THIS Is The SECRET Of Neil Giraldo's PERFECT Tone

[@kennywood6434]

Neil Giraldo is an absolute badass. What a phenomenal player!

[@mruncletheredge]

And a Gentleman...

[@erwinroman4217]

God, what a set of pipes Pat had in the '80s, and Neil's soloing was perfect! Talk about energy!

[@r.llynch4124]

Neil is one of the greatest guitar players in rock history and I'm not saying this lightly. Start listing all his hits with Pat and see what I mean. This dude is in another world as far as talent goes. Thanks for this Tim.

[@GlenDeanII]

Yeah, he really is... his playing perfectly accented Pat's vocals.... phenomenal band

[@joxyjoxyjoxy1]

And yet he's never mentioned in the same breath as Schon or Slash or any other 80's guitar heros.

[@clayplaysguitar7731]

My local band opened for Pat Benatar in St. Paul in 1981. Pat and Neil and company were as gracious and friendly as anyone you’ll meet. I was gob smacked watching Neil play!

[@joshuahek4564]

I was 4 years old in Saint Paul in 1981. Suffice to say, I didn't get to see your show...

[@robertreese2600]

FINALLY someone publicly recognizes Geraldo's talent! So versatile. Very underrated.

[@robcostigan8757]

Those solos on all those Pat Benatar hits in the 80s were beautiful and so well crafted. As Elliot Easton did with The Cars, Neil's were so good and idiomatic that they became a true part of the song and pity the poor guitarists who had to play them in cover bands for the next 40 years. Thank you Tim for this interview.

[@swingset1969]

Yup, sounds like something I've told guitarists over and over. You think you're "there"? Play some Pat Benetar or Cars solos...and try to really nail them. So simple, right? Lol.

[@georgebarry8640]

@@swingset1969 Amen!

[@rodgerrodger1839]

So good and Idiomatic? You my man deserve a special place in the world of You Tube comments. A pulitzer prize at least. If I see or hear the f***** word "Awesome" used for any reason I will go completely mad. No matter who uses it, I will boycott them, or not listen to them, or watch them. Great comment...You give us all hope.

[@bobbyosborne2375]

Fuckin' Jesse's girl. Christ that solo is terribly difficult. Not because of the technicality, it's easy as shit to play along with on the record. But when you try to play it with a band in a live situation? Good luck.

[@thrash8315]

I played in a Pat Benatar tribute band for two years. Yep, that statement is very true.

[@adam872]

Neil is a fantastic and incredibly underrated guitar player. His tone and playing on Precious Time (the album and the song) is just perfect for the songs. His solo on the title track is one of the best I've ever heard.

[@patrickcasey357]

Had the honor of opening for him and Pat back in ‘98. Great guy who let me have a few minutes alone time with him for a few questions about his solos. I’ve opened for many big names and Neil is the only one who ever mentioned us over the mic during his set. A class act.

[@jamessholtz6016]

That is nice to hear.

[@swardet1]

In what act/band did you play?

[@patrickcasey357]

@@swardet1 not a famous band, just a local band in Denver.

[@dannymcmince]

@@patrickcasey357 Local or not ...whats the bands name Patrick!

[@jimmyfrombrooklyn8550]

Doesn’t surprise me- a real class guy

[@walshy2116]

I didn't know the story about Neil and Pat until I got older and man what a wonderful story. I became so into them. I saw them in concert and love them. They're better now than ever. What a beautiful musical story they've written and even more a beautiful love story. May God keep them and their beautiful family safe. They truly are a national treasure and should totally be in the Rock in Roll Hall of Fame!!!!!

[@DannyDiess]

They both were inducted in 2022.

[@MikeGuerr]

Neil is an absolute treasure, one of the finest musicians in the business. Based on the interviews that I’ve watched, he’s also a stellar human being. Thank you for posting this interview Tim!

[@MagnumMuscle1000]

Neil is a fantastic player. Myron Grombacher is a criminally underrated drummer.

[@brianruyack7632]

Great to see mention of Myron. Totally agree!

[@leemiracle6840]

Myron is a beast! Love his playing.

[@jhwk1970]

I saw them back in their glory days and was surprised what a terrific drummer Myron was, and even more surprised that the sound guy had Pat buried in the mix. Suppose he never took off his headphones or something, but I’m still aggravated about it.

[@levideverney9248]

To this day Myron Grombacher in my opinion is one of the best drummer that I have ever heard. Saw them in concert twice. What a show.

[@rctubs3593]

Could not agree more.

[@CentaurusRelax314]

The moment his solo kicks in with the trail of Pat's voice on "Promises in the Dark"-has given me chills every time i've listened to it since 1981. And that was *a lot* of times.

[@johnflorian6745]

Same. The sounds from a musician who knows what you crave to hear and knows how to execute it. A true master of the craft.

[@216Numbskull]

Neil's solo in PITD, is hands down one of the best guitar solo's in Rock n' Roll. It just got overlooked back in the 80's. The focus was on all the great new shredders coming out then, Eddie Van Halen,Randy Rhoads,Yngwie Malmsteen,Steve Vai,Stevie Ray Vaughan,etc.. The 80's have to be the biggest guitar wars of any decade?

[@Kurt1969]

Even as a pre teen back in the 80's just starting guitar, I picked up on that!

[@CentaurusRelax314]

@@216Numbskull Eddie was/is my favorite, because he wasn't just a "shredder." I actually never categorized him as such. EVH always served the song, just as Mr. Giraldo did. I love Jimi and SRV, too, and credit Randy Rhoads, though i never listened to him that much. They were all songwriters first, and 'technicians' last. Neil Giraldo just had an innate sense of how to construct and carry a song without making it an exercise in being a 'showcase.'

[@216Numbskull]

@@CentaurusRelax314 Oh, I agree with you. Eddie was so much more, they all were. But, c'mon now EVH can shred, (Ice Cream Man,Beat It,Hot For Teacher, & so on) not to mention the obvious that rocked us all first hearing it? You may not put him in the typical shredders lists like Gilbert,Malmsteen,Vai,etc.. However, Eddie revolutionized and changed guitar playing altogether that brought an onslaught of guitarists soon after. EVH is half the reason why many of those shredders, shred. It was due to Eddie's influence on many levels. And yes Eddie did serve the songs he wrote, as did Neil. I paid attention to their playing, so I didn't miss out. My point many guitarists did, and were preoccupied in the latest lead solo of who could out do who in flash and speed. Overlooking the quality of the writing and leads by other greats. Don't get it twisted, not saying that nobody was listening to these guitarists. Yet IMO were a bit overshadowed in the 80's and shouldn't have. Seeing they put out some great work like Giraldo,Schon,Lukather,etc... that's all.

[@jhwk1970]

Why Neil and Pat aren’t in the Rock Hall of Fame is a total mystery. They are in MY Rock Hall of Fame and always have been.

[@chrislestermusic]

Well, The Go Gos have to be in there first of course. I mean, come on.

[@bassaniobrokenhart5045]

You go and tell the guys in the RHF how "Love is a Battlefield" is a rock'n'roll song...

[@coolcat6303]

@@bassaniobrokenhart5045 I would have no problem telling them that because that song rocks. But, even if it didn't, Pat had plenty of other songs that were harder & more pure Rock & Roll. But it's a mute point, anyway, seeing how the HOF encompasses many types of genres.

[@freejackwells9107]

@@coolcat6303 So true ie Madonna 😂

[@ravecaster]

@@coolcat6303 *moot

[@BradBartram]

A couple years ago a buddy of mine asked to borrow a few of my amps for Neil and Derek St. Holmes doing some shows in the area. They were flying in light and needed a backline. Neil used my RedPlate Blackverb 100 combo and I found his settings to be insightful. He basically told the guy setting it up - give me some dirt, turn on the mid boost and the boost and that'll be fine. He rocked. He could have been playing a Behringer or a Line 6 and still would have rocked even without being plugged into a boutique tube amp. Dude's a monster.

[@StealthParrot]

I still remember the first time I heard Heartbreaker on WRIF Detroit. The station's phone rang off the hook with listeners going "who the hell was that". Neil's guitar with Pat's voice were a match in heaven.

[@michaelolz]

It is about tiiiiime!!! Great bandleader, great guitarist, amazing tone. This guy is an unsung hero.

[@davidt9841]

I ALWAYS felt Neil Giraldo was ridiculously underrated from the first time I heard him with Pat Benatar (yes, I know the relationship)! The guy ALWAYS played what was Just Right for the song, and left you wanting More! A Master Song-crafter! Thanks Tim, and Thank You Neil!! Love You Both!!!✌️

[@goneflying140]

I got to meet Neil at Pine Knob music theater in the 90's. I had an all access pass from Kenny Lewis of the Steve Miller band, who Pat was touring with. Kenny introduced me (as a luthier) to Neil. He was so cool to me. He's a great, down to earth guy. He even let me play his vintage Teles and Strats from his road case. I had dinner with them in the great hall, and watched the entire show from backstage. It was an incredible day that I will never forget!! I also got to meet Pat Benetar and talk to her for a while. She was great too!

[@ci3008]

I've been playing guitar almost 60 years and everyone i watch one of Timmy's vids I learn something new.

[@davehappablap5549]

I have stayed in touch with Spider’s playing and advice for YEARS. My original sense of him that’s been validated by him again and again is that he’s a first class rock icon and first class human. Bravo Neil. Bravo.

[@WyattWillis88]

For the people that love this sort of thing it doesn't get much better than this! This conversation is pure gold

[@WyattWillis88]

@The Sinful Bastard you seem like a great guy hope life is treating you well

[@KP11520]

I bought my friend's used BC Rich Eagle (1980) because of Giraldo! Will have it til my last breath. And Pat and I grew up in the same town. She's 7 years older, so I never met her. Pat is Lindenhurst's PRIDE and JOY! The quintessential Rock Chick with more power than most of her peers. Rock's QUEEN! I'd loved to be a fly on the wall when Giraldo and Grombacher laid down the tracks. That's what I call Fly Heaven! LOL Neil was a prodigy. Perfect side kick to Derringer at 16, and an embarrassing thorn at the same time. Rick muted him down and put him on keys. Had to save his reputation! Giraldo and Randy Wolfe (California) had similar trajectories, but Giraldo's natural magical ability in the studio in every aspect catapulted him into so many more opportunities and a non stop career. Smart dude! I wish I could have been an intern along side. Now that would be MY Heaven! Good stuff Neil and Tim! And of course Pat Andrzejewski......

[@tarasbulba3190]

One of the most underappreciated guitarists of our time.

[@islander4986]

Maybe TWO of the most under appreciated guitarists of our time?

[@jaykay6387]

He really is. His name never comes up in any of those "best of" lists, but obviously musicians know who the great players are. I always thought his solo's were amazing in all of those Pat Benatar hit songs, and it was perplexing to me at the time why this guy never got any of the credit. Pat Benatar was a huge solo act, and I'd have to guess that Neil's relative "anonymity" was calculated on their part to keep the focus on Pat, which was obviously where the money was. People came to see Pat Benatar, not her "band", no matter how great they were.

[@williamsporing1500]

I tell people all the time about him. They always say, who? He’s a great player, and a nice dude on top of that.

[@LD-qj2te]

i always love Neal . he is a great player and great writer and great tone

[@darrellstyner0001]

I remember being struck by that guitar sound on Jesse's Girl when I was in Jr. High. Never knew who played it. Nice to find out about Neil's whiskey too. A day of discoveries. Thanks, Tim!

[@fivestring65ify]

Neil played all the guitar and bass on WCD

[@marksc1929]

...I'm 56 years old ...I still go back and listen to Neil G's solos on Promises in the Dark , Fire n Ice ...Hell is for Children etc ....never gets old ...and his vibrato is superb .

[@WeazelJaguar]

Saw Pat back in the early 80's in Maple Leaf Gardens, and her band is as great as she is! Saw them again at a casino, in the 2010s and still amazing!!!

[@carlboswell986]

As a child, my entire lifetime dream, was to be a musician. However, in the small town where I was born and raised, there were no resources, and no guidance. Or, if there was, I sure didn't know how to find it. So, as a 63 year old, having lived life as best I could; not getting the chances that I had dreamed about; I really appreciate the comments toward the end. I always appreciate those who are giving young musicians some opportunities to make it. I have much respect for these people.

[@georgebarry8640]

Carl, fwiw..I completely get it. Even in a populated area..like where I live..encouragement and support are RARE. I am trying to make a go of it..and I am not young. I want to encourage you to TRY. Music is no longer only a youth thing. And half of the fun is inthe trying. I have taught guitar toolder students, and they probably get more out of it than the kids! The satisfaction of playing "Iron Man"...its pretty cool. Or the Rhytym gtr in Jessie's Girl.. You can still try if you want to. Sure, its a challenge...but alot of things are that are worthwhile pursuits.

[@jeremyacton4569]

Hi, I can only recommend you yourself a guitar and follow the path. You don't have to be a virtuoso shredder. If you can string together a few chords and sing along, you are up there walking towards your own personal mastery. Have no regrets about the past's missed chances. You can still get huge amounts of enjoyment out of a guitar. Buy an electric and baby amp, AND get a nylon classical at least. :-)

[@jaorte10]

I'm also 63 years old and an accomplished guitarist as well as guitar builder. I could very well have been a professional musician. But marriage and children led me to being a successful master electrical contractor and profitable business owner. I'm glad because if I had to rely on guitar playing to make money. Then it becomes stressful and work and not a pleasurable passion and pastime.

[@DChrls]

@@jaorte10 When I was young like a lot of young guys I wanted to learn guitar and play in a band. In high school I became friends with a guy who was a damn good bass player. Helping him setup and tear down for gigs I realized you have to not only be talented and able to write original music you have to really want to do it for a living. Because it ain't easy. I still wanted to play guitar but I no longer wanted to be a career musician. I also found out I don't have enough desire/patience to be a good guitar player, lol. I'm now 57 and still learning to play guitar, a month or two at a time; every now and then. My old friend runs the family business his grandfather started. He too realized making a living as a musician is tough.

[@Jimi_Lee]

Also 63. Similar story. But I still play, and I'm actually pretty good now, and making more progress than ever. Music is it's own reward, whether you make it a career or not. And hey, we hit the sweet spot for music when we were coming up.

[@joec2639]

Neil Giraldo is an underrated gem. Many great examples, but "I'm Gonna Follow You" is my favorite. The playing (rhythm and lead), his tone and his feel is just phenomenal. That solo is simply sublime!

[@JWCFB]

I love that song!

[@heliobluesrock]

Love that song too! My favorite Neil's solo still is "Treat me right".

[@JWCFB]

@@heliobluesrock Oh yes! Blows me away. Good call.

[@davidgaines9892]

“I’m Gonna Follow You” has always been my favorite Pat Benatar song. Love Neil’s playing throughout that track. Phenomenal solo.

[@scottburnett7739]

My favorite as well…

[@drop830]

Ive been in cover/bar bands my whole life and every time someone wanted to do a Pat Benatar song I would know I wasn't going to be playing the solo right. Giraldos style is so hard to copy. He has a style all his own. What a great player

[@i8joyce]

I see Neil Giraldo in the title and i click like immediately. Well done Tim

[@flybynight1929]

Neil is still one of the best. Really made those Benatar albums rock!

[@216trixie]

I've long said he is the most underrated guitarist!

[@corissimo]

Me too!

[@daveduffy2823]

As are all those early 80’s guitarists

[@alexanderbrown4250]

Who underrates Neil? I don't know anyone who says he's a mediocre or bad player. Do you?

[@216trixie]

@@alexanderbrown4250 no, that's not what I mean. When there are rankings of the great guitar players in the last 30 or 40 years he's often left off of lists, or ranked too low for his incredible talent. You know what I mean.

[@tonepoet]

Neil is a huge inspiration to me. He has such fire and a massive vibrato. Always played perfect parts, like Neal Schon, but with much more intensity and vibe. Thanks for this, Tim!!

[@trebleboost7]

Love love love his playing and tone on “All Fired Up”

[@Lola_Santoro]

Neil was my biggest influence. I had been playing for a couple years (started at age 11). I had been doing really well learning easy rock songs, but didn't think I was good enough to learn some of the big solos of the day. When Pat Benatar came along, I wanted to learn every part of every song of hers. And, that's exactly what I did. Even taught myself Grombacher's parts - he's amazing. Putting in all that hard work to learn every note Neil played, it opened up the world to me. Years later, I was in line to get into a club where they were playing and Neil was having a smoke with a group of guys behind the building - ten feet away from me. No one else knew who it was. I was too starstruck to go over and say something. I just stood there and staring. I regret not just telling him he taught me so much!

[@todddillon613]

Tell Him in the Afterlife @L4u84S!! He will be ECSTATICALLY THRILLED to Hear your Props, Brother! I've talked to Him twice. So Very Down To Earth..... Just Like YOU, Bubba!!! 🤘Keep After It🤘

[@crazywisdom2]

Neil IS ... Incredible. The true sign of the Greats, Is the ability to have one's own voice on the Guitar. One that is synonymous with the Artist. And Neil is an Incredible artist !

[@RossHelmot]

Tim, I think the rhythm guitar parts on "Jessie's Girl" are also classic. A masterclass in rock rhythm...

[@edpetrikk2027]

Two Masters ..talking ..and reminiscing…and ..really laughing it up….priceless. 👍

[@davetrombetti4240]

Whenever someone asks in an online group who the most underrated guitar players are Neil Giraldo is always a name that I think of. Mike Campbell and Elliot Easton are the other two that pop up in my head. Thanks Tim.

[@endmiddlebeginning]

Easton is so very underrated

[@michaelw366]

Add Jimmy Lyon (Eddie Money) and Mike Wanchic (John Mellencamp) to the list of under rated. The Two Tickets solo….. Save a little room in your heart for me….. and how about the intro to I Need a Lover… who won’t drive me crazy… lots of melodic masterpieces in solos and rhythms between those two guitarists.

[@georgebarry8640]

@@truescotsman4103 yeah its another Neil-Riddle. Few can get near it with any accuracy. When I hear anyone do it justice: I have respect for them.

[@fredmerrill4002]

Very true! I'd include Keith Scott (Bryan Adams band) and Craig Chaquico (Starship) too.

[@trebleboost7]

Howard Leese and David Lindley too. So many great guitarists....

[@jrfguitar6196]

I always thought Neil was one of the most underrated guitarist!!! amazing tone and instantly recognizable!! no one sounded like him!!!

[@heritagelegacy]

Cool interview with Neil….always an iconic 80’s guitarist who’s sound I always loved. And he seems like he’d be such a nice guy to just sit and chat with about music. I envy you that man.

[@MrRockNRoll]

Neil Giraldo is one of my absolute fav players and truly one of the most underrated guitarists of all time. Like him, I always need to lock in with the drummer

[@acemechanical275]

I think Jamie West Oram of The Fixx always had that sweet spot between clean and breaking up. Always very glassy, and of chorus (😂) with that trademark chorus! If you’re not familiar, their 1983 album, “Reach the Beach” is an absolute masterwork.

[@geraldfriend256]

Yes an oft copied tone..

[@The1WhoKnowsTheTruth]

Another great guitar player thats never talked about. Fixx were awesome. Elliot Easton from the Cars is another one.

[@billneill7567]

Love the "Change' solo Tim! Glad it was you for once...haha!!! I've always loved Neil Geraldo's playing....such incredible style and tone he has. Another favorite solo of his that I love is the solo on "Precious Time"....he builds that solo up so perfectly. Would love you to dissect that solo in a future video if possible.

[@markgillespie7591]

That solo in “Change “is just awesome! We used to cover that song back when that album 1st came out. I’m pretty sure I butchered that solo,it was a tuff one to figure out so it was the most recognizable notes I could figure and faking the rest! Good shot of the author of it playing it note for note! I’m off to finally learn to play it correctly!👍🏻

[@RJRonquillo]

This was an amazing conversation!

[@timpierceguitar]

Thanks Rj I’ve been watching a lot of your videos and a fair amount of your live streams, I really enjoy YOU

[@BIBBBO]

Totally agree 💪😎🎸❤️

[@CynHicks]

If Tim enjoys you then I'm curious and subbing immediately. You must be good. Edit - no disrespect meant. There are too many great guitarists to keep up with.

[@ruby2thursday]

@@CynHicks - ditto that.

[@RogerBarraud]

@@CynHicksSnap! :-)

[@tomwhitaker1]

I have always loved Neil Giraldo's playing. It was flashy and exciting AND melodic and lyrical. Rick Beato often talked about guitar solos you can sing. And I think Neil's solos have that quality. And Tim your neverending enthusiasm and joy make everything you discuss so engaging. You are just as excited about all this stuff as we are!

[@countingcoup]

Among my favorite vids, Tim and Neal trading music stories on their cross-section of work for Springfield and Waite… Love it when Tim talks shop with other phenomenal players… Geraldo seemed to always duck the limelight purposely. Glad you had him on!

[@marknova8704]

I'm a bassist...and I still learn an absolute TON from watching your channel. Thanks for all you do Tim. I hope you are well!

[@RichSProducer]

I just wanted to thank you, Tim. I just went through a difficult mental health issue and watching your videos and seeing your joy and love for music has kept me grounded. Keep smiling my friend!

[@ronnie5129]

A Great Interview Here, Neil is one of the Greatest Underrated Guitarist , He should get More Due that he Damn Well Deserves, Cousin Figel

[@kenimiller3896]

Number one on my triumvirate of criminally underrated guitar players, along with Billy Duffy and Steve Stevens. Neil is fantastic.

[@RMGCBG]

Oh man, love The Cult and all of Steven’s work. Great call

[@georgebarry8640]

@@RMGCBG Steve Stevens..it IS criminal that we dont get to hear him stretch out more. The Billy Idol gig only shows 1 percent of what he can do. More and more these days..when Billy comes on the radio..all is I hear is Steve's drum programming,Steve,Keys,Steve's Bass parts and Steve's fantastic guitar parts.

[@RMGCBG]

@@georgebarry8640 his fusion albums with Tony Levin were great. I’m 65 and forgot the drummer. Steve Steven rocks

[@RMGCBG]

@@georgebarry8640 have you heard Sammy with Billy? kzbin.info/www/bejne/eGbVq2uYiL6or9E

[@slapnutz1]

Also Martin Barre

[@Elsteveador2]

Tim, the warmth in your smile when you reminisce about old stories is the reason i come back time and time again. I love how much you love all of this. Thank You man.

[@jameswyre6480]

Brilliant, thanks so much Tim for focusing on these types of interviews. Just a gold mine👍

[@rztricky]

I have to say thank you Neil if you see this. Mad props to Tim for bringing this out. I always knew you and Pat were the most beautiful rockers of heart and soul and a great role model combined. Seriously dude, thank you for making rock as amazing as it became through your passion. The wife isn’t a slouch either :) Man super thankful

[@lexrichardson7820]

I’ve always loved his tone!

[@dareangelmusic]

A great couple too! I took care of them for a show a couple years ago and they were both super nice!

[@glennp6413]

He's absolutely right.We listen to the whole world of music production when we hear music.Production engineering and mastering are definitely an art.Getting involved and inside is an absolute necessity that I loved.I had awesome experiences just starting out a little bit and it's always gonna be we me in my heart.I always liked Pats music and all the musicians playing for sure.I agree the guitar was unique.Yeah.He rocks.Blessings fellow musicians.Thanks for sharing and please keep up the awesome work that you do.

[@mindcontrol67]

His solo on the song Precious Time is awesome and it really showcases his tone.Anyone who hasn't heard it play it now.

[@HenryMittnacht]

Did it! Awesome solo, awesome tone!❤️

[@mindcontrol67]

@@HenryMittnacht Told ya.👍👍

[@adam872]

Incredible solo and awesome tone

[@MrJamescord]

Saw him live and was super impressed, he did some drums as well! He was playing some Gretch guitars and his tone was huge, right between clean and dirty.

[@ralphibarra3888]

Very cool interview with Neil Giraldo and seeing B.C. Rich guitars in action by you and Neil took me back to my days working in LA music stores and doing B.C. Rich guitar demos in Japan in 1975! Bernie Rico (a/k/a B.C Rich) started his career as a master guitar craftsman in a tiny shop in Boyle Heights and I had the privilege to selling his creations in the early 70s. Thanks a million Tim for the flashback and your creativity...Stay safe.

[@clovenwizard]

Love Neils colourful solos, always have!

[@RockHardRiffs]

I went from drums to guitar myself. I still play drums...pretty much out of necessity. ‘Hell is for children’ is the PB song that really got my attention. Rock on 🎸🎸🎸

[@javierf55]

Thanks for keeping the music alive. Today's intents uses one chord, two on the most complex ones. Thanks for bringing this heroes of our times.

[@Tonetwisters]

I had a chance to engineer and produce in my brother's MCI equipped 16-track studio back in 1974 to 1976. My favorite thing to do, ever.

[@patriot3636]

Tim, you and Neil are both, two very underrated guitarists. Great interview with Neil. You're awesome brother and always have great tone, yourself!!!!

[@forthwithtx5852]

One of the enduring characteristics of a musician is, to me, a great sense of humor. Love the stories.

[@sgt.grinch3299]

Great information. Love to watch people who shared great experiences talking about the experience.

[@erikvaldur3334]

That particular version of the Promises solo is absolutely one of my all time favorites. Top 3 no doubt. The tone, the style, the feel , the expression and energy was just epic. All that and sits absolutely perfectly within that song. To me it's up there with Rosanna and Kid Charlemagne solos.

[@hanoverfist07]

Tim I remember seeing Pat and Neil at the Civic Auditorium in Albuquerque when they were at their very best and was totally blown away. It’s great that they’re still killing it.

[@ToKillAGhost]

Great player and all around great sounds!

[@PDXguitarfreak]

The sweet spot between clean and dirty. I like that definition. I remember reading an interview with Steve Stevens back in the 80s where he talked about the best rock guitar tones were not overdone from an overdrive/distortion standpoint. I totally agree. I like the notes to be more percussive almost and definitely clear and not mushy. I don't always achieve it, but that's what I want LOL :)

[@georgebarry8640]

I chase that tone. I have 12 guitar preamps I use for recording..they are ALL considered low gain by many..but to me each occupies a different place in the zone of crunch. Sweet and stinging.

[@adam872]

Yep, Neil's tone is immaculate. That half-distorted thing is great and Alex Lifeson was a great exponent of it as well.

[@RogerBarraud]

Yup - Rich, but not overpowering or screechy.

[@deltawhiskey1398]

It took me years to finally realize a few things....massive amounts of gain destroys tone. Coupling a super high gain amp with super hot pickups created a fizzy buzzy mess....with no note separation...no tone. A perfect example of this is guys like Angus Young...Billy Gibbons....Jimmy Page....etc etc...all have great tone and play with a lot less gain than you would think.

[@BrooksSmith]

Oh, man. In a world of '70s guitar gods and modern shredders, Neil Geraldo is one of the most underrated guitar masters out there. His lead and rhythm playing is so incredibly catchy and in the pocket. Tim, I love that you've had the experience of playing Neil's parts AND working with him in the studio. This whole video makes me happy. Thank you both!

[@chuckdriver8269]

Precious Time is a master work of guitar tone. It was the first album I bought on vinyl with my own money on it’s release date. One week later I turned 13. I still listen to and draw inspiration from all Neil’s work but Precious Time is special. Anyone else? 🎸🇺🇸

[@InFRA_BLaKK_AMBRA_isTrueMetal]

Definitely, it is Ear Candy

[@therollband1290]

When everyone wanted a BC Rich back when they were custom made guitars. Not the cheap knockoffs you see nowadays. I can imagine younger people going “BCRich what?” but yeah Bernie Rico was an amazing guitar builder, I think he even helped start Jackson USA

[@davebasch5995]

My buddies in 1981 both had high end Rich guitars...and talked about Tim Pierce ...also from Albuquerque, as they were

[@maico125]

@Monkeyweasel44 I own many many electric guitars and my favorite of all is a 1975 BC Rich Seagull.

[@markgillespie7591]

I finally got to play a mockingbird @guitar center a couple of years ago, not sure what year it was but it was very impressive! Played Like butter,sounded awesome too. Would love ❤️ to add one to complement my Lester!!

[@fivestring65ify]

The old neck through guitars were unbelievable.

[@rgbrin]

I learned so much by watching and listening to neil..

[@joemillo]

Neil was, and will continue to forever be the man. He is truly an unsung hero of guitar. I loved your chat with him a few months ago and I actually was honored to be able to ask him a question. Just love his playing and production.

[@michaelmattson3515]

I met the band way back at the St. Paul Civic Theater in Minnesota. My friends band, Sneakers was the opening act . They gave me a urgent call we don’t have enough amps man.They (Benatar) have a wall of Marshall combs. I loaded every Vox amp I had & from the rehearsal space. Royal Guardsman head & cab, 2x12 combos & some other Vox heads & cabinets into the bed of my 1965 International pickup truck. Pat, Neil & the rest of the band were really kind as I was moving gear on stage. I still have the stage pass on the inside of my Gibson case. My friend played my 58 Junior too. That’s when their drummer was the 1st to have a modular drum rack set up.

[@RollieFingers59]

Amazing player , producer and artist. I saw Neil and Pat live a few years ago and as a guitar guy I was absolutely blown away by his playing and his tone !!!!! Such definition and clarity but just dirty enough

[@donald-parker]

Love Neil's work since I first heard it. He has such a unique voice and style. Not just the tone, but some really unusual timing tricks he uses. Often copied ... never duplicated. For example, the solo in Hit Me With Your Best Shot is great. I can't think of any other player who has ever messed with the timing like that. But it fits!!!!

[@MrPrincebass99]

Great solo on Change, Tim! Always loved that. I worked it up about six months ago, not perfectly, but it was so much fun to play. You and Neil are both monsters. 🎸

[@MichaelLewisMusic]

So much fun to watch your channel and watch these great interviews! Thanks for doing this and thanks to Neil for agreeing to the interview.

[@greylynnn]

His tone is amazing. On the live album the song Hell is for children you can really hear the detuned effect.

[@riffmondo9733]

That was great. He is one of the tastiest guitar players ever.

[@Blaydrnnnr]

That opening is my Favorite Benatar song, with my favorite Giraldo solo.... I learned to play this song for a girl who wanted to perform it at a local competition, and Neil has ALWAYS been one of my favorite players. This was so very cool. Thanks Tim!

[@bradhardisty1652]

Neil's comment about being another drummer is something I learned at Snow College playing guitar for Jazz Band. The drums, bass, guitar, keyboards were called a rhythm section for a reason. We really did cover all the rhythmic aspects locking in with the drums, each in our own segment. It taught me a lot. The horns, primarily, got to do all the lead parts, solos, etc. If I was lucky, I'd get a solo a couple of times out of several concerts. Maybe a few codas. I learned a lot that I brought back to my originals projects. That was back in 1980.

[@davidoreilly7328]

I see a new upload by Tim, I stop everything and watch

[@timpierceguitar]

David thank you so much

[@cheezyridr]

that was a great video! just from a musician's perspective, it was a great conversation. put aside the genre, and all the rest of it, and what you're left with is exactly what happens in this conversation. that's as cool as it gets right there. a rare moment. i wish i could click the like button more than once

[@ih8suvs]

I saw them two years ago in Grand Rapids, MI. They were both so good. Pat's voice is the same as it always was. Clear, strong and always on pitch. One of the better live shows I've seen in terms of sounding every bit as good live as in the studio.

[@johnvaughan7024]

Tim, I’ve got to say that your videos are the BEST I’ve come across on KZbin. Your genuine appreciation for the guitar and music in general are inspiring. Thanks for taking the ridiculous amount of time required to put these together. This is my best guitar subscription no doubt!!

[@keithshapiro]

Neil was always king! His solo on Jessie's Girl would always slew me.

[@georgebarry8640]

I use that solo every time to warm up my hands. Its got everything...and if you blow it..its terrible. Its SOOOOO Neil Giraldo...and he's done many great moments...and this is just one of em.

[@glennkrzeminski7539]

That explains why I always liked it!

[@joes5150]

Wow I didn’t know that he played on Jessie’s girl

[@keithshapiro]

@@joes5150 Go listen to it now that you know, it's pretty clear.

[@aieahi1]

@@joes5150 He also played on I’ve Done Everything For You, which was written by Sammy Hagar. There’s a good documentary on that LA recording studio. The recording of Jessie’s girl was discussed extensively.

[@ghostownaproach]

BC Rich guitar? probably among the most under rated guitars too... Regret that I never owned one...

[@wayneshirley9536]

Always loved this guy and in particular this solo! This solo rocks! This dude rocks!

[@Allguitarinfo]

Truly a phenomenal songwriter .Neil is was will always be a master of his craft. ..He served the song...wasn't trying to be Guitar Hero..And a good SONG is what PEOPLE remember....Neil thanks man for being a wonderful songster..and for those memorable hooks riffs that are distinctly. you...One of tge greatest right here folks...Thanks Tim...you know the good stuff..

[@swingset1969]

I love Neil, and through absolutely no deliberate effort on my part I've tended to sound very much like him...we just have a similar style and use pinch and thumb harmonics very similarly.

[@mpactdesignmedia]

John Waite - Isn't It Time is one of the greatest pieces of music ever written. A masterpiece. ...that solo on 'Change' wasn't bad either. ;-)

[@zacharymiraziz4585]

Neil was one of my earliest guitar hero’s!! Great conversation!!!

[@jeffjohnson5544]

Neil is incredibly nice. He and Pat played Kettering, Ohio two years ago, and he came out and talked to fans, took pictures and signed stuff. Super nice...

[@acousticaacousticduo1458]

He is one of the most underrated guitar players ever IMO

[@michaelsingley5641]

Love Myron Grombacher's playing and that beautiful Ludwig kit.

[@brianruyack7632]

Myron was a big part of the Benatar sound, even through Gravity's Rainbow.

[@BobbyLaneProductions]

so cool to hear you and Spider chat and reminisce.. love you both!

[@timpierceguitar]

Hey thanks so much

[@RodFleming-World]

Neil Giraldo is my all time favourite rock guitar player. He knew when to hold back, when to cut loose and most of all, to keep things musical.