The Pat Metheny Interview

This interview was 5 years in the making. Pat is my favorite guitarist and biggest influence. The interview is 1:46 hours packed full of incredible stories and insights I never knew about Pat. He even played guitar which is something I have never seen him do in an interview setting. If you want to see more content like this or support my channel you can donate through this link on my website: rickbeato.com/pages/donate
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PAT METHENY was born in Kansas City on August 12, 1954 into a musical family. Starting on trumpet at the age of 8, Metheny switched to guitar at age 12. By the age of 15, he was working regularly with the best jazz musicians in Kansas City, receiving valuable on-the-bandstand experience at an unusually young age. Metheny first burst onto the international jazz scene in 1974. Over the course of his three-year stint with vibraphone great Gary Burton, the young Missouri native already displayed his soon-to-become trademarked playing style, which blended the loose and flexible articulation customarily reserved for horn players with an advanced rhythmic and harmonic sensibility - a way of playing and improvising that was modern in conception but grounded deeply in the jazz tradition of melody, swing, and the blues. With the release of his first album, Bright Size Life (1975), he reinvented the traditional "jazz guitar" sound for a new generation of players. Throughout his career, Pat Metheny has continued to re-define the genre by utilizing new technology and constantly working to evolve the improvisational and sonic potential of his instrument. METHENY'S versatility is almost nearly without peer on any instrument. Over the years, he has performed with artists as diverse as Steve Reich to Ornette Coleman to Herbie Hancock to Jim Hall to Milton Nascimento to David Bowie. Metheny's body of work includes compositions for solo guitar, small ensembles, electric and acoustic instruments, large orchestras, and ballet pieces, with settings ranging from modern jazz to rock to classical.
On September 10th, 2021 Modern Recordings will release PAT METHENY SIDE-EYE - NYC, an exciting, vibrant and energized new platform for Metheny, showcased in a recording that features 30 minutes of intricate new music set alongside a few unexpected and creative re-workings of Metheny classics re-imagined.
So, what is Side-Eye?
Pat explains, “I wanted to create an ongoing platform to host a rotating cast of the newer generations of musicians who have particularly caught my interest along the way. From my earliest days in Kansas City onward, I was the beneficiary of so many older musicians hiring me, which gave me a chance to develop through the prism of their experiences and the particular demands of what their music implied.”
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[@jaytolbert7538]

The Masterclass we've hoped would exist, has arrived.

[@MrBricameron]

Masterclass is exactly the right word.

[@howardpace7470]

Prodigy at Berkeley/preparation plus opportunities/Burton,Pastorias,Joni Mitchell ….and the most overlooked fact is that he never got caught up in drugs and alcohol..for a jazz musician that’s rare

[@hmeeks1]

I grew up with Pat. Played guitars in his basement, played in a band with him in high school - an ensemble of Pat, base, keyboard, french horn, trombone - a typical Pat unusual group! He is a tremendous guitar player as everyone knows, but he was also a great friend. I love this interview!!

[@jdlm9]

Must have some great stories. If there ever was a musician I’d actually watch a bio pic of, It’d be him. That classic Chuck Lorre text really gave an insight into his level as a teen.

[@torch1108]

Interesting! I would be surprised if the people of Lee's Summit really 🤔 understand or even care about the significance of Pat's contribution in the fabric of America's 🇺🇸 music.....Great memories for you my friend!

[@DefundTheFringes]

Any explanation of why he doesn't shrink his half-body-weight hair? You do reach an age where a haircut would be a good idea.

[@riceflatpicking4954]

@@DefundTheFringes Why don’t you post a picture of yourself in a swimsuit so we can critique you

[@palmsofdestin1]

Yeah, ok.

[@kevinremsen5627]

I saw Pat Metheney Group in 1998 as part of our high school jazz ensemble. Pat heard that there was a high school band in the audience and asked us to stand up, then he dedicated Minuano to us. Unreal moment.

[@cindipossidento5688]

What an honor !!!!! I too saw him in concert, one of the most talented, if not THE MOST TALENTED musicians EVER ! That is my favorite song he does…. MINUANO !!!!!!!😘

[@ugnug]

thats so sick

[@SBEdits]

Jesus Christ that sounds like a higher honor than like… the Purple Heart 😂😂😂

[@lauriesuzanne8848]

Minuano is otherworldly… an all time fave.

[@leilareed5064]

Pat Metheny has always been my FAVORITE jazz musician since I heard the first chord of Slip Away and I've been hooked on his music ever since. God be with you always 🎉

[@marce211275]

Every musician should watch and listen this phenomenal interview...it's a gem, it's a gift...

[@plinimusic]

this video is an absolute treasure, thank you Rick and thank you Pat for everything you both do

[@Cairah2013]

Yo

[@igogonzalez]

Thank you Rick and Pat and Plini

[@RickBeato]

@plini Thanks Plini! Let’s catch up soon my friend 🙏🏻

[@t3hgir]

Yo

[@louisdesilets1963]

@@RickBeato Mister Beato, please keep doing this. i think I will listen to this interview 10 times. I have watched it twice already; this is amazing.

[@philipatoz]

Rick is probably, BY FAR, the best prepared, technically and otherwise, knowledgeable and truly interested person to ever interview Pat. He so well knows his recording history and the various players surrounding it, that he instinctively knows the important, relevant and interesting questions to ask him. And you can tell that Pat really appreciates the opportunity and is really into the discussion. And after 40 whatever years of listening to PM, it has provided many wonderful insights. Rick is truly an unashamed fanboy for music and musicians he has a deep understanding of their genius and greatness!

[@GS-uy4xo]

Two amazingly clear memories at work / “Like it was yesterday” . This should be a 10 part series!

[@rogerm2420]

Wonderfully stated 👍😊

[@michaelechteld]

Yes. Yes.

[@JohnJohnCrusher]

No doubt!

[@jimleslie4738]

Ty by g

[@poemsandplaypieces]

Probably the best interview with a major musician I've ever heard. Rick has all the knowledge, sensitivity and self-confidence to let an extremely articulate, seminal artist just talk. When Rick does interject it's always an insightful, expert comment that lets Pat get into another fascinating line of thought. This is how it's done. ❤

[@KennyEvansUK]

Pat Metheny is a beautiful soul.

[@AimeeNolte]

Pat is so articulate and thoughtful. JUST LIKE HIS PLAYING. This interview is gold. Thank you for making it happen, Rick.

[@RickBeato]

Thanks Aimee!

[@projecktion7]

precisely. 👍

[@buzzsmith8146]

I wholeheartedly agree! Back then we were a contemporary dance band only (I was the arranger/keyboard guy), so a lot of cool music escaped me as it wasn't "dance able". I'm just now discovering a lot of great music that I didn't check into then. Not all, but quite a lot.

[@tommiepattonkendrickiii1617]

My aunt spelled her name just like you did. It's uncommon. And I love it... She passed away in 2013 and your name just reminded me of her. Her name, Aimee Petcen (Hutchinson was her maiden name). My family has a lot names that are spelled in an uncommon way. Much love and God bless!

[@redshield3296]

Fantastic observation! He’s such a good musician his personality comes out.

[@jeraldtowle2718]

I have to echo a previous commenter, this is what the internet was meant for. It's what humanity is for. Thank you so much Rick for sharing this with us. I was at that Wichita jazz festival with my high school jazz when Pat played with Gary Burton. I have been an avid fan since and loaned my Pat Metheny records to many young aspiring guitar players as required studying of how to develop a melody. Thank you Pat for all you've given us. As an aside, I don't know if you are in to this musician but, I think a good subject for an interview might be Ralph Towner. He has composed and played some beautiful songs and is a music educator. His band Oregon was a lesser known component of the jazz-classical-fusion scene but an important one none the less.

[@localmotion2035]

You're one previliged guy @jeraldtowle for sharing your experience with Mr. Metheny. I wish I have the opportunity too just like you and the rest of the musicians. All the best.!

[@bobriedinger5287]

AHH, Oregon! Music of Another Present Era ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ !

[@mikehartmann3858]

I love Ralph Towner too. That would be interesting. Solo Concert and Blue Sun are my favorites.

[@_P_M_]

Towner would be a great interview. That ECM sound.

[@kybernes]

Oh yes: Ralph Towner & other Oregon members like Paul McCandless - I'm a huge fan! - would be fantastic!

[@codybroken]

What a gloriously majestic lion's mane and what a sunny smiling face. A beautiful human being.

[@absta100]

He’s a Leo dude 🎉 ruled by the Sun 👑

[@johnhulsker1453]

My God, this man did not age !

[@BigBlackBe4r]

My brain just exploded. This is THE documentary with Pat Metheny I have ALWAYS hoped to listen to... This almost feels like some entity finally declassified some top secret documents and made them public after 30 years. Thank you so much for this !!!

[@Reapwhatsown]

Totally agree. I treasure the White album, but never really got to hear anyone chatting about it. So grateful.

[@CeeGeeZ]

I‼ KN🤓W‼❕🙃❗ KZbin algorithm REALLY G😄T IT RℹGHT, THℹS TℹME‼🤘😁 Now -- my Next METHENY 🤗✨🌈DREAM is to garner a copy of that Ph.D. that was done on hℹs musℹcal genℹus‼ 💭~🤔 ......

[@Joshlama]

@@imnotsure4149 You're brain isn't too small. There's a lot of great musicians out there and if you haven't heard of one until then it's your lucky day! Beato wrote a short bio of Pat Metheny in the description if you want to check it out.

[@norfitz]

@@imnotsure4149 Nah, just think of it as the first day of the rest of your musical life. I envy that you will hear this stuff for the first time if you pursue it.

[@simonjajava3]

Whaaaaaat?!?!?!? I’m not even half way through and this is one of the best things I’ve ever seen. This is not a gem, this is THE GEM. Thank you, Rick, THANK YOU 🙏🏼❤️♾

[@melodiclines2990]

Thank you! I need suggestion on improvisation

[@AnthonyGobeilleArtist]

Pat is a "FIRST NEW GUY" forever, dude just rocks

[@charlesmcgehee3227]

Pat really says a lot. He moves back and forth between topics yet keeps track of his thoughts. So he is easy to follow. A lot to be said about stayng sober and drug free as a musician. I'll bet his personality has been pretty stable over his adult life.Very interesting talk. And I am reminded that I miss Jaco.

[@mschubeck]

This can't be emphasized enough. There are a lot of great musicians that can no longer speak coherently and without the drug-induced side effects like degraded motor skills, memory loss, the vacant eyes, etc.

[@IAMMASONDAVIDSONGOBIN]

I've been playing bass for 30+ years... Jaco is just the next level of bass player... Love um always .. think about all the wonderful bass we'd have... Its tragic but... I betcha his soul is out there somewhere loving the bass guitar...

[@jorymil]

When you do drugs, you're essentially treating yourself as a science experiment where you're the lab animal. You might get lucky once or twice, but you run horrible risks.

[@jr.6199]

Drugs & alchohol keeps your prefrontal lobe from developing. So instead of being fully formed mature, informing your executive decision making at the age of 26, you may never get the coping skills and benefits of how best to take advantage of the opportunities coming your way. Life is what you make it, dont break this part of it.

[@haris-amin]

This is possibly the best interview of any musician or artist ever… I don’t think I am exaggerating

[@haris-amin]

Rick can you please do something similar with Scofield!!!

[@michaeldismukes4439]

Agreed

[@markrode4530]

Rick is a top quality interviewer. His enthusiasm, knowledge of the guests and ability and willingness to let them speak produces compelling viewing. There is something very captivating about watching two people in the moment in a real discussion.

[@RobertKeeleyTV]

Yes Please! John Scofield would be a treasure for sure. Rick, like everyone is saying, THIS is how you interview a musician. Setting the bar! Only you can do these types of interviews.

Agreed!!

[@CreamyBone]

I bet... a generation from now, young musicians will tell others that the Beato interview with Metheny back in the early 20's really turned on a light for them 😉👍

[@edclevel402]

Pat Metheny's music is the soundtrack of my life. This interview feeds my soul - thank you.

[@blackblake3658]

Me too. There is a song for every mood.

[@lp1926.guitars]

I can't wrap my head around the quality of these interviews

[@cris1186]

Simply incredible

[@RyanSmithGuitar]

Couldn’t click on this any faster Pat Metheny is a master of his craft and Bright Size Life is still one of the most beautiful things ever written

[@oscaralfaro7648]

I click thumb up in the very first second of the video

[@paulodiazthorpe438]

I bet they jammed but didnt recorded it..." oh red light was off..."😅

[@frankmarsh1159]

Me too. Rick said in another video it was going to be posted on Monday. Woke up every morning and checked my phone. Had to wait till Thursday. Anticipation...

[@outonthetiles]

I love him! The greatest! ✌️

[@Bubba-zu6yr]

@@gavinw5469, such insufferable bs… you need a breath of fresh air man. Are you one of those people that tear off one of the little phone numbers on a poster at the grocery for kittens just to call and tell them you don’t want any?

[@dananthony6258]

This show is really something special and unique. I really feel like this is the ultimate platform a musician can tell his musical journey like two musicians talking . It’s not a commercially motivated sales gimmick. I hope it grows into this direction continuing from here.

[@outonthetiles]

I love how Rick just lets the guest talk and tell his story. No talking over him. It’s really something special and we as fans are very lucky. ✌️

[@scottskillman]

Rick is quickly becoming the James Lipton of Music. Hopefully a sponsor will step up and support his art.

[@davidmiller9485]

@@scottskillman i miss J. Lipton. Especially his interviews with stars at the school.

[@phish1]

@@outonthetiles I was thinking the same thing! He never Interrupts him! So many interviewers just love to hear themselves talk and cut people off too soon.

[@melodiclines2990]

I love guitars, how do you improvise?

[@ronaldpuddu5325]

This interview with Pat together with the Julian Lage and Keith Jarrett interviews qualify you, Rick, to be nothing less than a national treasure. All praise for being such a brilliant listener.

[@gispel7058]

Yes. Rick allows the interview to be about the subject. Seems people he interviews have no problem understanding that the interview is going to be a great one. Rick brings that out with his confident insight and knowledge. Well done .! Pat was great with the Metropole Orchest....With Anna Jopek....and his music is very well recieved worldwide .

[@aeropilot4419]

Agreed

Add the one to Brad Mehldau

[@jeffs60s]

Pat Metheny is a national treasure.

[@richardjones2189]

An international treasure.

[@itsaboutchina732]

“Compared to Bach, we all suck” is probably the best quote ever!!!

[@uneedtherapy42]

1:15:30 the greatest comment ever indeed. The truest of truths!

[@RogerBarraud]

Funny that; Pat's improv/practice around "James" reminded me of Bach organ works.

[@jaybrecker]

@@RogerBarraud Break down James (especially the bridge) and it's totally Bach.

[@adipsous]

If only we had tape recorders during the Baroque period. Bach was known as an unbelievable improvisor (as were pretty much all the greatest composers, think Beethoven). He was based in Germany and he would meet up with other contemporary musicians/composers such as - for one example - Sylvius Leopold Weiss (a lutist, who, at the time was based out of Italy) and would have 'jam sessions', improvising on theme and variations and styles of the period. Musically speaking, it's the same damn thing as the communication and play that happens in jazz. It has been written - regarding Bach/Weiss - that observers couldn't say who was the better improvisor. But, as, I think, Pat speaks about in this interview, does that matter?

[@rocketshiptoaltair]

I've been quoting this since I first saw the interview.

[@tonekilltech]

"I've been wanting to interview Pat since the beginning..." Yes, Rick. Yes! This is unbelievably awesome!

[@frankmarsh1159]

Rick was the best guy for the job. He obviously worships Pat and knows his music yet he seemed completely at ease and had great questions. Pat was very talkative and I was surprised at how he talked about music in such an abstract fashion. His thoughts on melody and feel and illuminating the chords were colorfully descriptive and gave insight into his way of thinking. I especially liked when they talked about triads over bass notes. That is how I personally think about music. I was not aware that Pat writes his music on piano. Piano players think of triads over bass notes.

[@christophervaca7116]

Pat Metheny is very generous with his time and knowledge. Great interview.

[@Cai77]

Absolutely, well said

[@Imaginasaurus]

"I've spent a lifetime trying to get to the point where I understand, so that I can be." In all seriousness my favorite quote from the interview and encouraging to hear as an aspiring guitarist. Pat exudes joy and the smile that never leaves Rick's face put a smile on mine. This is what it looks like when you meet one of your heroes :)

[@Btone33]

My nickname is truthskr truth seeker. I don't know how a guy from the NYC housing projects was introduced to honest artists like Guru Bruce Lee, Jimi Hendrix, and Guru Pat Methney.... I vibrate different from many I grew up with. I have been and will forever seek "Me"

[@JazzzRockFuzion]

This is incredibly special. Pat has *never* appeared in any Jaco documentary, official or otherwise - to hear him talk so candidly (and warmly) about their early times together is such a singular, big deal. Thank you so much for what you do, Rick!!

[@Habichiwoowoo]

I am not a musician, at all; I don't understand 98% of the things you guys say, but I hope you know that the principles underlying this conversation are universal and, sadly, being forgotten. I am a playwright and an actor and I had no problem immediately applying those principles to the art I do understand. This is important stuff.

[@cezarsantana]

Very well said! And so so true!!

[@adampoe2797]

Very well put! Is universal regardless of Artform.or discipline Each to their own but 101 dislikes Just scratching my head;) Been waiting for this interview as well since coming across Rick's channel

[@fattmusiek5452]

music theory is jargon essentially to understand on a human level what is universal. thats tight that you were able to still extract the essence from it. rad

[@fattmusiek5452]

@@adampoe2797 you a musician? what do you like to do man?

[@LanceCampeau]

"Follow Me" One of the best tracks I've ever heard. Bar none.

[@CharlieHaber]

Pat Matheny played in Charleston tonight. I watch this video, this afternoon. I was afraid I wouldn’t understand the music with It’s technicalities. I went anyway. I listened, I enjoyed, I absorbed, I felt. It was amazing

[@heatherstub]

I'm so glad you did. I heard him here in Atlanta on the 12th of Feb., and I cried when it was over. I've been a huge fan of Pats, and I've been trying so hard to meet him, but alas, the pandemic has prevented us this time. It's so sad! I'm glad I asked my friend to pick me up after the concert. I just couldn't take Uber, and Vicki was actually glad to send her husband to pick me up, because she was super tired. I just couldn't be alone right after the show, because it's been so bad here in Atlanta. No one is safe here anymore, and the police are completely unreliable. People think they can take the law into their hands. Public transportation is virtually nonexistent, and people, (including me) don't even want to live here anymore. There is so much violence here, and too many gangs are ruling the streets! I needed that concert. I don't even watch the news, because it's just too depressing. If it weren't for my church family and Pat's music, I would have sold my house a long time ago and moved back to France if I could. I'm just glad I still have some sanity left, because it's totally out of control over here!

[@heatherstub]

I know Matheny is the Southern way to spell his last name, but it's Metheny.

[@restorationconcrete]

“Sometimes I’ll just play Falling Grace in all 12 keys for five or six hours!” And that ladies and gentlemen is why Pat Metheny is such a boss.

[@DanQueen]

Nice!

[@Dan.Hartington]

“I’ve spent a lifetime trying to get to the point where I understand, so that I can, be.” That was a very meaningful statement for me to hear from Metheny.

[@siddelly]

“I try not to eat before a show, I play better”

[@fretboardmaster70]

I was so lucky to see Charlie Hayden and Pat Metheny play their “Beyond The Missouri Sky”concert. I got to say Thank You to Pat and shake his hand after the show. Unfortunately Charlie had already left but Pat stuck around to chat and sign autographs. That concert hast to be one of my most memorable and treasured moments. Those small and intimate gigs are usually the best.

[@EItinerant]

Pat has been a beautifully significant part of my life since the late 70s. Yet I've never heard him really talk music. Until this. An absolute JOY this conversation is!

[@king-manu2758]

You can tell Rick is so happy he's about to burst out of his body.

[@sonovoxx]

...watch Rick off to the side while Pat is playing through James - he's not only in his element, but inside his head all he can hear is "Omg! I'm here! This is me! I'm on a one to one with Pat, and he's playing!" I think if Pat had turned round and said "Hey Rick, grab that guitar there and we'll jam..." he would have just passed out! 😂 Brilliant interview!

[@JediRastafari]

@@sonovoxx Literally a mind out of body experience for Rick.

[@king-manu2758]

@@sonovoxx oh God, how I wish Pat would have a sort of guitar "Bob Ross" show where he'd play guitar and talk about chords(or whatever else) . I'd watch every one of them even if I didn't understand any of it (I'm just a dumb drummer who loves guitar)

[@moistgooseberry]

YOU INTERVIEWED PAT METHENY my mind is blown!!! Thank you so much Rick for your incredible content!!

[@erichhonecker8548]

I was in a taxi and heard Off Ramp for the first time. I bought most every album and the 1990's for me will always be the Pat Metheny decade! God bless you my friend!

[@joanneramsey7723]

Just saw Pat Metheny’s solo performance tonight at the Lyric Theater in Stuart Fl. I was moved to tears, that’s how phenomenal it was.

[@minigrok]

Rick's job is really tough on this one. He's looking at the interviewee in the eyes for almost 2 hours, nodding, smiling, and intervening sparsely, to make Pat feel comfortable and chat away. Most interviewers nowadays, especially those who are expert at the subject matter of the interview such as Rick, prefer to have a starring role in the interview, ruining the chance for the interviewee to go deeper, to be more candid and even to tell things he hasn't before in public. Rick refrains from this attitude, and that makes it all the more commendable. This is awesome interviewing.

[@steveleeatfullmeasure]

A pro job.

[@SPW812]

It’s a love of a subject and respect for the artist.

[@eivind105]

I guess it comes natural, as he’s seemingly struck by the utterly awesome interviewee and the fact that this is actually happening :) Who wouldn’t be?

[@Jeffero28]

It really is well done. The only thing that would make it better is if Pat had a guitar and played some things. But I'm sure that was his choice not to.

[@wombleofwimbledon5442]

@@Jeffero28 1:30:00

[@monkreeder]

I’m thrilled to hear someone as legendary as Pat say that your channel is a huge service to musicians. I agree wholeheartedly.

[@mpcoleman]

Agreed!!!

[@bullit2]

I bought American Garage when it first came out. I was stunned at the beauty of that record and have been a fan ever since. I was so sad to learn that Lyle Mays had past away. The music he and Pat made was pure genius. I’m so glad I was able to see the band on the tour for American Garage.

[@jtkilowatt9941]

In about 1995, I was getting my G3 Mac repaired in Tarzana CA and the guy next to me was also getting his G3 repaired (Apple's buggiest Mac). He was very, very thin and had a genuine, kind smile. I saw him sign the repair slip... Lyle Mays. To this day, I regret not saying anything.

[@jorymil]

I would really love to hear a follow up interview about Pat's relationship with Lyle: there was something amazingly special about the way those two worked together, and now that Lyle's no longer with us, Pat, Steve Rodby, Danny Gottlieb, etc., are the ones who knew Lyle best.

[@jjsc4396]

Particularly Steve Rodby - an extraordinary bass player and producer. Pat literally said he learned more about more things from him.

[@jtkilowatt9941]

I agree! For me, their partnership was the best time for Pat. Similar to Brubeck and Desmond. Pilot and Co-Pilot on the same journey.

[@donatellodiclemente7527]

We all know that Pat Metheny is a music legend, but what impressed me most was how clever he is. He's curious, sensibile and very logical. That's not only a music talent, but it's also about being very present, brilliant and knowing exactly how things work. He could have been a brilliant engineer or a top hitech manager. Well done Rick. It is an excellent insight.

[@reidwhitton6248]

Pat is a deep thinker. Artists with brilliant minds are very detailed oriented. No stone is left unturned.

[@renorailfanning5465]

@@reidwhitton6248 Steve Vai is the same way.

[@JediRastafari]

@@renorailfanning5465 "Was" the same way, Pat still "IS" that way. Huge difference, but I agree.

[@HughesHallinLA]

This may be THE definitive Pat Metheny interview.

[@danielelise7348]

Pat's attitude to so many things is very refreshing, he's not afraid to say anything,I love it.❤

[@mortalflower1]

As a musician, listening to these guys talk reminds of how much of my life I've wasted!

[@TheContingencyPlan]

Just stare at RIck's face when Pat is talking. He can't believe he's sitting there.

[@americanwavesaudio1962]

*I* can't believe he is sitting there!

[@07blackdog]

He's a great interviewer.

[@ourjuliet]

Exactly! Wtf.

[@payblo2734]

I love how Rick is trying to hide his gleaming schoolboy smile at the start.

[@jamesgrandisonmusic]

This makes me cry every time, so insightful. Anyone else?

[@heatherstub]

Yes! I just heard Pat in concert this evening and still didn't get to meet him, and I've been trying for 42 years! Yes, I cried! His music has been a sort of lifeline for me, especially during some of the most difficult struggles with chronic, debilitating pain throughout much of my life. When he was honored by the Society for Neuroscience in 2018, I cried happy tears, because his music has helped me become more capable of dealing with it. In fact, just before being put under anesthesia in 2009 when I had a 3-hour operation on my brain to remove a Venus malformation and a piece of bone which had been thrust into the brain when I was seven, I asked my care team if they could play "Slip Away" before they put me under. Not only did they, they also played it as I went under. I've suffered through nearly 48 years of Bilateral, Atypical Trigeminal Neuralgia. There were many times I'd pass out from it. Two hospitals, 3 neurologists and a neurophysicist all said that I had the worst case they'd ever seen. It took 30 years just to finally be diagnosed. Finally, in 2020, I started acupuncture, and in 2021, I started Infarred Laser therapy and have my own Laser Pen now to use when it flares up. Even after that surgery, I still suffered for several years until i started receiving Botox, and now I'm off the opioids! No more Gabapantin or Lyrica! It's just Cymbalta and Baclofen, and I can't believe how good it feels to sing! I want to sing "The First Circle" so much, because it's my favorite song of all time. Dr. Pat Metheny's music has been a salve for the soul, an elixir for the mind and a fundamental source of encouragement and hope for my complex PTSD. I've got to meet him and tell him, but I keep missing him, and I've been trying for 42 years. I also sing with two choirs in the Orthodox Christian Church, and I love it when he talks about being on the bandstand, because it's church to me, too.

[@Jskins]

Another great interview! "The drummer is the leader of every band" This is a quote from one of the most acomplished Guitarist of all time. Going to see him tonight!

[@ricardomaffeo977]

Rick, this was a major contribution to the culture of the Universe. This will be watched for centuries. Thanks!! 🙏🏻

[@kentonbond1404]

YEOP!! I BET IT WILL GET A FOOTNOTE IN THE HITCHHIKER S GUIDE TO THE UNIVERSE AT THE NEXT PRINTING AND WILL BE AS IF A SIGNPOST !!

[@russellszabadosaka5-pindin849]

@Ricardo Maffeo understatement of the year. For me as a pianist and piano teacher, I’m excited by a couple of things they said that vindicated my own views that fall outside the proverbial box. Things I’ve taught that successfully set up “aha!” moments for a few students down the road. That makes it all worth it!

[@retsub3]

Sounds like the outlandish exclamations of a madman (or someone _really_ high). Thing is, you're probably right 🤔

[@RicG.]

Pat is 67 years old, but looks like he's in his forties! Wow, he looks good. I had the great fortune to see him in concert in Austin sometime in the mid to late 1970's. It was an amazing show to say the least.

[@oscaralfaro7648]

And the voice si so clear like he was in the twenties!!!

[@NeilRaouf]

no drugs, no cigs, no coffee, no alc….incredible

[@sidilicious11]

Same age as moi, cool. I remember him playing the college circuit when I was 19 or so, which means he was fabulous quite young.

[@sketchur]

No joke, I saw him here and immediately thought he's way younger than I'd previously thought. But 67 sounds about right. He does look like he's in his 40s. Wild.

[@ariesarethebest271]

@@NeilRaouf I am straight edge like that. Never been drunk, don't do any drugs, don't smoke. Pat is my inspiration to stay straight edge.

[@acopp6891]

I discovered the amazing Pat Metheny through Pedro Aznar; an incredible multiinstrumentalist (he plays mainly the bass) and musical prodigy from Argentina (my country). At the age of 24, he joined "Pat Metheny Group". He did the vocals on the album "Letter from home". One of my favorites is "Dream of the Return" (There's a recent live version of it performed on live by Aznar, which is exquisite by the way). That man removed the frets from his first bass when he listened to Jaco Pastorius for the first time (after being mesmerized by the sound of it). Before playing with Pat, he'd played in the greatest argentinian (and south american) rock band of all time "Serú Giran" with 18 years old!! (people use to call it "The argentinian Beatles"). The way Pedro played the fretless bass being that young is otherworldly (I'm not exaggerating at all). Charly Garcia, a musical GENIUS (literally) and "leader" of the band, was the one who chose Pedro to be part of it. Great, great interview. Enjoyed every minute of it. It's awesome to see how these two men have great respect, knowledge, commitment and love for music. The part when Pat ends up saying "FEEL is the THING" and Rick agrees is very inspiring

[@Tlacaelel1402]

Hey, argento, qué grandes músicos en Argentina, impresionante Aznar y mi ídolo Spinetta

[@gregorymccasland2874]

Watching this again I am again amazed at your interviewing technique Rick. You make a comment or ask a question and then you let your interviewee go. A lot of interviewers love the sound of their own voice way too much. Not you, you let the interviewee expound and you LISTEN! A remarkable skill. I could listen to you talk all day but during interviews you let the subject Of the interview be the focus. Amazing work.

[@jefframminger1420]

Rick, I don't think I've ever listened to - or read - an interview with a musician that I admire that has had the impact on me that this interview has. Your depth of knowledge and interview style perfectly complement Metheny's thinking and how he articulates his perspectives and experiences. Your ability to call out specific tunes and records gave such depth to the discussion - and it was just fun to watch and listen. I'm a bassist - and one of the first deep "woodshed" things I did was learn a couple of Mark Egan's solos off of the "white" album. At 62, I can't remember things from a month ago sometimes - but I can still remember those solos! Congrats on a simply marvelous job.

[@geerthofmanmusic940]

Spot on! Very well articulated!

[@elfferich]

24:30, "'the drummer is the leader of every band "'. I like it when Pat says this. Not many people know this, and in general the drummer is not seen as an important or intelligent member of the band. But of course they are.

[@tb6791]

I know absolutely nothing about what you guys are discussing but I simply cannot stop watching 🤯

[@jasonferrara3629]

Pat Metheny is the man. That “Wichita Falls” record is amazing

[@TheSteinbitt]

Lyle pulls his weight on that one!

[@MOTOMINING]

Are You Going With Me? Is my favorite

[@haydenquakenbush8626]

Oh man, It's For You is so awesome!

[@bongofury333]

Life changing record. Pur it in my casket, I'm taking that one with me.

[@rymalia]

Dude, right off the bat, Pat is full of compliments of Rick's "thing"... this is fantastic.

[@christophertaylor9100]

He's right, though. Hes making a huge difference in music, Rick Beato is doing brilliant, wonderful work

[@RogerBarraud]

Every bit deserved, In My Opinion.

[@craigallen6403]

Rick is one of the absolute best interviewers period: 1) A perfect gentleman; 2) Insightful, interesting questioning; 3) He LISTENS (he's totally secure with who he is as a person, not feeling the need to interrupt/talk, etc.). I love this channel. I can't imagine the amount of work it is to maintain this level of a channel. What a gift.

[@MarttiSuomivuori]

Pat makes the best driving music. His music is unique in the way it creates images. I have to confess, I have listened to the albums for three decades and I never knew what the guy looks like. Good to see you. Thank you for the feels you've given. You are special.

[@KeeganPowellmusic]

Pat is a gem. I saw him when I was in grade 6 around 2004 or 2005 on The Way Up tour. At the time I was into Green Day and Blink 182. At the end of his show I was blown away but confused that they essentially didn't stop for the whole hour and a half the show consisted of. I asked my dad who brought me to the show "How many songs did he play?.." He calmly said "Four songs"..It changed how I looked at music.

[@jerzyboczek749]

Pat leaves his mark on the mind for whole life

[@sovereignbrehon]

I saw him on that tour too and after the first "song" which was almost an hour long, he jokingly said, OK, goodnight! Then played for another hour. The other times I saw him he played for closer to three hours. Amazing.

[@BHJ7115]

Rick is a great interviewer. He talks just enough and when he does he's in the groove.

[@thekevinkaye]

I don't think Rick stopped smiling throughout the entire interview. :)

[@RyanRaimondi]

Pat Metheny is beast!!!!! Rick, YOU INTERVIEWED A LEGEND!!!!!!!

[@JediRastafari]

YES! He did!

[@matspersson5188]

I think this is the best interview about music I’ve ever seen and heard.

[@renleblanc2993]

" we all suck compared to Bach" - made me spill my drink!

[@AbhishekRai-xc6zc]

Jacob Collier has left the chat😅

[@GuitarKitchen]

Ya, one of many very wise words spoken here!

[@luizdejesus6240]

I have relistened to this interview along with a number of other interviews by you. All I can say is "FINALLY!!" someone who can properly interview musicians. No questions of favorite food or how to categorize music. Only intelligent questions by a subject mater expert. You have no idea how good these interviews are. Years from now, they will be considered the gold standard of music interviews...

[@tylon2999]

FINALLY

[@honeytoes]

so true!

[@Malachitheservant]

Cough cough NARDWAUR

[@cliffdavis5244]

Amen to that❣️

[@mikedee5253]

Both these men have command of the English language

[@pat557]

Pat's concerts have a way of changing a person's entire conception of what music can be. His mindset has always fascinated me; to be so laser focused on all things music with no letup. I dont know if that can be cultivated-- not at his level. I think he's just wired/ born that way. Stunning

[@bradford_shaun_murray]

The Methmeister is definitely one of a kind.

[@acooksla]

Agreed, just saw him tonight in Barcelona for the fifth time. He is still mind blowing and magical. I have been a fan since 1975!

[@katdog1738]

The pure joy and humility of genius

[@olafwilhelm4684]

These Interviews are historical artefacts of another league in times to come. Pretty sure very few of us alive can comprehend what service to the arts and to humanity Rick is doing here.

[@christopherdavidson6717]

Well said

[@MichaelFlynn0]

absolutely.

[@vikingsword5440]

This.

[@StewartGartland]

Yep!

[@DrGregC]

What I was about to say...

[@Thumper_guitar]

I used to teach journalism and had a unit on how to prepare for an interview. After watching this, I believe Rick has been preparing his entire life to interview Pat!

[@ericfricke4512]

Yup! He mentioned in a stream after the Sting interview that he doesn't prepare much for these, and all his knowledge is simply what he has already learned over the years as a fan and student of the music. He said he wants it to flow naturally, like an improvisation.

[@sammiami2654]

The best musician interview I've ever seen. Metheny is incredibly open. BTW the best music show I've ever seen was a Pat Metheny Group show in Seattle sometime around 1990 just prior to the release of Letter From Home and a number of tunes on the album were featured. The band was just stunning in their musicianship.

[@brandonware9335]

Amazing!! The man just connects like Gary Burton said in his interview (also amazing!!). I didn't really know much about Pat Matheny but based on this interview, I started checking out his records. Then I saw him live in Denver. Unbelievable, one of the best concerts I've ever seen! Well done Rick. This channel has completely changed my view of music.

[@pedrocampos5640]

I love the way Rick simply allows his guests to speak and develop their ideas. It happened on all Satch, Vai, Lukather, Frampton and now Metheny interviews. Awesome!

[@stevenjones6780]

He's so good at that, but I really liked the intercvhange between Rick and Eric Johnson.

[@christophegragnic8681]

I would have loved to hear Pat's sentence ending at around 48:23 though.

[@ianvalentine9728]

Rick, I just donated $20.00 to you because this might be the greatest interview of a musician that I've ever seen. Amazing!

[@lanhet]

Fantastic interview, and you can tell Pat has great respect for Rick, which is probably the reason why it's so good. In 1979 I attended a Jean-Luc Ponty concert in Montreal, and Pat was the opening act. I had heard him on Gary Burton albums and had obviously been impressed with his sound and playing, but that show literally blew my mind. It was in fact so good that I barely listened to the Ponty concert afterwards. A few weeks later I was walking downtown in my native town of Trois-Rivières, and a saw a poster advertising a Pat Metheny Band concert at the local Cultural Center. I called all my friends and told them they had to see that show. It turned out that there were around 35 people attending the concert and I knew all of them. It was just amazing, and I've been an avid fan of Pat ever since.

[@Jeanbeaugeste]

"Are yu going with me" and "James" have always been my favorites I can listen to them over and over again first time I heard AU LAIT it was over the Parisian radio FIP I was hooked it was such an aerial feeling of white clouds floating and floating over a blue sky on a lazy summer aftenoon, I was lucky enough to go to his concert in Paris at the mythical Olympia he was so generous and giving it all... amazing musician, totally devoted to music. And so honest and humble when he said "compared to Bach we all suck"....! Love you Pat !

[@401xyz]

Hello, moi aussi, "Are you going with me" if i had to chose one piece of his,, deserted on an island, et J.S.Bach, cheers📷🗼.

[@joehamiltonsongs]

Rick---this is a diamond of an interview. We all know Pat is on his own level, we‘ve always known it. We are now closer to understandig why.

[@Gauchothedog]

You got that,mate..100%

[@TheoSmith249]

Agreed = rick did a masterclass with his interview w/PM

[@Cambodia69]

I'm too inarticulate to adequately express how grateful I am for this.

[@ouichtan]

Incidentally, your comment somewhat proves you wrong 🙃

[@fabianmallmann4834]

"I spent a lifetime trying to understand so I can be." ... I mean...come on...never heard anything more true about music and life ever.

[@NG-Lespaul]

What an awesome guy PM seems to be! Genuine, humble, straight shooter and funny as hell!! Great interview!!!!!!!

[@MartinMillerGuitar]

I got goosebumps.

[@andreskosberg4566]

hi Martin

[@dclucky2477]

Same!

[@songmule]

YOUR playing gives me goosebumps, Martin!

[@exerciserelax8719]

Cool man, which part was most interesting or inspiring to you? Did Pat influence your playing? What have you picked up from him?

[@diegobergara9989]

mind blowing

[@srcohiba]

I could listen to Pat for another 90 minutes. He's the GOAT.

[@lostreverb9806]

Just watched it for the tenth time. I love Pat Metheny and like he himself says, Rick, you’re doing an absolute gem of a service to us musicians with this channel. 💯

[@Larriex97]

This interview is a treasure for people who want to become musicians and for people who want to dedicate to a passion and make it become a serious thing. Thank you Pat, thank you Rick as always ❤️

[@siriusfeline]

100 years from now, this interview will be referenced by musicians and students of music for about 1000 different reasons. Thank you, Rick, and thank you, Pat.

[@Gerhold102]

Only if the musicians spoken about are described formally. Given names abound, but no surnames are provided - nor are personal details given. I've read a lot about the musicians Metheny was involved with, so I'm catching the historical development of his collaborators from information that's aside from this interview. A hundred years from now students of Metheny, Mays and Pastorius will need and want context in which to place this discussion about their music. Non-musos even more so because much of the technical info will be very difficult to understand - so listening to their recordings will be essential for them to get a feel for what's going on.

[@rk41gator]

@@Gerhold102 For serious historians/musicians, their research will certainly provide that context. Good thing WE have the internet, eh?

[@Gerhold102]

@@rk41gator Cannot abide sycophantic interviews like this where the interviewer acts like a fifteen year old schoolgirl who's in with the in-crowd. Had I not known who they were talking about I'd have been looking for a muso called "Jocko". That's how the subtitling interpreted it.

[@rk41gator]

@@Gerhold102 To each his own and of course you are entitled to be 'disappointed' with the interview. But I do not see it as fawning. After the intro I felt that they were mutually appreciating the jazz musicians who preceded them both while discussing 'modern' developments. I am not a big fan of Pat's approach/sound yet can see the depth of his understanding and musical concepts. But it is more fun to troll.

[@brianogrady9883]

@@Gerhold102 And yet Pat and his peers love Rick's "thing" enough to spread the gospel and Pat actually come in for an interview.

[@Ross49er]

Rick is one of the most knowledgeable, respected and enthused music experts and educators (and an excellent guitarist) in Social Media land. Pat Metheny is one of the greatest guitarists, and one of the most musically intelligent players, on the planet. Put the two together and you’re guaranteed one of the most informative, detailed, highly insightful, enlightening and ridiculously relaxed interviews you’re likely to hear or see. Those of us not in 'the profession' but who attempt to chat to the more serious musician/ artist on a more cerebral and musical level can only dream of aspiring to this expertise of interview and interviewer knowledge, in the company of a true genius of his art. Outstanding Interview.

[@RickBeato]

Outstanding comment :)

[@babaana]

Thank you, thank you, thank you, both of you, thank you.

[@adamelfersmusic]

Rick is a saint. Pat is my musical hero. I love how sincerely Rick approaches everything. He's a cultural treasure. Thank you, Rick Beato.

[@IAmExperienced]

Pat Metheny is one of America's national treasures-and so is Rick Beato. Both priceless.

[@Lovetrain-io6kt]

Paul Simon too

[@MusicLiberates]

Pat Metheny: “ ‘Good luck’ is where preparation meets opportunity.” Great interview!!

[@jjsc4396]

Rick, if Pat sees Steve Rodby as his number one teacher, you’ve got to see if you can interview him. He is also the ultimate pocket/feel bass player with a subtle, uniquely perfected phrasing. And as a producer…..wow.

[@ninovasev]

this man and lyle overwhelmed my musical world...and they are still there

[@YourFoodBank]

I’ve never watched such a seamless coherent interview

[@sdubon7800]

I’ve been a Metheny fan forever. How could I not be? Best musicians attract best musicians, like Lyle, Jaco, Nana, Toots. So grateful for your music, Pat! You’ve outdone yourself, Rick! Kudos.

[@stevenheath741]

Well said…

[@mickster655]

I've been a fan 'Always and Forever' too. This interview got my attention!!!

[@raptango_na6199]

I had a friend give me Secret Story back in '92. She just hated it. It was the first time i heard PM. To this day one of my favorite albums

[@jcarrigan3274]

@@raptango_na6199 Great album. Was the first time I got to see Pat live. Feels like another lifetime at this point.

[@MrBricameron]

In the words of Bowie. Look at that hair!

[@NLincolnHanks]

“I have spent a lifetime trying to get to the point where I can understand so that I can… be.”

[@reformedstoic1581]

Blown away by his quote about drummers running the band. Good stuff Pat!

[@mikedee5253]

From the guy who came up with Jaco Pastorious, perhaps THE most incredible bass player ever.

[@MattyK-USA]

Holy sh*t. I am a 60-year-old music fanatic and I have listened to and loved Pat Metheny's music for literally decades. Thank you Rick for bringing legends like Pat into the "here and now" zeitgeist. I also think that I may deserve a few + Internets for the use of "zeitgeist" in a relevant sentence. At any rate, this is an instant classic interview.