Fortunes of Failure | The Road Taken

[@thebillykeith]

I have cystic fibrosis, diabetes, and I was born with that cleft palate and lip. But I'm grateful for all of those things. When I first heard AC/DC at the age of 9, I knew I had to do the guitar thing. Thanks to having cystic fibrosis, Gibson guitars gave me a Les Paul through the Make-A-Wish foundation. Marshall amps gave me a cool Valvestate 2×12 and that rig put me on my path. I've never given up on music. Being sick and spending well over a year in the hospital throughout my life, is the reason I met my girlfriend who was my nurse! We've been together for 15 years now. Don't get me wrong; being sick certainly sucks, But it allowed me to rock and find love in this life. Thank you Rick. And thank you to those reading my comment. Rock on.

[@RevShifty]

That sounds like a hell of a ride, and you still came out on top. That's awesome. More power to you, and I hope every day is better than the last for you.

[@lisaeischens2352]

Thanks for your story! I hope you’re doing well.

[@rickgruffman7132]

Yes, brother, rock on. Cool comments.

[@1taylorgibson]

That’s fantastic. I have never questioned my limited guitar ability but only enjoyed being able to play what i play. It gets better and better as time goes on and i appreciate that ability now that i’m older.

[@gerongrahamgg]

Hell yeah!

[@craigfazekas3923]

I had stage 3 colo-rectal cancer, was unemployed during that time & my ex-wife betrayed both me & my mother financially....I was mortified at the time. I am now clear of cancer & have the best job I've ever had, paying the most money I've ever earned.... I can totally relate, Rick. And I thank God every day ❣❣🚬😎

[@RPMX4]

Keep the faith my good man. Congrats on your new life. You've earned it. God bless ya!

[@craigfazekas3923]

@@RPMX4 Thank you. Yes, it was a bad, bad time. I don't know what I did to deserve such a great outcome, but I'll take it. I also kicked an opioid addiction (pills), too- which I purposely did not mention, but just recanted on that.... This is all gravy now to me. I know full well that I could just as easily not be here. I do thank God everyday. Sometimes, I get a little twinge of what feels like survivor's guilt. As in, "why me" ? I was able to beat cancer when so many are not. God willing, I hopefully licked addiction, where others cant. Life is just so, so funny sometimes. Just how does one perceive such things ?....🚬😎

[@creativesource3514]

Amazing story. You were so strong to make it from that hugely difficult situation.

[@peacefuljeffrey]

Rock on!

[@ziggyvertov1829]

Yeah Craig! Feel the power!

[@jamesj7444]

My favorite Rick Beato video is now a video that isn't as much about music as it is about life. Well done, sir.

[@MrJumboblimpjumbo]

Nice to be sitting across the table from you Rick, it feels like we're having lunch at a cafe...with wicked amps

[@JBrooksNYS]

I like to imagine I’m sitting at the table telling me this story while he’s playing footsies with me the whole time

[@scottriddle5468]

Oh my goodness, hmmm

[@manuele.itriagom.728]

He faces me with the wicked amps behind him while I face him with my amplitube 5 plugin. Good times

[@pjhj3687]

God works all things together for good...

[@lokiop345]

I know check those Orange amp selection!!!

[@RC32Smiths01]

A musical career is quite a difficult one to commit to for a multitude of reasons in this day and age, but you are quite an inspiration to us all Rick. Thank you for all you do

[@TheDirge69]

ditto, my thoughts as well..

[@generalawareness101]

I agree. He is slightly older than I am and inspired me to try to learn the electric guitar again.

[@RC32Smiths01]

@@TheDirge69 yeah!

[@RC32Smiths01]

@@generalawareness101 I wish you the best of luck on your journey! Guitar can definitely change a person for the better

[@generalawareness101]

@@RC32Smiths01 I tried it 16 years ago and put it in the gig bag and my amp. I took it out last month and I had to wait on some tools as it needed a fret job. Doing it myself and 20 frets to go. This guitar was made badly for the fret work so I am fixing what caused me to give up back then. I can do D-Chord now and A-Chord to some extent then moved to the E-Chord and the issues hit me again. 400 USD for fret work for a 259 guitar in 2005? Not in 2021 for me.

[@yougoseo1580]

You probably don't remember me. . .but I remember U! I was skeptical at first. . .I came to your first seminar. . .(4 Summers ago in Decatur). thinking "Is this guy for real?" You're wife showed up in the middle of the seminar With your kids Dylan et al. . .and you began to cry (slightly) when they all showed up to support you. You asked them something about a pixar movie thing. . one of the children (maybe Dylan) was spot on with the correct response~I thought to myself. . .This is a good man. . .This is a good dad. . .This guys' the real deal!" Thanx Rick! I will always follow you! You are true!

[@SyntagmaStation]

Take note, friends. Lot of kismet in this perspective. He’s an existentialist at heart. With huge balls. Being 36 and trying to make it in the music biz. That’s harsh. Trying to be self-employed and find a way to make a living on your own at any age is brutal. I just love the idea the Rick is where he is. Lot of perseverance.

[@ricopetrilli1084]

I've been self employed most of my adult life (40 years). Made many mistakes. Even when it seems hopeless, in the back of your mind there is always one last chance. Somehow you point yourself into a direction of maybe unkown but if you put yourself out there, destiny seems to find you somehow, someway.

[@gizmo5925]

Well, also having lots of talent doesn't hurt either.

[@tripp8833]

@@gizmo5925 What talent? That’s insulting. It’s about hard work not talent.

[@zeth7109]

@@tripp8833 i'd say both

[@yallaaAIC]

@@gizmo5925 Dont mistake talent for hard work.

[@boblob2003]

I had a lesson with a "famous drummer" my first semester at Berklee. The guy was one of the reasons I went there. He was a no show my first lesson... no show my second lesson... totally destroyed me my third lesson. Just insulted me and didn't teach me anything. I was devastated and really wondered if I should rethink my career plans. He stopped showing up altogether and I was able to change teachers to a guy who played like Jack Dejohnette- totally inspired me, challenged me and took my playing to a new level. The next year someone I didn't know that well came up to me after a recital I played in and said, "wow, I liked your playing more than __famous drummer__". Never. Give. Up!

[@wickedcoolname399]

Come on, you have to out the famous drummer!

[@youngandrew66]

I taught a youngster for 3 yrs from scratch who took off like a rocket. When I could teach him no further I had a word with my ego and we agreed to free him to find a tutor on the 'next level'.. A while later I caught up with his father who said he'd gone briefly to a guy who'd been at a flash music college in London and was now sharing his knowledge. Aside from a 20 mile drive to Manchester the guy also charged £40 a lesson (and we're not talking a rich father here) . However from what I gathered he'd had no band or songwriting experience and was apparantly a nervous wreck due to the stress of competition in music school. My point? Experience is more important than any major 7th arpeggio. Get playing with people and start learning to play SONGS.

[@duffbaker9554]

Kenny Aronoff?

[@lamper2]

You're not angry enough to name him? i would

[@roomdog40]

Dude, gotta name him.

[@leeanderson9486]

There’s something so engaging about how Rick tells his stories that I think I would buy a DVD box set of, “Rick explains how paint dries”. 👍

[@w.sandfordwalsmanviolins5660]

I got a real laugh from this comment because it's 1000% true. Rick's authenticity, charisma whatever you want to call it is what attracts all of us. Spot on comment.

[@aidanquinlan7990]

I love all these stories Rick, I could listen to you talk for hours on the things that happened in your life

[@von0410]

Your god dam right

[@kevie3]

Same Aidan

[@robertchavez5483]

For sure, me too

[@p-Claud73]

Yup

[@sideshowlol]

Enjoyed it the first time. Enjoyed it just as much this time around. Rich, your story is inspirational. My gut tells me that whichever way the cards had fallen in your life, good things were going to come your way eventually. The way things worked out has been great because so many of us have benefitted from all your years of determined and disciplined effort. I’m also grateful to your folks for bringing you up the way they did. Maybe they are the silent stars in all of this?

[@gordonmills2748]

You just never know. I was working as a struggling radio DJ in a small town when I got a call during my afternoon show. The guy was the program director at a #1 station in the big town. He said "what are you doing?" I said I'm doing my show. He said "wouldn't you rather be doing your show on my station?" Wait, what? He was in town and listening, and decided right then and there he wanted me to take over afternoons from him as he was moving to mornings. He wanted me to start right away. I said I need to think about it. He said "great, I'll call you back in an hour." I told my boss what happened, and he said "if you don't take that job I'll kick your ass!" I went from eating no brand mac n cheese and ramen noodles to being the #1 afternoon show on the highest rated hit music station (by audience share) in the country. Life is weird sometimes.

[@johnnyfranklin8520]

Moral of your story: participation trophies keep you from true participation. It's the failures, rejections, broken hearts, and humiliations in life that lead one on the road to success. True Grit.

[@northeastqueenstptp5652]

Exactly....it’s the personal hardships that build character 💙💙💙

[@codysroom6303]

Agreed

[@lokiop345]

Well said... ask the Beatles about that !

[@pamwatson5905]

I love hearing Rick's stories. He is such a talented musician and he deserves wider recognition .

[@jakerjohnson38]

@@jiveturkey9993 those were top guys quite a while ago my man.

[@NRG2]

I think people have noticed 🤘😆

[@bombercountyblues]

Seriously?? I mean, I agree with you about rick. But you think 2.2 million subscribers represents a lack of recognition??

[@Hesohi]

2.2 million subscribers and a signature Gibson guitar on the way. Well deserved for sure but certainly recognized.

[@extradimension7356]

Great story / well told / super interesting.

[@Bendit1974]

This isn't a music story. This is a life lesson. Thank you.

[@ffggddss]

Thanks, Rick, for telling this. Deliver it as a high-school graduation address, and you could change lives. It's all well and good to have aphorisms, like, 'when life hands you lemons, make lemonade,' but concrete stories like yours, are far more compelling. They are the "stuff" of which those aphorisms are mere condensations. Fred

[@peterhunt7680]

Let’s be fair. We all want the Beato Autobiography. Millions of stories to tell.

[@xxxdougiefreshxxx]

*Beatobiography

[@user__214]

My vote's for Autobeatography

[@denverrandy7143]

I'd buy it for sure. Rick is the Anthony Bourdain of the music industry👍

[@buckmurdock2500]

I'd settle for the Beato Book ! ! !

[@williamperry1462]

That would be so awesome!!

[@zummo61]

Being rejected can be freeing. After that, you owe nothing to anyone but yourself!

[@f1jones544]

As Janis said, freedom's just another word for having nothing left to lose.

[@JohnSmith-tc2gu]

@@f1jones544 Kris . . .

[@andreivich1020]

Rick, the more I learn about your story, the more inspired I am. I let disappointment, rejection & heartbreak keep me from pursuing my dream of being a professional musician for many years- but the gift of Covid, for me , was buying a piano & singing again after letting the joy of music leave my life for many years. I love your talent & thank you for never giving up.♥️

[@brucemcgillis8682]

George Carlin taught life lessons through comedy. Rick Beato teaches life lessons through music. Well done.

[@Andrew-ck1gg]

so corny

[@psd993]

I cringe every time someone takes george carlin too seriously. He was a comedian who heckled american society like dozens of others. Just because a 100 mouth breathers under every single george carlin video on youtube post the same exact comment saying he's a great philosopher doesn't mean it's true.

[@michaelolson291]

@@psd993 Doesn't mean it's not true ... either. He pointed out MANY ludicrous aspects of day-to-day life WITH humor. Just because the delivery device was comedy and not lecture doesn't make it less accurate.

[@scottdetter]

@@psd993 he is also a self avowed anti-American socialist, except when he was making millions from his albums and stand up shows.

[@vincenzoerriquenz2356]

"Life Is What Happens to You While You’re Busy Making Other Plans"( John Lennon)❤️

[@georgewyatt2924]

Someone asked me years ago, "If you could change one thing in your life, what would it be?" I thought for a moment and replied, "I like who I am today. Every experience, good and bad, has shaped who I am. Therefore, I would change nothing because I might be someone I don't like." I feel the same way today, despite all the shoulda, woulda, coulda moments. I try to work hard, learn and be kind ... and I sleep really well at night. Love your channel, Rick.

[@notbraindead7298]

Congratulations, You Win!

[@newfoundmoralclarity]

Exactly how I try to live. There's nothing more useless than regret

[@leetv6223]

Yessir

[@Tetsujin-28]

Rick Beato: This is the best channel on KZbin. What a treat.

[@cucamongaduke3600]

My dad had a friend in college who studied in the art and architecture department (my dad was in the engineering school). His friend was a screw-off his first year there and got kicked out of school - the university mailed him a letter saying so. He *begged* to get back in and they let him. Many years later I started in the engineering program at the same school. My dad encouraged me to go talk to his friend. The same guy who had been kicked out of school... was now the Chair of the art and architecture department. And pinned to the back of his office door? That letter. Getting knocked down does not mean that you’re out. It just means you have more work to do.

[@TuncerYldz]

Nice one :) it seems the guy who let him back, made a correct call. Failures are part of life too.

[@Tmidiman]

@@TuncerYldz a better word for “Failure” is “Lesson”. It’s all about if we learn from them or not.

[@1bigrowdy]

We never fail to fail it's the easiest thing to do. CS&N Southern Cross

[@notbraindead7298]

good story, thanks.

[@TheTerrypcurtin]

Funny how our worst days become our best. I was a severe alcoholic and the DUIs. I needed every drop and every ticket to be alive today. Got a major label deal. ( got fired from my own band) Went on the build a huge insurance agency. A pilot. Plus a bunch of great stories. I live my musical dreams through friends who wrote monster hits. Produced huge artists. Proud of them. Life is amazing. The phone call missed. Or picked up can change generations in your family. Crazy.

[@jaumepp1975]

One of the very few channels where I press thumb up before it begins.

[@LiberMedia_Podcast]

Yep!!

[@tkat6442]

What's confusing me is, who did those few thumbs down, and why!? WTF!

[@Natas5050]

@@tkat6442 Haters that probably watch all his videos and give him thumbs down every time.

[@mathijsbastiaansen5394]

@@tkat6442 I think they are just bots

[@heathercollins4432]

Same...

[@PhilipMoncrief]

This was a wonderful story. I was a trumpet player in high school and realized that I probably could not make a living at it so I went to Rice and studied Chemical Engineering. I never lost my interest in music and listened constantly. I didn't play music for quite a while but fooled around with it from time to time. My wife of 48 years died and 9 years later I met a wonderful woman whose husband had died one month after my wife. She is a semi-professional singer here in Houston and she and the recordings of her bands and particularly her husband rekindled my interest in music. I found your videos and they had taught me a lot of the things I should have learned when I was playing. You have inspired me to try to take up music again at 79 years old. I cannot thank you enough.

[@gprz843]

Mr Beato, your channel is so refreshing. I’m a musician myself (self taught). since I started playing guitar and playing in bands back in late 90’s my goal was to make a living as a musician. I’m almost 40, I haven’t “made it” yet, I almost did few years back, but didn’t. Sometimes I feel like giving up and have a normal life (no band life just work and family), but I can’t. I might never be in the top 40 by the looks of it but my love for music, writing it, playing it is too much. Today I was feeling down and watching your video and listening to you refreshed my heart. Thank you for your channel, thank you for time to us. This is paid content everywhere else. Thanks.

[@ksoman953]

Moral of your story, and most stories, "The world belongs to people who can bounce back. Think not of failures, but lessons learned." Good stuff man. Keep at it.

[@eldesgraciado6690]

Are ALFAs super-unreliable?

[@eldesgraciado6690]

@@ksoman953 FIATs are still junky. Maybe they pay more attention to ALFAs because of the increased pricing?

[@ksoman953]

@@eldesgraciado6690 okay. Let's talk about that on a car channel, not here.

[@eldesgraciado6690]

@@ksoman953 They say Alfa fans and VW fans are very defensive.

[@MarcRice]

Jamestown guy here... watched the other video you mentioned and I teared up. You're a warrior and I appreciate, beyond words, the lesson.

[@scottsteele7109]

You notice that Rick telling his story he got to a point about 3/4 through where his eyes got wide, they were just looking through the screen and he was connecting with the KZbin audience in a personal emotional way. That kind of defines the root of his success as a entertainer here, he is real and is convincing as a storyteller. Honesty works and an eye to eye connection always works. Enjoyed your tale of failures and successes.

[@markmchenry4489]

Yeah. Great story and the story-telling was equally great. I'm glad I listened to this.

[@johnrutherford8026]

The content here is awesome. Over and above that, you are exactly what every young aspiring artist needs as an example. You are authentic, genuine and honest about the music. The music world seems overly populated with parrots and mechanics. Originality, creative effort and “feel” combined with technical competence are what makes great music. Thank you for sharing this insight into your experiences.

[@paulrodgers8605]

Thank you so much Rick Your message is strength to us Rick we love you

[@patrickwebb7388]

So refreshing to see a creative, kind, compasionate, caring, giving, open and honest person on such an influential social platform...thank you!

[@ruddwoodstudios3084]

I needed to hear this. Thanks Rick. After years of putting it off, I finally just started a KZbin Metal Cover Channel (barely any subscribers so far, lol, but I'm putting all of my passion, hard work and being consistent as I can). It's personal stories like this that inspire and encourage people like me. Hopefully I will be able to do the same one day.

[@dougthomson9052]

Good luck!!!

[@plandscapesoh9702]

"subscribed"

[@mgstever1564]

Subscribed.

[@ashdelkins]

Subscribed. Cant wait to see all of the covers you put up :)

[@AlDunbar]

Me too, and I dont even like much metal. So go ahead and change my mind.

[@davidselders1513]

"LIFE IS WHAT HAPPENS, WHILE YOU'RE MAKING OTHER PLANS "

[@ronviejo4994]

I have always loved this one.

[@jeffreyleonard7210]

"Now and forever"

[@larsscholz3762]

John Lennon, right?

[@jeffreyleonard7210]

Yes! We all aim to be on that "One after 9:09", yet nobody told me there'd be days like this ... :-)

[@cluelessbaj9563]

@@larsscholz3762 yeah , beautiful boy to be exactly right

[@rico387]

No matter where you go, there you are.

[@integral]

You are one hell of a story teller, Rick. I frequently listen to KZbin videos while taking care of two or three other bits of business in my house or office, but after the first few minutes I dropped everything and sat down to listen. Thank you for all you do and for the heart you put into this channel. It makes a difference.

[@LivingOnCash]

"Don't confront me with my failures I had not forgotten them." Now at 64, I occasionally think back on things that might have been and wonder how different my life would be if I only had done this or that. Thank you for reminding me to appreciate what I have now and not worry about what might have been.

[@AlDunbar]

Exactly. I was in a band in high school in the late sixties. No real ambition to make a career so when our manager suggested i couldn't continue in the band and in university i chose university. Kind of ticked to see my old band opening for the Who soon after. I often thought, "what if i had stuck with music". I came to the conclusion that I'd never really know. But, realistically, one of the possible outcomes was a drug death. The other possibility would have involved me wondering what my life would have been like had i continued my education. Its a waste of time worrying about what if scenarios.

[@andrewroby1130]

Favorite line from what might be my favorite lyrics!

[@philmaples2069]

We have to give that lyric credit: “These Days” by Jackson Browne. He wrote it when he was 15.

[@LivingOnCash]

@@philmaples2069 I didn't because I figured Rick would know. Such a great song and how he could have penned those words at such an early age.

[@glynnsmith4560]

In my 67th year I can honestly say no-one taught me as much about music theory as you have. I've earned my living as a bass player for a while - best income I ever earned (better than senior management) ..knew very little theory, I was all about shape copying, guessing and sounds right.

[@plushman3685]

Hey, I was forced into college by my controlling father and I was as history major. Now, not only do I have a BA in History, I'm also a failed punk rocker (bassist, vocals) and I'm a cook at a BBQ joint. I can't wait to see what failures I got coming. Can't get any better than this. Thanks for your story though.

[@Mark-OutWest]

I wish I got forced to go to college.

[@DaveMiller2]

@@Mark-OutWest I wanted to go but couldn't.

[@gordonmills2748]

I was a history major, though I went to college by choice. My father died while I was in my senior year, which messed up a lot of things. I missed my chance to study abroad at Cambridge, and became a cook after I graduated. I was a part time radio DJ on the weekends, and after a few years I quit the restaurant to try and make it on the radio. Long story short, I wound up having a radio career that lasted almost 30 years. Met lots of famous people, did some amazing things. You just never know.

[@tonyfondacaro1980]

I majored in English.... ended up in the Navy. At least I found music.

[@boffo63]

Learning BBQ is the best thing.

[@socialbeats1]

My first pianoteacher is my biggest influence on how I teach music today. He told me to stop making music I had no talent. 15 years later I became a music teacher on the same school. I didn’t give up. He showed me how not to teach a kid. He wasn’t the right teacher for me. I always try to be the best teacher for my students. And will never ever tell anyone to stop making music....

[@timschall8643]

Thanks for telling this story. You didn't have the correct mentoring at 17 to help you handle the auditions. Shows us all that as artists, we internalize so much stuff that isn't about us. The fact that you almost quit is pretty profound. We've all been there as artists. Either through rejection, deep dissapointment or whatever it may have been. And that you didn't quit and your god given talents were eventually acknowldeged and developed - a big lesson for us all. We keep walking! THANK YOU.

[@Groovegandalf]

As a 39 year old musician, this really hit the spot today. You've helped more than you will likely ever know.

[@PavelFomenkov]

Right now I’m kinda in a low-key depression because my KZbin channel doesn’t work at all. Thanks to videos like this I try to think more positive about it all. Thank you Rick!

[@Clairevoyante]

Just checked your youtube channel and you're actually doing well! Your videos have thousands of views!! Plus, the music is awesome!!

[@PavelFomenkov]

@@Clairevoyante Thank you so much! The problem with my channel is, I already put like 5 years into making it and that you can see is all that I got through all these years. I know that maybe I ask for too much, but I’ve seen so many channels blow up and exceed my numbers in a matter of months or even less, and yet I don’t really grow anymore. And this is what upsets me.

[@mykeadelic]

@@PavelFomenkovThe algorithm is weird, there are little tricks to getting more views but the most important thing is consistency from what I’ve seen. Stick with it!!

[@Clairevoyante]

@@PavelFomenkov Yeah I can imagine, I can see you've put a lot of work in it. If you know google analytics, I suggest you look at the trends in search words for a week and try to make a video related to that. I know it's easy to say but the tags you put on a video actually bring a lot of visibility if it's ''trendy''. I'm no expert though! Good luck!

[@gogox98]

For what it's worth, I absolutely love your channel and your song book project. I know it does not change much, as you hear this in the comments of every single video. You need to keep in mind that you are literally the ONLY good source for people to learn DR and MK songs (if they can't do that by ear). That being said, neither MK nor DR have been popular lately, so perhaps that's why you don't get recognition. Perhaps you could cover a wider range of artists, preferably more popular ones. I am sure there are simple popular songs you could make lessons for. You could also maybe do something similar to Rick's series. Or you could just stick to the songbook, which is the most amazing musical project I've seen in recent years :) Point is success on youtube is not a given. There's many variables. For me you will always be the best! :)

[@soulhealer20]

Great story Rick. I applied for college when I was 43 years old. I'd never had any formal training even during all of my elementary and high school. But I self-taught myself extremely well. I initially auditioned for the jazz program at Capilano College (now a university.) I should have passed the audition but after waiting my turn for 8 hours in the hallways with all the other wannabes I ran out of energy and failed. But my name was passed onto the classical program because they had openings and two weeks later, i got a call to try out. So over a period of time that spring and summer, I learned to play Vivaldi's Largo in D. I learned it from Steve Howe's album "The Steve Howe Album: Concerto In D (Second Movement)" (Vivaldi; arranged by Steve Howe) - I was very well familiar with listening to it over the years. I played it at my audition with no transcript. I was asked for one by Laars Karrio who was the Classical program director and the conductor of 2 choirs at Cap. I admitted to learning it by ear and it went over well. I was quizzed on the harmonic qualities of piano chords that he played for me and moments later, he asked, "would you like to spend 2 years at college for music?" Yay!!! I made it and am so grateful. During the first semester, at my first classical guitar lesson with the great Stephen Boswell, I showed him a transcription from one of the currently popular guitar magazines. He sort of chuckled and told me to put the magazine away. He came back momentarily with the proper classical music notation for Fernando Sor's Theme and Variations on Mozart's Magic Flute. Now that was an eye and ear opener. I still play it today but need to really relearn it. LOL. Thanks for the great share. BTW I went to college to study Music Therapy which was also great for me.

[@stevegray2091]

I was basically a rock and roll guitarist who had learned a little jazz. I hoped to become a studio musician and a singing entertainer. I went to community college first and absolutely aced the theory program, started to learn piano, learned to sight-sing (and solfege), did excellent in ear training, and used a jazz workshop to learn orchestration. I had not learned a classical technique for singing, but was used to having choir conductors pursue me constantly, because I had a good sense of pitch and a strong voice. At my initial audition at California State University Chico, I auditioned on piano and sang a song from "Man of La Mancha". It was a failed audition. I declared a pre-law major and continued my music studies, again singing in a choir and getting great encouragement for composition from my species counterpoint instructor, Simon Carfagno, who had been a composer of film scores in the early days of cinema. I started to teach myself classical guitar out of my brother's Carcassi Etudes book. I have always been a very good music reader, but I had no supervision to learn classical guitar technique. When I transferred to San Jose State University, the day before my audition, I played for my dear friend Kevin Coleman, who had already toured as a flamenco guitarist for Jose Greco for three tours. He said, "Steve, Why is your right hand like a bear claw?" I was totally nervous for the audition for the string department, but the guitar instructor, Fred Thrane, recognized my musicality and spoke up for me to gain entry into the program. At one time, I had 3 simultaneous classical guitar instructors, plus experienced fellow students, work with me to correct my technique. Of course, there was a problem in 1973, as there were no good fingernail maintenance products, and it was torture heading to juries each semester, wondering if my fingernails would be in shape. So I've been playing guitar, both electric and later classical since 1966. I also graduated to playing the flamenco music of Sabicas and Paco de Lucia. After all this time, it is my observation that Segovia scales are absolutely worthless and a total waste of time, except that the faculty members of the juries insist on hearing them. I have played a lot of repertoire, as have my friends. None of those pieces use the fingerings as presented in Segovia scales. In the "Concerto de Aranjuez", as well as countless pieces by Paco, Sabicas, Villa Lobos, Tansman, Granados, etc., the key to changing positions for multiple octaves is to key on an open string. I practice scales, but when I do, I use passages from classical and flamenco pieces. No guitarist in history ever played scales better than Paco de Lucia, and I promise you that he NEVER used the fingerings in Segovia scales. (I've been waiting to get this off my chest for a long time. Just junk Segovia scales. They are not realistic for playing in the repertoire.)

[@frankkolton1780]

Well they saved Ralph Macchio's soul, so there is that.

[@mr5410]

@@frankkolton1780 😂😂😂😂😂

[@oldtimer1102]

As you can see from the number of views there are thousands of us that appreciate where you are in our lives. We did not know how you got here but are so glad you did. Thank you.

[@TxCwby]

as the lyric goes, "God bless the broken road, that brought me straight to you". Great experience to share, Rick, thx.

[@RU-HDD-4-HVN]

I'm the same age as you Rick. I was diagnosed as being tone deaf from my elementary schools medical staff tests during my 5th grade year. I didn't know or understand what being tone deaf meant by any means. All I knew was that I wanted to play music and had loved it from the first days of hearing it....... Either the experts were wrong as wrong could be or God did a miracle in my life to show the experts as wrong and that He is in charge and gave me a gift that I would cherish for a lifetime.

[@berniediveley625]

👍✝️

[@edmiller3786]

Huh?

[@roscoemuttley]

My brother's band was signed by EMI in Australia, (he was going to school in Sydney and his part time, fun band picked up a following.) Alas, they were quickly dropped and my brother did not become a mediocre rock star. Instead, he is the curator of the Western Australia Museum of Herpetology. He is the second most cited scientist in his field. So yeah, fate has a way.

[@marcanglin7127]

It's a pity that your brother was not an archer, as well. Then he could have played with Rush on their "Snakes and Arrows" tour.

[@TonyHammitt]

Well, you know what they say: What doesn't kill you isn't on exhibit here

[@BobV97]

What was the band?

[@jasonthunders78]

I'm in Sydney, About 10 year ago,i played my demos to a bloke in the aussie music/telly industry... He heard my Chuck Berry and Hank Snow songs,in the style of The Rolling Stones... Was given the opportunity to record,but was suggested to use a drum machine, not a drummer! I declined.....all the while,i could've asked Paul Demarco from The Tatts to drum! I had a cassette 4 track....and when i sang,no one believed it was me....they thought i sounded like Iggy Pop!!!! Mate,my rendition of Hank Snow's ' I'm moving on'.... was awesome,with the reverb like a train tunnel....and me Chuck songs,like on Get ya yah yah's out,;......Mick Taylor had nothing on me😆😆

[@shayneoneill1506]

I had a band that got picked up and dropped again the 1990s by EMI (Berko punk kinda thing). Wondering if it was the same guy who did that to us. Though in fairness we where reeeaeal high, all the time. We had a tendency to fuck things up lol

[@PFA57]

Can't remember off the top of my head who said it but there is an old saying that goes like this... "We don't learn from success, we learn from our failures."

[@adamfurnish8481]

Thanks Rick! I’m 16 and have every intention of doing music as my career. It really helps to see how much failure you can go through and it can ultimately lead to a greater success. You’re truly one of my hero’s😁

[@bluzshadez]

Thank you Rick! It's true what they say, "When a door shuts, a window opens."

[@ScubaSteveCanada]

The key is to recognize that a window opened and not stand at the shut door.

[@bluzshadez]

@@ScubaSteveCanada I agree! If you can't get through the front door, go around and find another opening.

[@Alfonso162008]

@@bluzshadez that's also a great advice if you wanna rob a house 😂

[@dl4608]

When a door shuts, you open the door again. That’s how doors work.

[@pohkeee]

“...sometimes I thank God for unanswered prayers...” 😉 wonderful wisdom,it has holds the framework for a great sermon!

[@YMESYDT]

I would love to see a series of failure videos with other KZbinrs, musicians you interview, producers, etc. It’s unbelievably inspiring

[@ryanseeton6659]

Being a senior in high school right now and not knowing where I’m going to go or what I’m going to do, you are my biggest inspiration Rick. I hope that I am able to make a career in music somehow! Thanks Rick for all you do!

[@berniediveley625]

Don’t waste money on school. It’s a total scam. Just make your music and love it.

[@ryanseeton6659]

@@matthewhorizon6050 Thanks for the reply! I will keep it all in mind! I’ve been playing guitar for about 5-6 years now and have been learning some theory alongside it. It’s been an integral part of my life ever since I started being a teenager. I was lucky enough to meet Rick at ATL last September, and that is something I’ll never forget lol. Thanks for the advice!

[@DonVueltaMorales]

Practice, practice, practice. Listen to all types of music, all styles and genres, even the ones that you think bore you. Find one that seems interesting and learn about it on KZbin and through Wikipedia and the like. Intense music immersion will train your ear and your mind. You will think and hear differently and better.

[@SeadartVSG]

Good luck, make a plan and go for it. Don't take advice from people with three subscribers here .

[@EddieVanAidan]

Also, realise that you don’t have to know what you wanna do with your life at 17/18. I’ve always thought It’s a ridiculous notion that we’re pushed to decide our futures at that age. You could be a total music devotee then in your mid 30s have a desire to become a geologist or electrician. Just go with whatever keeps you happy man and don’t doubt yourself!

[@dobieprime]

Rick, I just saw this. Although, I have performed all my life in one way or another, I never had the courage to believe what everyone else said about me. I was afraid to believe it. I felt I was being prideful, or "big headed", to think that I could do what God had given me the talent to do. I remember singing in church and thinking that I'm no better than anyone in this congregation and I don't deserve to be singing to them. And my whole body would begin to quiver inside when I thought about the words I was singing. When I was a kid, none of that would bother me. As I got older, it did. I'm still not sure how to separate all of that. But, in my writing, it comes pouring out and I think that's a good thing. I find that it is easier to write a song when you're down. When there is something wrong, rather then when everything is going right. Music has been in my life since birth. Before birth. My father being a bass singer in a gospel quartet. My mother's brothers playing bluegrass banjo and guitar. And me being told around the age of 9 that I was going to take piano lessons (which was one of the best things that has ever happened to me). The piano will always be my best friend. My story is long too. And too long for here. I'm 60 now. So, there has been so much. But, I appreciate you so much and I thank you for your story and the path that God gave you.

[@toddharrigan9901]

Rick not only are you an ambassador to music. You are an inspiration to all! If more people on this planet were like you. I do believe this world would be so much better of a world. Thank you for being who you are. God Bless You and your family!!!

[@DonVueltaMorales]

Amen, Brother Rick. In 1967 I failed music in HS one semester for talking in class. I tried out for the HS jazz band as a freshman and the director told me to come back next year with more experience. I went back the next year and he took the freshman who auditioned because, "I can have him for an extra year." I began to practice rock 8-12 hours per day, especially during the summers and days off. This led to me playing in a semi-successful local band. When I was expelled from an engineering college after freshman year, I decided to make my hobby my life. I wandered into my local public college, which (unbeknownst to me) had the most amazing faculty and program one could imagine. They forced me to take piano lessons, study and perform classical guitar; and I took lute lessons briefly. Long story short, the college and the recommendations from the faculty got me into several prestigious grad schools for musicology. Since 1982, I've been teaching jazz history and both pop and "classical" music subjects at the college level. All you kids out there ... learn from Mr. Beato. He is wise and knows whereof he speaks.

[@ricksouthwick3463]

Rick, I travelled to London from Australia in 1989 to find a Master Jeweller to teach me Victorian jewellery making techniques, on a whim, and spent 3 years under the tutelage of one of England’s greatest Master Jewellers. At times i walked around London in tears of frustration at my inability to master these skills. My mentor (Graham) nurtured me in the old school ways and from this i became a Master Jeweller my self. Finding a true mentor has change my life and at his insistence I have passed the skills on. Mentors are a key to evolution in skill. Love your channel. Rick.

[@CornishMotorcycleDiaries]

My personal motto: Never, Ever Give up. This is also a great example of the fact that you only really learn from your mistakes. Brilliant story. Motivating.

[@richardday7901]

“You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something - your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever."-Steve Jobs

[@edboulter1705]

first time I ever saw a quote from Jobs that didn't make him sound like a prick....thanks for sharing!

[@shanesavoie8141]

I've really enjoyed your willingness to expose your personal aspects to us, Rick. From the story about your aunt's recent passing, introducing us to your son, and the disclosure of your learning disability, you've become more like a genuine friend than just a personality on KZbin! I rarely find myself actually caring about someone I've never met, but your character is as affable as it is admirable. I can never thank you enough for the knowledge you teach and the wisdom you share. This is my favorite channel on this dying platform.

[@mnmike130]

There is a saying I heard a long time ago. "If you want to make God laugh, just make a plan". We never know what is around the next turn of this journey called life

[@SyntagmaStation]

I think you captured the essence of what he was saying. Nice.

[@dnugz]

Rick is not just teaching music, he's teaching life! Love this!!

[@relevantinformation6655]

We learn best from our mistakes or defeat. We learn to pick up ourselves from our boot straps, improve, grow and move onward and upward. Great post Rick 👍

[@timharrington4470]

The way Rick talks about overcoming his failures in the road of life is just as important as the other subjects covered on his channel like music theory, engineering, producing, Etc... that kind of inspiration is extremely valuable for musicians to not only survive but to thrive! That is what makes Rick beato great! Way excellent communication skills

[@GD-lu9zo]

In the 70s my two passions were graphic design and playing drums, and I was vacillating back and forth about which I wanted to make a living with. I wrangled an audition with a nationally known band who had recently lost their drummer. Same as you said, Rick, I was totally nervous and played like it. Well, they decided I was better suited as a graphic designer, and I didn’t get the gig. And I’m so thankful that happened because, like you said Rick, I would have never met my wife or had my kids. I’m now a few years away from retiring from my graphic design business, having made a lot more money than I could have as a drummer. Thanks for your post.

[@Cardiacmoment]

“Office 13” would be a great title for tutorials and/or teachable moments. Either on here, YT, or wherever you wish. IMHO

[@TheLebourreau]

If Jimmy Page, a highly respected session guitar player, hadn't "settled" for the bass player position in the Yardbirds, he never would have graduated to playing guitar in the Yardbirds. The band fell apart a short time later, but he was forced to fulfill the remaining Yardbirds tour dates as the "New Yardbirds" with the line-up of what would become Led Zeppelin. Sometimes, our paths through life aren't from point A to point B, sometimes there is a side road that must be taken and occasionally, we are all the better for taking the road less traveled. Thank you for your story Rick. It must have been painful to have been rejected from your initial college applications - any true musician knows that failure doesn't mean giving up, it means GETTING up, learning whatever lesson there is and continuing on. It's in our soul.

[@JanVanderKuylen]

This is an incredibly honest testimony that brings up similar memories for me. I was often discouraged and did not receive support from my parents. But the passion for music remained. I taught myself guitar chords at the age of 13. In the circle of friends there were enough guitarists. Until I discovered the bass guitar. I relied on my good musical hearing and was quickly noticed by the local musicians. But as a musician in Belgium it is and was difficult to live from this. Now after my professional career as a federal detective, I have completely devoted myself to music. I am very lucky to play music in 5 music groups. All 5 in different styles. I was able to edit and improve the recordings of rehearsals and performances with the help of the information I received from your youtube channel, among others. Thank you for your clear theoretical and practical approach to this wonderful music world.

[@patrademacher1637]

Rick, you are so versatile and inspiring. Even though the takeaway here is such a commonly-mentioned universal theme, your story is so much more relatable and encouraging than a famous quote on a poster or hearing the same things over from friends and family. I recently was rejected by a company I wanted to work for so badly and it was devastating, but now I feel like I'm ready to go out and kick some ass and see what results instead. Thank you so much for this

[@fogrecordsusa7169]

Go get 'em!

[@panaruss]

I can't read music beyond common knowledge. I can't play an instrument. I watch your videos, then go back and listen to the songs I loved as a kid but had no clue why, and because of the way you open them up and explain the complexities and creative choices, I can hear, taste, touch, smell and emote with the music much closer to the intent of the artist than I ever could before, and the experience rivals the first time I really listened to any of the songs I enjoyed. In fact, I offer this advice to all who read this. After watching a "What Makes This Song Great" episode, sit down and really listen to the song and see if it hasn't been blown wide open to you. Teaching is a rare gift, and I suppose it requires the seasoning of deferred dreams and personal struggle to help get the urgency and seriousness needed to push someone forward. You have certainly increased my ability to enjoy music. Thank you.

[@joshcharlat850]

He's a fantastic tour guide.

[@D84D]

You know that story where someone is too scared to go talk to a person they've seen for the first time? A complete stranger. I was at an event and this beautiful young woman caught my eye. Well as the night started to come to an end, I was so nervous trying to talk myself into introducing myself. Well time was up, the lights came on and the crowd started to leave. That was it, I probably wouldn't see this person again. This was 92' We are happily married and 2 kids, 26 & 18. It's been an amazing journey. Loving every minute along the way. ps This was a dance that I was DJing and we had a local promotions business. Yes a bunch of amateurs. Well decades later and producing (novice/hobby) later. Both my sons are musicians & producers. Man it's wonderful! They know so much more than me musically. It's so cool to see. Anyway One day I'll make the time to have a youtube channel. I'll have to get my kids to show me how. Ha!

[@Nickc4555]

The humility with which you say you hope people get something from this story is as inspiring as the story itself. Commitment and integrity are rare commodities in our world of disposable fame, but you are the real deal.

[@johnw5584]

I'm 60 years old, I have an invention and started a business. I did not want to be 80 years old, and. Say.. " that was a good idea, I should have done it". Live. Life..

[@marcopolo242]

It's not the getting knocked down that defines you. It's the will to get up and overcome.

[@ScubaSteveCanada]

Exactly!

[@jcbrandner1]

I believe that's called "resilience"

[@BarbaricEricX]

Always.

[@Music-zz5il]

Thanks for this comment...i really needed to hear it

[@mrsockmonkey1969]

At 51 I have enough life experience now to look back at the disappointments and rejections as gifts from God. He knows the course for your life and the corrections needed. We should thank God for unanswered prayers because something better will come if we ask for direction. Always give thanks for the struggles because the strengthen our resolve and make us better. I’m thankful for you and your inspirational story.

[@Killstoff]

Rick is an excellent storyteller. Everytime I see one of his video's I feel enriched, and not only as a musician.

[@danstone8783]

Rick, you missed the chance to blame that producer for everything in your life that didn't go the way you hoped. You are clearly not in tune with the modern ethos. Good job.

[@Yossarian921]

I kind of think when he looks back at it he feels a sense of relief. He seems very happy with the life he's built especially his family.

[@johnlemon874]

I don’t think anyone would say that whos live turned out great anyway right?

[@AnAmericanGuitarist]

Exactly Dan! Great observation. Everyone has to make their own way. EVERYONE! Good and bad will always come to meet you. Make it work to your advantage. Don't blame other people and obstacles like modern narratives encourage people to do. I am so sick of that political theater and the way that what is supposed to be "The News" sells blame, division, fiction and conformity. ANYONE can make their own life better. Stop focusing on the other guy. Get inspired and GO!

[@danstone8783]

@@johnlemon874 I think a lot of celebrities in media and sports do still bitch and whine about setbacks and prejudices real and perceived.

[@susanreeve9430]

I was substitute teaching for a guitar teacher at a public school and the students were left with instructions to watch your videos. That's how I discovered you. I was later able to share your channel with a 14 year old who loves music, but doesn't think of himself as musical. He wrote to me: "Thank you sooooo much." So thank you!!

[@michaelshearer3559]

I really needed to hear this life affirming message today and I'm pretty sure many others did too. Thank you for everything.

[@ricbrunner3880]

I can so relate. Nervous as hell. Blow up the auditions. Then graduated with 3 degrees in art. Never stopped playing guitar now for 52 years.

[@YummyPork]

Being able to see failure as an opportunity is an important life skill.

[@TerryPullen]

Thanks for the story Rick I very much enjoyed it. My 67 years have had similar turns and one thing you learn is, don't take your foot off the gas. It's your life, it's the only one you'll ever have, so love everyone and live life at 100 miles an hour.

[@CarrierSignals]

As the Zen Buddhist story goes; "Maybe, maybe not. We'll see." What we initially see as misfortune can result in just the opposite. Thanks Rick.

[@rnrtruestories]

it's funny Rick i totally relate to your story. I went through some horrible stuff in my life that led me to youtube. It was't until the dust settled I wanted to become self sufficient.

[@lineofkronac9012]

Nice, I’ve watched your videos before I liked them

[@PaulSchwarz]

hey i love your channel and it's super cool seeing you show up on a rick beato video! keep fighting the good fight. rock n roll will never die :D

[@jasonking454]

I love your videos!!!!

[@shuruff904]

The crossover we need

[@rnrtruestories]

@@lineofkronac9012 thanks

[@recordman555]

"Perseverance is the hard work you do after you get tired of doing the hard work you already did." ~ Newt Gingrich

[@thecreature1281]

Thank you, Rick. Thank you for your kind words of encouragement. Your stories are edifying to so many people - Thank you for taking the time to share from your experiences! Artists need encouragement and you are giving so much back to us all. Thank you for giving us hope. Seriously.

[@aarondoering4613]

That you didn't hold a grudge says a lot about you as a person. I am sorry you had these experiences but glad that it turned out the way it did for you, your family and, while eminently self serving, the rest of us who benefit from your wisdom and experience. Your channel and all of your efforts related to it have made what I hope will be an indelible mark on the industry that will continue to be a vehicle for change over the coming years.

[@RespekfulFungus]

I love you even more now, Rick. My sophomore year I lost a scholarship from Arkansas State’s Music Ed program. WS a trumpet major, but my heart was in my J-bass, and had never touched an upright. I couldn’t make myself practice the horn like I needed to, and there was no Bass and barely a Jazz program aside from a couple of bands. Things took a turn, and I went without or just sparingly playing for 10 years. Now here I am retraining myself, and in the beginnings of my own luthier journey. It’s been hard, really hard, but watching my kids light up when I show them something new is worth it all.

[@smytree]

I tell my daughter, you need to have faith that the universe will take you where you are supposed to be. Awesome story Rick.

[@vincentdenismusic]

New series: What Makes This Life Great. 😉 (I personally find this just as interesting as your WMTSG videos, and way more inspiring than your rants.)

[@marcelosiciliano9365]

Rick ! What a lesson you gave to everyone here !!!! I´m 56 Years Old and these are the things that Kids of these generations should Learn, to never give up ! Congrats from Argentina ! Marcelo Siciliano, Great fan !

[@mrartician5250]

Reminds me of the story/inspiration behind "Journeys" biggest hit, "Don't Stop Believin"...it's SO true. What an amazing "journey" life is to begin with and can be, when we're open to trying different doors, paths and roads, whether by choice or fate.

[@tormaks]

I dreamed my grandmother on a bus Rome and she told me: in your life everything you live is usefull, Don't throw it to garbage. And I start again to play guitar.

[@lockdownmytownbykevinjohns6224]

Thank you Very much for explaining your Story of trying to get into College, actually being rejected, but Overcoming your Disappointment and Prevailing through Refocusing and plain old Hard Work. Bravo!

[@johnlargent9630]

Mike Rowe is famous for telling people NOT to follow their dreams as they most often elude people taking too direct a path. There is usually much to learn before they are equipped for such an endeavor. Instead, he offers this advice, chase opportunity, grow as a human being and you will have a greater chance of achieving your dreams. Love that guy! Look at your life Rick. After a long road with lots of turns you're here entertaining millions! Thanks for all the great vids, not the least of which, the story about your Aunt.

[@tommypetraglia4688]

Mike Rowe is an actor who pretends to be a blue collar working man who has no skills in any of the trades he poses as

[@Colaglass]

@@tommypetraglia4688 I don't blame you for thinking so simply about Mike Rowe, but he has been through life and has experience which leads to the advice he can give. Just because he is an actor in his own TV-show doesn't mean that has always been the case. When you see a person, you likely just see their bodies, but if you stop and think about it there's a little more to them than that.

[@tommypetraglia4688]

@@Colaglass I worked in several trades of the construction industry for over 40 years and this guy knows dikk about what it takes to be a tradesman and used the back breaking hard work of others for self promotion while mugging for the cameras. Just like Fox News isn't news but entertainment, Mike Rowe amd his Dirty Lungs... I mean Jobs is just that... entertainment. But just like Fox he has conned the less enlightened into taking what he says as sacrosanct. And don't get me started on the numerous health and safety violations he highlighted throughout his show - so much so I'd be surprised if some local building official pay certain companies a visit after seeing the show.

[@TermiteUSA]

"His world had gone from sailing ships, To raking mom's backyard, He never could adjust to land, Although he tried so hard. We both were growing older then, and wiser in our years. That's when I came to understand, The course his heart still steered..." Jimmy Buffet, The Captain and the Kid 1970 (for Captn. Marty, Grandpa)

[@jeffarcher400]

Always liked the saying that Life is what happens while you are making plans. When I got kicked out of my band, er downsized, it hurt. I felt like I was a ok musician. Somehow I ended up in the bell choir at church. Mesmerized by the clean pure bell tones. Imagine the poor aspiring rock guitarist with dreams of shredding leads humbled,knocked down and broken by trying to play three notes. Just three bells while some juggled many. My weaknesses were laid out. We had a director, discipline, 1e and a 2e and a, reading music, dynamics,,baton and no drums or bass to lean on. Long periods of nothing,just count,oh no I lost it. Listen for something familiar,watch the baton,breath,relax, I'm back on,I can do this. I found what was missing from my guitar. Why it never felt comfy. It's like the band was playing and I was playing along with them but we weren't one. I'm so grateful for being kicked out of the band. I wasn't really ever with them. Years later we're back together. Older and wiser and sounding better. I'm also thankful for the patient kindness of those in the bell choir ,the directors and the church. I met other great musicians and got to play along with them. I used to think that musicians had to look a certain way. Wow was I wrong. Normal looking housewives and bald old guys have tons of game. More music in their pinky than all the songs I memorized. Video tried killing the radio star but they hid in the church.

[@Muzikteechur]

I, too, had a crooked road which eventually led me to become a HS music teacher. I use your videos in my "History of Rock" class, as well as my Music Theory class. We never know where our path will lead us. I'm glad your path led here.