanks to you and your inspiration. So big thanks from Pat in South Philly - I really appreciate it!

[@harplidreed7140]

thanks again man. Great to hear you again .

[@bradlyhenson1814]

I have always been a Fan of the Harmonica and always wanted to Learn to Play, I unfortunately had a CHEAP Toy Version Years ago and it was as Annoying as an Air Horn, so I gave up. I'm now 59 and I recently Picked up a REAL Harmonica at the Store Where My Daughter takes Guitar Lessons. I have been Playing and Learning for 3 Months and it Turns out I'm a FAST Learner. 😎 I just Play for Fun, of Course at First I wanted to be the Next John Popper ( Blues Traveler ) but I don't see that Happening. LOL I find the Harmonica to be not only a form of Musical Expression but it has a Zen Quality also. Great Video and very Inspiring.

[@tonylocks28]

You are a great teacher. I’m thinking about replacing the one I lost years ago now.

[@learnshareevolve1842]

Wow, you packed a lot in here... I feel like this is one I can listen to 5 times, and keep connecting with. Thank you for reminding us about Joseph Campbell. I have had the urge to purchase Frogs into Princes, and just did. I am thinking I need to pair down my dusty instrument collection, focus on guitar and harp, and actually play and write some music again.

[@AREYESJORGE]

I loved this video. I'm 42 and I feel something special when I hold a harmonica. Now I buy them for hobbie. I'm trying to learn how to play. I wish there were any teacher in my city (Monterrey, México) but I haven't found any. Love your videos. Thank for them.

[@molder72]

Dear master Adam, thank you for this video from bottom of my heart! My english is not so good but I understand much that you said. I am 47 and I try to play harmonica. So many people, even my friends didnt know that I play a little beat and they suprised when I play harmonica. I am not so good but I like to play very much and after your videos and learn something from you (I am not so good student) I got a coruage to make videos and upload on KZbin. I am very glad when I get some comments on my videos! I still do not have the courage to play on the street, but I hope to gather it once! Thank you very much for everything that you do for us, beginers. All the best from Serbia!

[@worthecwright6055]

Thank you for this wonderful video===

[@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726]

That's an inspiring comment. I recommend, though, that you find a way of sharing your music outdoors. If not on "the street," then maybe on a park bench. Don't try to make money. Just get out there and play in public. Especially if it's something that feels like a "big move," your success at doing that will be a source of great satisfaction.

[@Ironman-harmonica]

Thanks for the great vidio

[@molder72]

@@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726 Thank you very much! I play harmonica because I love it, money has never been important and crucial! Satisfaction that someone like my music is most important for me! Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us master Adam! I wish you all the best!

[@johnnyh112]

Couldn’t have come at a better time thanks

[@danlaxer514]

I love it. I watched an older of your videos, today, in which you referenced the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle. Now, Joseph Campbell and Dante. Cheers, brother.

[@NiekopTube]

Great lesson! Personal and wise; music is all about life, indeed. Music is the best therapy there is.

[@jdizzle-hx2xq]

I'm only half way through this video at the time of this comment . I have a musical background, however the harmonica is new to me but just after midway through this video you just saved my life. Thank you so much.

[@antonioeldorado3472]

4 months playing and I’m watching this video now. Yes, harmonica has been the response to my pain and the willingness to change. And it’a going better and better now. Also thanks to your videos!

[@lonniegreene372]

This man is awsome genuinely i just bought a harmonica waiting for it to arrive and this whole channel makes me excited to just learn how to even play the damn thing

[@mrskafloc4063]

Thanks for this story and all your inspirational lessons thanks to you and John Gindick Í am starting again with my harp.

[@samlowry8110]

I have been very moved by this video , I have felt great emotion watching this , I love my Harmonica , I have had it for 50 years .I don't play great , but I love it . Would like to find a teacher here in England , would like to play better . Thank you for the video .

[@lezscott7786]

HI sam check out Tomlin Leckie a great harp tutor out of Edinburgh...

[@user-wt8ii9ld7x]

Hey Adam, Much love to you, brother. This is the BEST "lesson" for any harp player, regardless of skill level. One does NOT have to be a professional player to bleed the sounds from heart and soul through their own music. As a young man, I was the bass player in a band known as WHE. I also played a bit of guitar and did some back-up vocals (they guys kicked me off of the drums, Haha). I diddled around with a couple Hohner harps (Marine Band C and a Hohner Blues Harp E), but I never got too serious. Oh, I was having a blast playing along with a buddy that was equally inept as we would travel around So. Cal. in his old Ford van ... great times! I bought a few other harps over the years, but never really knew what I was doing -- twinkle twinkle little star was not cutting it! I kept playing a bit of acoustic guitar, writing a few songs here and there. I even less of my bass over time. What you speak of in this video, has pulled on my heart strings. I was diagnosed with cancer a couple years ago and am on my second treatment session. My wife bought me a n Epi Hummingbird Pro to kind of take my mind off of my condition, and I absolutely adore it! As much as I love that guitar, I felt like something was missing ... yeah, I needed a harp and I needed to finally get an idea how to start playing it! Hohner Special 20 in key of C (I actually have 2). So, here I am, Bro ... 67, near deaf, Fender Musicmaster bass amp, Joyo Digital Delay, Shure 48 and SM57--clone mics. Plugged in or unplugged, all by myself, it's all good to me! Thanks for being here, Adam. BTW, my fire will not burn out until I'm gone. John W. (aka, Big J. ... aka Deaf Johnny)

[@user-wt8ii9ld7x]

Thanks for the love back, Bro. Sorry for the long-winded previous response.I just wanted to relate to you. Thanks for reading it, responding and, most of all, thank you for sharing your heartfelt, down to earth, expertise with everyone. I'm ready to amp up the Hohner Spl 20 right now! You are inspiration! Thank you, again, Adam.

[@OneHarp]

Great message, Adam. When I first found your KZbin channel back in 2007, this was exactly what I was needing. I knew I had to get somewhere, but I didn't know where I was going. The harp got me there, in large part thanks to you! And now, if you can believe it, our MBH Facebook group that I started a while back has more than 10k members! What a long strange trip it had been!

[@santiagoaristizabal391]

finding you was a true blessing and I am so grateful for not just your service to others in giving the gift of learning the harmonica at no cost, but also the fact that you are so deep with your intention to help other on any level. I love this video and I needed this video thank you! I get my harmonica in the mail this week and am uber excited to start learning with you!!

[@100sClub]

Your wisdom resonates with me, Adam, so thank you for your words. Great advice in general about overcoming fears and letting go of negative thoughts - you are your own worst critique. I'm a 30 yr old introvert that usually plays music for an audience of just two: myself and my cat. lol. Only played for a couple months now, but with full intentions of improving my playing every single day. I've always felt like I was born a decade or two too late. Over the past decade, I've come to appreciate blues particularly more and more. I can't stop smiling when I watch vids of James Cotton, or riffs and accompanied zingers, or when I read these conversations about gigs years ago and all this history I feel like I've missed. In just under two months, my health has changed drastically for the better because of the harmonica, being conscious of harmonica life and required lungs - losing body fat, increase Vo2 max, etc. Ultimately, finding the blues in me has almost in a way allowed me to live my true self. It's hard to describe other than complete, utter happiness and the strong yearning to create better tonality/expression. It's bittersweet in a way, because I want the harmonica to send me on my journey, but I want to arrive at the end of that journey now...but what is life without experience. Gotta fight those fear dragons ;) Your openness about your life obstacles and triumphs are an inspiration. I know I have a long journey ahead of me. Who knows what the future will bring, but if the gods are willing and I reach that later age in my life and am still slappin the harp, I'll be thinking of you. So I want you to know now that you're my Sonny Rollins :) May your wisdom propagate and perpetuate. Here's to the hero's journey - Cheers! ~Ryan

[@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726]

Thanks, Ryan. You've got a winning attitude, and you'll achieve what you're hoping to achieve if you keep taking it one day at a time.

[@100sClub]

@@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726 That means a lot, thanks! If you're ever in Virginia, you've got a beer on me.

[@oFABLEDo]

Harmonica aside, you describe exactly what I am feeling. Especially since I am choosing to move somewhere where I will live in isolation at 25 years old. Coincidentally before looking up videos, 2 nights ago I dreamt I was playing a harmonica and I was very good at it (which Im not in reality). My Hohner arrives tomorrow.

[@davidsampson6103]

I'm here in late 2021... Thanking you, "MASTER G" -- for your WISDOM, TRUTH and SOUL. Your talent is a GODSEND!!!

[@cpearce]

Great discussion. Not just for harmonica players.

[@sridharboyana9250]

Adam, you speak of what occurs to me! Absolutely precise. I fear a gig. I been following you for a decade or so. It surprises me to play in public , always encouraging. I have your lessons and I feel there is an ocean with depth to discover. I am thankful to you for all the struggle to put to articulate the most difficult, in my view.

[@jantonisito]

Good lesson, Adam. I have been playing guitar for decades - open mics and jazz jams but recently decided to give harp a try. I played simple melodies on it all my life so I have basic technique down - but never really learned to play blues on it. It is beginning of interesting journey. What I like about harp is how close the instrument is - it becomes part of you easier than many other instruments. Cheers and thank you for all your efforts!

[@subjectofsaturnyervahsa7386]

Thank man, Life is messed up right now and I hit your videos randomly, I needed this. you taught me harmonica,

[@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726]

Glad to hear it

[@skkwatra]

O Dear Teacher, that's about the Best ever a discourse on whatever it is the thing you're doin'! So inspirational and original, spiritual at the same time. You rock, Mr Gussow 👍👏👏