The HARDEST Day Of My Life (Stories I Probably Shouldn't Tell)

[@RickBeato]

These are the stories I love hearing from Tim! He’s an amazing storyteller!🙏🏻 This is the history of how the music industry and how it worked. Love this!

[@SteveHamiltonMusic]

Thanks for introducing him to us Rick!

[@georgehoward9944]

Haha! That's the pot calling the kettle black, Rick. Both Tim and you are wonderful resources for me, and it's amazing to me that you both are people I rely on. Music is so important in building community, and helping make the human connections so vital for peace in our troubled world. Rock, jazz, metal, classical, country on, dudes!

[@8KilgoreTrout4]

@@SteveHamiltonMusic No shit, right?

[@Tusitala1967]

He's a fantastic source of positive energy. I owe you for bringing him to my attention, along with many other towering figures from behind the scenes.

[@777ZEETAL]

This is also the history of anyone building a reputation in nearly industry! I’m in dental and I can totally relate! Great video🙌🏼

[@dannycostello3129]

Tim I was a guitar player in a band called Jace, it was jace smith from the Risk Springfield gang, we were doing demos with a producer named Drick Nakamoto. They did the demos without me behind my back and they had you play guitar, I was hurt and pissed until I heard what you played it was amazing. I realized I needed to get better so I practiced like crazy and become a much better player. Only bummer was I had to play your parts live, I pulled off the best I could. You are one the greats. Thanks for making me a better player.

[@philipatoz]

There's a time in life to chase your dreams and generate as much income as you can. But, for me, that time also taught me that money isn't everything and you can't get time back. Retired now, I have realized, if you are frugal and smart with your money, you'll be just fine. I have great joy in spending time with my wife, being on my own schedule - I can stay up as late as I want and get up whenever I want. Eating better, taking better care of myself - just having time to think. And, of course, it's not all about ME! Tim, I know you must treasure where you are now. And you've got your toys of creativity and love of music and guitar. Finding peace and satisfaction with simple things is a wonderful place to be!

[@tonychavez1733]

The cheaper your pleasures the richer you are

[@jfo3000]

​@tonychavez1733 Yes sir! A few guitars and some gear is not that expensive as long as you don't need to try every new music gadget that comes out; keeping in mind that most of the new gadgets are just new versions of the old gadgets...makes it easier to save $$$ !!!

[@user-xt7rs8md7p]

Time is our most precious resource… Time spent with family is time well spent God Bless

[@jorymil]

Chasing money has never worked well for me. But I always want to make enough never to have roommates who do drugs and steal my things.

[@philipatoz]

@@dbob3405 , I did the same thing about two years ago - and for 25 years we've been in the country on five acres - and surrounded by many more. We just came up on 35 years together - doesn't seem possible. Helps that we each have a study on opposite sides of the house - as we both need our space, LOL. Love the peace and quiet, no more rat-race commuting, or dealing with idiot corporate types (I still occasionally have bad dreams about).

[@christianscazzieri]

Non just a world class guitar players' player and an incredibly smart and humble gentleman, Tim's also a master story teller, I could listen to him telling sessions' stories all day! Thanks for posting!

[@maxmenius9839]

Tim is a role model for hard work, modesty, and deserved success. Really respect him for his impressive work ethic. Great video!

[@user-fi7ju4nj9b]

So true. And as a huge fan of his guitar work for the artists I enjoy, I'm also thankful for the volume of his output. You can never have too much great guitar!

[@sullenpuffin]

With respect, I don’t think Tim is being a good role model here. There are times when pushing through can be a good thing, but trying to push through true burnout leads to chronic illness and mental health problems. Hustle culture is great for short term gains, but it’s an indicator of an unhealthy society that so many people feel they need to sacrifice their health for success.

[@vincedegennaro3534]

modesty? he doesn't shut up about all the famous people he met

[@mksnz]

​@@vincedegennaro3534It's not bragging either. Many of us like to hear these stories, some of us seem to have a low esteem which makes it harder to accept that some are more successful than others.

[@therealdecross]

​@@vincedegennaro3534 I am pretty sure he was very humble at sessions. When a musician with a gig thinks he is the artist, he quickly becomes a musician without a gig.

[@mellobotstudio]

Great video! I have a mobile welding business where I show up and repair tractors, dozers, farm equipment etc. I get burnt out sometimes, but I get burned daily. 😂

[@sundaynightdrunk]

Tim is my kind of storyteller. Clear, concise, and engaging to listen to.

[@dmljones2550]

Agree 100%. He’s a great guy. Really genuine.

[@djSmokeShow]

Holy cow I had no idea just how prolific a session player you are, what a career! I LOVE when people like you sit down and reflect on all of your experiences, so cool.

[@chiricm]

Before I found Tim’s channel I had no idea how many of my favorite, melodic parts were him all these years. It all made sense because his playing - no matter how different the artist he played for - always grabbed me and stuck in my head. Runaway, iris, change… all very different songs for very different artists. So many great parts.

[@JakesMusicPalace]

The truth from someone who lived it, about what it really takes to succeed in the music business, and why so many crash and burn from the pressure. Love your music, and constant smile when you are playing, it shows that you truly were /are the man for the job. Thanks for sharing and just keep doing what you do, we all appreciate you🎸🎸

[@johnalbasini6790]

The older I get, the more I learn that my favorite guitar parts were played by either you or Luke…

[@expressiveartists9054]

You were always such a pleasure to work with in the 80s/90s while I was at Goodnight L.A. Keith loved you and was always amazed by your talent.

[@timpierceguitar]

Hey, thanks very much. I really do miss Keith...

[@Motosportz]

This has quickly become one of my favorite music channels. You and Mr Beato rule. Thank you sir.

[@jdemarco]

Tim, that strat is absolutely beautiful...as is your playing 😊

[@buddyray69]

70th anniversary ultra Strat . 👍 Around the 9mins mark there's a thanks for it..

[@griggsb1]

History! I love history. It's just what it is. Nothing else like it. Thank you

[@ScottieOh]

The best thing about your videos, to me at least, is the pure joy playing guitar still brings you. Makes me smile just as big as you are when I watch! 🤘😁

[@JerryLeigh7252]

Toy Matinee was your finest effort. Really love that album from start to finish.

[@karmakarrot7960]

Your solos are always so good, so album worthy, it blows my mind someone is so consistently good.

[@ZombiesAreJerks]

I used to work 3 jobs (that were not playing guitar) and still lived in my parents’ basement because I couldn’t afford rent. One time I got into my car and couldn’t remember how to start it because I was so tired. Making a living and being around amazing people doing amazing things helps keep you going, believe me.

[@andytimmonsguitar]

Beautiful tone and playing Tim!

[@timpierceguitar]

Hey, thanks so much I appreciate it

[@dougb5028]

Timmons is a Texas Treasure

[@StevenRosenberg]

I love that you play in between the stories -- I like a musical interlude between stories. Really ties it together.

[@MrGavinspoppop]

I am in awe of talented lead guitarists ... I play rhythm behind my singing ...just a weekend warrior ...like millions of others...Always love these stories ;;;so TYVM !!

[@stickman55100]

Tim, you’re such an amazing player and a real human being for sharing your experiences with such candor. You’ve risen to the top because of your skills and your character.

[@TheStrykerProject]

I suppose there was a bit of fear, too, with working all the time. If you didn't take the gig, then the next guy will, and that may mean the 'next guy' gets the next gigs, too.

[@timpierceguitar]

Absolutely yes… That is the main driver behind taking absolutely every job and every session, thanks for the comment :-)

[@georgehoward9944]

It's why, in sports broadcasting, we were forced to organize and unionize. Employers, seeing we were freelancers, and competing for work, knew they could risk our safety, pay us less, ask us to carpool to remote gigs, ask us to share hotel rooms after 12 hour days, and, when we dared to speak up, accuse us of being "Mafia", and robbing them of their precious profits. Unions are not perfect, but, man, it beats the alternative.

[@Joe67343]

@@timpierceguitar Hi Tim, I am curious, you have said you're not a top sight-reader, so that skill was not necessary most of the time? Thanks.

[@NickBurbeyGuitar]

I feel this and did this in Vegas until I did in fact burn out.. back now, though!

[@TheStrykerProject]

@@NickBurbeyGuitar Glad you're back at it! 👍🏻

[@jeffdunlap146]

Great stories Tim, sure looks like you've "paid your dues" and am now able to control your work (rather than the other way around). Keep up the inspiration for us mid-60's followers!

[@kevinmorris7722]

Thanks again for all of the contributions you've given us. We've enjoyed them and always will.

[@joeyheshion5366]

I love when you talk about your discography, because as someone who doesn't know about it, it's fun to hear that you played on so many songs and albums that I liked.

[@johnnymossville]

I can kinda relate Tim. I work in creative as an animator, and did about 10 years straight with no vacations. What I found is that even if I do take a vacation the work doesn't just go away to another person, I have to do when I get back to my studio, which ends up making for 16 hour days to catch up. Causes burn-out really badly. I've started taking time away though as I get older. I don't want to die at my desk. LOL

[@gergemall]

So true Tim you’re such a down to earth soul and I appreciate very much

[@gergemall]

So true Tim you’re such a down to earth soul and I appreciate very much

[@TomLaios]

I fully relate.I am the only one capable of certain jobs, which means work piles up when I'm not there.

[@Henrydingus01123]

@FredCarpenter-pb6bdAren’t you supposed to be in bed when you go for an ambien?

[@randykalish7558]

With all respect 🙏, you spent a lifetime dying at your desk.

[@gustabartok]

You're amazing and inspirational. You've chosen the side of no matter how talented you are because you're one of the best, you'll work as hard as you have to. It's just amazing and you really set an example for all musicians out there. Thank you!

[@Bryanpjc]

Shakira is the second prettiest thing in the video. That Strat is BEAUTIFUL.

[@craiger2399]

@FredCarpenter-pb6bd The ultra has noiseless pickups

[@telecaster643]

The New 70th Anniversary Amethyst HSS Ultra!! On back order for months for us mere mortals!!! ;-) I have one on order!!! Love the stories!!

[@craiger2399]

@@telecaster643 Congrats! Hope you love it!

[@stratisfied678]

I worked as an engineer in Nashville in the '80's. The one thing you learn when working in the 10-2-6 paradigm is that you get sounds quickly. That served me well over the years and leaves many in dismay that I don't spend hours eq'ing toms, etc...

[@poorlybuffalo555]

There's a good Gadd story when he got flown over to the UK do a 10cc record. After about 10m he went into the control room to see why they were taking so long to get drum sounds - this was when taking a week wasn't unheard of...

[@claymor8241]

@@poorlybuffalo555That slapdash approach is no good in the U.K. we prefer to get it right.

[@jamiebibo4287]

​@@claymor8241 pros should know how to get it right quickly and not wank the day away making micro tweaks.

[@majorfeelgoodrecords2740]

This is wonderful👏🏻 Sometimes in life, it’s not what you know, but who you rub shoulders with. 🎼🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻

[@sortofcute]

You are just SO awesome and So pleasant. Of the millions on KZbin, I am so grateful I stumbled upon your channel. You're a good human. Thank you.

[@Mtn603]

Love the channel, Tim, and the positivity is infectious, even with more serious topics. Although I work in finance, rather than the arts (although I’m open if anyone has a need for a middle-aged, mediocre weekend guitar player), I can confirm that “succeeding” in a career means trading 40 hour weeks for 80 hour weeks. It means seeing your kids less than you’d hoped, taking calls at all times of the night/vacations. It means staying stone sober while your friends are having a good time, because you might get called into a high-stakes meeting any minute. Looking forward to joining you in the post-burnout phase of life, whenever that time may be

[@mikkosutube]

12.24..the mentality behind the energy that made his career possible..what an amazing person, not just an amazing guitarist..

[@guitarplayer5932]

what an amazing life/career you have had im jelaous, i know there have been bad times, hard work, late nights, missed family times as well but beats working on an oil rig

[@Channel10334]

The first sentence of the video - talking about burnout - is some real wisdom. Thanks Tim!

[@RJRonquillo]

I remember some of those long days at Rob's! I would love to read your memoir if you ever publish one.

[@friedem0n2004]

more than anything Tim is a true professional through and through

[@bremnet1812]

I've had the pleasure & privilege of meeting with you on a few occasion. I always loved hearing your experiences from over the years while we've chatted. Thanks for sharing.

[@helminenjuha]

Tim. thank you for sharing this incredible personal story. No words, what an insane amount of work!

[@SuperChaoticus]

Great stories. As a Marine Trumpet player, I had the same situation where the styles of music would change gig to gig, and many times a single gig would require everything from Classical to Bebop and everything in between. I loved every minute of it. Being able to switch styles at the drop of a hat is a fantastic skill.

[@youWoNtLikeMe04]

Tim, now you're just showing off. Really though, lots of dedication, hard work and your music is everywhere. Fulfilling life.

[@sliceahlife]

Had no idea who Tim Pierce was till today. What a bunch of absolutely gorgeous riffs!

[@luvbasses5487]

The hardest working man in Rock who we seldom saw…but was right under our noses the entire time! Thanks Tim.

[@bill-the_virtual-deal-maker]

Great stories Tim I never realized what kind of sacrifices studio musicians have to make especially when it comes to family. You have plenty of great memories and experiences in the people you got to work with. The list of people you have worked with is amazing. Thank you.

[@abwdoc]

I love musician stories…Spinal Tap wasn’t just manufactured….it was related !! Keep ‘em coming, Tim !!

[@bohammer71]

Tim, this video comes at a moment where I am experiencing burnout in a job that is "supposedly" the apex of my industry and career. Thank you for sharing this story...it's easy to talk about powering through but another thing to do it. You got me through today...and learning guitar gets me through every day. Peace, brother....freelance is eat what you kill; saying "no" equals not getting paid and the fear of the work drying up...a true "snake eats its tail" scenario. Illuminating video for anyone who's lived it...great choice.

[@fivewattworld]

The Shakira story! Thanks for this Tim. I’ll add this link in our talk video.

[@timpierceguitar]

Thanks Keith, I really enjoyed our video...

[@williamweiss6128]

Still, I had no idea you played on Ignition-John Waite. Love that lp, still because of you, and maybe Neil, little bit. Thank you for your overboard service to the music we love, man. Still discovering more. Love you, man.

[@ronnyskaar3737]

Thanks for this. I have experienced severe burnout some years ago. It's really bad. Love your very tasteful playing.

[@marksatterwhite316]

Paul Leim lived up the street from me in a small East Texas town. I remember the band director would let him play amazing drum solos at pep rallies. He has always been an impressive drummer.

[@GlennJackson-d8e]

This is why I wouldn't do that. I admire people who dedicate themselves to a career, but I realize, that I am not one of them. It takes that dedication to be great. Tim is great.

[@kmb1]

Tim, I'm not a guitar player, but I love the music you've been involved with. You're an inspiration and a blue print for how to do it right. Not without costs. Your wife must be amazing. Kudos to you, sir.

[@hyperbrightstudios]

I love this stories, it's hard to imagine a music industry that was so vibrant and productive as this was at the time. Absolute legends!

[@Johnny-oy9fh]

Rest and recuperation is the answer. Getting chillout n downtime. What I've always called "work/reward"

[@starchild2727]

What a blessed life Tim! Plenty of challenges..but the MUSIC❤

[@robbiecalvoguitar]

Great video Tim, very heartfelt, honest and faithful to your art ... you seem more relaxed these days...very nice to see you in the zone on this one...

[@patrickmoreau7592]

I’m glad you could sustain a career in session work. I couldn’t take the life I still play music but the business was not for me. Great stories.

[@alindstroms]

A few months ago i heard the song underneath your clothes for the first time in years and i realized how good the guitar parts are in that song. Of course its you who plays on that!

[@murphshall]

You're a real stand up guy, Tim 😀 I have much respect and admiration for you. You're on a lot of great sings that I love! Runaway!

[@Notmyfirstrodeo1969]

Much respect @TimPierce I’m very thankful to be apart of your masterclass…really enjoying it!!

[@TheRycooder]

You have such an endless amount of talent! Even old half ass musicians like myself know how hard it is to create across different genres!!!! This was an AMAZING video! Thank you Tim!

[@justcallmesando]

So sorry to say this but I didn´t know you before this video... but WOOOOOWWWWW what a career sir. Following your channel and your work from today on. Greetings from Mexico City.

[@BobbyCulpepper.srv3fender]

An understanding wife is probably the most important part to being successful musician

[@iamrobfromcardiff5515]

A successful anything I think…. Lawyer, banker, doctor, whatever.

[@bradsmith7311]

It helps that she was the bass player before we married

[@balisaani]

Yep.

[@purefoldnz3070]

aka many ex wives

[@TyAndras]

It’s a huge part of

[@C_Melvyn_James]

The more I learn about you, the more blown away I am. Temple of Low Men? I LOVE that record! How it is that you haven't been a "household name" in my world, I'll never know. You are my unsung hero. The song starts now...

[@dougf94912]

Thanks for the tip on the Alanis Morrissette cover!

[@julieculp9583]

Tim, miss seeing you at the Rick concerts. Sitting on the bus with you, Brett and Mike, listening to the stories is one of my best memories.

[@falconeaterf15]

When I turned nine Tim played at my birthday party! His lead in solo to the Happy Birthday song was epic ! Kidding.

[@KevinCowden-ow5to]

I can't say enough about your tone. It's one of the most pleasant sounds in the universe. It really draws you in to the music. I know there's a lot that goes into your tone from your right hand technique to the way you fret the instrument and your choice of melody and the meticulous approach to the gear that you play through. You exist in that beautiful spot just at the point of breakup where the subtlety of your playing shines so much. The fact that you run through all of that gear and still manage to sound transparent is mind boggling.

[@alanpecherer5705]

I like the Alanis Morrisette version of "crazy" much more than the Seal version. You're on that? Crazy!

[@davidbuswa9425]

To me Alanis Morrisette's version tops Seal original cut

[@WolfRun59]

Love the 70th anniversary Fender with the color changing finish. Guitar is so versatile. I’m waiting for mine to be shipped after it comes in and gets set up. Enjoy.

[@PeterGreenProductions]

Such a wonderful and truly enlightening video Tim, amazing... thank you, Pete

[@RecycledRocker2]

i’m one of your older fans … i really love these stories … just to hear about all the different superstars you made !!! i love it …

[@elephantfootrisers]

Tim - there are a lot of amazing guitar players, but only amazing people get the studio gigs. And only the best of the best can make a career out of it. It's refreshing to see your humility and appreciation for where you are and have been.

[@ivorjones9961]

Love the stories Tim thanks. There is a big difference between quality of life and standard of living and it is a tough balance sometimes.

[@chriselectric1116]

As I have told so many others, there is no substitute for experience,. none,.. YOU ARE ON THE TOP , YOU HAVE EARNED IT,. THANKS FOR ALL THE GREAT VIDEOS,. TIM...

[@andre_toyonaga_]

It would be amazing to have a documentary about all those great albums Tim had played and his parts on guitars and gears. For sure i would pay to see that. Tim is the Goat✅

[@jpcelestian]

Tim, it's great to know you played on that first Bon Jovi. I love that solo on "Runaway" and I saw Bon Jovi perform it in a rock club when I was about 17 yrs old and Jon was 21. Wow, what a memory. Thanks for the solo!

[@1111undici1111]

Great that you're sharing this! It just doesn't make any sense to give your life to someone else. You need to live your own life if you want to be happy. It's not really complicated, it's simple.

[@DiegoVT91]

Amazing musician and wonderful storyteller. Tim is a legend.

[@lennyjay22GbgLALV]

Great stories about how hard you have to work to be in top of your game, but also inspiring as you have played on so many records! The “Runaway” solo video was also amazing! I had no idea you played that solo, and it is one of my all time favorite solos, and of course I tried to learn it as a kid and stole all the cool things from it that I could :)

[@AwayWithWordsMusic]

Very cool stories Tim. I'm always impressed with your seemingly even keel personality. I got to meet you once back when Sweetwater still did Gear Fest. You are a true talent and I appreciate your candor and humility.

[@dewdew34]

Loved that Crowded House record Tim !

[@ariecht1807]

Tim, you are such a classy, humble person.

[@RJ-go3sn]

Tim, I just happened on your video, loving guitar & music, but never knowing a thing about you....! And I must tell you of how impressed I am with your skills (I googled you, wouldn't you know!)! I had that "walking by a bar in New Orleans and hearing some of the BEST musicians the world has, but you've never heard of them before" moment with you! And your stories about your work ethic are just remarkable! Like a manual for what it's like to be dedicated to your craft. Thank you for this nice surprise! Will be keeping a lookout for your work!

[@jhandle4196]

Every time I watch Tim play, his relaxed, fluid technique reminds me to stop over-playing my guitars, and let them sing out like they're created to do. Not every song needs a Pete Townshend windmill. Thanks Tim.

[@Anne6621]

how is it possible not to love Tim , one of my fav guitar players

[@Chuckolson5]

Legendary! I can see how people don't survive this business if they're doing these types of hours and working all the time. But somehow you manage to do it which is a true testament to your abilities and hard work

[@KevinRussellSpaceSimSTEAMphony]

Another great one. Burnt to 'crispy crackly crunch' as we use to say, (waking up below the mixing board a few sessions). Moving from records to advertising (to pay the bills) in the NYC 1980's taught me to never look back as burnout crept in. Great stories Tim!

[@relevantinformation6655]

100 hour weeks. Did that for a decade with helicopters. Rescue. Your adrenaline is shot -and you have to go do it again, and again in often dangerous situations. You’re not in the air all that time (FAA rules) but you are always with the helicopter. Really developed a good work ethic now that I have my own company. We’re always booked out but I don’t like working more than 6 days a week as I’ve been at it 4 decades. Love your channel Tim !

[@linheitzig9227]

You have enormous pride in your work Tim, it shows even in your video's. I think it's great. I'm sure it's part of the reason so many people watch you.

[@leonarddaneman810]

Nice guitar. I am wiring up a cool silver flake Squier body with Ultra Vintage Noiseless p/u's as an 'Ultra' partscaster, but got Pearly Gates in the bridge and a rare Elite compound radius Fender neck with a flawlessly black Ebony fret board.

[@danielebazzani]

I admire you so much guys, I would never be able to do that!

[@SurvGod]

Very interesting Tim. Thank you for all the stories.😊

[@timpierceguitar]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@landonbailey]

we've all been there! said nobody else ever! :) great stories

[@suzannecoholic1467]

Great stories Tim! Thanks for sharing them with us!

[@C_Dana]

Hi Tim, The stories, your life as a session player, those cut short vacations and here you are still going strong! Hard to wrap my head around certain days where you were in constant motion going from gig to gig! The Nashville session block time slots certainly saved many careers. You need your rest to perform your best. Your work ethic was insane!!!! As you put it, living on the edge of burnout at times. Motivation by other artists keeps you out of the burnout zone.

[@BlackHeartJK27]

Hello Tim, I was just listening to an album I picked up from Gregg Bissonnette when he did a clinic in my city, "Submarine". My favourite song was always The Son Man, I realize now it's you on that song! Awesome.

[@PhilKelley]

Thanks for these insights into your life, Tim. I can sort of relate. My life in Information Technology software implementation was much like what you describe. I was on-call 24x7 and vacations were frowned upon. The most encouraging word I got from my boss was, "I am afraid I am going to come here one day and find you dead at your key board." In parallel to what you said, I quit that gig and joined a team of inspired, creative people who worked the long hours in the middle of the night but gave me the energy to persevere and enjoy what I was doing. So, to those who are living miserable lives working long hours to no clear purpose, find a new gig with inspired and creative people, if at all possible. It took me nine months to find the right team, but I had saved up for such an event and found an inspiring book, What Color is Your Parachute? which helped me immensely.

[@Inverse_Sense]

Thanks for sharing, it's always interesting to hear the back stories! The hard work is what makes anything worth anything.