Is Guitar Dead in 2023?

my thoughts
hope u enjoy:)
🎸Check out my Patreon for Guitar Lessons, Exclusive Guitar Videos and Behind-the-Scenes Music content: / mimisoundsguitar
💎Check out some of my favourite gear on Sweetwater:
PRS Studio Guitar (different colour): imp.i114863.ne...
Sennheiser e 609: imp.i114863.ne...
Fender Blues Junior Amp: imp.i114863.ne...
Jazz III Picks: imp.i114863.ne...
KRK Studio Monitors: imp.i114863.ne...

[@63sgjunior]

The guitar will never die. Just because people can't muster the effort to learn an instrument doesn't mean it's going to fade away. Keep rocking people.👍👍

[@brianhlange1]

Actually, that is exactly why it could in fact fade away.

[@ryderwyatt5970]

ROCKNROLL WILL NEVER DIE! The RAP generation and electronica are passe’. Stores are still selling lots of electric & acoustic guitars in house and on line. Things change and RnR always adapts!

[@tommybotts]

@@brianhlange1 Nope. The guitar will always be King!

[@wolfgangdevries127]

You mean the Stones barely could get gigs 60 years ago.

[@jimmynich4791]

Thing is the music you love doesn't need to be mainstream or popular, it's personal & about what you love, a lot of popular music is shit in my opinion.

[@robertbalogh1656]

I'm 81. Began playing in 1956. I played rock an actually supported myself gigging before going into the Army in 1961. Played semi professionally and started studying jazz in 1966. Played weddings bar mitzvahs and banquets until people started hiring DJ's in the 70's. Still play jam sessions occasionally but these are far and few between. I don't think that the huitar will ever be dead. I still play at least an hour every day.

[@bradthurkle7217]

Wow thats pretty amazing at your age. 👍

[@mctavish23]

Thank you for your insights man. I agree with you. Keep on rocking.

[@philfyphil]

@@bradthurkle7217 A little patronising! It’s great to read but nothing particularly amazing as most of the renown ‘rock stars’ are around that age. You are basically never too old to play unless something physical prevents it such as arthritis etc. once a guitar player, always a guitar player.

[@amguit]

That's awesome! I hope you kept some of that gear around all these years.

[@bradthurkle7217]

@@amguit narr ma aunty wanted the piano and my brother got the rest.

[@laurenced2916]

My 15 year old nephew is learning bass and wants to study music. So proud of him.

[@lesbianmustardbottle957]

Be a good Uncle and make sure he gets an education or learns a trade.

[@richardvaladez3288]

Hi Mia...it's interesting to hear a younger voice describe the present situation of the guitar. You described it quite eloquently from all perspectives. Thank you. Did you happen to see while you were stateside, that almost every major city and town here has Schools of Rock. These are literally community schools run by musicians that not only teach kids how to play guitar, drums, bass, keyboards, they teach them how to play as a band. The majority as Rock Bands. Classic rock bands! So you're spot on when you say they can stop making or using guitars in pop music but the passion will never die. Rock On Mia!!!!

[@user-ki8tz2on7t]

I played my first gig aged 19 in 1975, 4 years after picking up my first guitar, and my last in 2009. I still play because I enjoy it. Much of the problem is that the UK no longer has the live music pubs/venues where bands once cut their teeth; they've all either closed or converted to restaurants. I never made much money from music; software engineering pays the bills, but I've had a great time playing. I still remember the sense of achievement I felt when I first nailed Apache and Sultans of Swing 🙂 Good luck in your chosen career, Mimi.

[@minkorrh]

Common problem everywhere. In Canada venues are dying compared to what they were as recent as the 80's/90's Apache!!!! My Dad bought me a tape of The Shadows way back in the 80's. I nailed Sultans at 17 after wearing out a tape. Being English, compared to North Americans he was as 'square' as they come but realized my interest and this was his contribution from his day. I miss and love you Dad.

[@RTDF516]

Down here in the US northeast megalopolis- the live venue situation seems worse in some cities than others but doesn't seem too robust anywhere, what with exorbitant rents and nose ordinances. In some enclaves like South Philadelphia and Brooklyn it looks healthier, with small hole in the wall pop up live rooms opening at the same rate or even faster than the long established places close. Many of these smaller spots feature fringier, more eclectic musical genres but there are a good number of rock rooms. Seems also the farther away from the large urban areas I travel, getting out to smaller towns and beyond, guitar and live music places are much more plentiful!

[@masteryoda498]

The UK has NO live pub rock scene at all?, there has to be some live rock venues in the UK.

[@user-ki8tz2on7t]

@@masteryoda498 About 10 percent of what there once was, if we are going to be pedantic about it 😞

[@masteryoda498]

@@user-ki8tz2on7t It's similar here in Australia, although there is some venues that have regular live rock bands, including some pubs.

[@BDKelso2000]

I’m close to 24 now and I hope guitar (as well as all authentic art forms) continues to grow among generations. Real music, artists, etc inspire me and always will. Thanks for the video Mimi! We appreciate your dedication.

[@Zen_Coyote]

I don’t think you’ll ever replace the emotion behind any note with an algorithm or AI. That moment where you bend, slide just a little, hammer on, etc. can’t be replicated by software, and probably never will. You keep on doing what you’re doing. It’s like preaching to the next generation ❤️

[@vitorlopes2s]

I started to play electric guitar a few years ago. It really helped me to face my anxiety problems. I'm not a big fan of playing long solos, I mostly play punk rock songs but it really helped me to feel better. I just love fast punk music! I think that's the power of music isn´t it? To make you feel alive. That being said, congrats on your content!

[@Cognitoman]

Nice dude that’s what got me started.

[@glenlapwing8468]

As long as there’s you & people like you it will never die!

[@mikecarreca7864]

I started playing in 1959 and I will still play until die. The newer recordings of bands , the post production producer will change the entire recording . The players need to demand the record companies allow the bands to do all post recordings. The guitar will never die

[@edwardtreadwell3859]

Guitar music will never die. Todays charts are dominated by low talent mushy tunes, where the artists don't have to try too hard. Your playing of both electric and acoustic guitars is exemplary, and blues and rock is timeless, thanks to guitars. Keep on rocking girl!!.

[@PR-lw2oq]

🤮

[@gavinsolomon2711]

Plus one on that, friend!

[@RMCluff]

All of you are absolutely right!!

[@97GibsonsgOhyeah]

I've now been playing for 51 years, been in bands. We currently have our music on the streaming services, so I've never given up. I've admittedly become a bit discouraged with the fact that I've heard so many people say guitar is dead. So it's uplifting to hear your positivity about the instrument! Thank-you so much, and keep doing what you do!! Cheers from Wichita Kansas!!

[@fernsehdesign]

what did good old Frank Zappa say? Its not dead, it just smells funny. Well, he meant Jazz. Anyway. Keep rockin‘🖖🏽🍀

[@jimmynich4791]

Guitar will never die, just guitar music isn't as main stream as it was but I think as time goes by music taste is probably getting worse but I think they'll always be some scope for guitar music like rock, metal, etc.

[@xxxxx7876]

Nice video, different from your usual ones. Taking chances and growing!! When are you putting out your own album? You are talented!! 👍🤘😎✌️🎸

[@jlore6344]

This was a nice thoughtful take on the situation. Thanks for putting it out there. Guitar is probably about where it will remain going forward but, as you point out, some young artists are still using it, and so there will be a next generation of learners and players. Look at groups like the Linda Lindas, there will always be some kids that find it and love it.

[@DV1287]

Hey Mia. Awesome to hear your thoughts on this topic. My dad would agree with u, since hes been playing acoustic guitar for over 40 years. The guitar will never die. It will always live on

[@williamskk1]

You are a very smart and talented musician Mia. You are well spoken and hope you do more videos giving us out thoughts on music and your life, You could be a college professor!

[@huntermediaphotography]

I’ve been playing guitar for 41 years. It’s like part of my body at this point. I can’t imagine guitar ever going away. I can’t imagine never wanting to play guitar. It’s unfathomable to me. 🎸❤ 🔥

[@c.m5043]

I have seen various videos of you pop up for as long as I can remember on KZbin. Really nice to hear you discussing topics, well spoken and interesting to listen to. Hope all goes well for you.

[@Galeidan]

Rock (and guitar music) will never die. My three year old daughter loves to listen Led Zeppelin (Kashmir) and some metal songs that were composed before her father was even born. Led Zeppelin broke up 40 years before she was born. Great music is timeless.

[@KeithBone-rd1gu]

Beautiful! I have never heard you talk before. I have watched you a bunch. only because I saw you in guitar videos. Always enjoyed not only your looks. but the renditions were so spot on. Now I get to finally here you really speak. Awesome. Thanks!... Keep being you. much respect.

[@woopa66]

I 100% agree with your cyclical comment. As long as passionate people play passionate music, guitar will always be there. Fantastic job on the presentation of this video. The work you are putting in shows. 👍🏻👍🏻☮️❤️🍩

[@jammergreg]

I saw the Beatles on Ed Sullivan on February 9, 1964 two days after my 12th birthday. I said to myself; I’ve got to do that. I’m 71 now and still playing The guitar made my life much more enjoyable. Keep playing girl and you are a doll. I love your videos.

[@kjneese]

Love your take on this subject. Your appreciation and understanding of how music works and how the guitar relates within that world is totally on point! Great take!

[@luvhergoldmedalbelly]

I'll be 63 in March! I have played guitar since I was 14. I love this topic. I was wondering, Mimi, of you ever listened to Yes's "Fragile" album all the way through. That is an amazing record. The guitar work in particular the bass. That is very sophisticated rock music when you compare it to a lot of crap

[@prestonlopez123]

I believe the guitar is here to stay always. It is one of the driving forces in music. There have been many great guitar players starting back in the 50s, such as Chuck Berry, Eddie Cochran, and Buddy Holly. In the 60s we had Jimmy Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck and so many more. I enjoyed your thoughts Mimi. Please keep posting more videos. 😘

[@eshoradeoscar]

Hey, thanks for sharing your thoughts! Even though guitars might seem like they're on the downswing in today's music, they're still super popular, and sales are going strong. Loads of musicians are still rocking out with guitars worldwide, and I bet they'll totally make a comeback in mainstream music eventually!

[@michaelstusiak5902]

Guitar will always have a place in music. Great post. Nice decorating, too.

[@KennyArrow]

Wise words from a beautiful beautiful person, who loves the guitar as much as the rest of us guitar musos/fan of the guitar. You are in our hearts and will always be....❤❤❤❤❤ Lots of warm greetings from your fans in Port Elizabeth, Southern Africa. Warm regards, Kenneth George Arrow

[@michaelstusiak5902]

It's important to appreciate good music even if it's not a genre that may be a person's favorite. Just appreciate when it's done well regardless of the genre.

[@peterrocha9474]

Hi Mia. I’m seventy-one years old and I am still learning to play guitar. I like classic rock and I have four chicks (guitars). Three acoustic and one electric. I will play guitar until I die. Rock on! 🎸

[@stevengoodman3498]

Artist here on youtube such as yourself help keep guitar relevant. I can't imagine a world without it. Thanks Mia!😊

[@Trinity30585]

Now is just a fleeting moment. You have a point . Someday someone new will change all that. Ive been playing everday for over 40 yrs and make music i prefer to hear for myself. I never even heard of anyone your talking about these days. Times always change.

[@julianalcock8658]

Well thought out, logical and a fair summary of current main stream. As long as the more underground rock remains, and it always has, the guitar isn't dead. Instrument sales seem healthy so far so that's a good sign.

[@georgeherndon5034]

If you love SRV and Texas Blues, then check out Doyle Bramhall ll. He’s the son of Stevie’s old writing partner and he rocks very soulfully. Like John Mayer, Bramhall can be heard on a lot of Eric Clapton’s Crossroads concert movies.

[@bobsternvogel5550]

I thought Olivia Rodrigo was just a hot girl pop star until I saw her performing with Billy Joel, a performer I've admired for almost fifty years now, and realized she's a serious musician carrying on the singer-songwriter tradition. Her respect for the history is one reason her future is so bright.

[@G_Demolished]

People like to talk trash about pop stars but a lot of them are actually talented. Look at Jason Mraz. He’s a good acoustic player, an insanely good singer (I think he has perfect pitch) and he writes his own songs. That said, I think most of his albums are overproduced. His live solo work is much better. There’s a really old clip of him covering Rocketman in a small club and it’s one of the best live performances I’ve ever seen.

[@ouijim]

Just got myself some new headphones (Grado SR325X) and FIIO E10K-C DAC, been listening to Jethro Tull and Paul Simon, takes me back in time as recordings were released. It was a magical time in music then ; )

[@RockyTopRetreat]

It’s so nice to hear you express your views on music. We all knew you were a very accomplished guitarist and beautiful woman but you are also thoughtful and intelligent and you are….the whole package.

[@minkorrh]

As long as people pick up the instrument and get 'that feeling' where your fingers just want to move, it will never die. I started playing at around 12, but was a lazy, sporadic practicer. Only now in my mid 50's can I do what i thought was impossible for me to achieve. An instrument is a lifelong friend that should never be ignored. It will never ask anything of you, but will certainly let you know when you're touching it in the right places. That's when others will let you know you're touching them in the right places also.

[@rickycat8241]

I really can't imagine a world without guitar. Its sound is impressed in our hearts and as long as there are passionate students, there will be future guitar freaks! Keep up the good work, baby!

[@user-David-Alan]

I agree with everything you said. The guitar has it's own unique sound whether acoustic or electric. It's been around since the 15th century and will be around many centuries to come. So many people love the sound it makes so it will never die. Thanks for your thoughts and keep on playing.

[@peterwaterford9482]

Two words: THE WARNING. They're a power trio of sisters. When they were 15, 13, and 10 they were covering Hysteria (Muse's, not Def Leppard's; the bass player was 10!) and Atlas Rise (that's right, the 15-year-old arranged Hammett's AND Hetfield's parts and made one guitar sound as full as two). Try their performance of their song "Evolve" at this year's MTV VMAs - that PRS running through a Kemper into an Orange half-stack sounds pretty ALIVE to me!

[@Alan-es3sc]

Yeah! Totally agree, they are awesome

[@johntehller7821]

I’ve recently shown a teen how to play a song the way Eric Clapton played it when Cream was the hottest ticket, not only in the U.K. but across the rock scene. I’ve enjoyed seeing the teen playing it on guitar, but I also enjoyed hearing this teenager humming the riff nonstop. This makes me excited for the future of guitar driven music and rock in general. I’ve learned from Clapton, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, etc. and I realised I should also learn from the guitarists who influenced and inspired them. This teen has also realised that many famous guitarists were inspired by Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, etc and that one should learn from them. We are all standing on the shoulders of giants. The torch has been passed to a new generation and I think guitar playing and guitar driven rock is in save hands with musicians like you. Rock on, you’ve got a new subscriber!

[@damonsdeliberatedetour492]

I have been listening to The Warning. They are writing songs and music that held me and made me enjoy what they are doing.

[@Alan-es3sc]

Yes, the first time I heard Choke I couldn't stop listening to them and continue playing all the other songs. Amazing Band

[@timothymallon]

I'm old enough to remember when the 80s happened and at the beginning, it felt like rock was dead. So many "skinny tie" pop bands came out during that time. Post disco kinds of bands. For me, a kid who grew up with the likes of Black Sabbath, Queen, early Bowie etc. I felt as if the 80s had abandoned all of that. Genesis was pretty much gone and in their place were the band members, doing their own pop music. Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins etc. It all bored me to death. Then within a few short years metal came back with a vengeance and it opened up a place for rock and roll to take back over. I know I am generalizing this entire thing, and I'm sure people with disagree with some of what I said, but it was from my own perspective. I remember at that point, everyone saying I should learn how to play a synth and forget about guitar.

[@joeyskar]

The guitar is a tool at the end of the day, a form of expression to help an artist create. I think as long as artists bring something new that inspires people to listen and play the guitar will never die. It's not front and center as it once was but it is still very present.

[@seanbaines]

Very good point about Swift bringing guitar to people. I've seen that observation from a lot of people in the industry.

[@krisfrederick5001]

The Industry part of the Music Industry seems to be suffocating these days. The "Music Industrial Complex" I guess. They'd rather have A.I. and teams of ghostwriters make them money, than support actual soul in music and honesty. That being said, until we all put ours down forever, the guitar will NEVER be dead and will rise again.

[@martyrey8063]

Steven Wilson's Drive home is such an emotional song with one of the best saddest solo's towards the end played by Guthrie Govan!

[@davidellis5141]

Rock & Roll Will Never Die ! 🎸

[@davidleinweber]

Nice video. You have intelligent perspectives so it’s good to see you sharing your thoughts.

[@ohpotatoesandmolasses]

Too many guitar players are too concerned with being under the limelight. Serve the song, not your ego. Besides, plenty of guitar-forward music still being made in modern times -- it's just not on pop radio as much anymore.

[@LeighEllitts]

Well said, Mimi you're 100% correct on this. I, like you, also think that once people discover the joy of playing for their own personal satisfaction as I have, that they'll play for life. Even if they're not very good at it, like me, the pleasure it brings is worth more than gold. Playing has helped me come out of some bad places over the years. It's really made me immeasurably happy that recently, my youngest son (8yrs) said that he wants to learn to play, and I'm saving for a fender 3/4 size for him. I'm just gutted that he's right-handed and I'm lefty, as I have some expensive and beautiful guitars that I bought when I retired a few years back that he could play on!

[@user-lg9qw1mc7s]

You made a good point about how older music is/was popular because it makes you feel something. These days, when I browse the Billboard Hot100, it seems the emphasis is on being cool, which is the opposite of expressing feelings. It's pretty hard to insert great guitar playing with merely looking and sounding cool. You are right, a great pop/rock song is hard to write. Not only that, it will probably resemble an older style, which is not as popular these days as what it used to be. I used to ask myself, doesn't anyone learn to play instruments these days, because I would hear sweet all natural instruments in modern music. Then I discovered KZbin channels of people playing their guitars, drums etc with amazing skill. I'm thinking, why don't these musicians appear in pop/rock bands flooding the airwaves (internet waves) with great songs. I guess it comes back to what is in fashion. Being and looking cool.

[@brocluno01]

Old guy here. Like before the Rolling Stones and Beatles. Also a hobby guitar player who worked in the recording industry back in the day (GRT/Chess/Janus Records). This bit about the guitar being dead has been repeated many times. You are absolutely correct about it being cyclical. Imagine Oud and Spanish guitar during Beethoven ... The Piano and harpsichord reigned supreme. But guitar never went away. Keep on keepin on. And, OBTW, try a bit of Robin Trower on Bridge of Sighs 😄

[@gavinsolomon2711]

Well said, friend.

[@lesbianmustardbottle957]

Guitar is dead. I assure you. Live music is most certainly dead. @@gavinsolomon2711

[@grahamnunn8998]

As a guitar teacher of some 30+ years I have a lot of time for Taylor Swift. She has brought a lot of young people to the guitar and her songs usually show a better grasp of composition than many contemporary artists.

[@andybeers4538]

And I love that Jimi is at the top of your list. He changed my life. Can you image what music would be like today if Jimi was still alive?

[@montebradshaw128]

Great videos and guitar playing Mia. Guitar will never totally die in popular music imho. People will get sick of all the weird synthetic sounds in pop music and something else will replace it. Hopefully with instruments and, with guitars...lol. Unknown blues guitar legend worth checking out = Ron Thompson and the Resistors. He was a Blues Monster. RiP

[@billplisssken5153]

As long as you keep making videos, guitar will never die! Your Dirty Diana video was one of the best youtube guitar videos of 2023! Thanks for doing what you do!

[@scottraycraft5151]

this is a great post...following...delay phase flange chorus tremolo wah...so many ways to add subtle character to a song...

[@saxophool]

Nice! Love hearing you and Mary talk about music (or anything, really😊). I feel like I learned something. 😎

[@thislittleunknownband]

Very well said with regards to it being cyclical. I think you are correct to say that it will go out and come back. So , yes ... let's keep practicing!!! I love your videos Mimi. Thank you

[@TKCoutside]

One of the things you said that I really keyed in on was basically exposure to amazing guitarists. What really turned me on to the electric guitar was hearing a lot of the great guitarists play, maybe like you with Jimi Hendrix, etc. Keep in mind many metal/guitar bands have recently released albums such as Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Metallica, Slayer... and tour regularly. So while it may be sort of taking a backseat to some other cool new stuff, the exposure is still there. To quote the lyrics from an AC/DC song, rock and roll will never die.

[@billygreenville59]

Hi Mimi, I enjoyed your analysis of the sad state of the guitar these days, in popular music. However, I like to point out the fact that with the likes of Paul McCartney still filling 40,000 seat stadiums (including many young fans) and with a new Beatles single going to number one in several countries, I believe it's safe to say that there will still be a lot of interest in young people wanting to pick up a guitar and learn how to play, inspired by great musicians like Paul and many others that they will discover. It's my belief that the great enthusiasm for guitar playing shall never die! 🎸🙏🏼

[@nigelbiglari4552]

Dear mimi You have clear & high level of maturity in your explanation. I always pay full attention to your videos & particularly your clear explanations many times. Thank you so much mimi❤🌹🌺

[@lifeenvironments]

I don’t see guitars going away, but do see them taking on new and exciting forms. David Gilmour demonstrated the guitar’s infinite expressive possibilities when guitar tech barely existed. Countless others followed. Today, we are seeing the guitar used in new and exciting ways - but in different genres than we’re used to seeing them in. As a composer, my guitars enable me to explore new areas with nary a solo in the score. The end results, however, bring the guitar into a delightful fusion with everything from celli to symphonies - and even nature’s experience to create new and unexpected listener experiences. In the end, the guitar is an instrument of our imagination - and a witness to those special places we have travelled throughout the emotional evolution and history of sound.

[@francissookraj3202]

You very talented Gultarist and it's good that you encouraging other people to learn to play this instrument. I would like to learn, and I'm older generation.

[@psychojoe3087]

Music is in a constant state of change as time passes. The old styles fade then someone hears an old song and they redo the song bringing back at least part of the original song. People hear that song and of coarse they are curious as to the original versions or various older versions. I believe this cycle will keep guitar and great songs alive forever. Some songs that have made the charts recorded by well known artists are over 100 years old. Obviously after 100 years these songs have changed and some of the original writers are unknown yet these songs has survived for various reasons. Great music remains that... Great!!! When a good message is in a song that in my opinion is what makes these songs live forever and great guitar in these older songs will hopefully inspire many generations to play the greats like you play some of my favorites. Very impressive by the way. You're a much better guitar player than I am. I'm mostly a rhythm player. Rock on and keep the Spirit Alive

[@andyrudge1316]

Very well said. You have taught a of guitar riffs and I have playing for many years. Have a great Christmas and don't let love bring you down.

[@justcallmemoses]

You have a very good point that everything in music is cyclical. I belive guitarist like Tim will bring guitar into mainstream. And I am also fighting the war of bringing guitar in the forefront of my music. I'm trying to subtritute voice melody in pop music with guitar melody so it get's some attention and people who enjoy guitar music will enjoy it.

[@pdtech4524]

The guitar will NEVER die, like you say things go in cycles, it'll come back, like everything comes back in fashion eventually! I thought the same about vinyl records, that came back and film photography 📸 I enjoy using my old film cameras still. That's the point if YOU still enjoy doing something, it doesn't matter if it's not a current trend, just do it if it makes you happy.👍

[@user-xo3tr8fs4v]

Hello, which is in heart and soul , will never die. ( As the guitar and music in general is with me). THere is no matter what people think , what trends they follow, if they chase money , fame and whatever material thing in this world. Real music and instruments are alot more of these things, abov by miles and miles. They capture feelings , innerworlds, showing the people what they rly are, human beings. Thank you for that you shared your toughts and for the love of the guitar and music, for the genuines and understanding

[@michaelholmes8350]

I love the guitar. Like a lot of guys in 1964, I watched the Beatles on Ed Sullivan while my dad sat and said look at those mop heads 😂. I told him I want a guitar. I want to do that. I was hooked. When I pick it up, it still feels like it belongs with me holding it and making beautiful music. I like watching you play. You are very talented. What's so cool is once you learn, you have it the rest of your life to enjoy. It is a gift to yourself for the effort.✌️

[@markseverson3358]

Rock & Roll guitar will never die, too many fans young & old!

[@davecass9486]

Free, "all right now" still does it for me after 52 years listening, man and boy.

[@mikecoulson3575]

If more music sounded like that - I'd buy more music for sure.

[@JohnnyMegabyteCanada]

A good "catchy" rhythm guitar. It also did wonders for AC/DC.

[@unemployablegraduate]

Well, you could argue that the history of electric guitar has been driven by technology. So the Beatles’s use of compression was revolutionary in the mid 60s, Hendrix’s use of fuzz, extreme volume and wah revolutionary in the late 60s, then came the first modulation tools like univibe and rotary speaker effects, then the exploration of delay by guitarists such as John Martyn and the Edge, then the widespread use of the first electronic flangers, the Floyd Rose and extreme whammy in the 80s…then the shoegazers in the early 90s making use of the first really

[@unemployablegraduate]

Long digital reverbs in the early 90s to create synth-like soundscapes, then the Digitech whammy….in terms of ‘evolution’, the guitar has been about creating new sounds that no-one has ever really heard before. I think, taken from this ‘evolution’ perspective, the guitar is now biding its time and something truly weird will come out of the massive boutique pedal explosion of the last 10-15 years eventually.

[@JMM440xi]

Very well spoken. Your education, experiences, and communication skills really shined here. Was easy and informative listening to you. Agree with your take on this issue. Actually I have seen the return of 70’s, 80’s, 90 rock, hard rock etc bands making comebacks impacting the entertainment field these days. (The Stones recently in N.Y.)So there is still much life and demand for not only the rock guitar soloists , but other genres are killing it. The variety and different levels I consider you to be in this group and like your choice of John Mayer. Also the variety and quality of guitars these days is impressive.

[@stephennelson226]

Mimi, how you’ve grown in the last three years in confidence and skill is amazing. Keep up the good work. Many young people today seem lost in a bewilderment of self doubt, anxiety and loneliness. Keep reaching out, you’ll be an inspiration to them. To quote from Jack Black: “Be ye angels”? “No, we are but men. Rock!!

[@keithstewart9878]

Pop music is increasingly becoming throwaway. Guitar is not dead, it is everywhere, apart from the mainstream charts. It's in Metal, Punk, Indie Rock and Blues which are the genres that have always had great guitar.

[@majesticmold2829]

Love it have a great day mimi

[@TheDoobiesnatcher]

They said the same in the 90's with grunge that the guitar solo was dead. It just took a back seat for a bit but we are still playing guitar so all good

[@SchecterIsKING]

Absolutely agree. If you look hard enough into modern music you'll always find elements of rock being used. I'm mainly into hard rock and metal but I'll listen to pretty much anything really as long as I can find enjoyment in it. I myself am currently learning to play but find it hard to get inspired in the area I currently live as the music scene is pretty dead to be honest and I don't know any musicians. I kind of wish that I was alive in the 70s and 80s because I really enjoy the music from that era of rock. I seen a short of you playing "Lady Writer" by Dire Straights a while back and was immediately blown away by your tone. So close to Knopflers! I was on break at work at the time and couldn't for the life of me find your channel again till I just happened to stumble across it just now. So glad because your playing is awesome! Really soulful and clean. Good stuff Mimi. 👌

[@ClarkeDurrant-ti3uk]

Guitar won't die out guitar solos in different formats and styles I love your enthusiasm

[@brucegordon3816]

Mimi- loved your comment about finding value in songs (music) that is not particularly your genre. There's a lot to choose from these days that are quality musical ideas. (songs). When I was growing up pre Beatles, going backwards to the early 50's 40-s....pop music sucked. Not so for someone your age. Loved hearing your opinions on this topic. Btw, guitars will never go out of popularity. It's a great polyphonic instrument you can carry around. It's limitless and can be a lifetime love. You are great.

[@bubbasouth69]

Guitar is alive and well in my house and always will be as long as I’m around!

[@Rando_Djinnsen]

You made a lot of good points, including ones I wouldn't have thought of myself. You even made the point I was gonna make in comments (never mind which one!). My remaining comment is that no matter what happens, we've got to carry the torch, and have fun along the way. Then we'll deserve attention when the cycle comes around.

[@TribalGuitars]

Guitar in pop music is making a comeback. Slowly but surely it's showing back up in pop music, and in no small part because of artists like H.E.R, Taylor, and some other artists. It's really alive and not going anywhere in country music where a lot of the playing is more country-rock. If one tunes out the twang of singer and other traditional instruments found in country music, the riffs and solos would be right at home in harder rock. It's also coming back because of COVID. Guitar had a huge jump in interest, and while it's only been a couple years since the lockdown, all those people are going to be hitting stages or putting out music they made at home, and they want to find music with guitar in it.

[@gavinsolomon2711]

Good comments. Thanks for adding something to the debate!

[@LinenGoldfish]

Great video, Mimi! I think we are actually in an interesting phase of deep exploration when it comes to guitar. We are now in a period where people who come to learn guitar are coming specifically for what the guitar offers musically and not just by default. For example, in previous decades if you wanted to start a band or be a performing artist, you needed to learn guitar or have a guitarist just to communicate your sound. Thus, there were guitarists that wanted to learn guitar and guitarists that came to learn guitar because "that's how you perform music." With modern tech offering performers so many new ways to perform and communicate their sound to an audience, it has made the guitar community ultra concentrated with enthusiasts and innovators. For example, in the 90s many of the guitar heros of guitarists wouldn't necessarily be the best players but rather the guitar players that made the most memorable/exciting songs, but that was because (in my opinion) the subculture of guitarists incorporated more than just guitar enthusiasts. Now, with more of the subculture being people who truly have a love for the instrument, we see names like Henson, Abasi, Mayer, Bonamassa, Bettencort...these are players that regardless of what style is your favorite can really play and advance the craft. So i think guitar will advance so much during this period and when it returns to mainstream arrangements, there will be so many new tricks we have up our sleaves. 😉

[@mikeblueblaze]

I usually write a poem and then I find that right sounds with chords and find a good way to blend together ❤️ with a decent looper and play guitar sound like a band player

[@gjmarc]

Hi... nice video. I am 69 and picked up the guitar 3 years ago, fortunate to have learned from a great instructor. I play the guitar because I like it, not that I am good at it or perhaps will never be. However the instrument amazes with what you can do with it. BTW I have seen quite a few of your posting, and have to say your playing is great. Keep it up, you inspire many. Cheers and Happy Christmas. (all I want for Christmas is a looper...lol)

[@paperoverflow]

🫶❤️🙏🏼 great video. Thanks for sharing your sentiments! Guitar still rules my heart too.

[@jimilee459]

My buddy owns a music store. He said when Taylor Swift broke out, lots of girls were getting guitars. I don’t think guitar is dead, as a matter of fact, we need more guitar heroes, so pick up a guitar and make it happen.

[@dannysunay4386]

Very well stated. My first question was answered! MAYER!😂😂❤❤❤❤ KEEP IT ALIVE AND WELL!

[@lorenneufeld4306]

Matteos Mancuso. He may not ever become a 'household' name any time soon BUT, his Talent, Virtuosity and Dedication exceed many already. Time will tell where that takes him in a 'cutthroat' arena. Guitar is not dead, it's 'popular' dominance is unfortunately, it seems, is though. Does it matter? The 60s, 70s and 80s were a great era of guitar-driven Music! Anyone who is driven by the guitar sound can and will seek it out, whether it's metal, rock, country, blues, jazz, singer/songwriter... You're right, I agree, that what goes around comes around. Someone like yourself, can give us, the Listener, ear-filling Music to enjoy for many years and help to keep 'the circle' alive. Quite enjoyed your intellect on the subject. Play On!

[@TheDarkVirusx]

Great discussion you’re making here! As a Gen Z’er who has played guitar for awhile plays guitar and has explored every genre from metal to jazz, I’d argue that you see a lot more popular music that are guitar based over the past few years. Tons of popular artist in the Alternative rock/indie genre that have a big younger audiences such as beabadoobee, Dominic Fike, Phoebe Bridgers etc. Some of the biggest artist at the moment are folk/country artists such as Zach Bryan and Noah Kahan who’s recordings and live performances have tons of guitar. Music now a days is more diversified compared to the couple of big trends you’d see throughout the decades. Tons of great artist and music now and tons of young people are discovering older music through TikTok. The space is definitely different from the bands you’d see from the 60’s-80’s but if you open your ears and horizons you’ll find some really great new stuff out there.

[@paulhughes8364]

I'm 53 years old and just learning lol. I aspire to sit in my bedroom and entertain myself with endless metal riffs some day! Maybe by the time I hit 55-56 I will be at a median level and I will be happy with that but will keep learning until I can't play anymore. SO many artist inspire me on a daily basis, young to old.

[@lueezec358]

This is very interesting to watch. I have been playing a while because I enjoy it. I am not too great. However I have liked watching your videos and I like your enthusiasm for the guitar 🎸. Thanks for sharing!

[@rickmarch502]

One of the best videos you've done, Mimi....

[@petealba707]

I think this was a very thoughtful video. I grew up in the 70's and 80's, a very different time for guitar. While it can be disappointing to hear less guitar, it's still out there in certain corners.

[@TheMetalMag]

Coming from a young girl like you is amazing you make this video. Everything has been writen. 60's, 70's,80's you got it all. Then you only got 12 notes and 8 octaves.. So it's not very easy to come out with something different but it's still possible to touch people.

[@saleseng]

The guitar will not die however it has peaked I think the DJENT guys have squeezed the last little bit of newer life out of it, but it will go on just not in the main stream which is totally fine. As long as it remains underground it’s always lurking ready to spring back in action if the music scene decides it wants it back