The Gig That Changed My Life

[@fivewattworld]

“Play gigs.” Pat Metheny’s advice to David Grissom in a lesson. Your story illustrates why this is so true Rhett.

[@dakota11111111]

My story so far... I lucked into an opportunity to record an album with legendary Seattle producer Jack Endino back in 2016. I quit my job of 9 years, cashed in my 401k and drove 30 hours straight to Seattle, with my drummer and a photographer, and recorded our 10 song album in 3 days and mixed it in 2 days. I played and sang everything except for the drums, the bass on one song and the chorus on one song. When we got back home, my drummer got back into his normal routine and nothing really came of the album or the band. I’m still writing and built a studio in my garage. I plan on recording my sophomore album soon, by myself, and kind of creating my own lane.

[@malcolmjohnston4624]

Good luck with your project 😃

[@bv5980]

What's the name of the album? I would like to listen to your music

[@mattbacon285]

I’m game it listen too!

[@MrThegreatwhitepork]

Yeah me too

[@jordaneimer2873]

as rhett would say- there is no plan B

[@anthonynonya]

I really like the old pics, they added a lot to the story.

[@Newbyrock23]

Omg HAHAHAHAHA. Aaron is my drummer at Church! He’s incredible, and such a good dude. Blessed to play with him.

[@RhettShull]

I love that guy ❤️

[@Guitargate]

Loved learning more of your story brother. Thanks for putting this out there, and great advice.

[@StephenSpelman]

Great message, Rhett. I’ve taught for years as an adjunct professor in my “day job” profession at local colleges and universities. I regularly bring in established pros to talk to the students about how to succeed. The students initially tend to think that they’re going to learn complex or exotic professional tips and tricks, but instead it’s always the same: cultivate the ability to get along with people. Of course you need to be good at your profession, but it’s the ability to be nice, be kind, and get along with people that will bring professional success. Thanks for yet another great video!

[@TheLateBoyScout]

Great story. I played in bands a couple decades ago, and had very similar stories. For me, it was meeting someone like me, with the same tastes and at the same skill level, who was willing to learn alongside me while writing crappy songs that we both liked. We went nowhere in the end, but we had 4-5 years of good times doing it.

[@danielschafhautle1691]

I want someone to jam with SOOOO badly. Idk like noone likes the musik I like where I live.

[@thodorisvlastos6304]

@@danielschafhautle1691 same here

[@TheLateBoyScout]

@Rolph Finkin Thanks!

[@Larzguitars]

I always like it when someone tells their story of how they started. Great story man!

[@Theweeze100]

Thank you Rhrett for the story, it’s extremely encouraging when someone who has accumulated some modicum of success also talks about the difficult times. We all have them. I started playing bass because my mom made me go to church and knew I needed to have something to do when I was there. My family members were all musicians, had a couple that did stents with well-known bands. I just played bass in church, found myself in a much larger church at one point and got an invite to play some studio dates. When I got married I decided that I actually needed a day job (Studio work and playing at night we’re not always paying the bills). Continue to play music in church, and teach kids. It’s been great to have a day gig, and just be able to play music for fun. I really admire your tenacity, and wholeheartedly encourage you to push forward. think you can see that the mountain, at this point, is under your foot.

[@StarQueenEstrella]

Had to pause at around 6:05 to just gush over how adorable the wedding photo is

[@jerrystephenson1172]

Yeah, he found a keeper fo sho!

[@Kevin-db9iy]

My first gig was in my living room on my couch. The venue has changed over the last 30+ years with new living rooms and new couches but the crowd has always been the same. Sometimes I even throw beer bottles at myself. The one thing I am sure of though, is that I respect anyone who puts it out there in front of a live audience.

[@bowsandslingshots]

I remember when yo 'Re'started this channel I was blown away by the desire to grow. I love the path that you have taken

[@BillDutton]

Love your story Rhett. I’m 57 years old and finally recorded & released my first album last year after putting music second to raise a family. I love that it’s never too late to pursue music...I reckon I’m just a late bloomer. I did a double take when I saw your PRS in the thumbnail! I just ordered a CE 24 😂. Keep up the great work too - love your playing and your channel.

[@adriengahery9471]

Ol' faithful to the channel here. I was there before you hot 10k subscribers, I can teel I liked your honesty and the fact that you can get a fairly complicated point across. Great that you're aknowledging your loved ones that helped you along the way. I mean, hey, you're good, and I'm positive that you'd have made it through, whichever the path you'd take. Seems there's always a humble start to a big journey. Congrats to you & best wishes for the future.

[@RC32Smiths01]

We all get interesting starts to our careers, and this is no exception. So cool to hear your story, especially with how successful and taken off you are into the career!

[@richardsteffens6159]

Started recording EP's in my bathroom and now i'm recording an album in my garage. Little steps.

[@claytonmurrayguitar]

Dude you played with Carl!? Grew up watching him at my old church. Loved that guy! Small world

[@RhettShull]

So crazy!!

[@ralvarezguitar]

You are absolutely amazing Rhett. Your honesty alone is inspiring, not to mention your path. Thanks for sharing. Huge admiration and fan of your channel.

[@maynardmadsen8712]

Inspiring. At 34 I felt like I had wasted so much time. I spent the last two years focusing on learning electronics to help me in my amp building endeavors, I also spent time getting healthier. I’m now a 100 lbs lighter, and working on a line of pedals and prototyping amps for my own company. I’m going to spend 2021 learning music theory and becoming a musician. 36 isn’t to old, but I’ve definitely got a lot of time to make up for. I’m much happier and excited to see where my devotion and diligence will take me over the next 10 years.

[@tagosto321]

What a fucking awesome and honest video. Thanks for putting yourself out there man.

[@somebodysdog9235]

We played our first gig feb 2019, we went into the gig with the idea we were playing for free. It was a local Eagles club. We had no expectations other than to get out and play in front of people. The town we played in has a population of about 700. Luckily for us the stars aligned and someone was having a birthday party and it was packed. After the 1st set the owners gave us $300 and hired us back for a month from then. We are gaining traction in our area and all around. Fast forward to almost 2 years later. We are playing concert venues in STL, have a demo album of great originals we wrote set to release at beginning of 2021, and gig out almost every single Saturday. We're at the top of that mountain that scared us all to death and now that were here we see other peaks up ahead. We're gonna keep grinding!

[@squidsleap]

That was really cool Rhett! You never know where life will lead sometimes but it's inspiring to know that you basically just dove in the deep end and made it happen. Sounds pretty rock n roll to me!

[@chuckdavis5300]

Great Story Rhett. I've been a life long student of the guitar. . I listen to you, Michael Palmisano, Rick Beato, and enjoy the life stories as much as the guitar tech. I too struggled in academia. But found my way financially on my own. Life is awesome! Keep the stories coming guys!

[@manojkumarmn8553]

Honestly my first love is guitar!!! I went to lessons for almost 2 years..... Learnt few chords and I was self thaught singer.... So how I got to know that I could really make a difference... Its my sir's (guitar Teachers) birthday party I sang KANNNADA song called MAHADESWARA and my sir started dancing in front of people and people started gathering like lots.... It made me so much happy that i myself thought that I could literally change people's life!!! -Manoj achar 😉

[@mailmusic]

That is so amazing that you shared this story. I tell people all the time you never know where a gig will send you. You are awesome bro....keep it up!!!!

[@JackGardiner]

This is an epic story Rhett! Inspirational stuff mate!

[@agomezkrauss]

When I was graduating high school I wanted to become a gigging musician (I already knew how to play guitar decently.) My parents promised they would finance my music career if I finished a college degree. So I did. After I finished my degree they refused to speak about me being a musician. Now here I am. Music is my hobby and I have a day job I hate. Don't listen to your parents kids.

[@misterknightowlandco]

You must have not really wanted to do it if you let someone talk you out of it. It was probably for the best.

[@emilyadams3228]

@@misterknightowlandco Sounds like they didn't so much talk him out of it, as lie out their asses. "People" loooove to bullshit their kids & play Evil Trickster God w/their lives. I think it's the only reason they have them. They have shit jobs, they have almost no control over their own lives, but...oo, here's something I have total control over! Plus, their "parents" did that shit them, too ("I went through hell, & so, by God, will you"). Christ forbid you actually find a way to do something you love & enjoy life, instead of being a miserable prick. Hollow nothings can't have their kids be happy & successful, cos that shines a Volvo Fog Light on their hollowness. Mr. Gomez, go right ahead & turn pro. Start a channel on KZbin, or better, Bitchute or Minds. Put yourself out there. If ya got a pulse, & yer fingers work, it's never too late. Best of luck.

[@charlesbranch4120]

Best advice from Dad was that he felt it's better to do work you love for less money than do work that pays more, and that you enjoy less so that you can retire and afford to do what you really want to. He retired from the USAF at 42, and spent the next 42 years raising cattle, making hay and supporting that hobby with AF retirement. When I brought home the announcement recruiting volunteer fish biologists for the USFS in Alaska, he was excited as he and a crewmate had some great fishing while TDY to Alaska in the early 1960s.

[@agomezkrauss]

@@emilyadams3228 Thank you.

[@misterknightowlandco]

@@emilyadams3228 amen

[@rodrigoalejandrovalverdeca9618]

I’m currently in music school, still having doubts about what my future might be. I was even considering for a long time to quit but currently I’m feeling ok about my career. What you just said about taking the opportunities that show up in your life, I think it’s true. Thanks for sharing your story, it motivates me to continue🙆‍♂️

[@kirtb9784]

Hey Rhett, you deserve a pat on the back for overcoming obstacles ... great message to all. We all get knocked around but we don’t stay down. As for me, my first gig was in Oct 2019. I open mic’d for maybe 15 times before I settled in with my own band. I’m 52 now, it’s work and it’s fun ... done 7 shows now, where it leads no one knows!

[@stuartvivier732]

Man, I love this...we all start somewhere and we never know what the road ahead looks like. Feeling really inspired and thankful for this channel and for you as a person!

[@justinguitarcia]

It is crazy how what can put you on a path. I've been playing since I can remember and gigging as well but when I went to college I didn't pursue music, went into a different direction for a few years then a friend from highschool reached out whom was doing well for himself in the broadway/musical theater world and he had remembered me as a guitar player he thought highly of. Long story short, he took a chance on me and I haven't looked back since. Thanks for sharing Rhett.

[@lgguzman470]

I like how you're story sort of starts when you're in college and as a musician and all around person that i look up to you are one of the greatest to me. So to a college student like myself that means that maybe my story can pickup at any time in life whether it's after a certain age or not. Thanks Rhett 🤘

[@petersechoka155]

Hi Rhett, really inspired by your story. I had a similar journey about 20 years ago, but ended up leaving music. over the years I got back in here and there, but now I am back and more motivated than ever. Really think your story is more a commentary on perseverance and being coachable and willing to be humble yet confident. keep in up!

[@axelmcdonald]

You're spot on with ''just keep going'' 👌 Can't compare yourself, we're all at our own speed, it's a tough pill to swallow but it's always worth it, especially when things are going well on your own merit. I moved from the French Alps to go to a music school in Dublin, Ireland called BIMM. Did the 4 year course and played with absolutely everyone I could to simply acquire the experience. Turned out to be the best decision ever as I then have been touring on a nationwide level for covers/tribute shows but also playing in 3 different originals bands (different genres too) and have a bit of studio experience with producers which inspired me to produce a couple of EPs and albums. Cheers for the awesome video content Rhett, give us a shout if you ever come to Ireland😁

[@caseyholford]

This is exactly how it works man. It’s all about making connections, showing up when you’re needed, sticking your neck out once in a while, and just being a hardworking person that’s a pleasure to be around. Great share.

[@malcolmjohnston4624]

Great story, I have one that is similar, except that I went back to high school at 30 years old, were I learned to play with my classmates, we still get together, I'm 62 and looking forward to the next practice.

[@ObjectiveDynamics]

Same age as me! I started playing guitar when I was 15 years old and by the time I was 16 in 1974 I was gigging regularly. Then something changed about 10 years ago and I stopped enjoying playing. Eventually my guitar time fell close to zero. Until the pandemic. There are some terribly sad stories out there but the first UK lockdown was the best thing to have happened for me. Given lots of free time and nowhere to go I made a plan, picked up the guitar and started playing again. Now I'm enjoying my playing more that I have in many years

[@malcolmjohnston4624]

@@ObjectiveDynamics I have had some time off as well and found the extra time to practice to most rewarding 😊

[@michaelharrison3232]

@@ObjectiveDynamics I have an old, old story. Started playing guitar at about 15 in my bedroom, waited until I was 59 to come out of my room, join a band and starting gigging. Four years later COIVD put an end to our musical explorations. Looking forward to the time when we can play in front of human bodies again. Rhett I have throughly enjoyed living the dream vicariously through your channel.

[@ObjectiveDynamics]

@@michaelharrison3232 , good story. Three years ago when I was 59 I couldn't have even imagined playing in public again, even though I had old contacts urging me to. Now I'm seriously planning it again. I too love Rhett's channel but one of the best things about it might be that it's got 3 old codgers talking 😍

[@malcolmjohnston4624]

@@michaelharrison3232 mabie Rett can give us some tips on doing live streaming 😊

[@Burnt_Gerbil]

Life lesson: Don’t be a jerk.

[@cbh76]

Great video, Rhett! I’m not a musician but your words of wisdom still ring true. I had a very similar experience in school and eventually found my way. I am so happy to have found your channel for moments like these and for the opportunity to experience your talent and creativity. Thanks so much for sharing.

[@whoisdin]

my dude. i dunno why, but this was really the video i was hoping for at some point. i found you through Beato’s youtube and to know this connection is just 🤯. you ,and your videos, actually pushed me back into playing guitar again about 2 months ago... after years of nothing. so thanks for that. and thanks for this video. 🙏

[@robschmidt9852]

Brought a tear to my eye. I hope you thank Aaron every chance you get.

[@JimmieBratcher]

Thanks for sharing this video. I’ve been full time as a musician/minister for 22 years. I will be sharing this with my grandson who is a senior this year and just getting started. Again thanks for sharing.

[@uzer_zero]

Rhett, having watched and been inspired by your vids for quite some time now I think - with your positive, dedicated attitude - you were always destined to get that one gig that 'changed everything', whether it was through Craigslist, someone met at a music store, etc. You had a Plan A, refined it, stuck to it, and you're living it.

[@DennisAlvarezMusic]

I enjoyed your story Rhett. How cool for you that you found your passion in life and better yet are good enough at it to make a living. You also made several very good points that I hope many young musicians learn from. YOU NEVER KNOW WHERE OR WHEN SOMETHING GREAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN.

[@8MinuteAxe]

Great story Rhett. Hopefully gigs will open back up in ATL soon (I'm in Canton) I'm getting burned out teaching 30 students each week. FYI, my youtube channel just turned one and things are going pretty well. You and Rick were huge influences on my decision to give it a go. Great advice at the end too. Dont compare yourself with others. Just keep at it. Thanks for the inspiration Rhett! -Mark

[@ZacharyWyatt]

"You never know" is the truth. I went to an open audition for a "pop-up" acoustic ensemble that was looking to add some more players, especially if they played something other than guitar. I auditioned as a mandolin player, but have since gotten to play guitar (my main instrument), banjo and bass and also sing. We've done a few shows and just put out a record. The ensemble has also spawned many side projects, including a duo of myself and one of the singers. She and I have written some 30 songs together in the last 18 months and are working on a record. Just showing up for a weird audition has resulted in the most prolific creative period of my life, in my 40s no less. Put yourself out there!

[@mrsconley666]

Rhett, you are so correct about being grateful and to take every opportunity

[@neildavidvandenberghguitar6784]

I know that this was posted over a year ago, but wow! Great story, man. I had no idea about that Beato backstory. Very interesting, very Cool! Ever since I have first gotten into this channel about a year ago, I have always appreciated not only the great content, and production quality that you have behind it, but also your willingness to be so honest, humble, and transparent about your own story, man. Thanks Brother! 😎

[@tonywood7400]

Very interesting and heartfelt, thanks. I really enjoy your vids. The one thing that stuck with me on this vid was what you said about being good to work with/hang with and don't turn down opportunities. My current gig, guitar player the in the band Distant Towers, started with me collaborating with someone on a few tunes and being easy/fun to work with (according to my collaborator). That same person was working with another guitar player and asked me to play bass on a tune....something I most certainly did not care to do.....and I accepted. We did the song, they liked the bass. Within a few weeks the other guitar player decided he didn't want to work with us further and so me and this other gentleman started a journey that has lasted 12 years and produced 7 CDs. We have never played out (because we all work remotely) and yet we are close friends and love that we can make music together in our own special way. So satisfying. We all have other careers so this is just for fun.

[@AlonzoWhite]

I always love it when you share your introspections with us. Thanks, Rhett, You're the Best!!!

[@yksneJ]

Hey Rhett. I just started at Berklee and I was super nervous about what happens after my 4 years is up and constantly being afraid that I won't end up with a solid career. This story was SUPER reassuring. Thank you for this. Truly.

[@victorancelmo2549]

Wow. This was really inspiring. Im 15, got my guitar(first and only) at 13, teaching myself, and I dream of becoming a big musician and get to record, perform, and be able to live good. Thanks to you Rhett, I want to try and work more on my guitar and get to be what I want to be.

[@rickkrasowski]

I rarely comment on videos but watch all of yours. This video hit so close to home I honestly had to say this. Thank you! Our musical path has been very similar and recently I’ve been very down and uninspired because of everything going on. This made my day and was very inspirational! Great video! 🤘

[@fsthomson]

Loved this story, Rhett. It really is true that these little moments, that you don't necessarily expect much from at the time, can become defining moments. Congratulations to you for what you've built for yourself so far, and thanks for sharing it with the world. Cheers, fsT

[@brendoncoats6549]

Great video, me and my band really got ready to gig and play out right when the pandemic hit and it's been pretty discouraging not being able to play out when we'd want to the most but this video really helps

[@walterschneider4860]

Thanks for sharing Rhett. It's inevitable to feel fear about failing but I at the same time music has been the only thing that truly matters to me. Intelectually, physically and emotionally. Thanks for the inspiration, we're gonna keep going!

[@isaacjohnson.]

This is awesome Rhett. It is such a great journey, and I love that you put yourself out there and took a risk. That is the hardest thing for many of us to overcome, it is easy to come up with excuses or sell ourselves short before we just try/do something. We may not always succeed but putting ourselves out there and actually trying is the only way we will succeed. Thank you for sharing, and love to see your continued success.

[@MrThegreatwhitepork]

So I am 40. I started tooling around on bass when I was 18. I never really took it seriously until a little over a year ago when I had a random meeting at a gas station. I ran into a friend who had been playing in bands for years and he was looking for a bass player. He knew I had played some and gave me the chance. I learned 45 songs in about 3 months and started gigging with him. The drummer we were playing with had a friend who was well known for music around my town and convinced him to come open for us. Due to this we became friends and now we are working on recording original music with him at my little home studio. I'm now doing things that I wanted to due 20 years ago amd never put the effort into pursuing.

[@timnewton9888]

Thanks, that was a very inspiring story. It’s so easy to see people you look up to and forget they were once where you are.

[@paulwest3905]

Nice video Rhett. Some very important life lessons here. One important lesson I learned through my father- don't EVER forget that you have no idea who a person you just met knows and admires (or hates, etc. for that matter). Do NOT open your mouth and immediately criticize or take hard lines with anyone until you have gotten to know them better PERSONALLY. Relying on judgement from other people, even close friends will only bring you embarrassment and disappointment. Forge your OWN path by evaluating and being open to every relationship you start. People will respect you much more for it and it will make you a better person in life!

[@saintripley]

Rapper checking in. Just finally felt like it's time to level up after 7 years of making music. Since January - left my job, dropped an EP, dropped a Deluxe Edition of that EP, 3 music videos, started singing lessons and BOUGHT A GUITAR. Now I'm on a mission to at least come up with a few licks/rhythms I can loop (then throw drums on) and maybe even play a few cover songs. Glad I found your content.

[@Birbdup]

Smiles from start to finish. Gives me hope.

[@albertbryan6379]

This video makes me appreciate this channel a lot more then i used too. Really can relate to your journey. Keep up with the content!💪🏼

[@jonathanpappas151]

That intro was amazing. You are a beast with that thing in your hands man

[@bigg4454]

I can see the similarities in your journey and mine except I did not attend any musical school. I was in an open mic situation myself. The right person saw me and after that I met more and more folks. The other difference is I was already working my "plan B" before my musical journey took off, so I was a late bloomer. Well, anyway, the end result was what I wanted. I spent most of my short musical career in Memphis doing my fair share of corporate demos and playing with singers that didn't have their "own" bands. Met a lot of folks along the way. Not doing that much now days, but still active. Glad you did good and keep it up!

[@steelsamurai3717]

Awesome! I am just starting out with my band. We have only done 2 open mics so far, but have been playing all original material. I love hearing stories like this, because they inspire me to keep moving forward. Also, Needtobreathe is awesome!

[@gregcalkins3116]

Great story Rhett, I don’t have any aspirations to be a professional musician but really enjoy watching your story. Love your passion and transparency, all the best to you sir!

[@boomerdell]

Great video, Rhett, thanks so much for sharing your story. I’m a 53-year-old beginner (inching towards intermediate, I guess, but I have no idea how to measure that) and, believe it or not, you’ve really inspired me. I have a demanding regular job as a lawyer (not a complaint at all, it’s a great job, just requires a lot of work hours, that’s all) and I’m a Dad, but I still manage to practice pretty much every day and take my weekly lesson with my great teacher (via Zoom since March but it’s working well). My goal is to get good enough to play along with others, some way, some how, and be able to keep up and maybe even add something to what they’re doing. I am working hard to get there, and even if all that means is sometime I play in a friend’s garage or a cookout and it’s just six people we’re entertaining, well, then, cool! Thanks again for the channel and your excellent work, Rhett.

[@atznorbert]

Great Story! I just want to tell you that i really like the straight ahead, honest way you come across in your videos. Being a musician and music teacher for many years now, one main Subject that ever stood out to me in the „Musicians-world“ is the often found honesty between musicians (not talking about the industry). Perhaps because making music with others cultivates that specific aspect in a certain manner.

[@catfish573]

Responding to a long ago video, but just wanted to let you know, I'm 61, teaching myself how to play the guitar. Been watching a lot of you and Rick Beato and learning a lot from both of you. I have no aspirations to ever play in any kind of band, just for my own pleasure. I would be perfectly happy just playing rhythm guitar. Anyway, just want to say thanks for the help. If you weren't so far away I'd do that cleaning up at your place just to watch and learn. Good luck with your future. Thanks again.

[@ampthebassplayer]

My first legit paying gig was a cold call from a frantic guitarist. He had gotten my number from another guitar player I was good friends with. They needed bass player on extremely short notice, so I took the next couple hours learning a 4 hour cover band bar set and managed to struggle through well enough to get called back several times whenever they needed a bass sub. I eventually got the gig full time and the experience I got playing out 6-8 times a month was a major stepping stone in my musical development. I've cascaded that into lots of other opportunities, but saying yes to that first phone call (even though I was terrified) was a hugely critical moment in my life.

[@adamloake]

Hi Rhett, really cool to hear a bit more about how you started out and the early days of your career in music! I had no idea about how you met Rick and got to know him, that's awesome! Cheers for the content, keep up the great work!

[@chibiabos]

Thanks for sharing your story mate. Hard work and constancy are the key for whatever projet we have on mind. Yes, we will make mistakes, we will fall, we won't go sometimes as fast as people around us but we must stand up and keep focused in order to reach the goal.

[@dr_tomK]

What a fantastic story Rhett. I'm going to ask my daughter to watch this. I think it's really inspirational and educational.

[@BodhisBooms]

Great story. Thanks for sharing your path, especially the challenging and doubtful points in it. Keep going!

[@andrewkremer8545]

You hit the bullseye on many points of life there, Rhett! Great video! Thanks🤘🏼

[@jeffpollitt138]

How the memories come flooding back when you pick up one of your first guitars. Think this is the best video you have made Rhett, true , honest , sincere advice. Your story, know doubt will mirror thousands of musicians who are watching this video right now! Enjoy, life passes so quickly.

[@footnotedrummer]

It's so cool when stuff like that happens. Glad you're with us (your KZbin family) , Rhett. We actually found our female singer on Craigslist. She had never been in a band, and she's not only an incredible lyricist and vocalist, but she's also a natural frontwoman. Sometimes you just get lucky.

[@adamhenley6534]

Man I was just looking for something to watch while I steel wool my frets (cheers Dave) didn't expect to get that story! What a great yarn mate!

[@albertramies]

Great story, Rhett! Craigslist has been huge for my current group / goals! I’ve got workhorses and people you WANT to play with and be around.

[@seantimmons5601]

This is a great story, Rhett. I am happy for you and inspired by you. Keep up the great videos.

[@ruffdraught]

Great video, man. Perseverance is key, but gratitude will keep you turning it. Well done dude!

[@KevinBlank]

I’m 41. I mostly self-taught myself guitar in high school with a few lessons. In college I took two semesters of jazz guitar. Then I mostly stopped playing except for a few little fits and starts until 5 years ago. I still feel like I’m trying to blow through all the missed years of playing and gear to find my sound and quench my thirst. Today I just finished putting together a 1984 Ovation Ultra GS super strat. It’s the same model guitar I had in high school, my first electric. I didn’t have a good amp back then. Today was the first time I played those DiMarzio pickups through good gear. Now I’m kicking myself for getting rid of that guitar so many years ago. I want to write original songs. I want to make an album/EP. And I want a small number of people to want to listen to the music I create. I guess it’s a mid-life crisis of sorts, but I won’t let 20 year olds have all the fun.

[@PiggyVanHausen]

Love the attitude! I would love to listen to your music once you release it! Nowadays it's really easy and cheap to record yourself, so you'll make your album in no time. Best of luck!

[@simongregory3114]

Carry on doing it. Apart from a few random and rare live playing episodes when I was in my 20s, I started playing live in bars in my early 40s. A friend of mine's neighbour had lost her guitarist, and was playing and singing on her own, She was a great singer but an average guitar player. After trying out (turned up to hear her play, she asked me to come do some songs with her on the spot!) I started gigging with her, then other people saw me and asked me to play with them. And now, well I just turned 58 yesterday. I play with talented people aged between early 20s and my age, and older. I played with a really talented singer songwriter who unfortunately dumped me as a player when she got an international recording career and a 5 record deal with a prominent indie label. That was the hardest thing to deal with (i'm from New Zealand, hence the importance of the international thing). But I still play with a few original bands and about 3 regular bar gigging duos or bands. It's easy to look down on bar gigs, but it's honest work, usually fun, and you're helping people enjoy themselves. And it's the only job I know of where you're expected to drink while you work, and it's usually free! So... Keep on an don't think you're too old.

[@SeekerGoOn2013]

I’m 64 trying to do the same thing. Let’s push on.

[@BeatsAndGuitars]

Man I love you Rhett...this almost had me in tears. You’re a beast. As a 9-5 person I wish I could go back and take guitar more seriously. I wish played guitar like you do. Keep it up.

[@MikeS63301]

After playing music in cover band for over 35 years, and toured with a few Nashville acts I found myself at 52 starting to need a break. I’m 56 now and after a good break I’m aching to get back at it. This time must be different! I don’t mind playing covers, but any band I join will have to be writing and playing their own songs some. This time has to be different! You are very lucky, and smart, to have made those rules and lived by them. Thanks for what you do! I did what you do and like your circle of video friends. When I watch the videos you guys do together I feel like I’m sitting around the studio BSing with my musician buddies. Thanks, Mike

[@MikeS63301]

*dig what..... thanks autocorrect.

[@77thass]

Awesome story Rhett. I’m glad I found your channel, as well as Rick’s. I’ve learned so much from you guys. Thanks.

[@TVP-bn3xj]

Hey Rhett- good timing for this video. I went and tried out for a band recently that I found on a Craigslist Ad. Tryout went pretty well though my nerves were through the roof. I ended up not getting the part. Am bummed, but I went way out of my comfort zone and tried out. That was more than 1/2 the battle. I’m 35, 3 kids. Played for the past 15 years and never had the balls to go tryout for a band. Learned a lot a long the way. Thanks for the great content!

[@riverman6655]

What a great snapshot of your roots and inspiration...well said...mine started at a Monday Night weekly open mike in a pub I worked at....networking!

[@jeffreyswart7236]

my career in music also started with a craigslist ad for a internship with a producer at NYC’s The Cutting Room in 2005. Every gig since leads back to that one. Great story Rhett. 🤘🏼😍🤘🏼

[@frankdeike782]

Thanks for sharing this insight into your life and career. In my case I joined the school band my form teacher was leading. I learned an awful lot from him and from the small gigs we had. I am incredible grateful that this time inspired me to become a teacher myself and also to form a school band to pass on all the good memories I have, all the things I have learned 30 years ago. I feel very privileged that this dream has come true. Currently I am teaching English and work with our schoolband and two pop orchesters.

[@russclewley6945]

I loved the story! Your honesty is comforting. Loved the connection part the best.

[@wideskyguitars]

Really awesome to hear some of your back story! Such a great lesson that can be applied to all aspects of life. Be open, not everything turns into something but anything can. So be open and create your opportunities.

[@KevinNapper1]

Thank you for telling your story. I've found that however I've found people to play with it's always been well worth it. From adverts in music shops to adverts on line they've all led to meeting new people, and different people have different approaches, ideas and tastes which it's great to experience. It can be a bit daunting sometimes but pushing that extra bit is worth it. Thanks for a great channel.

[@strafto04]

Neat story, always wondered how you got to know Rick B. Really enjoyed your last gig the other night, you guys run deep with talent. Good luck with that project.

[@Grumpy_Monk7973]

As a 37-year-old who has always wanted to learn guitar, I love watching your videos. As said in the last sentence, I have always wanted to learn, but trying to teach myself I always get frustrated and give up, and every time I watch one of your videos it makes me want to learn. I don't want to play in a band or for people, but I have always found the sound of a guitar to be super relaxing, if only I could get to where I could put together something that sounds like music. Thanks for the videos!

[@geras2058]

hey man, so I'm 21 rn and I'm basically at the same spot as you were, I'm from Mexico so it's a little hard to find people and sometimes get discouraged, I find it so cool that up until now I have the same story as you, because I can just hope in 10 years I'm where you're at, cheers man!!

[@zxcvbqm]

@ Rhett Shull I'm not sure if you will be able to read this but thank you for posting this. This gave me the push I needed to follow my dreams. Thank you.

[@theyoungamptech320]

The band I’m with currently got me thru craigslist. Here’s hoping we get gigs soon with states reopening.

[@Mordi_B]

Thank you for sharing Rhett. I love your channel. My story is that of a little autistic child who discovered EVH at the age of ten and who succeeded through music to socialize and communicate more than he was supposed to. I became a professional musician because of what you mentioned. As an autist, I was on time, ready and despite my “autism issues” people decided they wanted to work with me. I became a PRS Guitars artist and therefore for other firms. I didn't really "exist" on the net until I found your channel. I really like the format and thought it could match my personality and help me socialize more, get to know people. So after a whole year of struggling with myself, and after seeing one of your videos encouraging people, I decided to launch my KZbin channel 2 months ago. It's called "The Autistic Guitarist", I really enjoy it, some firms contacted me for collaboration even though I didn't think it would happen so soon. So Rhett, I owe you, you make my weeks more enjoyable, your videos are a "light" for me, and being a "youtuber" makes me happy and less alone, less stuck in my inner world. So rhett, thanks man. Mordi.

[@TheKallegreiff]

So nice to hear your story! I started the other way around. First I played original music in several rock bands, dreaming of one day make it big time, starting in Los Angeles..:) After many years playing and to be honest, mostly rehearsing. I realized it was way more money in playing covers, lots of gigs and it was always people coming to the shows etc. Then at one gig in a ski resort in Sweden (where I live) I met the girl a girl. She was living in Moscow and was on a conference at the hotel we where playing. Now we are married and have two children. So that gig was kind of important..:)

[@ToddWayne]

Really appreciate the story. Just keep at it, it's the only way. Supporting others and encouraging them not to quit will lift you up through the doubt and darkness. When I was learning music from my dad, he encouraged me to do it for the love of music and not as a living (because he knew how hard it was, from his own direct personal experience). And when I started guitar, he watched me obsess over it and fall asleep with a beat-up acoustic in my arms. When I wanted to buy one of my own, he knew I'd keep at it, and took me to the big music stores on 52nd street to pick one out. I never made $1 playing a gig, and I've played a quite a few. Bars, parties, sadly even a funeral (I do not recommend this). I have an entire other career and family and not nearly the talent (in my own opinion) to make it as a professional musician. But I have the will help others and teach them what I know and how to improve themselves, how to keep going through the hard times. And I hope like hell I've become a "good hang" in the meantime :-)