My Life As A One-Man Band | Tommy Emmanuel | TEDxMelbourne

[@allenbrown6390]

A few years ago, when my daughter had cancer and was dealing with surgery and internal and external radiation therapy, I was able to take her to one of Tommy's concerts. I had e-mailed his site in advance, simply asking if he could play "I Still Can't Say Goodbye", not knowing if he would even receive my note. At the end of the show he came back out on stage and played this song and mentioned my request (with no specifics) and then followed it up a few days letter with a personal e-mail to me. It meant a lot to my daughter and to me. This is a true gentleman and I will not forget his kindness.

[@leonwang4669]

Five years later now, hope you all having a happy and healthy life.

[@st0pcaleb]

Dead set legend 👌🏼

[@bigchestflex]

Thank you for posting! Wish you the best

[@hadireg]

❤

[@branded648]

My wife has dealt with cancer since 2008. Feel your Heart. God Bless you and yours. Did a video on my page as a thank you to my wife for her support of my music. Cancer sux. Peace my friend.💝💜🙏🙏💯👍Lator gator🐊😎

[@shaveyh10]

I met Tommy several times. People will take their guitars for him to sign. Often, he'll ask them what they're "working on" and invite them to play for him. I've heard very mediocre players get genuine praise and encouragement from Tommy. He loves his art, and he loves his fans. The more Tommy Emmanuels there are in the world, the better the world.

[@ericschmuecker5573]

His shows are great. Saw a guitar sign end encourage a rough youngster at ozark folk centerin Mtn. Veiw Arkansas. The kids parents responded as it were the Popes blessing.

[@jaehill7769]

Why am I not surprised?? I love reading this; thank you for sharing it, truly.

[@deniseharris1571]

He is a real genltleman

[@yilmazcagri]

i've watched many of those videos. he is very nice and kind to the fans. always smiles and never patronizes (unlike the new generation of celebs) ...

[@twistedthrifterb6220]

Dude is legend!!

[@gabriel222]

‘Guitar player’ doesn’t do him justice. An Australian national treasure is more like it.

[@N_A_243]

An international treasure probably does it better

[@MarkBlackburnWPG]

The simple truth!

[@CharlesCherryWatercolors]

If you ever hear him play in person you'll never forget it.

[@TheFreshestPrince]

Saw him right before covid hit, got seats in the second row and is a night I’ll never forget

[@donnafoshee6691]

I saw him on keeping blues alive at sea

[@ralex3697]

The greatest ever

[@morsecode5078]

Best concert I’ve ever attended.

[@seanmetal4138]

Probably still the best show I've ever seen. He asked everyone to put away their phone, and one guy had his pulled his out again. Tommy noticed and said, "Hey, you want to put that away?" and didn't miss a beat between verses!

[@frederick-howthetwomindswo8637]

and as a bass player some 40 years ago, I did one of those pacific boat cruises with Tommy and while the other guys in the band filled our cabin up with the usual groupies, Tommy had his guitar on his bunk - and at the dinner table, his guitar was always leaning against the table and he would pick a thought every now and again in between courses. He literally slept and ate with the bloody thing. Which is why we're still only Aussie musos, and he's, well, the world's muso. We meet every few years and he hasn't changed a bit

[@moonbubbles3046]

Frederick Jimi was also attached to his guitar in such a way that it was his constant companion. There is something about when a musician builds such a relationship with his instrument that can make so much difference in the spiritual way that they deliver their music. I envy your time with him. I am a musician who suffers from terminal stage fright and so I never left the solitary audience of myself. Cheers.

[@Twice_Marvel]

This is such a cool bit of knowledge about tommy. This explains why he’s so dang good, he loves guitar.

[@bigchestflex]

Great story! Thank you :)

[@eddiebaez2093]

I was a Rock..guitar player in my youth...(80's) .I change my whole style when I met the music of Chet Atkins, Albert Lee and Eric Johnson makes me hungry to learn.. then I pass through very bad time...divorce, bankrupt loose my studio self steem I mean everything... I tried to made it but...some times I feel like the best is to give up...the "industry" its so different and a kind of cruel... I salute you guys for do what you love to do as I wantes to....Eddie

[@ceciliaprado7875]

Wow! Thank you for sharing this story!

[@tootall11211]

To those of you that have never met Tommy. Rest assured, he's not big headed. He's the most down to earth guy you'd ever meet. He hasn't forgotten his humble beginnings. He gives youngsters with talent a chance to reach his world wide audience all the time. I just wish I could hang out with him more, but keeping up with him, impossible. Wish I had his energy. I'm only a plonker, but I love his playing. I can't play well, but I can repair guitars and other instruments, so that's what I do.

[@scribbleoletter]

A big thumbs up for you buddy. You are a hope to people when they are in trouble with their instruments. Respect.

[@tootall5559]

@@scribbleoletter many of the guitars I rebuilt I gave away to kids.

[@scribbleoletter]

@@tootall5559 ❤❤❤

[@MarkIsJustKidding]

'Life is not a rehearsal, so you better get on with it.' --- Tommy Emmanuel

[@stairfall12345678900]

+ wife

[@tomcoryell]

Darrothan I’ll bet she’s a tremendous support for him

[@bobinthewest8559]

Probably the most important advice anyone could ever give to another human being.

[@markklein437]

This guy is no guitarist. He’s a magician. There’s no other way to describe what I just heard. It was pure magic!

[@Mesmerizeization]

Tommy Emmanuel is an example of how music should be approached.He plays from the heart,he deserves all the success he has. This is why the arts should be supported.

[@firemarshal17]

Robbie Alan he didn’t need a taxpayer handout to learn his craft.

[@chadcoady9025]

@@firemarshal17 He was raised in a music family, surrounded by instruments, so he was lucky. Other people aren't so lucky, and only get the opportunity to play music in school. I'm glad for music in schools. Tax dollars towards education, including the arts, is money well spent.

[@branded648]

He is Genuine. I would like to have him hear my originals. Would love some true critique. Love real musician's with out the to big to listen to ya attitude.👍💝💝🎤🎸😎💯

[@branded648]

@@chadcoady9025 God Bless you Brother.💝💝💝That's where I started. Middle school. My Band director was so cool.😎Peace

[@SepticFuddy]

@@firemarshal17 Amen brother. This guy is a perfect example of how avoiding the institutions prevents you from finding your way into a pre-existing box.

[@tommyselby]

I used to be in a one man band once but I split up due to musical differences.

[@arpitnayak]

hah. made my day.

[@MusicOfHunt]

+tom selby Should try stand up instead aha

[@dejffjed]

+tom selby Nice one. :D:D:D

[@Fuzcapp]

+tom selby Was it an amicable or acrimonious split??

[@rbagel55]

+tom selby Thanx man-that made me laugh, and I needed that !

[@Maxischupp93]

i dont think non guitarists can even begin to fathom how incredibly hard the cascading harmonics part is play.

[@StormEntertainmentTV]

I get chills every…single… time. True beauty if I ever saw it.

[@FrankNStein-pf9rr]

A friend of mine, Gene Slone, a guitarist wrote/created a tune entitled, Cascade. AND Chet Atkins recorded it.

[@spidgeb3292]

Right. He makes it look effortless. It's anything but. Takes years to perfect that technique. And if you lay off practicing, it can go away.

[@whitewalker608]

I am a guitarist and I've been playing for 6 years. This is the first time I'm hearing about cascading harmonics.

[@FrankNStein-pf9rr]

@@whitewalker608 There was also a FIRST TIME For Tommy.

[@aT_Jrod]

Shout out to the camera guys for focusing on the guitar when he’s playing!

[@rudyskeeper]

What a wonderful man and an extraordinarily talented artist.

[@cole3843]

Yeah,, just the way it should be done.

[@TofiqHidayatBurungLiar]

If you interesting fingerstyle guitar playing..look at "Alip ba ta" chanel..he play guitar,in other style..very harmonic..he cover song and arrangement too..i guaranted you will shock with his playing

[@scottpreston5074]

Yes, camera guys rarely get any love.

[@tjernstarr]

did anyone else find themselves completely mesmerized by this guys ability.

[@cirfis]

+Tyler Ernster Ditto..Consider me dumbfounded

[@roywalker7512]

Well certainly not podaz, just interested in playing a full drumkit whilst playing the guitar

[@ayokay123]

You just got sucked into Tommy Town. Now go listen to Richard Smith and Brent Mason and know that they're all good friends and play with each other on a semi-frequent basis. Just youtube it and you'll see. Other worldly talent to say the least. Make sure you listen to Richard playing rag tunes. NOBODY in the world can repeat his performance and NOBODY can beat Tommy for all around guitar talent combined with awesome entertainment chops.

[@lylestavast7652]

every single time I hear him play. EVERY single time...

[@BradleyOBrienn]

I was much more mesmerized by your profile picture

[@NikhilHoganShow]

1:41 Breakdown of Blue Moon (Arranging a Full Band on 1 guitar) 4:02 Windy & Warm (Chet Atkins Boom Chick Example) 6:23 Day Tripper/Lady Madonna (Moving Bass Line with Melody Example) 7:36 Percussion on the Guitar's Body 9:44 Cascading Harmonics Demonstration 10:15 Michelle (Advanced Harmonics Example) 12:43 Lewis & Clark 14:02 Classical Gas

[@SethMacLaren]

doing God's work my friend. Much obliged

[@Abdulmelodies]

thanks

[@どら焼き-r6p]

oh!thank you!

[@Gpacharlie]

Blows one's mind. He can actually knit a scarf with his toes while playing and explaining all of this. A rare multidexterous.

[@kakan147]

9:44 harmonics intro for Over the rainbow

[@ccisakson]

I have been playing guitar for 65 years. This is the best guitarist I have ever heard, bar none.

[@huss2600]

Better than jimi hendricks?

[@amarjotsingh1191]

@@huss2600 man. Tommy is best acoustic and fingerstyle guitarist in world. I am talking about fingerstyle and acoustic. No one compares to him. He is master of many techniques. Stop comparing two very different type of guitarists

[@JKyfdo]

@@amarjotsingh1191 You could not have replied any better and I am with you on that

[@osamabinladen824]

@@huss2600 Yep. Significantly better than anybody in the world. And he plays it on the spot.

[@robertvanruyssevelt7159]

@@huss2600 Obviously!! He can "shred" on an electric guitar, play behind his back etc but what he does is at once very difficult and also very musical.

[@TGregers]

I was lucky enough to have a master class with him when studying music 12 years ago, and got to talk to him after. Unforgettable memory. Best guitarist this world have seen. What a humble person. True legend.

[@sergiop.ealbuquerque8176]

You' ve got that right, sir. He is the greatest of them all.

[@peterbees]

Obviously naive. Don't follow tricksters. and don't love false idols.

[@TGregers]

@@peterbees Are you speaking from a Christian perspective?

[@sergiop.ealbuquerque8176]

@@TGregers I think he is, sir. It's the only thing that remotely makes sense (nonsense?) at all.

[@DougieBarclay]

​@@peterbeeswow

[@rick381v69]

As someone who's in the industry and have had many interactions with Tommy, I can say he's the most personable artist I've ever worked with.

[@Add_Account485]

¿

[@marukz]

thanks to the camera man on focusing more on the guitar during his playing.

[@sharkbelly1169]

TED don’t mess around

[@carmenk4018]

Amen to that.

[@adamrafferty]

This man changed my life. Thank you Tom, for your excellence!

[@mimmomarracino2552]

L'ha cambiata anche a me, da quando l'ho visto dal vivo qualche anno fa: -)))

[@garzavaltier]

@Adam Rafferty @Tommy Emmanuel and you Adam.!! Change the life of the all of us.!! But Tommy is the Master.!!

[@ereskoag]

Я, так же очарован его игрой и аранжировками. Как можно дольше радуй нас дружище, Томми.

[@JDCullum]

And thank you, Adam, for your extraordinary guitar playing.

[@OverlordSolvent]

I was going to say something snarky like, "Ya, this guy added 3 inches to my wiener." Then I went to your youtube videos and realized immediately you weren't exaggerating. Touche, good sir, touche.

[@lifeinlimbo2186]

As a guitarist my whole life,after seeing and hearing this treasure of a musician,i can now say,that i have never been a guitar player my whole life.

[@donkanis6141]

My 20 years on stage is now kind of an embarrassment

[@amyjoyballor8775]

Seriously? You are too, if you recognize that Or maybe you're just a guitarist--(joke) still a win. Would Love to hear you. We are are contributing to a collective Voice.

[@amyjoyballor8775]

@@donkanis6141 Stop comparing. Your audience hears you that night.

[@amyjoyballor8775]

STOP comparing Give what you give to who you have, stay inspired not comparative. They hear YOU at your job that night. Take it as inspiration. (Yeah, wanna jump too, but as a Christian...🎶⛲🎹🎸🎸🎶‼️😎⛲💙💙

[@Etmetal08]

Man this guy is amazing. I'm 24 been playing for 6 years and this is the first time ive heard of Tommy Emmanuel. Holy shit have i been missing out.

[@ayokay123]

Now go listen to Richard Smith, then Brent Mason. The sickest thing is that they're all best of friends and play together fairly frequently. You get a ticket to THAT show and you're in guitar heaven for the rest of your life.

[@guitarzan34]

Go find "Guitar Boogie" the Original version live. I can't believe an acoustic player can be that fast and clean. It gives me shivers every time I watch it.

[@aadityakiran_s]

Legend introduces himself like nobody knows him

[@PeMoFilm]

He's wise, because fame fades; Udo Lindenberg sings: "Your children's children don't even know your name anymore".

[@jsamc]

I know clapton hedges, betts hendrix, etc, tommy emmanuel ? and I'm not alone cuz the dude on the plane didn't know him either.

[@normangale3159]

A very humble man as some of the greats speak of him with the most wonderful admiration; peope like Mark Knoppfler and Hank Marvin, just to name two.

[@Sixstringman]

I've met guitarists at Tommy Emmanuel's camp that didn't know who Joe Satriani is, so not everyone knows everyone.

[@rb032682]

@Aadityakiran - Outside of the music players' sphere, Tommy is still relatively unknown. And, I think Tommy is ok with that.

[@sketchhannen]

if ever there was a man to deserve to make a living playing guitar, its him.

[@mattworks522]

I am always amazed at how this man always looks like he's having the time of his life playing. Such a legend!!!!

[@jcampbellshale]

He is having the time of his life 😁

[@vonfaahquard8532]

The guys a genius. Simple as that

[@codymccormick7317]

Tommy is easily one of the greatest guitarists to ever pick up the instrument.

[@juniorbrownsinger]

“I play music, and you’re happy. That what matters to me.” - yes Tommy, you always me me happy.

[@amadagraciosa9190]

YEAH............!!!!!!!!

[@TTolland]

This guy is breathtaking, it’s incredible how musically intuitive a human being can be. It’s amazing truly

[@user-kq5qp6dh8l]

He is genuinely obsessed with the guitar, and it's limitless potential.

[@thurmanmermon4160]

something incredibly healthy and cathartic about it though, very human

[@TheDizzleHawke]

“Life is not a rehearsal, so you’d better get on with it.” My new motto.

[@randalclarke5487]

Me too lol

[@amadagraciosa9190]

...SO TRUE - THANK YOU, TheDizzleHawke A N D : THANK YOU SOOO MUCH, TOMMY EMMANUEL, YOU ARE SO INSPIRING ! - - And I'm so grateful that I've had the opportunity to listen to him in Essen ( here in Germany) in 2019 ... !

[@Real_David_Joseph]

Hmm, that's deep.

[@メみず]

おれもそのセリフに心打たれた

[@TheDizzleHawke]

@@メみず fart fart fart.

[@sejusmai7312]

tommy looks free as a bird when hes playing the guitar. he is absolutely awesome and genuinely seems like a quality guy. peace to you tommy

[@abujanuariabuellao9568]

Thanks for sharing is caring

[@gobarbless3871]

I am 66. I've been playing since age 8. But only in heaven can I even imagine playing as well as you. Hats off to you!

[@colemanadamson5943]

While at a TE concert, Tommy began engaging the audience, as he does, and was remarking about a new shirt he was wearing. Sensing an opportunity, I hollered out, "looking good!" and Tommy shot back, "Thanks Dad!". It was great to be a part, albeit a very very small part, of Tommy's show!

[@speedbag1]

Proud to say I've seen him live twice in concert and will never miss when he tours anywhere near my area. A very great human being and the world needs more like him.

[@vincentdelmas2792]

hey can you tell us what looper he was using please ?

[@Danielblco0]

Wow, this just became my favorite Ted Talk ever. I just found him and I'm incredibly inspired by him. Is beautiful to see that everytime the audience aploud he said thank you. Coolest dude alive.

[@TheRichardmay1]

I have to tell you this: I'm a truck driver traveling on interstate 29 north this 12th day of October 2021 While listening to you just as you started playing your song written about Lee s and clark I happen to pass the road sin announcing the lewis and clark park in council bluffs iowa. Really cool coincidence and your music certainly makes me happy Thank you

[@carsonmyers8101]

Drive safe out there brother. Keep er between the mustard and the mayo

[@vaibhavdighe344]

He is one of those people whom we call "Genius"

[@ohnofish1]

This is the first time I have ever heard him, I'm 82; Boy!!! have I missed a lot, not hearing the best till now.

[@glennosmond4306]

Better 82 than never! Enjoy

[@kevindaniel5086]

@alphadawn2015 lennon kinda weird comment if you think..

[@jdmac44]

He's touring now! Go and see him!

[@okgo8315]

1st time for me too although i've heard of him.... i'm 73..... he's beyond brilliant and a real gent.

[@Sam-rk3ng]

I would definitely recommend you check out Luca Stricagnoli and Marcin

[@Jessie_Helms]

"Life is not a rehearsal, so you better get on with it" -Tommy Emanuel... wow that's deep

[@Jessie_Helms]

?

[@StephenPeeplesSCV]

Along those lines, Elvis famously said after exiting the Army, "You only get one chance at this life. You don't come back for an encore."

[@stevenallen9340]

Arguably one of the very best players in the world, of which there are many. For me Tommy's best feature is how artful and incredibly tasteful his voicings and arrangements are while being played with such precise and challenging execution. I'm 73 and a ex pro musician. I still play everyday and often listen to Tommy.

[@wisu3529]

Once a musician, always a musician. You're still one of us Steve 😎

[@kanakaken]

Mr. T. Is correct when he says that, "Life is not a rehearsal", we all need to do the best you can with this one, because this is all we've got. I am only too pleased to have been able to spend a part of my short period on this planet where I've been able to see and hear what this one man is capable of with his 'band'. Thank you Tommy Emmanuel.

[@John-gb7ht]

This man gave most of his guitar and amp collection to the organization Guitars for Vets. You can imagine what his collection would have included. Thank you for support of all of our veterans. A most humble amazingly gifted man. I have the most respect for you.

[@allanhindmarch7323]

I met Tommy Emmanuel once at the Bridgetown Blues festival in Western Australia. He was very respectful, very polite and very personable. He even asked me to pass him his guitar as I was sitting close by it, then after the performance we were able to have lunch with him and ask questions, etc. Basically, I found him to be a genuinely nice guy and one HELL of a guitarist. Also saw him perform in the city mall. Free outdoor gig, was absolutely cool. As he started to play, the crowd just grew and grew. Remember all you people who just want to bag him out, that he is one man getting a range of different sounds from one instrument. In my book, that's pretty amazing. I believe people with sufficient brain cells should be able to recognize this fact. Respect where it's due everyone.

[@Vito_Tuxedo]

Tommy has been an inspiration to my music and my life for nearly three decades, and a couple of years ago I finally got the chance to meet him and thank him. We chatted for a while, and the last thing he said to me was, "Keep playing, buddy." You will never find a more genuine, authentic person. He's a great guitarist because he's a great human being.

[@peterbees]

He copies and steals the real great ones.

[@Vito_Tuxedo]

@@peterbees Wow. Just wow. You really don't know him at all, do you. You should be more careful...that lie you told is so big it can choke you, and sooner or later the hatred that fuels it will poison you.

[@guymitchell4784]

@@peterbees like who?

[@MrMellowDe]

I'm pretty sure this just changed my life.

[@Sun-et3my]

OMG. I can't even believe the complex sounds I hear from this ONE man. He's so amazing!! BTW, he was the BEST concert I've ever been to. A small, outdoor venue in Scottsdale Arizona. Intimate, warm...like watching a friend play.

[@BillHoyt-or5lp]

Tommy is a great guy! What a great talent!! As a musician myself, I appreciate the letter Tommys wife wrote. I can see him playing at Childrens hospitals, and hospitals, and nursing homes. Music heals! I have seen this healing myself!! Peace

[@dropclutch1]

Tommy Emmanuel is one of the great gifts that we have been given in the world and time. Thank you for the beauty and inspiration Sir!

[@peterbees]

Paperback robber.

[@hotforknowledge2111]

He seems like as great a human being as he is a guitarist which makes him a rare rare gem!

[@splashharmony58858]

He has become "one" with his guitar. I can't even imagine what he has gone through, to reach this level. That virtuosity and not a trace of egotism. Thank you Tommy, for showing us what mankind is capable of.

[@kilgoretrout3966]

True Giants are truly humble, as is the case with Tommy.

[@malcolmbryant]

He is the greatest guitarist in the world. And he cannot read or write music. I wish more people would get their head around that. In ALL fields of endeavour.

[@primevalblades6984]

meloncholiac: I wish I could like your comment twice.thank you.

[@813lem]

thats because you dont write music you feel music. if you dont feel it no one else will either. any one can play notes The piece he wrote about the American west....wonderful. I am an American living in the west, thank you Tommy that was a great compliment

[@keyehaw]

"All fields of endeavour"? It's probably fine for music, but if you design, say, an airplane without the benefit of engineering knowledge...I'll walk, thanks.

[@malcolmbryant]

You are more than welcome my friend and thank you very much.

[@SpaceTrucker91]

melancholiac Some of the best players are self taught. Hell, my favorite musician is Stevie Ray Vaughn... He couldn't read or write music either but he's arguably one of the best southern blues guitarists ever...

[@frankcordaro2813]

I was extremely fortunate to run into Tommy at Gruen Guitars in Nashville. Chased him out the door 😊 so as not to miss an opportunity to meet him. We had a great conversation about his times playing in Rochester, NY and playing with a local Syracuse man I knew. He is kind, considerate, interesting and a phenomenal guitar player. Thanks for sharing your time with me Tommy. Love what you do.

[@CharlesM-dp4xe]

I love people from Australia ... They're so efficient and inventive. I've been around the entire globe, (four times) courtesy of the US military but I've never had the chance to visit Australia. I'm nearly 70 now and I am glad I have access to the internet where I can experience so much. Thanks Tommy for giving us such a positive and enjoyable experience !

[@JonYeoAU]

Well if you ever get to Melbourne, let us know

[@Retrobloom12345]

I recommend listening to Sia n Kevin Parker, they're two aussie musical geniuses

[@jaylc]

Thank you for your service brother.

[@markmcculloch2570]

Aussies are magic. From South Africa.

[@jw3164hohnjunt]

Greetings from Australia Charles

[@thescowlingschnauzer]

Can't believe how smooth his cascade harmonics are. And that he can fluidly transition between that and finger picking and percussion - man alive! It makes half of me say "Why bother? He's already done it all" and the other half say "But I want to do that so much."

[@stargazer7426]

Every musician should see this video. Not only a great player but the insight to the reason for music is bang on. I have a new idol and his name is Tommy.

[@h.a.s.palliblister8113]

This is humanity at its very best, it's 2021 (December) and this video is still going strong with 5.8 million views behind me. I wish you all the very best Tommy

[@SLStolworthy]

Tommy you had such a I influence on my uncle, I would like thank you for being his mate as you called him. You may not remember his name, but he] played a Gretch White Falcon every year with you and Chet met in AACA I believe that is what he called it.

[@justinjohnson7250]

7 million in August of 2024.

[@angusmoffat]

What a phenomenal guitar player. Just as brilliant on electric as well. You know someone is talented, when the great Eric Clapton said that Tommy Emmanuel is the greatest guitar player he has ever heard.

[@louisdrose8277]

Sir Tommy Emanuel, you create music, not just play. Your heart and soul is in it...

[@mototakahe836]

How have I missed out all my life on this wonderful musician.

[@MomoMoonStar]

Das geht mir ganz genau so. Dank YT habe ihn heute das erste Mal gesehen. 02.12.2023

[@onesharedheart]

Me too!

[@bzwench]

Just saw him again last night in El Cajon (San Diego) California. I never know what he’s going to play and it is always magic. Tommy should have a house full of Grammy awards! He is a genius, a gentleman, and pure joy to watch.

[@laxnative4622]

Indeed. I saw him the next night in Beverly Hills. He knew there were "guitar geeks" in the audience who wanted to see what the "best" looks like. He didn't disappoint. Amazing.

[@TheMalibuDar]

@@laxnative4622 I was there also, about the 8th or 9th row. His playing is one thing, but then you thrown in that light show and it was really magical.

[@jorgeherrera1074]

Those "cascading harmonics" is super hard to do and he did it soo cleanly that it seemed super easy... that is not easy by any stretch of the imagination.. wow...

[@aybmnn]

+JorgeAlberto Herrera when he said it's no easy i knew it was beyond difficult

[@mr.kilpatrick2991]

correct - he said - they arn't easy to do - but forgot to say - oh btw I'm the best thats ever been at doing them...but Tommy doesnt have or need that arrogance...he just share the joy of his skill

[@LordSnooty-r8z]

I've seen Tommy a dozen times or more in the UK over the lasy 25 years. From his beginnings at The Fire Station Slough (Tommyfest) to The Festival Hall. Outstanding musician, outstanding human being.

[@TeQuiiLaSHoTZz]

I wanted to see this guy for years. Honestly cant wait to hear him live one day

[@mitican]

I've been already to three of it's concerts in the last 5 years. He becomes better as time goes by, believe me. And yes, anyone can see every clip there is here on youtube, but you'll never get the feeling like being THERE live...

[@LD-bv1pm]

You sometimes watch people doing stuff well and think "yeah I could probably get close-ish to that if I practiced a lot' and then you watch Tommy Emmanuel you don't think that at all lol. He has an other worldly level of talent.

[@asandiegoguy]

I gotta respond to the guy that said he doesn't care for Tommy's original compositions. IMO opinion, he's written some breathtaking pieces -- Those Who Wait, Halfway Home, Angelina, Ruby's Eyes . . . the list goes on. I love how he always throws something unpredictable into his pieces. He's an incredibly gifted songwriter!! Long after Tommy's gone, his music will live on.

[@papajeff5486]

We don’t get to see and hear a genius often. We are so fortunate to be alive during his age, his time. God touches people; this man is absolute proof and we are blessed. Thank you, Father. Amen. Texas

[@virgiliovenditti6976]

Good Lord! This guy makes me throw away my guitar. Well... actually no: he makes us to realize the most important tool a musician must have is humility. To learn every day something more. Outstanding Tommy...

[@greaterbayareahero1401]

The best part of Mr Emmanuel is that he uses his talent to help people and brings happiness to all people from all walks of life. Such a honourable human being and true gentleman!

[@georgecrawley767]

I've seen Tommy play live in London and he's even better when he's there in front of you. Videos can't covey the talent of Tommy. Every note played to perfection. He really is incredible.

[@ufera]

Tommy Emanuel is a BEAST !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@PsychonautExplorer]

I love it how he's genuinely delighted when someone claps or cheers at the end of him making his sound. Amazing dude!

[@77goanywhere]

Tommy is a totally non-religious Christian who just loves people. He is genuinely grateful to be able to bless people with his God given talent.

[@SarthakSPyt]

Man he so happy and giddy throughout the video playing his guitar, everything i ever wanted in my life.....

[@psycoticreaction9135]

"Life is not a rehearsal, so you'd better get on with it". Greatest statement I have ever heard. Thanks Tommy!!!

[@LukeMaynard]

I don't know if I'd call this an educational "talk" like most TEDx lectures, but I can't imagine anything I'd rather listen to. It's just Tommy doing what he does best. I'm glad he let his guitar do the talking. I could listen to him play all day. So many of the lecturers try to compare the thing they do to some great life lesson. If you can't listen to Tommy and understand how making music can change and enrich your life, it's not going to be something somebody can explain in a 20-minute talk.

[@JonYeoAU]

Agree. Would be hard to do in 18mins. Remember the "E" in TED stands for entertainment. There's Bobby McFerrin, a yoyo guy (called Black) and plenty of other entertaining items on stage during the TED events.

[@davidstone7556]

Yes, chose him because he's inspirational, successful yet humble, intelligent but not an intellectual. An old fashioned, salt of the earth bloke, getting quite rare in this wide brown land - "I can't read or write music but I can write you a song". He didnt emphasise talent or a God given gift - just persistence. That way most take away the message that being conscientious and industrious can take you a long way - then again some decided to burn their guitar.

[@michaeltrombino3888]

Tommy is my dream mentor. Saying that he is the greatest guitar player and nicest man that I have ever heard, is an understatement. I am 64 years young and I have been playing the guitar since I was 4, and couldn't hold a candle to Tommy. I don't mean, in any way, that there has not been and still are many great guitar players out there. But since I had a major stroke a few years ago, I am learning how to do everything all over again and I can't play the guitar, do martial arts or surf like I used to. And all I could do well was the martial arts, and was poor to fair at best as a guitar player and surfer. But having no balance and being grateful to be alive..... that is not so bad. I dream of seeing Tommy play in person and it would be more than a dream to actually meet him. Someday!?! Like he says: "this is not a rehearsal!"

[@chaswilliams3354]

inspires me to play better...anyone else feel that emotion?

[@chaswilliams3354]

***** agreed !

[@delplaya5]

Yep

[@milanaryal5000]

Chas Williams same here...

[@adriankilbourne2163]

Chas Williams hell yeah!

[@shannenposadas8416]

excuse me, anyone know the song he played at 6:56 - 7:13 ?

[@richb.4374]

Tommy Emmanuel is one of the best acoustic players on the planet. Amazing skill!

[@gerrymcguire7521]

He really is mesmerizing to watch! Just a super nice guy, I love the way he interacts with his fans , he is so gracious, not arrogant and stuck up. Just the way a musician should be! God bless him!

[@canajian]

If you visit guitar mountain, at the very top of the peak you'll find this gentleman.. Humbly living there...

[@andymiller9081]

Had a beer with Tommy in the LongYard Tamworth after one of his concerts. My younger brother who kinda sorta plays guitar was pissed enough to give him a few pointers. Tommy was a pure gentleman and accepted the street level criticism like the great man that he is. He is a mentor and a true teacher and we could all do a little better striving to be more like him. Good onya Tommy 👍🏻

[@aerrhh]

When I see this video and many others of Tommy, I realize that his purpose on this Earth only could be playing the guitar. He has a God given talent for guitar and no one can deny that! Best guitarist in the world no doubt about it!

[@MrMarkpark]

This guy is the best. He has been the best for a long time. As he as explained, you have to NOT be trained in order to play that way because traditionalists will tell you its either wrong or you can't do it at all. Edgar Cruz and Andy McKay can do the same thing. Makes my brain hurt a little

[@pedrorov9936]

I can too, and I know lots of others :) It's not that rare

[@pedrorov9936]

Pedro Rov It's about starting at a young age! I started when I was 8 :-) Screw Barbie and Spiderman buy your kid a musical instrument!!

[@pedrorov9936]

Pedro Rov No disrespect towards Tommy! I just know too many of his kind not getting the recognition they deserve, some are even better.. (Not better, but different)

[@khoa9627]

Pedro Rov Please, let us know if you know better musicians. I'd like to see that with my own eyes ;) Tommy Emmanuel is the most complete guitar player in my opinion.

[@pedrorov9936]

I don't like the word "Better" when it comes to individual musicians, different is a better word for me. But If you don't know Sam Westphalen you should definitely check him out! His style of playing inspires me and really helped me to become a better guitarist than I ever dreamed of. Thanks for asking! :)

[@BigTex347]

Tommy Emmanuel signed my 1989 Takamine guitar at a pre-concert meet and greet event at the University of Houston when he put on a Christmas concert in 2017. He took the time to talk to me, and listen to me and I will never forget that moment. My Takamine signed by Tommy Emmanuel is my most prized possession. I played it last night and as a played I looked at his signature - what an inspiration.

[@MrJimdeb]

My favorite guitar player on earth...

[@otaviosilva3654]

is my too

[@Phew1254]

"If I want to stand out as a musician,I should play my OWN song" - The most shocking sentence I've ever heard

[@paulh4691]

An incredibly talented man, and yet so humble and not full of himself in any way. TE = National Treasure

[@azarashi1996]

When I heard his song, I was shocked and impressed. Then, I bought acoustic guitar next weekend. I luv you Tommy❤

[@crlguitar1]

He knows that he's great, but he's still a pretty humble human being, and willing to demonstrate and even teach some of his incredible techniques of guitar playing. He plays on such a different level that I just want to hang mine on a wall and forget about performing myself.

[@baltpit2439]

How is this guy so underrated?!?

[@unitedsound1]

An incredibly inspirational man! But, one of the quietest Australian audiences I've ever seen! Thank you for being who you are Tommy.

[@dougimmel]

EFFECTIVELY BRINGING the entire orchestra into Classical Gas... exhilaration.

[@AdvancedHumans]

While watching this, I couldn't help but think - what a genuine, kind and humble guy! And he has an amazing talent with that guitar!

[@blokmuscle]

One of the best things I ever discovered was this dude right here. Such a talented individual and extremely humble in his craft.

[@mikenadanada7430]

Tommy's from another planet

[@t.j.fuller9531]

What a phenomenal musician, performer and genuine awesome person World Needs more role models like Tommy

[@markmarsh27]

Tommy is MUCH MORE than "one of Australia's most respected musicians. ... He is probably The Greatest Guitar Player WHO EVER LIVED.

[@ErikQuintanillaMusic66]

Tommy Emmanuel... That's an odd way to spell Eric Clapton/Chet Atkins/Jimi Hendrix/... Nah I'm joking he's pretty great. I just prefer music with vocals and other instruments it's a me thing lol.

[@finjo9673]

Marvin patrzalek is pretty good too. And luca striginoli

[@brianmax8147]

@@finjo9673 I would love to see them two play together

[@lynn151haj]

Been Following Tony Enamel (his joke) for a number of years now, amazed at his unique guitar techniques, his humility and sheer determination.

[@kilgoretrout3966]

Never knew that one!

[@andydavis453]

I been watching and loving Tommy Emmanuel for about 40 years. He used to play at pubs around Sydney by himself, with his late brother Phil (RIP) and also his band, Goldrush. Every show was different, and he obviously enjoyed playing guitar - you always had a good time at their shows. I can recall he and his brother used to play 'Dueling Banjos' on the same guitar.

[@sharenedrennan1602]

I share some of those memories. 😁

[@357HFC]

Has to be, If not The Greatest, certainly, one of The Greatest Guitarists EVER!