What I Hate About YouTube

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[@danielj_music]

As a mere mortal YT viewer, the more clickbaity the title and thumbnail, the less I want to click on it. It has got out of hand to the point that the title and thumbnail don't even reflect the content of the video at all.

[@OniDasAlagoas]

I mean. You just clicked on a video with clickbait in it.

[@Yakomoe]

​@OniDasAlagoas yeah what's your point? Lmao every video is click bait? Teach us genius

[@OniDasAlagoas]

@@Yakomoe I'm literally just pointing the obvious.

[@danielj_music]

@@OniDasAlagoas ROFL

[@ChrisM541]

Exactly! I will deliberately ignore all videos/content I see as blatant clickbait. Unfortunately, it's probably a sad reflection of today's increasingly braindead society.

[@joemahlke2592]

The "get your income off of KZbin" is actually a really insightful thing you don't see a lot of creators talk about in terms of not only the financial benefit, but also the mental health benefit of not having your income tied to a measure of success of something you love that's ultimately out of your control. Great video!

[@thomasdequincey5811]

I don't understand your comment. Why is it "insightful" to want to make money from a KZbin channel and then create a video to make money from KZbin? Secondly, his income is tied to a "measure of success". Without views he wouldn't get subscribers, and without subscribers he wouldn't be able to do deals with Sweetwater, sell his courses, etc, etc. Lastly, "mental health benefit"? This isn't a 9 to 5 job where you get paid for hours worked. You create something and put it out into the world to be judged. If nobody likes it you lose twice. Your ego is harmed and your wallet is empty. As I said, I don't understand your comment.

[@Chris-kc5id]

@@thomasdequincey5811 100%.

[@EnterJustice]

@@thomasdequincey5811 He's saying YT creators are dependent on the whims of the KZbin algorithm. views and subscribers and "interaction" are indeed measurable. But how the algorithm works, how and why it recommends videos to people,... Nobody knows, and it changes all the time. KZbin is not accountable either - even if they act in bad faith to actively and negatively impact (part of) their creators, they can't be sued. Unlike for instance an author who could sue their publisher if said publisher acts in bad faith.

[@msnewpers]

I watched the lesson video immediately. It is, sincerely, one of the best blues lesson videos I've seen. I bookmarked it right away to work on this weekend. Adam Levy is a real musician. You are a real musician. People don't realize how privileged we are to have access to this information, related with such patience and care that anyone can understand it and incorporate it into their practice. For those of us who remember how hard it was to obtain information like this before KZbin, it feels like being let in on a secret. In fact, if you had told me 25 years ago that one day I would have instant access to the wisdom of Adam Levy and other musicians of his caliber I would have assumed it's because I had died and gone to heaven. I get that some of your videos need to be about helping some company sell gear, but your live performance and lesson videos are about growing the garden of good music, and that's all anyone should care about.

[@chrisb8193]

It’s possible to care about music AND gear, the two aren’t mutually exclusive.

[@devinebass]

Here here, Rhett, well said! I have felt (feel) the same pain. Keep at it dude, LOVE your channel! xoxo

[@BeNinjaMin12]

Hi Scott!

[@RhettShull]

Thanks Scott!

[@ejmazzi1499]

What a legend. This immediately undoes the damage that your clickbaitey (but ultimately necessary) thumbnails do to the bassists on YT. Also keep up the player of the week, I've found so many great people there!

[@joshlawless1022]

Have you guys ever collabed??? Man I would love to see that!

[@thomasmleahy6218]

He's saying your thumbnails are clickbait.

[@byherndon9981]

That Adam Levy video was, literally, one of the most helpful videos for blues improv that I’ve seen recently.

[@guitarswhiskeyandgolf]

@@byherndon9981 that guy can play his version of Parisienne walkway is a wowza

[@tomcoryell]

Rhett, near as I can tell, the algorithm has changed. I’m not getting videos from channels I subscribe to recommended to me like I used to. I have changed nothing on my end. Something is up with KZbin’s algorithm. Is anyone else seeing this?

[@csharp57]

I constantly have to physically check my subscriptions tab. Then I wonder how isn’t this video featured? I subscribed for a reason.

[@Hazamandeous]

Yeah, found myself unsubbed some folks as well. Its been an ongoing “conspiracy” in the background of those who look into it regularly enough.

[@brianbrown6658]

Same here. I have to check subscriptions to find some content and have had to subscribe again to channels that I have watched regularly. I haven't figured out how YT can choose to drop channels from my subscriptions. Especially when I watch all of the content on the dropped channels.

[@DaveGardoni]

Same, if I don't click on videos of a channel for few weeks, the channel literally disappear.

[@TheLeon1032]

same here

[@superreality3823]

I really admire you for sharing this in such a transparent and human way. Hang in there

[@Jake4059]

Honest conversation can seem like such a rare find these days but when you stumble upon it, damn it's refreshing to hear. Thanks Rhett and keep rockin' ! Love your content.

[@readysetmoses]

I saw it and didn't click on it because I wasn't interested in watching, and I am someone who watches most of your videos. Maybe it was partly the algorithm but also the viewers. Granted, I am someone that knows far less of the KZbin machinery than you, just a thought.

[@danieli.9252]

Hey Rhett, this is great insight. I also hate the "KZbin face" -- the mouth hanging open in fake shock that something could actually do something/not do something that somebody else said it can't/can do. When I see which KZbinrs have sky high subscription numbers, it really makes me wonder what the key to success is. For me, I appreciate your basic, straightforward style of presenting information. You seem like someone I'd like to hang with.

[@TravisPacheco1]

God, I hate that face you described. That’s the face of approximately one third of all YT videos (Ive been guilty in the past when I was starting out). It’s to the point I won’t even click on “surprise face” videos because it’s so annoying.

[@AlexFarranGuitar]

Fantastic video. As someone who has spent the past year or so building my channel and audience, this really speaks to me. I fill my lessons with so much usable, deep information, I spend countless hours editing audio, video and preparing lesson materials etc but the thing that I get so anxious about is coming up with a catchy title and thumbnail. Up until 3am messing around with thumbnails and titles after a day of 9 private lessons too.. it’s brutal man! On the plus side, my channel has grown faster than I ever imagined and I have over 1000 paying Patreon members who value my instruction. I now essentially just ignore the KZbin ad revenue as it’s so hit and miss. Anyway, thanks for speaking out on this. It’s reassuring to hear an established guitar KZbinr say these things. P.S: Adam is a good friend of mine and we’ve done a few collab videos together (working on one currently funnily enough).. he deserves the attention of anybody looking to improve their playing.

[@danieli.9252]

Alex you’re a great teacher and I love your low key style. Your lessons are usually way beyond my skill level, and I’m not part of your Patreon, but I have purchased some individual lesson materials which keep me busy for weeks! P.S. I’m the one who requested a video on how you make your videos, but you should never listen to me.

[@rickjones641]

Your channel is easily top three for guitar instruction Alex. You're great at explaining and the look and vibe of your videos is super-relaxed -- honestly sometimes I watch a couple in a row just because I like the look and sound so much. The algorithm seemed to throw you my way because I was sitting in front of Tom Waits stuff trying to figure out what the guitars were doing.

[@jetcraft_vampire]

Good luck 👍🏾 💓

[@superreality3823]

I agree with the other commenters here, Alex. Your lesson videos are inspiring and are generally a stretch for my playing, but give me the hope that I can improve. It is clear you put a load of work in, but maybe none of us realise the real scale of the task. Please don't feel unappreciated.

[@druwk]

I’m a fan of your posts! Love your content. Owe you a cup of coffee, at the least 😉

[@meeno_the_man]

Here’s a shout out to say I have learned so much from you, brother. And I continue to do so. The new blues course is really accelerating all the stuff that I already know and I’m good at. You bring a lot of enthusiasm to the game and it always translates. Keep up the great work.

[@devilsboxcar3925]

Don’t sweat it man…..we all understand that sometimes it’s the nature of the beast. We’ll be here to support you no matter what.

[@andrewlacek]

I saw the video before you took it down and really enjoyed it. As a beginner/intermediate guitar player, I thought you both did a great job explaining how to start soloing in a blues jam. So sorry that YT does not recognize the time and effort… 😢

[@TheFeelButton]

Even monster budget movies have to worry about titles and thumbnails. It ain't just KZbin. Cheers Rhett!

[@mgsg50]

Yes, but they have entire teams of people whose job it is to handle all of that. The actors and writers can focus on just making the movie.

[@TheFeelButton]

@mgsg50 maybe it's time for Rhett to build a team! Cheers!!

[@Texasbluesalley]

Putting a cheesy, stupid YT bait thumbnail on a video you're genuinely proud of is soul-crushing work. What you're describing about a video being DOA, far below what you're used to has been almost my entire experience on YT since about 2016.

[@pd-kx4qw]

I’ve been subscribed to you for years, you can see it your face on thumbnails when you have to put them up that you don’t want to be doing that. We gotcha brotha and know it’s not a “you” thing!

[@Within_Cells_Interlinked]

It bums me out that YTers have make these silly thumbnails and titles just to see any engagement, but I’m glad you’re open about this issue. Love the content. Cheers.

[@AlexWade-n9h]

I love your videos and you input. I am a intermediate guitar player and search videos about things that pertain to me, my playing, and things i want to learn more about. I really dont give much thought into the thumbnail, but i can understand its importance. Keep doing what you are doing. I hope it works for you so you keep doing it. But it helps me out alot. Thanks for doing what you do and dealing with those frustrations. It helps. It helps alot of us.

[@younken24films]

It's the age old problem. As soon as we try to make a living doing something we love, it screws up why we started doing it in the first place.

[@Low.Key.Music01]

This is profound advice. A lot of people don't realize the amount of work that goes into making content

[@ChasingSoundGuitar]

This was really important for me to see. As a guitar guy who's been doing something for a longgggg time (my newsletter) along with other things thrown in like KZbin, social, blogs, etc. it's always refreshing to see realness like this. Thanks Rhett.

[@EverestMystery]

Rhett, this is perfectly explained. I have yet to yank a video, but admittedly tinker with title and thumbnail to an obsessive degree. Now, the plan is to make the shift and not rely on weekly videos to make a living. Cheers and thanks for a great vid

[@CraigFlowersMusic]

This is why it can't become your income. Just like a writer who's on an assignment, not a project of their choosing (product demos); just like a writer for, say, Rolling Stone, who has a deadline, The quality of the content suffers when you have to think about quantity. When it stops being your passion project and becomes what you MUST do. I quit uploading, almost two years ago. Because I'm not inspired right now, because I'm busy right now, and because I can. That's why I'm proud of my work. The MOMENT my work becomes commissioned, it becomes my yoke and it suffers and so do I.

[@joshuaraysummey7679]

Adam Levy is a gem! He's played on so many formative records for me! Thanks for doing the vid! I was hella excited for you having that opportunity man, i know that had to be an honor! Im sorry for the speed bump. I struggle with emotional momentum disruption, i know thats got to be frusterating. Gotta say, Its pretty cool that you used this obstacle as an opportunity to give us some seriously good advice. Much appreciated! Good luck with the vid & course!

[@horatiousdude]

Content Idea: I'd love to hear your take on the "spaghetti western" guitar sound. To me, those are some of the most iconic guitar riffs of all time. Would love a deep dive in the history, the players, and gear they used

[@93Rats]

I’m gonna have to second this

[@Mr.TeETH78]

That’s a great idea!

[@Aonghuis]

Ditto

[@shock3863]

Rhett, keep going . I’ve been watching you for literally years and you have come a long way! Love your videos which are always entertaining and have learned a good bit along the way. I have been playing guitar myself for a long time and never stop learning new things about music, equipment and life.

[@notice_fpv]

This reminds me very much of a mission statement that I read once called "the things we think and do not say". Bravo.

[@ZackSeifMusic]

This is the perfect way to sum it all up Rhett. I've been trying to make my channel work for 3+ years and it's not taking off despite the audio and video being stellar, the info being accurate, and flow being smooth, they just aren't being shown to people.

[@jeffreyjones3228]

Rhett, as a KZbin content creator, I don't think you can expect every video to be successful. Your very good at the KZbin video game. "Not every swing is going to be a homerun".

[@mediocrecoverbandguitarguy2416]

And you nailed right there!

[@DamianKeyes]

YES! I wish this was more common knowledge. EVERYTHING in this video is so relatable to every KZbinr. Brilliant video Rhett!

[@andrewclarkeguitar]

Thanks for the video. Definitely feel this. Can be pretty frustrating at times. But I don't think there's any other alternative that comes close to doing what KZbin does that's worth considering. In the meantime, I'm just grateful to be here.

[@jacobdejongh9042]

I think it's worth being a little careful when blaming "KZbin" - the reality is KZbin just wants to promote what will lead to people watching for the longest period of time. It is frustrating that a good a thumbnail and title is SO important but it makes complete sense. If when people see the video they don't click on it, KZbin can't promote it - why would they if no one wants to even click on it. Thinking in terms of people and not algorithms makes it at least a bit less frustrating.

[@Martos59]

You’ve done lots of fantastic, informative & interesting videos Rhett. Thanks for the tips on this platform. I hope moving forward you can get it working for you in a much better way.

[@chrisb8193]

If I had to guess as to why the video wasn’t doing well I would say it may have to do with the content as opposed to the quality. You and Adam are both fantastic musicians, and I watch practically every one of your videos, except for ones about blues guitar. I have a suspicion the majority of guitarists who watch YT just aren’t that interested in the genre. It just feels a bit tired and stale in 2024. Based on analytics, what types of videos do the best? I reckon the gear-related ones, trips to righteous guitar, what is the *blank* sound etc.

[@whatmusiciwant]

I started on playing blues, been playing blues for 20+ years. Have no interest in blues videos or watching people play the blues lol. I tried watching a Kingfish video the other day and was like "meh, I'm bored". I like different, Tim Henson blew me away when he came on the scene and lately I've been learning Chickin' Pickin' from Johnny Hiland.

[@chrisb8193]

@@whatmusiciwant I think a lot of people forget that part of what made the genre so popular decades ago was the songs. Like Crossroads, Statesboro Blues, Hideaway, Dust My Broom, Key to the Highway, Stormy Monday etc are all great SONGS. That’s what people love and remember, the guitar playing was the icing on the cake. For as incredible a player as someone like SRV was, he also had an incredibly solid catalog as a foundation for his virtuosity. One kind of video I’d definitely be into watching is a primer on how to write blues-based original songs in a modern context. Like how are The Black Keys for example able to straddle the line so successfully? They were able to write these bluesy rock songs that appealed to 65 year olds all the way down to people in their teens and younger. They’re not my favorite band or anything but that’s a pretty admirable feat in the modern era.

[@Berndaddie]

Rhett thx for taking the time to explain this issue. You make and I'll watch.

[@WeirdErnie]

I'll often roll my eyes or get a quick chuckle when Beato's thumbnail has him with some shocked, incredulous look or a pouty, forlorn look, but I know exactly why. He's playing the game.

[@Satch7699]

@@WeirdErnie I just roll my eyes at him. Lol

[@robmlisanti]

yeah you and your 64 subscribers lol

[@WeirdErnie]

@@robmlisanti dude. Not throwing shade at all. I watch a ton of Rick's videos. I don't care if anyone watches mine. I'm literally acknowledging one of the key points of this video.

[@juankplaysmusic]

The game is a rat race.

[@DougCunnington]

100% correct. I’ve run my channel into the ground by ignoring the analytics. I always had courses and income streams outside from KZbin. Keep up the awesome work man!!

[@Satch7699]

I skipped the video you're talking about for 2 reasons: 1) I don't come here for lessons, I come for vlogs and seeing gear that I don't have access to. 2) I have no idea who the other guy is.

[@madmick78]

Please, for your own benefit, look up Adam Levy and learn more about him. If you play guitar, he's worth knowing about. If you LOVE guitar, he's essential to know about. Really. He's a great player.

[@CorbCorbin]

@@madmick78 I know his videos. He’s just not my cup o’ tea. I like Rhett’s videos. Well, most of them. 😄

[@dcarpenter85]

Completely fair, you don't have to watch anything you don't want to watch and not every video is going to be relevant to every user. That said, you missed one hell of a video. This was a fantastic lesson and Adam is an incredible guitarist that we could all benefit from watching. I am really glad Rhett had the opportunity to collab with him on the lesson and that we all get to see a snippit of it for free.

[@madmick78]

​​@@CorbCorbin Fair enough. He is phenomenal, though.

[@AdamLevyGuitarTips]

@@madmick78 Thank you so much.

[@robertsmit1894]

I was sorry to hear that you had such a problem getting the word out about your course. Perseverance is a key to success and because of this video I checked it out. I have been looking at the 12 bar blues recently and really liked what I saw and at your special price it’s a steal, thank you. It may take me a month or more to get through it but with my new and first tele arriving in a couple of days this course will help me get to know it.

[@mwilk19]

Tim Pierce has said the same thing. He has to spend a ridiculous amount of time creating a thumbnail and title for his videos.

[@premierguitar]

The lameness and loathsome feelings one has when trying to KZbin-ize your content for algorithmic success is soul crushing and defeating. Great video, Rhett ... and to your point about thumbnails and faces - imagine having to curate it with the responsibility of flattering/doing someone ELSE justice when you interview them for say the Rig Rundown. It's a downward spiral. -Chris Kies & Team PG Video

[@ECar6429889]

501chorusecho uses a picture of homemade chili in a pot and gets 17k views.

[@waynedwyer6509]

TBH Rhett I have been following you long enough to want to see what you have to say. I know it will be worth my time and attention, keep doing what you do.

[@dirtmelchizedek8311]

I have an honest question. I've been watching Rhett's videos since almost the beginning. There is not a single piece of content of his that doesn't come up in my feed. I clicked on the video in question, and in less than a minute, I realized I didn't care for it, so I turned it off. Is it possible that if enough people do what I did, the algorithm will stop the video from showing up in more people's feeds? Or is it much more thumbnail based like Rhett is describing?

[@wesleyfletcher7654]

I did the same thing. I like Adam Levy, but it didn't seem to have his Jazz content covered, so I wasn't interested.

[@Jamsville]

Yes, you clicking off the video makes its performance suffer. What I wonder is the following: Why would you click on a video which then gives you exactly what it says, and then still only give it 30 seconds of your time? What were you expecting that (if included) would have made you actually watch the whole thing?

[@dirtmelchizedek8311]

@Jamsville I gave it a chance, I didn't enjoy the video, I watched something else. It's pretty simple. I'm sure a lot of people do the same thing.

[@igotpesos_]

So here's something some folk might know and some might not. KZbin will also stop recommending videos to people if they have the bell notifications on for the channel but don't click on the videos when they are notified. So, this can also reduce impressions but yes if you click on a video and don't watch it, KZbin will definitely push it less.

[@PaulCooksStuff]

Yes, it's entirely possible and even plausible. KZbin gives creators extensive analytics on every video, including watch time and drop off rates (basically how many viewers clicked off how many minutes into the video). The algorithm gods seem to value high retention, low drop off. The algorithm is data driven, not subjective judgement. Even if the video had a clickbaity thumbnail with a good number of initial clicks, but high drop off, I don't know for a fact but it seems plausible the algorithm will lessen it's promotion of a video that viewers arent watching for very long. A sign the content isn't engaging them. But only Rhett would know whether the drop off was different to his other vids.

[@stevenneufeldmusic]

i love your honesty, brother... i've loved all your videos for a year or two now, and respect your rad hustle. thanks for giving us a peek behind the curtain. i wish youtube would not hinder you / youtubers like this.

[@bauerma4]

I like how average people in these comments are like…nah, I think you’re wrong, it was the content. Especially when you have someone like mrbeast saying thumbnails and titles are one of the most important aspects of getting views. I remember watching one YT’er say that not having one of those cringey thumbnails is like opening a restaurant without a sign on the front.

[@chrisb8193]

You can put up any thumbnail and title you want, if people aren’t interested in the content contain therein, they won’t click.

[@bauerma4]

I think the point of my post is that based on what successful KZbinrs say that’s not entirely true. Now retention…maybe. You see a lot of popular YT’ers who make the payoff of the video at the very end - like to see if Rob guessed all of the guitars correctly - or which team of random strangers will win the $1M. I’m sure these are strategies which solve the second half of the equation.

[@richardreed6538]

The thing about lesson videos for me is that I save that for a day off where I can dedicate the time to make it stick and get something out of it. A amp video I can watch on a work break. Don’t stop making them man, they are some of the best.

[@Carson_Berry]

I’m seeing a lot of people in the comments share my same sentiment: it’s not that I didn’t see it or KZbin didn’t show it, I saw it and passed. For as much of the sentiment of wanting to give videos to your 14 year old self is awesome (and when I was learning I picked up a TON from you), I feel like the main draw of your channel is YOU. The vlogs, the opinions, the advice, that’s what I’m here for. I personally would much rather click on you talking about some weird pedal or amp, or give production tips, or just show a fun gig you did then I would the KZbin formulaic “*Insert Guitar Hero* shows how a REAL PRO SOLOS with the PENTATONIC 🤘🏻🤘🏻🔥🔥🎸🎸🤯🤯 (watch till the end!!) (feat. *insert guitar hero*) also BUY MY NEW COURSE”. There are just way to many other spots across the platform already making that content lol

[@christianwheeler8386]

It came to me and I watched, and it’s great. This is one of those evergreen videos, go back and watch again and again over the years.

[@DanielSeriffMusic]

Thanks for the honesty and transparency. KZbin is no joke and I really appreciate all your coaching and inspiration. I still get stuck because title and thumbnails are so challenging!

[@superreality3823]

I replied to another comment from Alex Farron and the same applies to you, Daniel. You have become a really valued element of me improving my playing. I even read your emails!

[@DanielSeriffMusic]

@@superreality3823 Super kind!! Thank you for saying that.

[@HillyDoyle]

Nice job man...authentic transparency is the strongest communication most times. A big fan from the beginning, have learned tons and will continue to do so.....

[@FuriousWeasel-09]

The video was slow paced and kind of basic, you need to break it up with chapters, and give an overview in the beginning of what you are about to see, and put a little pep in your step. There was a lot of room for improvement. Study Mr. Beast (I'm not joking) how he pulls you into the video from the very first second and keeps you engaged. Keep at it, love your channel and content.

[@mcnater]

agree here. I just went and watched and it just starts out with some guitar playing that goes on too long. While nice, what's the point of the vide? If a user cant tell immediately, why should they keep watching?

[@Jamsville]

And yet if the exact content in the video was happening in front of you in real life, you wouldn’t say the same thing lol. You wouldn’t be expecting jump cuts, text, zoom in and outs.

[@mcnater]

@@Jamsville unfortunately KZbin isn’t real life so you have to do things to keep it interesting. I don’t make the rules

[@RokDAWG1]

Rhett! This is absolutely one of the best & most honest videos! You're speaking truth! I know a few "big" content creators who've said similar things in conversations. You nailed a lot of reality to the wall. I hope people will watch & learn from this VALUABLE information that you're sharing here!

[@peterrebhahn1113]

But in the end, the culprit isn't KZbin and its management, the culprit is viewers. Because the KZbin algorithim is just a learning machine that does what people, by their viewing habits, teach it to do. We have met the enemy and it is us.

[@florisbackx1744]

Yes and... No : ) It's partially the viewers but also the fact that the algorithm is seen as the only truth. The problem is that the viewing data is not just used for analyzing what may work well or not, it is also actively influencing what is being presented to viewers (the algorithm). In other words the algorithm is influencing the data which then feeds the same algorithm again. This makes it very hard for any other great content or new ways which haven't been tried yet to through the filter of the algorithm and therefore won't scores well, which i return feed the algorithm again and so on and so on.

[@peterrebhahn1113]

@@florisbackx1744 Yes, I understand. But KZbin is a for-profit business and it is under no obligation to privilege the information that a channel owner thinks it should. YT privileges the information that works for its business model. No one has to like it, just understand it.

[@jeffbeckfreak54]

I've watched you play and the way you conduct yourself. The faces you make, I didn't even notice. Keep doing what YOU DO. I'm 70 and have been playing for 53 years and have the respect of my peers, but I don't have the drive build a KZbin channel, much less afford the equipment needed to do so.

[@Magoooobly]

Eh... dont blame youtube. IMO people wanna see gear talk more than lessons. Just an assumption but you shouldnt expect a short lesson video to do as well as one that showcases unique gear.

[@thomasdequincey5811]

No, you can blame KZbin. If KZbin isn't even showing the thumbnail to people then all who aren't subscribed to Rhett Shull will not see the video and be able to click on it. People who are subscribed might only want to see gear talk, but that doesn't go for everyone on KZbin who is interested in learning guitar.

[@samchoate1719]

8:02 dude, this is SOOO GOOOD. It’s why I went from a full time musician to having many part time incomes and I encourage others to do the same! Keep creativity creative!!

[@InnerMotionMusic]

Thanks for sharing these candid insights. The whole "KZbinr Face" thing resonates with me so much. I've seen tons of analytics study videos that show the click through rates of those types of thumbnails perform well, but I recently polled my own audience across different platforms asking if they would be more or less likely to click on a KZbinr Face thumbnail, and literally 99% of people who responded said less likely. Granted, it wasn't a huge sample size, but it was big enough to be statistically significant, IMO. Very puzzling... Thanks again.

[@boomerdell]

One of the many reasons why I am a Rhett Shull fan, in addition to the wonderful guitar teaching and music knowledge, is the honesty, integrity, and sincerity. Totally get the cringing discomfort of certain just-gotta-do-’em job-related tasks. My guess is very few jobs are completely free of those. Please know, Rhett, that you, your dedication to your craft, and, yes, your KZbin channel, are all very much appreciated!🌟🙏🏽😊

[@throwingshapes6490]

Thank you for your honesty and frankness on this topic, so refreshing.

[@jimib3]

This is why I love Rhett! Not only are his videos great, always open and honest about the less fun side of KZbin!

[@paulsanders1]

Hey Rhett. I so enjoy your content. You love for guitar, music, processing, amplification is so inspiring and educative. This was really informative. Keep doing what you do. Take care. Paul Sanders

[@xxxxneoxxxx]

Thanks for sharing your honest thoughts with us. Certainly, the way youtube works nowadays has changed a lot in the last few years. Sometimes, I wander why KZbin shows shit in my feed, and the stuff I wanna watch, I actually have to find in my "subscriptions" section. Ridiculous. Keep it up, Rhett!

[@jumpskirt]

Thanks for the behind-the-scenes insight - really appreciate your candor and info!

[@texasreddirt1408]

You're doing great work and are keeping me watching for years now at this point. Keeping putting them out and I'll keep watching.

[@lukeblievernicht8067]

Always appreciate the transparency, Rhett. Keep up the great work and loving the content.

[@delaneyhodges8709]

keep it up man, this platform is dull nowadays, u are authentic, u are gifted, u are blessed by god, don’t let this slow you down and always keep thinking and growing

[@adrianmcallister8511]

I saw the first upload and was going to watch it later. I often watch a few seconds so I can find videos in my history. Anyways, when I was going to watch I noticed it was gone and was wondering what happened. It sucks that everything has to be so engagement optimized, especially when some of us actually want to spend time on valuable videos we can learn from. At any rate, I guess I'll go watch the re-upload now.

[@rickshearer]

This was so great to hear! Thanks for expressing my same frustrations!

[@matthew-gp5ku]

4:23 so you're telling me there's a hours long compilation of you mogging at the camera?

[@VesselForHonor]

I’m losing it rn I absolutely cannot

[@homunculusSZN]

I need that. We need that.

[@danhesketh7414]

Love your videos Rhett. Great that you are educating us on how much effort is involved also. Keep it up

[@matthiasfeit8739]

Loved this insight into the things that matter behind the scenes. Thanks for sharing!

[@dobiqwolf]

Thank you for addressing the deleted video, I was a bit gutted that I did not have the time to see it and wanted to know what happened. The current youtube meta is in a sad state. The Adam's video is great and thank you so much for making it.

[@davidgollom345]

Thank you for posting. I've been avoiding your videos lately because the titles have seemed like click bait. I have more appreciation for your struggle with it now.

[@zulufrog]

I don't even play guitar anymore and still watch nearly all of your output. I have channels that I watch for the content, which, from previous views, I have deemed worthy of my time. You, Mary Spender, Adam Neely, Phil McKnight are an example. Neither you (nor they) are trying to sell me anything, which I appreciate. Keep hanging tough, keep putting out the great content, and I'll be here as long as you are making the vids.

[@flolopoly]

Thanks for being so honest, man. I‘ve heard a lot of people talk about the necessary modalities of youtube, but never this down to earth like you did here. Gladly, your community, the poeple that follow your channel don‘t care about the cringy stuff. They follow you (we follow you) and know that you HAVE to do this shit, we don‘t care. We care about the quality of your content. And I can only speak for myself only here, but: me, for my part, I care O N L Y about the content of your videos. Much love from Germany 💚

[@jodyinalaska1]

You keep posting and I’ll keep watching! Appreciate your content, regardless of the KZbin games you have to play.

[@matt996]

It was a great video! I often don't watch the more educational guitar video until I'm at home and can actually focus on it, rather than something i can listen to in the background and occasionally glance at while working. I don't think the algorithm caters to that...

[@Thebadguitaristcast]

Thank you for this video, Rhett! As someone just starting out it’s helpful to gain the insight on what does and does not work to help get views on a video. It sucks how much work has to go into the thumbnail and title 😮

[@denniskessler7983]

Stay with it Rhett, you're doing a great job, and KZbin is still evolving . Thank you for helping it to evolve.

[@brucelittle3958]

It is getting harder and harder for great musicians to make ends meet! I appreciate your content, Rhett!

[@couragios]

Thanks for sharing and clearly communicating a problem, that straight out shouldn' t exist! KZbin really puts its own phrase "Our mission is to give everyone a voice and show them the world." to shame, if it's focusing on blant attention instead of quality first.

[@eduardostolt]

I’m from Brazil and regularly watch your videos; also have bought a few courses. Nowadays, I have disabled my “history” from KZbin, witch removes the feed page. Then I go directly to my subscriptions pages, wich shows the Channels I like. Find it more suited to my interests and time. Thank you for your lessons, appreciate your job!

[@eingeschränktesLichtraumprofil]

I am glad the video is back. I missed it when I was searching for the long version

[@ianmckenzie5303]

First off I did watch the video last night and it was great. Adam plays more my style of music, (I’m even older than him) and your course will help me advance my chops past the beginner-intermediate stage been stuck in for years. I’m really looking forward to that. Much success Rhett, ATB

[@danibasauri01]

Very humble video, Rhett. I really appreciate your vision because I’ve just started my channel and is very frustrating how the algorithm decides everything. Hey, by the way, fan of your channel from Spain ;)

[@scottythetrex5197]

Great T shirt! Awesome tour. Saw them in Philly. Best show I've ever seen.

[@JackSole17]

These videos are so important to see as someone who’s just starting KZbin! Thanks Rhett!

[@Matt-1d]

Watched the lesson video last night and really enjoyed it. Already started incorporating the ideas into my practice. Thanks for all of the great content.

[@DaveBroTube]

Same here - watched it yesterday and enjoyed it. Then again, I'm already an Adam Levy fan/follower...

[@justinbishopmusic]

I definitely feel this as a very low level content creator. It’s made me just take a more casual approach to the videos as just a hobby. I can’t imagine what it must feel like with your entire monthly income based on KZbin. Hang in there. You make great stuff, and I’ve never been disappointed clicking on any of your videos.

[@cohnjordy]

This was really fascinating, thanks for sharing this. I've probably only watched a dozen of your videos previously, but I'm currently enjoying going through some older content, great stuff, keep it up, you've got 1 more sub from me.

[@jeffkercheval4010]

Rhett, I love your videos. Especially the "Live to Tape" you have done. It is interesting that we get to know the folks whose channel's we subscribe to. Trust me.....the content does matter. There are many video's I may click on while scrolling through KZbin. If it is not something I am interested in, presented well, etc. I'm gone, so content does matter....not just a flashy title.

[@chrisgarver7904]

I watched & enjoyed the video you took down. I’m also an admirer or Adam Levy. He’s genuinely talented, humble & plays to whatever song he’s playing on. I’m very happy that you were able to do a course with Adam & I look forward to checking it out

[@carlkelly7885]

Thanks Rhett, you are doing an awesome job and I always appreciate the amount of time you take to create these videos. .

[@Tanglishcouple]

Thanks for being honest and open. This will greatly help me and my wife with our approach to our channel 🙂

[@dylanhamilton7190]

Thank you for being so transparent, really appreciate it. Also would love to see some more of those outtakes of you making thumbnails 😂

[@nancyvanrijn9732]

You are the only KZbinr I have notifications set for. I guess it's mainly because of this that I do get to see all of your videos. I make a point of watching all of them and liking and sometimes commenting on them, because I enjoy your content, I like you as a person, and also because I know that it helps you show up more in the algorithm when enough people do that. But it is ridiculous that this is even necessary for the audience to be thinking about and be intentional about, because not everyone will realize that this is how things work. It's great that you're open about this, this helps in creating awareness. And I'm very happy that I'm not in your shoes what with making all those faces just to pay my mortgage 😄

[@leolutz9947]

Simply stated, the video you made with Levy is pure gold. I’ve watched it several times now, and took plenty from it. Thanks. BTW, the cheesy thumbnails and titles have driven me away from KZbin. At this point, I will only go to a small few channels of creatives that I trust (you, Rick, Tim, and several others). Keep doing you. 🤘🤘

[@mattgipson5619]

I actually enjoyed and learned from the video yesterday. I picked up on some tasty blues licks and got some insight on repetition is not always a bad thing, just augment it a little. I dug it Man. Keep doing what you do.

[@WillBrahm]

Very insightful. Thank you Rhett!