Eric Johnson - Cliffs Of Dover - Live

[@bassinblue]

After years of hard work, persistence and sweat, I finally bought that jacket.

[@fonikopiperi2507]

hahaha you just made my day

[@hannabaal150]

You do know that's his high school band jacket, right? I'm pretty sure it was a marching band, which accounts for all his flashy footwork.

[@curtmullins5489]

And he took it to a Goodwill or something many years ago! Just think, someone probably has rock history in their closet and doesn't even know it!

[@yuhaiight4384]

Dope jacket not gonna lie

[@obx300]

😂😂🤣🤣

[@AlandFelder]

10 years ago when I started learning gutiar, I thought I'd never be able to play this song. 10 years later, I realized that I was correct.

[@robson4028]

🤣🤣

[@natam1616]

you lazy ass...just like me...

[@wendelljohnson760]

😂😊😂

[@wendelljohnson760]

😳🥰🥰boy is awesome 😂

[@bradparker9664]

30 years for me, but I feel you, man.

[@ccisbad520]

Lyrics: thank you very much.

[@ilovemusicnbabes1089]

This is the only time that comment is acceptable 😂

[@effiemars_]

Thanks, man, finally I can understand the song

[@moze_-]

Absolutely outstanding.

[@auroraborealis13579]

😶👂🤘

[@mcfcguvnors]

Top Banter

[@marydera1983]

I'm here because a Reddit video of a person who used to ride in the car with their dad.This was their dad's favorite guitar solo song and I have to say it was definitely worth looking up

[@bobcummins54]

Same here , how mads that

[@pennsylvanian66]

Same

[@oddlygaming920]

weird how the internet works right?

[@Prostateprodigy2007]

Same cuh

[@RandomCommenterDude]

Yessir

[@cjsworld4341]

To the lady who lost her father and had this song in her head for 16 years, hope you are doing okay :)

[@nitwit0017]

You too?

[@iii.a1382]

Yo! im here because of that vid too

[@rry.v4mp]

Yeah, thats how i got here too!

[@Amy-sj9qr]

Same reason being here lol

[@zimora4422]

I’m here because of her to😂

[@inxj5915]

The people who heard about this song because of a lady who posted her dad and had this rolling in her head for 16 years, UNITE HERE

[@Infernoguy-x6t]

I have been summoned

[@trappingbird9899]

🙋🏾‍♂️

[@london5186]

Yurrr

[@BakaAndrews]

Caught

[@alittlemorefour5512]

Yep😂

[@samj1499]

After years of practice, hard work and determination, I can finally play this song on guitar hero 3!

[@OfficialEricJohnson]

I can’t 👀.

[@lanerasnake6265]

Bro, Eric Johnson literally responded to this one

[@macajab6236]

Bro, watch who replied..

[@s2snider]

@@OfficialEricJohnson Never say can't, young man. You just need to practice and apply yourself ;-)

[@slippy8813]

@@s2snider lmfao

[@greywolferhm]

Got home from a gig being a guitar hero at 3am in 1988. Popped a beer, turned on the TV, and saw this. I immediately became a guitar zero.

[@epstopiktvbysirrey2717]

You are humble.

[@mcgrudo]

We're all subjects to the masters we allow ourselves to be subjects to. Except in this case, you're right. Johnson slays

[@H2OMANLV]

Some people are players and some people are watchers. I became a watcher......

[@p.h.bridegroom4142]

Well it could have been worse.... it could have been Tender Surrender by Steve Vai 😂

[@MusicissuperiorEVHROX316]

@@p.h.bridegroom4142Now that is something to see…

[@thetravelerwonderfulworld9854]

I came here to pay homage to Cliffs of Dover, in honor of a lady's father. The lady told a story on Reddit, of how her rather stoic dad jammed out to this song and told her that this was the best music guitar performance ever. According to her, the dad died not long after, and this song stuck to her mind for years, until she was able to find it on KZbin. Respect to her dad, and this wonderful guitarist. It is indeed the best guitar performance I've listened to in a while.

[@OfficialEricJohnson]

Can you post a link to the story?

[@ctabs6646]

Came here with the same reason.Here is the link.kzbin.info/www/bejne/lWamZH-tnZmJbNE

[@emilyyyjgregory]

That’s how I got here too!

[@shrijanakikumar5561]

Oh my god I just saw that story came here too!

[@axophis7970]

@@OfficialEricJohnson oh hi eric

[@raremusicman]

This was FOURTEEN MONTHS before the song was even released. The world was not ready.

[@fvckyoutubescensorshipandt2718]

Yeah I first heard it on a local rock station in 1990. Didn't know it was around before that.

[@fizzjuty5798]

Neither was 8 year old me trying to play the song on expert in gh3 8-)

[@tacoman2147]

@@fizzjuty5798 bruh this song was lit on gh3

[@frankberg4266]

Amen.

[@CallingOutBSSince]

The world was ready, it just took 14 months for the recording equipment to catch up to him playing it in the studio!!

[@MusicisWin]

Yo where can I get that jacket

[@toniweak]

Hey Tyler! Can you make a video, on how to achive his lead-tone?

[@gangrenousprod]

wtf hi tyler

[@heavyrelic8506]

Denkmark Street, London, England. You’re welcome ✌🏻

[@peterraznikiewicz9266]

THAT jacket is way 2 small for you Tyler ! ;)

[@uniquemango3393]

Yoooooooo

[@SmilingCobra-hf6ut]

this is for my husband Dave who passed away 7 yrs ago,his favorite

[@garywhitt98]

Well, Dave had good taste in music and wife. Thanks for honoring him, even now.

[@SmilingCobra-hf6ut]

thank you

[@JustPlainSteve5372]

❤

[@MassholeDrums]

I'm sorry for your loss. I'll enjoy the song in his honor 🍻 RIP Dave

[@PeopleRdum]

Right on. RIP my man Dave.

[@Sum41rthe1]

This inspired me to give up guitar.

[@ericschuh9394]

Lol yea there's too much catching up to do. Ill find something else to do

[@BangBang-hk4rg]

🤣😂🤣😂

[@adoniramjudsonwiliem3203]

Not for me.

[@killemall311]

Hahahaha.. true dude

[@skepticalfaith5201]

Yeah. Between him and Phil Keaggy I realized that I was never gonna be that great, so I calmed down and just enjoyed what I could play.

[@savavidenovic6949]

I like how Eric is giving us two minutes of guitar practice first.

[@liamwagner9160]

I’d call it more “foreplay” to the audience 😂

[@SebastiansSebastian-fc4pj]

@@liamwagner9160 more like the first unending climax

[@salembeats1875]

LOL

[@bigstupidgrin]

@@liamwagner9160 before "longtime"?

[@chrislive1586]

@@liamwagner9160 lolol thanks for that

[@jochem420]

I heard Eric Johnson made a deal with the devil. No one knows what Johnson got, but the devil got guitar lessons.

[@AB-gj8re]

i laughed out loud that was great

[@phasergim2154]

The devil sold his soul to Eric Johnson

[@victormaniaci2104]

@@phasergim2154 That explains why he keeps trying to buy mine.

[@taunokekkonen5733]

Devil got that jacket.

[@dsennack7792]

Jochem what an original comment, I‘ve never heard this about any guitarist before

[@Melmer_723]

To whomever edited/directed this for video/broadcast, thank you for not leaving Eric’s hands for the entire intro.

[@hkb1979]

Such a good point

[@PeopleRdum]

Indeed, & camera man is a f*cking legend. Millions of guitarists are grateful to this unsung hero.

[@eastonpeter1242]

I respect the opinions of anyone who uses "whomever" in a sentence.

[@devolve42]

Austin City Limits was the best music show ever to air on TV.

[@rickwilliams967]

Amen! That's why we're watching and not just listening. They know their audience.

[@gabeiezzi1984]

you know a song is bad-ass when its intro has an intro

[@mrvlacp]

I thought this whole song is the intro at first

[@arthurlilley7179]

Lol

[@gabrielramos3201]

Who's the guy in your pic?

[@gabeiezzi1984]

@@gabrielramos3201 one of the bogdanoff twins

[@arthurlilley7179]

@@gabrielramos3201 mike Mceady he is lead guitarist in pearl jam

[@AlaskaB83]

Eric Johnson is the perfect combination of melodic and shred playing. One of the best of all time, imo

[@Bigslootb4g]

Melodic and shredding aren't exclusive tho. Melodic is the sound, shredding is play style / technique.

[@GabeSkyMusic]

There’s a lot of shredding that is not super melodic. I think that’s what they are referring to. Guthrie Govan is another great example of both

[@abelwritesmusic]

The short text inside the printing of this CD describes EJ as "fire and finese." No better description is available, IMO.

[@AngelVanhorn-hx8sd]

​@@sulfuras1985Buckethead be playing faster and better with a rubber chicken in one hand😂😂 he's on his own level fr

[@PokemonGuy666]

Idk what that means but I think I get rhe idea. This guy is on another level

[@mason9317]

I don’t know what I want more: his astonishing guitar skills or that freaking jacket.

[@johnstitt2615]

Both ✌️😎🤣☕️

[@mason9317]

James Tudor Are you serious!?

[@Mr_BRRRRT]

😂🤣 When I couldn't follow his fingers my eyes rolled away to the jacket.

[@spendingtimetogether8428]

Yes :D

[@blockboygames5956]

Well its pretty simple really. It would take you four hours of work to save the money to buy that jacket, or 4 decades of work to play guitar like that. I would choose to play guitar like that. But thats just me. It is a nice jacket tho...

[@jamesselbo7168]

I studied this song, practiced religiously. Months and months, every day after work. I'm proud to say.. I've got the first two bars down pat.

[@JayRiemenschneider]

Bullshit you have two bars in such a short time

[@jamesselbo7168]

@@JayRiemenschneider lol

[@bigd3087]

@@JayRiemenschneider tryng to learn this song SENT me to the bar!

[@mystngt1966]

NICE ONE 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@whoohaaXL]

Once you learn his descending 5s lick, it comes together, A BIT. But that finger and pick technique he's got going on right before the song kicks in for real, I'll never be able to get.... it's really two finger per string pentatonic but he makes it look so easy.....

[@elykus793]

the most in-tune strat ever recorded

[@m_r2215]

Strat players will understand 😭

[@Le_dank_memez]

I don't get it

[@jamesoncass4867]

My LP & 335 are set up perfectly and they can’t hold tune nearly as much as my strats and tele.

[@JMRMusic01]

If it’s set up right and has good quality specs then strats are great for tuning, I take mine everywhere and it’s gets banged about and even when I go nuts on he trem, I barely ever have to tune it

[@jamesoncass4867]

@@JMRMusic01 agreed. Strats are excellent for staying in tune.

[@kevincollier4546]

Eric Johnson makes my favorite Italian food: arpeggios

[@morganmanesh5142]

Chicken Wings yes.

[@goatboy7698]

Arpeggio is actually an Italian word

[@MVPhurricane]

LMAO

[@georgeblue1457]

Lol!

[@stevenburvenich168]

Scaloppine ;)

[@jasperianjones]

In case if someone was wondering, here's the time frame for the solo 0:00-6:11

[@TheMrsoulkitchen]

We all know where the real solo within the solo is

[@GabrielTheCalango]

Thanks bro

[@TheMrsoulkitchen]

Gabriel dos Santos 4:50

[@yes-qi8ng]

@@TheMrsoulkitchen 4:28

[@21350ctw]

Lol

[@RickGraham]

This performance is legendary for every guitarist out there.

[@zigomanis18]

And no distortion. Mid range CLEAR distinct chords and notes. This solo is MUCH better than anything you will hear from a hard rock guitar player. SO much more intricate. no power chords. no phoney noisy bullshit.

[@TheBfutgreg]

Yes....and also YOU are legendary

[@ryanrose5678]

Eric Johnson use to come into the coffee shop I worked at in Austin a few nights a week and he was always the sweetest man.

[@WarNumen]

How lucky. Stay safe.

[@kennethandaya9976]

He's my hero

[@rolandotoyos5126]

His Music is Vitamins for the soul!

[@YounGun88]

Like his coffee I bet?

[@SDesWriter]

Every person I've ever heard talk about meeting him has said the same thing. It's tough in this day and age to not have a single bad story about someone this famous. He and Keannu stand above the rest of us (but have the humility to never remind us).

[@gosmo4504]

The first time you heard eruption you said wow. The first time you heard this you didn't speak for three days but just hit repeat...

[@mastojiratkach7761]

Best comment

[@SuperZiggyCraft]

This for me is on a whole other level of guitar playing. It’s not the fastest in the world (it’s goddamn close though), but it’s so insanely clean my mind is blown

[@BangBang-hk4rg]

So true. I’ll never forget the first time I heard this song. I was absolutely blown away.

[@skepticalfaith5201]

I saw him play this in concert right after they had recorded it (so before it was released) and I thought

[@chadbailey3824]

True! Anyway EVH passed away a couple of hours ago. RiP Eddie 🎸

[@Diatonic5th]

This may be the only guitar "shredder" song that is universally loved by non-guitarists. This is a beautifully composed piece with a strong melodic hook.

[@nfbnn]

This is the paradox of Eric Johnson, a lot of his songs are at the crossroad of pop and instrumental rock

[@HanginInSF]

Joe Satriani always with me always with you?

[@randyjones280]

Perfectly said

[@firemonkey1015]

True, I was trying to think of another one, I’m sure there is, but I can’t. I think Eric Johnson’s tone is perfect for a more mainstream “shredder” style. It’s a lot softer on the ear for non guitarists. I always loved this song before playing guitar, just because of guitar hero 3 lol.

[@tilasole3252]

I had loved this song when I first heard it after I first watched a performance on TV. But back then there was no internet. And apparently it did not come on the radio and I did not have the forethought to write the name down. Decades later at an arcade, I hear this song on Guitar Hero... OMG!!! 😱

[@eddmtz4028]

4 years in a row every morning when I wake up I play this and my mood changes immediately to a great and hope status. honestly it really helps

[@OfficialEricJohnson]

Thank you for listening!

[@WMDG3]

@@OfficialEricJohnson Shouldn't you be rehearsing for G3 now Mr Johnson, not reading comments on KZbin! LOL just kidding and can't wait to see you again :)

[@ash_530i]

​@@OfficialEricJohnsonAbsolute legend 💪 Almost brings a tear to my eye listening/watching this. You've used your time wisely!

[@apoorvsuresh762]

Same here 😭

[@CalebthegiganticMariofan]

@@OfficialEricJohnsonhello you absolute legend

[@Doublebarrel007]

When guitars are born, they are warned about dudes like Eric Johnson..

[@jalderink]

Or, are those guitars the happiest guitars ever?!

[@nickyelovich3872]

This is awesome 😂

[@MrCooka3dm]

Yes!!!! Along with Hendrix, Blackmore, Vaughn and all the other string rapist that have been.

[@andrewgarrison4014]

Lol

[@Waltzyy]

DTM 24 “String Rapist” lmao

[@TheSavageCabbage]

He used to be a regular at a restaurant I worked at in Austin, I had heard him but didn't know what he looked like.. One day he was digging for some change and dumped his pockets on the counter.. a bunch of picks fell out and I said "oh that's cool you play guitar?" He replied "yeah a little..." 😅🤦‍♂️

[@milosamurai2406]

That’s hilarious 😂

[@iangpark]

oh my god I would die on the spot

[@aberobertson5234]

Was it Uno 360 in Westlake? I used to run into him a lot there.

[@kentuckyfriedchildren5385]

That's so cool

[@DvirPeri1]

I would've stole a pick from him thats worth like 100 bucks

[@k-lawn]

This is the greatest tone I’ve ever heard.

[@jazzram_]

For me brian may, but yes, i love this tone too

[@mljrotag6343]

Yes, very cool tone.

[@AnonYmous-lk9qy]

U ain’t wrong son

[@calvinlemon9529]

He is known for being able to tell what kind of battery (Energizer-Duracell ect.) is in each different stomp box.

[@samanderson6079]

@@jazzram_ interesting seeing as how this show is your profile picture.

[@beafernanda4638]

I played this song on Guitar Hero 3 when I was a child. I never knew the name of the song but I remembered clearly how it sounds even after years passed. Today I finally discovered the song's name and I'm so happy, its been like ten years that I'm seeking this.

[@divinecomedian2]

That's how I first heard it! I had to turn down the difficulty to medium 😅

[@WeWillAlwaysHaveVALIS]

There's an arcade in Soho in London that I occasionally frequent and I always choose to play this on their now ancient GH machine just in case anyone who is there hasn't heard the song before lol.

[@GFraggle]

this track in Guitar Hero 3 is one of my favorite video game levels (of any game genre) of all time. Just so much fun to play.

[@tonu9070]

This is the best live clean tone ever recorded 100%, so clean it looks like a mexican mother’s home

[@scottandresen661]

OMG. That's so f**kin funny.😅

[@kingbumi3418]

Does anyone know how he got it?

[@bigamigo4863]

We must know different Mexicans

[@jazzram_]

Lol

[@robertopasqualini9399]

@@kingbumi3418 bridge pickup. Tone knob turned way down. Overdriven amp

[@duelbrosgames]

Honestly one of the most underrated guitarists of all time

[@notmozart8866]

If not the most

[@TheChadPad]

Uuum idk about that. He's hella famous

[@Emilee_is_slay]

It could be argued that he is underrated, but he is also considered one of the greatest guitarist of all time. The underrating occurs when you add in "one of" to the statement.

[@bigbromiki1]

Sonny Landreth

[@lfp._1883]

Underated for those who doesn't know guitar

[@dongill9650]

The bass player and drummer are supreme musicians too.

[@petesmit33]

absolutely right

[@Sierrito]

No

[@izachi-chan2432]

Ikr?? Omg the music they make together is amazing. They complement each other so well

[@oscarlohr]

Look up country bass solo

[@acesuffian6944]

Just what the doctors ordered.

[@tiago2336]

This is the best guitar tone I've ever heard in my whole life. I play guitar 8 hours a day, every day. This is the best tone I've ever hear, recorded or not.

[@gpittel]

Cuz it’s 80 percent in his fingers

[@slugtoenail]

This is probably one of the most magical moments in guitar history.

[@zenlandzipline]

Yup. One of those nights where you’re just “in the zone”. It’s a rare event. But it’s one of those things that just happens. Your confidence is unquestionable, and yeah, it just seems like you’re in a a different dimension (for the player). Hendrix Band of Gypsies on New Year’s Eve I believe was another one of those rare times.

[@Buravohn]

💯 absolutely stunning

[@melvinatkins998]

Every guitar plays parts of this!…. But playing the whole thing is like swimming to the planet Jupiter!…. Imagine nailing this song live!…. 🤷🏼

[@ricksmith6298]

I love this...and my debbie....

[@Samurai78420]

You are absolutely correct.

[@LukeMaynard]

The best thing about Eric Johnson next to his playing is how brilliant his fans are in the comments. Third place is the jacket.

[@SirLeDoux]

Luke Maynard Ahahahahahahamuhahaha Lol oh shit! I was just saying that to my wife-these comments are gems.

[@willkass789]

Deal with the devil one was brilliant, definitely stealing that line

[@DiscoScottie]

I've laughed so hard I've been crying. Lots of brilliance in here.

[@CR-og5ho]

Nah the jacket is 1st place

[@Bikini_ST]

My Chemical Romance should taken notes

[@Ssargent888]

His playing is so clean my acne cleared up

[@jazzram_]

Not takin' effect on me :(

[@krafgeetar4013]

I wish lol

[@acesuffian6944]

Good 4 you mate!🤟

[@biofromhell]

Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahah dude, that was good

[@grahamkristensen9301]

It's so clean that Jim Gaffigan used it in his stand up routine.

[@chrismorrison3696]

1990, playing in a punk band in Chicago and I heard Eric was playing at the Cubby Bear. After band practice we all head to Wrigleyville and the show was sold out. Didn't matter as you could hear everything that was played on that stage, on the street. The three punks stood outside waiting to hear this song. Young, dumb, arrogant, self righteous and brash, we all shut the phuck up when we heard those first notes at 0:50. The Jam was and is my favorite band of all time. My other two bandmates were fans of hardcore punk. Didn't matter. Freezing our asses off, staring at our hot body breath that exited our mouths, the flask stopped being passed as we listened to one of the greatest guitar players of our lives. Just wonderful.

[@boboneill6721]

I finally nailed that low E in the intro....now I gotta figure out the rest

[@MsScoooper]

I was playing this around 30 years ago ,,, wholly inequitably it seem's,, at 68 years old I still run the riff when I'm three beers down and feeling fogy,, Could'n't touch Eric with a ten foot pole after 50 Years,, :-)

[@carljosephbuca2070]

@@MsScoooper you got me at the first half, not gonna lie.

[@michaeltether2595]

The next note is high e on the 14th fret, bend it then mute and restart the same bend only 1/2 bend now. That'll have you busy today at least. It's a real finesse thing.

[@konayuki8525]

@@michaeltether2595 it's a joke lol

[@plebisMaximus]

@@michaeltether2595 Oh that's the next part. Thank you, I've finally decided to fully commit to just listening to it on KZbin and never touch my own guitars again!

[@JammastaJ23]

This is really one of the greatest live electric guitar performances ever. To play something this long, this technical, and to nail it like this is otherworldly.

[@selliantuttimusi6735]

He was rushing a lot in this performance though

[@liambaulman]

You should check out machine gun at Fillmore east

[@Johnnysmithy24]

@@liambaulman Not even close bruh

[@Al_Gore_Rhythmn]

@@selliantuttimusi6735 it's always something with you, isn't it?

[@tandybare]

@@selliantuttimusi6735 agree...seems nervous. he was a boy. still one of the all time great performances.

[@fms7293]

Song gives me chills, I remember being in my basement in 2007, im playing halo 3 online and next to me on his Xbox is my brother playing GH3 cliffs of Dover, I would kill to go back to these days.

[@dreamcatcherismylifesuppor2348]

Dayummm 2007 I was 3 🤣and now I’ll be 18 soon

[@timgooby5776]

dam I would have just been born that year

[@pizzaman9859]

@@timgooby5776 Dang you are young. It reminds me that I’m finally getting old.

[@pizzaman9859]

@@dreamcatcherismylifesuppor2348 bruh we we’re born the same year 2004 gang 💯

[@dreamcatcherismylifesuppor2348]

@@pizzaman9859 Bruh this year we’ll be 18😭

[@davidp2888]

When I was in college I was studying radio broadcasting. I volunteered/interned at the community college radio station and was the board operator of the afternoon jazz program. The show’s host chose the music and one day he told me to play this song. That was in the summer of 1990. I’ve loved the song ever since.

[@RoninDays]

He really went the extra mile to prove live was better than studio. Hope everyone loves this as much as me :)

[@youngboyharless9769]

It is quite epic. Eric Johnson is still amazing to this day, some could say he's been surpassed.. but i'd say he's made his way into Legendary status. Guy rips and has a signature sound

[@connorthesledneck1398]

Live is almost always better than studio

[@Diax1324]

This was *before* he even recorded the studio version. It's crazy how much he improved it in such a short time. Check out his 1984 ACL performance of this song - a lot rougher in every way. This performance was basically a perfect storm of playing. He had a good day for a lot of reasons. Most performers can recognize those inexplicably great days to perform, and this must've been one of them. Sound guy was also killing it with a stereo lexicon reverb. Really adds to the atmosphere.

[@ReeceyBoy_4]

Unreal guitarist

[@McNab1986]

I doubt that, given the most played time stamps, most just skipped straight to the studio part of the song.

[@Ron-kp5ow]

Somehow I can't imagine a performance like that WITHOUT that jacket.

[@donefinished]

And a pair of jeans

[@DgibsHardstyle]

This live version always sounded better than the studio version imo. It's incredible that he can play that cleanly live. Absolutely unreal.

[@cuickoo1085]

Degen Gibs everyone makes mistakes 3:00

[@erissroc]

I can't give you a thumbs up as you are at 42, which we know is the answer. I do agree, his live music is the best. I saw him with a friend in the late 90's at Bogart's in Cincinnati OH. Before the concert we walk into Mikes music, next to Bogart's, and hear this beautiful music, not your normal music store wank fest. Low and behold, we walk up and it was EJ killing it on an old Fender blackface. One of the greatest moments of my life.

[@satriani17]

100% agree. This is the only song where I can wholeheartedly say I prefer the live version. This performance is absolute perfection.

[@xoxo-pp7ru]

No one cares

[@PinoyGuitarTutorials]

@@cuickoo1085 Yes I noticed that one mistake too.

[@ajb-f3x]

This is the best guitar performance on KZbin

[@Kawamanimes]

That tone, man! That TONE!!!

[@setasan]

Just amazing

[@davidfaulkner5367]

He has a hell of a pedalboard and back line but it all starts with that unbelievable 1954 Strat “Virginia” !!

[@liampeters3207]

Pretty sure his hands can’t replicate the sound of an overdrive, reverb, delay, and chorus. Unless he’s got some sort of advanced technology I don’t know about. So I’m pretty sure it’s not all in his playing

[@liampeters3207]

@CarFreak Ok cool, sorry if I sounded hostile. It just seems like some people are convinced that all of guitar tone is in the hands and gear doesn't matter. I agree that he has special way of playing and phrasing that no one can replicate, thats why he's one of the best.

[@fredrikfb]

This is proof that it’s ok to look at the neck when you’re playing

[@LucasKellis]

Felt this comment

[@PebelWasTaken]

I find I look at the neck when improvising as a way to plan ahead more. But if I'm site reading music obviously that isn't an option.

[@fredrikfb]

@@PebelWasTaken True 🙂

[@JustGeorge770]

Why wouldn't it be ok?

[@LucasKellis]

@@JustGeorge770 Neither way of playing is wrong it depends on the musical context. As a performer you want to engage your audiences. I play exclusively folk which is really easy almost muscle memory strumming. It's honestly not good to stare at your neck as a performer is situations like that.

[@michaelconner1771]

I believe that this is how Mozart would play the electric guitar. This guy plays so fluidly.

[@TheChef470]

His tone is exquisite.

[@Oh_its_Mike]

I could listen to Eric Johnson shred scales all day with that tone. It's like warm butter.

[@robspear03]

Butter isnt warm. If butter were warm, it would be salty milk. Methinks you mean smooth.

[@3hunnaa-_-]

Same

[@kawaiilombax]

Harley Likes Magic literally what he meant by “warm butter” 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@channel_raw]

Harley Likes Magic Boi you warm butter to make it softer and smoother if you pulled it out of the fridge it like a block you can barely spread it just warm it up a bit and wallah soft warm butter

[@samphillips9146]

The moment you realize an argument might break out in a comment section over butter

[@DavidDiMuzio]

@ 2:58 when he finally hits a bum note that doesn't resonate and he shakes his head in disappointment in himself. It's actually refreshing to see that moment of humanity 💜

[@murphy5053]

I caught that to.

[@arkaith]

I saw that too and I loved it.

[@QuanTran-uu9fz]

Yeah, I was wondering if that's what I saw too. It still sounded great because he continued without missing a beat.

[@Fkouch]

I've been there. It's so easy to let that affect your whole performance. He handled it like the true pro he is. :)

[@joshmossberg]

There is no wrong note only leading tones;)

[@super_nova_1]

Listening to memorialize the wonderful girl’s father who passed away before she could find out what the song was. He had amazing taste! And I’m so glad she gets to listen to this in it’s entirety whenever she wishes ❤️❤️❤️

[@Swnsasy]

Haha you came from there too? 🤣🤣

[@coltonadkins7929]

Someone already said this

[@leviswenson2367]

Me too

[@YAYAYOYOY32]

I came from there too

[@yuhhluh7659]

Lmao not people coming cuz of that short

[@hansgrueber8169]

PBS needs to put these old episodes in full rotation.

[@markspear1891]

This has to be one of the greatest electric guitar instrumentals of all time. 😃

[@ADeeSHUPA]

CANoN RocK

[@spaghettisauce445]

the strat is one of the best to be fair

[@jasonbates2687]

it's my favorite and I love hendrix and vaughn too.

[@dylannnnnnnnn]

​@@bryanmack7463 nowhere near Jimi Hendrix voodoo child live at Maui or Van Halens Eruption.

[@tcfaulconer8444]

It DEFINITELY is.

[@mohabexpert123]

Keep In mind that this song wasn’t commercially released until 1990. This is nearly a full 2 years before that. What a revelation it must have been to those who saw it live

[@SunnnyDay]

A key point of understanding for those of us who care about those things, thanks for making it !

[@LuciousMidnite]

Well jason becker was a thing before 1990 and hes been melting peoples faces off with his guitar skills since he was a child i love this song and eric johnson but if you like this you should listen to jason beckers perpetual burn album thats the absolute apex of guitar playing

[@yz-tm3pe]

perpetual burn kinda sucks

[@thehandyswitch1117]

@@LuciousMidnite Becker was an insane guitarist, but I think he went a little too hard and didn’t really put out good music. He’s basically just showing off that he can shred at insane speeds

[@soitgoes82]

There's a version from 84 as well

[@soujrnr]

I don't always listen to Eric Johnson, but when I do, so do the neighbors!!!

[@carlosdumbratzen6332]

SAME! :D just rememebered this amazing performance again. Had to put it on my loudest speakers

[@BouncingBetty]

So true

[@TRIPPYScatsmilk]

Haahaha fkn. Yes!!!

[@marytygett4189]

Right on 😎 and I tell them : you’re welcome ☺️

[@soujrnr]

@@marytygett4189 Absolutely. LOL

[@5216philip]

Folks in this audience were very fortunate to see musicians of this caliber in a relatively intimate setting , most amazing

[@Joe_Dominates]

the real hero in this video is the cameraman, flawlessly keeping both of EJ's hands in view during that incredible intro, clear as crystal.

[@khalidking3304]

I can do the part when he said thank you very much

[@quiltface83]

yeah except no one is clapping when you say it.

[@Matt-ej7sl]

Quiltface 😂😂

[@stevie_772]

khalid king 300th like haha

[@twasbrillig33]

@Sumit Arya Your cover is awesome, I'm glad I check it out, everyone should check out Sumit's cover =) (kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYHcppuio9KBi68)

[@johnbennett3714]

khalid king I can’t even fix my hair like dat!

[@Dforedone]

My dads favorite song from Eric Johnson, RIP, love my dad, got me into metal and beyond.

[@nanananananana112]

Bro got a heart from Eric, damn

[@falcon0351]

God Bless Your Dad🙌

[@jerryjonson1568]

@@falcon0351are you serious?

[@Reslo]

This was all over the radio when it came out. It takes some real talent to make an instrumental this good.

[@cattywampus492]

His tone unnnnghh...so good! It's like a warm stack of pancakes with butter and syrup

[@atlas_rise_]

This performance isn't just clean, it's *S T E R I L E*

[@carlosclaptrix]

No, it is still warm! It is like the Chagall blue.

[@jazzram_]

And he was injured here

[@averagegamer1618]

@@jazzram_ wdym

[@jazzram_]

@@averagegamer1618 his pinky was injured

[@averagegamer1618]

@@jazzram_ oof howd he do it

[@cortroxx85]

He’s singing with his guitar. Beautiful

[@CykStyk]

he really is

[@TheJabedoya01]

The best instrumental song ever , beautiful

[@JoeMama-fw3xu]

If you look at his right hand you’ll clearly see he’s holding the pick of destiny

[@TheChadPad]

Dylan Derr So THAT'S what it is!!

[@fukicantusefirstname]

That give supra natural powers

[@juicystrong7554]

john_doe 97 lol it's like a whole level above super

[@guitaristchris]

Best comment on here by far 😂

[@deesnutz4638]

I thought I had seen the POD....

[@KRATOS9219]

What in the hell. I’ve never seen someone play a guitar like this guy. Incredible masterpiece

[@KrowTheGreat]

I came here because of the reddit thing

[@damone70]

@@KrowTheGreat That's cause you're lame af.

[@Lostdwarf]

ONE name..... VAN HALEN

[@threalismaradona9899]

@@Lostdwarf yngwie steve vai joe satarianna stevie ray vaughn the kids good but he was a flash in the pan

[@BouncingBetty]

@@Lostdwarf dude, he s THE ONE

[@jurgenvandenhouwe3670]

Mr Johnson, I showed this to my 8 year old daughter and she had tears in her eyes. She wanted to take your picture to school the next day and tell her classmates about you and your strat. So I promptly printed one and Cliffs of Dover will be played in class. The teacher agreed to this. I will never forget seeing Julie cry when she listened to you playing this magical song. Greetings from Belgium! Julie and Jürgen.

[@zaccyo]

That is awesome!!!

[@stephenroche5107]

A lovely story !

[@myrryxmas]

i'll be 56 this summer, and listening to this brings tears to MY eyes!

[@StraightThroughtheHeart]

Is one of the most weird songs ever. A happy piece bringing tears?

[@turdferguson6674]

this did not happen

[@tommygrubbs2053]

This will blow peoples minds for thousands of years to come

[@humphrey4976]

That’s one of the greatest guitar sounds I have ever heard

[@Job.Well.Done_01]

Them Seymour Duncan PU’s !

[@tedcabana]

This was his best version ever of Cliffs of Dover. But, his most impressive tune of that night was Zap!

[@johnsham7568]

agreed

[@nevoagm1471]

ye

[@tolow16]

From what I've heard Eric Johnson himself said he can't play it the same way he did in this video.

[@THESHR3DS1324]

I actually like the studio version more but this one is definitely more complex

[@p.h.bridegroom4142]

The opening atmospheric section is what really does it for me when it comes to this version.

[@HubertTheHorrible]

The people who disliked are just mad because they couldn’t beat this song in guitar hero

[@twasbrillig33]

LOL

[@d.e.n.n.y]

On Medium 💀💀💀

[@midnightmadnessbandx]

Eric Johnson's guitar playing is soothing to the ears! Btw guys Our first track "inner dimensions" is out and we hope we did our mentors proud! kzbin.info/www/bejne/rGOTnH54nLBrfsk

[@krb4420]

@@midnightmadnessbandx get out. Leave.

[@Tx_P71]

With the controller... On hard.

[@diamontenewman8887]

The audience wasn’t loud enough. They don’t even realize they’ve witnessed the pinnacle of guitarist.

[@trevorclark7985]

when the gain kicks in at 0:50, holy shit, that’s one of the best strat tones i’ve ever heard

[@setharookazoo]

Gotta love Virginia 🥰

[@trevorclark7985]

@@setharookazoo virginia?

[@lievliberant6019]

​@@trevorclark7985 The guitar's name

[@trevorclark7985]

@@lievliberant6019 anything special about it?

[@MrClean3019]

@@trevorclark7985just the specs of it, 54’ pick up but not really

[@seltersss]

This show will go down in history as one of the best guitar performances, ever, by anyone.

[@ernestoortega4469]

It's because their wives were instantly impregnated after listening

[@christocr]

Except here on KZbin where everyone is either a troll or a better guitarist. Or both.

[@xoxo-pp7ru]

Marty guitar is better

[@tombstonejones9581]

SRV Austin City Limits. 🙄

[@muhammadaizamuddinmohdazma9104]

Doubt

[@barryrahn5957]

Such a joyful song. It makes the world seem fresh and new, all things possible.

[@stonerking78]

This was one of my little brother's favorite songs. He died 6 years ago in a bike crash . Every time I listen to this song I can see him smile like he's here and I cry ❤

[@Hippiaszful]

Time heals you. Sorry for your loss brother.

[@HungryBolo]

Sorry to hear this

[@helloidharbl6753]

I am sorry for the loss of your brother. They say time heals all wounds but... Be the strongest you can be.

[@TheRealRealMusicari0]

Sure

[@deborahgray2637]

My youngest son loved it as well, tried so hard to play it, I lost him 9 yrs ago

[@andyblue1991]

That intro is pure love to my ears.

[@theferoy985]

Yes I want know how to make that intro ):

[@Mediocre_Jazz]

Reminds me of pat Metheny

[@ben-si3dk]

The comments to this video are gold, I couldn’t think of anything I felt worthy to add so I’ll just compliment everyone else....well said everybody!!

[@Marshmallowmagical]

My step dad played this for me on his ps4, and i have not forgotten it since.

[@lazmosnack1363]

Also let’s just recognize how great the bassist is, I have zero clue on his name but he’s shredding too

[@hermanhelmich]

Lazmo Snack absolutely true

[@tnleverett]

His name is Kyle Brock 😎🎸🎶

[@aketosumi2903]

Hats off kyle brock...well played

[@saffadam]

Damn true the bassist just right for the job

[@fivestring65ify]

They all rock

[@daftnord4957]

this guy practiced the night before

[@ilovemusicnbabes1089]

Easily lol. Imagine if he forget he had a concert and had no idea to play this so he had to cram lol

[@billycallahan3555]

I'd have to practice my whole life right b4 lol

[@gigistephens4633]

before millennium the like Moe

[@Dimebageus]

this guy practiced the life before*

[@wilsonbpiros]

Nahhh, he stayed at a Holiday Inn the night before.

[@sgassocsg]

Some fool actually said this is tedious scaling. WTF? Listen to yngvie for 5 minutes and you fall asleep. This playing is melodic and fluid and chordal and chromatic and Tonal beyond my wildest dreams. I hear chords of heaven and melodies like years of love and devotion to old hymns and classic songs. God bless Eric with a long life and more love to come

[@thebigonere]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4LPimqgrNGSi9U

[@chrissimansky7608]

His note selection in his solos is tasty, cerebral, and beyond impressive. So damn interesting. Some folks just don't know what the hell they are listening too huh?

[@erikwaterson361]

Eric Johnson is good weed music. Yngvie Malmsteen is good speeding ticket music.

[@Rhino1277HotRails]

Well said

[@Rhino1277HotRails]

@Eddie Gooden hey bro I got your back

[@sidthesloth12]

This song will go down in the annals of History as the best modern instrumental song ever made. From the ethereal opening, to the double chords, and just his skill and grace...i hope this song is never forgotten.

[@Laurikiwi]

His tone is sooo good, and the intro is something special

[@israelhdez1546]

“So Mr. Johnson where do you want the solo in this song?” “Yes”

[@JimAllisonRealEstate]

So funny every time I read that comment.

[@ultrakeagan]

@@JimAllisonRealEstate lmao

[@claytonpalmer5847]

I want to like this comment but the amount is perfect

[@ollie7070]

its still the same! 469! i expected it to be different.

[@midnightmadnessbandx]

Eric Johnson's guitar playing is soothing to the ears! Btw guys Our first track "inner dimensions" is out and we hope we did our mentors proud! kzbin.info/www/bejne/rGOTnH54nLBrfsk

[@JordansTake35]

I dont think anyone who doesn't play guitar can truly undersand just how dirty, disgustingly clean this is.. just unfathomable, some of the phrasing and jumps he makes in the intro to the intro is just unbelievable

[@GrizzlePaws]

this^. it's staggering.

[@tomasengstrom6362]

yup this is at least 10 years to life in prison CLEAN!!!

[@theaudacity496]

truly is a song for guitar players

[@bobrpc1884]

He from another planet. There, he's average, but here its like he's from another planet!

[@andrewhofmann5453]

I remember in 1990, I was 16 and driving home when I first heard this song on KLBJ in Austin. The world stopped, grabbed my attention and had to pull over to hear this song. I wasn't a "guitar" guy, never knew EJ, VH, SV, JS or any of the greats before this song. THIS SONG, single handedly opened my world to the amazing music that i had YET to discover. I also remember I had this same EXACT reaction to the first time I heard Venus Isle on the radio, had to pull over and just listen. Something EJ has always done for me. Thanks Eric!

[@pickinrick]

OMG how could you NOT have this song stuck in your head! Masterpiece

[@XxReeses]

This actually was stuck in my head a few days ago

[@davidbolick2449]

I studied this song religiously and was able to play it 1/2 speed. Life changing. Be sure to turn down your treble and bass, and up your mids, and also a nice delay/chorus/reverb is a must. Much love.

[@VanHalensApprentice]

David Bolick this song is the reason I got so good at guitar. When I first started I would practice for hours and hours and hours, just this one song. First song I ever learned and it basically set my foundation for guitar playing and to this day, Eric influences my playing so much.

[@fhanum9716]

i play it with my fretboard pick, high bass and treble and low mids, its the closest to it i can get with my amp since i dont have pedals or any effect available

[@joeshmoe7967]

I think the record plays this at half speed! LOL! If is funny how one always ends up way faster live than in the studio. I do the same, I have to really concentrate to keep the pace reasonable. I think it is the live vibe just gets you jacked up.

[@Payin_Attention]

@@joeshmoe7967 - I was told a long time ago that band deliberately record most of their songs a little slower than they play them live. The audience gets used to the songs at that slower tempo and that adds an extra energy to the live shows, when they hear them played "faster."

[@meowtrox1234]

Which key is it in?

[@jeffostroff]

That poor guitar is still cooling down 30 years later. I am a highly skilled guitarist, fully capable of playing the entire first note.

[@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342]

Big string open. Then at 15 for the smallest string. Then I kind of just get lost after that lol.

[@bur366]

I searched this song 16 years. First time heard it on my 15th birthday and it gave so much happiness, joy and hope! I still remember this day. Today I'm 31 and I found this song!!! I am so greatful! It is amazing!

[@doliveira-dev]

So satisfying playing this on Guitar Hero.

[@Smaptastic]

On easy mode.

[@aidanrocha2043]

Felt that

[@larryhouse8358]

Well you are correct! Haha

[@robgoins3672]

Yup my favorite song so chill.

[@lethean1757]

lol actually i think play this in a real guitar much more easier than guitar heroes expert mode

[@austinbensman6953]

2:11 always gives me goosebumps

[@lukeabrahamsen-collins808]

I wonder how he even wrote that

[@thebigonere]

check Matteo Mancuso's cover.... Mindblowing and......FINGERPICKING.......

[@mohammadwaled409]

@@lukeabrahamsen-collins808 over the course of like 4 years , maybe more.

[@benodaboy]

The whole thing gives me goosebumps

[@MinecrafterRedstoner]

@@lukeabrahamsen-collins808 It's from the G scale. Every musician who has practised a lot can easily do rapid scales. The harmony is more impressing than the scales. Sure it flashes a lot for people who don't really know anything about music theory, but it's not THAT difficult. I think that the most difficult part is the pressure from the audience. You play in front of thousands live, and in front of millions on the TV. 1 wrong note and everyone will notice (at least musicians will). Practise makes perfect. Practise your scales, vary the tempo and time signature, add some accidentals, rince and repeat for years, and you become great. A lot of work in there indeed

[@dpbeason]

Person curious about guitar: "How many notes are there on a guitar neck?" Eric: "Gimme a sec..." 4:58

[@khasul]

"I bought the whole fretboard, I'm gonna use the whole fretboard"

[@ottodregni1902]

When you watch in 2x speed he's taken steroids.

[@gloriousforever3451]

@@ottodregni1902 steroids dont make you fast. Stimulants do

[@gloriousforever3451]

Hes only playing 5 notes in different octaves, the pentatoninc scale (what hes playing in) only has 5 notes. But that doesnt make it less impressive

[@johnwriterpoet1783]

6 strings. From 21 to 24 frets. Now you can multiply.

[@NorthernComfort]

One of the greatest live performances ever recorded, incredible.

[@birtcher11]

I love how Tommy Taylor keeps the tempo in check when the whole band comes in. Eric's playing it a bit fast and Tommy forces him into the right groove. It's cool to hear Eric adjust to it

[@truthwinseverytime8805]

I noticed that too. 👍

[@SombraPiloto]

I love it when little things like this as Eric's hybrid picking at 2:04 are pointed out. Makes the comment section worthwhile.

[@User-jk8wq]

A great band is nothing without an equally great drummer!

[@FidoFerrari]

could you add the timestamp here please?