Limitation Is A Powerful Tool

[@bestboy897]

my mind is already empty so no worries there

[@JariSatta]

The minute I add 'my' mind, or 'my' thoughts, I am stuck. It is a/the mind, it is a/the thought. We don't have to identify with a passing thought. Everything is unrepeatable: This A is different from this A.

[@JariSatta]

Alan Watts, Vernon Howard, David R Hawkins, Guy Finley, Wayne Dyer...

[@jwalkrr]

* pinned by rick graham * hahaha

[@zombiemachinery4868]

Dude you're everywhere and you make me laugh most of the times. Make a fucking KZbin channel and I'll be there.

[@GenZ_Guitarist]

@@JariSatta have a snicker my guy.

[@moonloop6]

You're such an inspiration to me as a musician and as a human being. There are times when I struggle to keep my fire burning, but every time I watch a video from you, I find that passion for guitar and music again. Thank you for making these videos, Rick. They mean the world to me.

[@benas664]

I remember in my early days spending hours and hours on parts of the song that i was struggling with and getting nowhere. Eventually i came to conclusion that it's better to look for ways around it and discover what feels natural. I could never sweep pick and when i was doing Insideout cover i ran into that problem, but instead of being frustrated and discouraged i shaped the part to fit my abilities. Imo technical proficiency is important, but not to a point where it becomes the reason you play guitar.

[@samlee2562]

I saw an interview with David Gilmour where he said he plays with lots of bends because his fingers wouldn't move fast enough to shred like the other rock players around at the time, he focused on bending and became one of the best benders around :)

[@hailhydrazine4938]

if I put water next to a cigar there will be smoke on the water, the only thing I can play

[@cleverduckstudio479]

Hahahah XD

[@monsterram6617]

na man, you just need a water bong...

[@monkeyman12328]

ganyuy uil water in a bong smoke on water !!!

[@jwrobich]

Lmao

[@hastyapriyamedha5794]

well said man wahahahaha XD

[@palminator73]

Limitation and failure. Our greatest gifts. Thanks for reminding me Rick.

[@listillolordoc7604]

Very much truth to this. The first 5 years I was playing, I had to work twice as hard as my peers. It didn't come naturally to me. I was determined to be a musician though. Working that hard actually propelled my abilities beyond my peers, I created a technique that works great for my left hand (It was smashed in a car door when I was 13), and I have developed my own sound because of this. Always strive to be the best you!

[@khalidali6659]

upload something

[@butt_woman1493]

i am doing *eXTREMely* well, thank you

[@butt_woman1493]

hahha smol world

[@butt_woman1493]

Abba235xx because it was one of his old videos so he still had comment notifications on for it

[@julion5892]

thanks master rick ! this video will help me to refocus on the essential : create music or try to anyway..

[@riemannm.h.a.8659]

I think what he's saying is, try your very best to overcome and while working on that, keep doing the things you can.

[@Minseito]

I don't know where I saw it, or who said it, but I really like the phrase 'If you can see it, you can be it'. That's the maxim I've always adopted [even before I was aware of the phrase....]. A lot of getting the technical side of guitar down - which is what people generally mean by 'improving' and getting to a 'standard' that they see in videos is pretty much down to sheer monotonous practice of phrases, lines, taps, sweeps, runs, picking styles etc. You just have to put the hours in. Start slow, make sure it's clean and articulate, switch off the distortion etc. As a guitar teacher myself the biggest problem a lot of people face is their own impatience. If you succumb to that the next stage is frustration, then you give up telling yourself you'll 'never get there'. Pretty much everyone can get there if they want it badly enough and are prepared to slog away at it for hours, days, weeks, months and years. All the truly fantastic guitarists, from uber-technicians like Malmsteen to pure feel players like Kossoff, are flesh and blood just like you and me. Rick, however, is a bit of an exception..................

[@Ali-fl5mb]

Dude your channel and playing have been even more entertaining than usual since your video admitting to a personal problem. It's great to see you so upbeat!

[@cameronnorman291]

"There are some players that edit the hell out of their videos" *cough* Jared *cough*

[@brunopaulinetti8357]

I CANT WATCH A SINGLE VIDEO WITHOUT TRAVEL MY MIND INTO YOUR BACKGROUD SONGS, love your job dude, you inspire me!!

[@chungaleta1234]

Words of wisdom. Applicable not only for guitar playing, but for life as well.

[@alancirwin]

Originally discovered you years ago Rick as a player, today I appreciate your talks and find them even more inspiring and refreshing to listen to. Great channel and love the lessons/stories/anecdotes. Keep it up!

[@thomaszonkowski2115]

Rick I've had this revelation years ago, and it changed the guitar from a gauntlet to an experience!!! I loved hearing it from you though as a reaffirmation. Uniqueness is born out of limitation. It can push you into unplanned territory and couples nicely with an arsenal of preciously acquired technique.

[@Strato13]

Oh man, I so understand about limitations. My fretting hand is Atrophic between my index and thumb. Looked like a soup bowl about ten years ago, but have gained a tiny bit of mass but still looks obviously off compared to my left hand (I'm a left handed guitar player). I've had nerve damage in my right arm, and the effects of it affected my right hand to where I nearly lost motion of my fingers. Nerve relocation helped to regain back most of my hand and finger movement/motion but only about 75% of it. But it's been a blessing in disguise because when my hand was in perfect condition prior to the nerve damage, I slacked off on the guitar. I wanted to be good at it without ever having put in the time and practice. Funny what nearly losing your hand permanently does to motivate one to appreciate what you could have lost. Since surgery, and therapy, I've become better at guitar than I ever was before the injury. It took me nearly two years to regain hand motion. i still remember how hard it was just to fret a single note, but I kept at it. I'm self taught, never had lessons, and still consider getting some guitar lessons if just to enhance my experience. I'll never pick perfectly, and I'll never sweep like Yngwie, George bellas, or Jason Becker just by default because my second to the pinky finger has a tendency to lock up from time to time. For the most part, I do okay but what keeps me going is that I Love to play. I'm not a gigging musician at all, but there's a love for guitar I have that I can escape to. And you are truly right. Limitations can be a booster! =-) If you ever have a moment, please do give me a short listening to. Mostly my stuff is random, short, and unfinished. Quality is lousy, but my ideas are there =-) Thank you Mr Rick Graham, keep rockin'! soundcloud.com/qiquedeluna

[@jimmyowenmusic]

Beautifully said Rick, You're one of the world's rare gems- Keeping going buddy ! You make everyones day better =)

[@rthiago82y]

I agree with you, Graham. Not only regarding to guitar playing, what you have said is also true to other aspects of life, in my opinion. Everyone has limitations. If you recognize them, you can go ahead: wether avoiding them or improving yourself in that direction. Then you shape what you do and are able to add your perspective, then contributing to that. With respect to activities that take years to develop, this is something worth knowing. Thanks for sharing, best regards. Rafael.

[@Nimsh-]

Hey Rick, I really needed to hear this. You've inspired me to start looking inwards more often instead of wishing I had what others have. Cheers! and glad to hear you're still doing EXTREMELY well.

[@MultiVg13]

Tom Quayle is an excellent example of limitation, he says he can't really play alternate picking and he developed his legato style of playing and lines besed on that. Pick and finger only at his right hand! Cheers Rick!

[@BenjiPeterson]

One of my favorite places to find some good philosophy too! Thanks Rick! Have a great weekend!

[@scavadir5372]

Hearing Rick speak about players who are better than him is the most humbling experience I've ever had...

[@saeedkhabaz4761]

I think it's very important to watch out for injuries as well. Last year I realized I had Ulnar Nerve Entrapment from having my left elbow bent for long periods of time practicing guitar(my fretting arm) and that always made it hard to use my pinky and ring finger to build up speed. It was basically like erasing my muscle memory every now and then. Now I do nerve flossing exercises and take anti-inflammatory medication for it. Now it's a bit easier to make progress. Josh Middleton has a good video about watching out for injuries too you should check it out.

[@sambitkundu]

You made my day. I am feeling so positive after watching this video. Thanks for inspiring us.

[@ESPSJ]

Great words Rick. I've always been a fan of turning your weaknesses into your strengths. I know for a fact I'm very limited in what tools I have in terms of composing... I find myself using the same pentatonic box over and over and playing the same licks over and over in different keys and such. Really wish I could completely revolutionize my phrasing in general. Doesn't help that I know basically no theory, scales and chords etc. I've just been playing other peoples material, but never really focused on composing until recently. No clue where to start lol, fml.

[@shREDhead44]

Love the enter the dragon remix!

[@RickGraham]

thanks m8!

[@TheSeraphim75]

seriously I lost my mind when I heard the metal version of this theme at the start of the video I rewound it several time...

[@ideath173]

Rick is my spiritual guide. Must, follow, Rick

[@woodmum]

Big hand of applause on these words!!

[@KYSER916]

hi sir! thanks for your great advice.. now, there's no reason to be depressed.. thanks a lot.. more power to your channel..

[@hollywoodactress]

Wise words Rick. I completely agree, especially how today we have KZbin which is great to learn things and admire others, but can easily put a downer on how good one is. I been playing since mid 90s and I am no way as good as I want to be. As always life progresses, work, family life have taken over. But I know if I can keep up my playing just a little bit I hope to get the time to be a great guitarist (in my eyes) who can shred in my twilight years ;) Rock on!!!!

[@evantaucher]

Inspiring video, Rick!

[@guismth]

great insight... and holy crap!! what hes playing in the background is phenominal!!!

[@Graemepenny]

Fantastic video. Been playing 17 years and when you do plateau as such from a skill aspect this video makes perfect sense. Thanks mate, wise words - I'm sure not only applicable to music :)

[@LucaMiebach]

This is a beautiful message right here, thank you very much!

[@lambchopsmtl]

Thanks for this Rick. Very inspirational and a wake up call for a lot of us.

[@felixplaza823]

One of the best lessons out there!

[@nessmalone]

Thank you Mr. Graham. You are AWESOME!!!

[@rayerscarpensael2300]

difficult to focus on this albeit wise speech when you have such a badass mindblowing shredding track in the back. IMO Rick Graham is world's best guitar player, as he excells in every possible style at the level of the style's best proponents, no to mention his mindblowing capacity of ultra fast memorising of complete works from Bach to Eddie, every single piece he does every week would take me a year. His own limitation is he should get into a superband or create one and only do his own thing, musically, in my humble opinion

[@bigman-rj6ow]

"Hai there guys it's Wrick Hair"

[@Afurthyclays]

Henri Hatara Om doing EXTREMELY wew. You?

[@WarmthandMischeif]

That's exactly what I needed to hear today! Thanks for the video, Rick! And thanks to Leftknacker for his question! I'm going to go practice!

[@bbel_zz8997]

Hat off to you Rick.

[@sinimory4243]

I've found my new favourite channel.

[@cameronnorman291]

Sinimory Music same

[@Chris.1812]

Shittyflute?

[@johnmaloney1681]

Great vid Rick. I'm not a shredder guy but I love good "guitar philosophy".

[@thecarelesssloth9590]

this video is helpful on so many levels really appreciate your work im a big fan sir

[@taztherocker1]

Thanks Rick, Very encouraging. Rock on buddy!

[@hombredehielo60]

Pura sabiduria al estilo Rick Lee Graham!!

[@mattbirtwistle6188]

Blood, sweat and years! Love that saying

[@Geeetarr]

thank you so much Rick, you're a true inspiration

[@BretUnDiZpuTeD]

Rick is the Bruce Lee of guitar.

[@jps9508]

Or the Chuck Norris ?

[@Chris.1812]

Bruce Lee is the Rick Graham of martial arts

[@freezatron]

No, definitely not the religiotarded Chuck Norris :)

[@Rouwiinator]

there you have it rick is just editing everything he's doing. I knew it had to be either that or that he is an alien. No mere mortal would be able to play like that.

[@theslipperman6965]

Wise words Rick! Wise words indeed.

[@Shadowotd]

Amazing video rick.

[@SixStringsOfWonder]

I love you Rick Here. Guitar Jesus.

[@Gtraxx1]

Rick you are the man.

[@jakenogard9667]

Awesome video man. Very inspirational advice. Keep on rockin Rick🤘

[@schwarz.leandro]

That were an amazing introduction for my day! I wish I could take classes from you, but will not work... lol I'm limited by budget and language.

[@X2notT]

Thanks for this video man. I feel the same way as the one who sent the question but great advice though. I will put more work and improve my skills.

[@AndrewMooreLearningLicks]

Great advice Rick thank you and keep up the great content 🐼

[@arialdofurlani2769]

Hey Rick! Your videos are great and give me a lot of knowledge! Could you tell me a bit about the self-regulation process in guitar studies? How do you plan your time in your study routines to avoid procrastination?

[@chacepotiwal3972]

Thanks rick for that awesome advise, I too was feeling down when I look at other guitar players, am a intermediate player but there so many techniques I love to learn but find it difficult but will work on the strengths I've already have. Cheers dude🤘🤘🤘👳🏼

[@VMac3]

Bangin' video pal

[@rockstarjazzcat]

Haha, love it! Yes on being inspired! Omg, on the hours of driving around looking for rare music volumes... And to the point, KZbins point to some seriously low hanging fruit that can transform one's playing very quickly, especially if one has been putting in the time. Peace brothers and sisters!

[@rishabhmishra7986]

Hello Sir !! You are such a great inspiration for me and many, studying your lessons for a while thank you so much for demonstrating each lessons so nicely. I have a request though. Can you please upload a lesson on chicken picking. Thanks in advance.

[@owdpotter7597]

wise words Rick, thank you

[@StephaneBernardGuitar]

Rick Your words resonate in me. Same background. Started in the pre-internet era playing classical guitar. This digital world is the new far west, full of possibilities and pitfalls. I don't know what my guitar playing would be if I were younger. I'd probably have progessed faster or be more frustrated to see better players (or better at editing) who knows ! note : I think the background music is a nuisance for this kind of message . It doesn't help even if your voice is well over. Keep on the good work

[@ArenaRecordingStudio]

great advice! ..but how much water do you drink a day to get so good....and which water is best...sparkling or still? :)

[@bilawalillyas7162]

Extremely well.. love your style

[@hamidmobin953]

i can just say 'you are amazing ' thats it ...

[@davigilmar6896]

fantástico guitarrista...

[@VeggyThins]

great video Rick, I love hearing you ramble on haha

[@MajorDook1]

Loving these new videos, Rick! Keep up the excellent work :-)

[@chessman2461]

hey rick i fucking love your channel and your playing, thank god you exist! you are huge like a fucking planet.

[@chrisbeal5491]

Incredible advice + Epic background music = Inspiration ;)

[@naim5263]

Well, I'm pretty sure we all understand about this shit. If you watched awesome guitar players it will somehow make yourself feels down. But my friends, you should all feel very happy too knowing that you have a lot of rooms for improvements. It means that the current you now is not your limit. You still have potential to be more. The thing is just dont give up. I wish you guys all the best. Sorry for my shitty english

[@TaarLps]

e x t r e m e l y w e l l

[@shahinnomani]

Great point Rick! Thanks!

[@dukefl]

Well said Rick......very helpful!

[@bestboy897]

man that is an absolutely epic song in the background whats the name?

[@benas664]

fazeel ashraf Inside out and you can get it on his web. Check out my cover aswell if you like. Amazing track.

[@DaremAq]

I love your talks, rick!

[@samyurcak4137]

Dig you're videos and insightful thoughts and approach!! Thanks Rick, keep up the great work bro you are a inspiration to many and a great motivator! Keep kickin em in the ass!! #RockOn \m/

[@superchicken5000]

Hey Rick, I’ve watched a lot of your videos, and this is one of my favorites. The part where you said “so you can’t alternate pick at so many beats per second, who gives a shit” was one of the coolest things I’ve ever heard you say, and I understand exactly what you meant. Thank you

[@jokerhere4504]

This is great advice rich, thank you

[@tonefingerz2021]

you an awesome motivator bro thank you

[@El_Serch]

THIS is inspiring Rick! thank you dude

[@JonasTamas]

Very wise thoughts!

[@luanreis3926]

Awesome advice! Thank you very much!

[@peponono]

hey rick! grettings from argentina! my best wishes! cheers

[@robertblaine6578]

Good thoughts! Appreciate the insight.

Hi Rick! I hope you're doing extremely well, I know I am haha I have a question that I think you are the perfect person to answer. I have recently started to workout again (I had an accident, so I had to stop for 8 months), I'm starting my third week of training and as you know, and here is my point: For you to be on the top of your technique, you cannot have sore and tired muscles, like in the legatos, if your forearms are "dead" you won't execute them the way you normally would, so, how do you mix your training with you practice/playing without losing your speed and endurance during the days you are recovering from a heavy training? Sorry for the long question, I hope you can answer it, not only for myself, I know that I'm recently back to my training so It is normal to have days where I will feel this way but it would be nice for you to tell us about your experience. I'm a big big big fan of yours, your approach on the guitar on the lessons have helped me to improve a lot! Thank you.

[@michaelcameron2292]

Bang on you dont need to be a shredder to enjoy and play well but Id still love to play as well as Rick

[@scottlowe2902]

Wow! Most awesome video. Absolute truth!

[@MorganPettersson]

Excellent advice!!

[@theheavymetalcrow2468]

rick graham is awesome

[@jayp6990]

Outstanding! Really appreciated the message; however 1:50 who the heck is better??!? :)

[@kindnick58]

thanks Rick

[@TomasSandanusGuitar]

Hi Rick, I did not hear about to you since your Lick Library DVD's. Thank for all tips I will check all your videos :D Regards from Slovakia! Tomas

[@Afurthyclays]

Has anyone else noticed that so many of these phenomenal guitar players are effective, eloquent speakers/teachers? Guthrie Govan, Tom Quayle, Rick Graham... It's like they've mastered one language, only to master the language of music as well!

[@kow294]

Really wanna see you do shred wars with Jason Richardson..