I discovered this channel looking for slipknot content a year ago but stayed for your own personal playing style, positive attitude, and personality. As someone who has only been playing guitar for about 2 years, I came to the channel with little knowledge about gear at all and learned a lot. Even learned some tips for writing my own music, and how to use the gear I have effectively. Keep up the good work!
@ratt6692 жыл бұрын
For that stupid fake smile as well.
@theshotgunscientists2 жыл бұрын
I found your channel a good while before the Jim root video. I’m here because this channel is just awesome all around and your positivity is refreshing to see.
@xanderraymondcharles2 жыл бұрын
Hey thanks so much Tyler
@Karlgolden2 жыл бұрын
I felt exactly the same about myself with my GNR stuff and it’s 100% right decision even if it means less views to change direction. Do you bro 🔥🔥🤘🤘
@jordansmith4442 жыл бұрын
Because I wanna be different, I found you when you compared evh amps, because I was trying to decide whether I want the 6l6 or the el34 version. And ended loving that video so much, I bought them both. I didn’t know about the Jim root stuff until much better haha. Hope all is well!
@jconner38912 жыл бұрын
Have both too. Well the stealth and el34
@evenzeroescanbeheroes68752 жыл бұрын
There's always a catch to someone getting a big break. I'm sorry you had to go through that,man. I came for the guitar related content and I plan on staying for it. I'm happy to see where you're going. Keep up the great work,man.
@dexxfilm2 жыл бұрын
Ray, I watched your videos before the Jim Root interview and you definitely have your own unique style man. Keep doing you, congrats on your success dude. You deserve it.
@jarrettpratt32892 жыл бұрын
I’m so happy your finally getting the recognition you deserve! I remember watching your videos when you only had 3k subs, I always knew your channel would grow fast.
@xanderraymondcharles2 жыл бұрын
Hey thanks for sticking with me the whole time. I really appreciate you!
@jeffleecust2 жыл бұрын
I jumped on around 16k. Knew I picked a good wagon to get on.
@Ewright852 жыл бұрын
@@xanderraymondcharles hey brother. Giving a shout out to a fellow veteran. 11B in 2ID in Camp Casey and Camp Red Cloud South Korea. Love the content. Been following for quite a while now. Dealing with issues of my own you’ve been a huge inspiration and I also love your playing style. Even though I love Jim I’d definitely message you just to message you. We’re brothers in arms and in guitar. Stay positive and do you. You rock bro. Shout out from Texas
@RancidAmputation1232 жыл бұрын
Can’t wait to see what the future has in store for you Ray! You’re one of the best guitar youtubers and your endless positivity while making consistent, informative and interesting content is a breath of fresh air
@zacharymicah2 жыл бұрын
Your enthusiasm is why I keep watching! Riffs and big grins on Ray's face are what it's all about!
@xanderraymondcharles2 жыл бұрын
Hey thanks so much!
@zacharymicah2 жыл бұрын
@@xanderraymondcharles You're welcome bro!
@dustynguilford7893 Жыл бұрын
Totally respectable man! Wanting to be and become an individual and be your own kind of artist and player is cool. There’s way too many people trying to be like someone else. The music world would be so much more rad if more people would try to find their own sound and their own style etc. I feel it bro! Keep on keeping on!
@edwardsmith98012 жыл бұрын
Congratulations on all the success Ray !!! You deserve the hell out of it, love the show & can't wait too see what the future holds for you, glad I found your channel man!!! Your awesome , ignore any haters, Rock on!!!
@EJsGuitars2 жыл бұрын
Clicked for the drama, stayed for the inspirational conversation! 😎👍🏼 Congratulations on the record deal!🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼
@PooNinja2 жыл бұрын
Save the drama for ya llama
@EJsGuitars2 жыл бұрын
@@PooNinja 😆
@JNCGaming2 жыл бұрын
Congratulations on being signed! 2022 is YOUR year!
@Crescent_Audio2 жыл бұрын
100% understand that sentiment, you love your idols and influences but you want to have your own identity. You don’t want to be forever known as “that dude who sounds like Jim Root”. You want to make a name for yourself while drawing inspiration from your heros. Props to you man, you’re definitely doing your own thing, I know I click when I see a video from you.
@drakecampos45032 жыл бұрын
Dude I respect the hell out of your decision! You are damn good musician and you deserve to have you own legacy and brand! Keep it up!
@stuartmcshitz57582 жыл бұрын
You have got to be one of the nicest people I've seen on KZbin. I've got an acquaintance in the industry. We've emailed a handful of times over the past year. I don't talk about it because some people will ask you to get shit or do shit for them. Some people can be selfish. The times we've corresponded, it's always been about an artist or something guitar affiliated. I personally asked him for a favor, but it wasn't for me necessarily. It was about getting his product local. Long story.....lol I almost pulled a " Stay Metal Ray" and came close to saying too much....🤣 J/K Rock on brother!
@BigMurph45 Жыл бұрын
Xander you rock! Never thought you were a Jim Root clone or wantabe. Killer guitar channel. 🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼
@xanderraymondcharles Жыл бұрын
You’re the best
@alexradsby2 жыл бұрын
I totally respect this dude. Do your thing and congratulations!
@bradhargis2261 Жыл бұрын
Makes total sense. As I moved up in life after highschool I found myself wanting signature guitar after signature guitar, the prs se paul allender, an se tremonti, an se mike mushok, schecter syn custom, the kieth merrow km7, they were so cool and unique, etc. Then I got in a small little cover band and started playing shows. I immediately lost taste in and sold all my signature guitars except my Mike mushok sig as that was a wedding gift from my wife. I got regular guitars and customized them to what I liked and regained a sense of self and a new love for the instrument.
@thelos762 жыл бұрын
Love the channel, been watching for a few years. Congratulations on your success!!! “Lata!”
@xanderraymondcharles2 жыл бұрын
Hey thanks so much!
@telecasteroil2 жыл бұрын
Glad Yur Signed , best of luck .... You do you and all others should be Themselves!!!! Great Video Ray can't wait for the Solar stuff too !
@DheadslayinG2 жыл бұрын
BRO!! Congrats on the record deal Ray! Been seeing big things happen for you lately but this is the crème de le crème!
@xanderraymondcharles2 жыл бұрын
Hey thanks so much. I’m doing my best!
@sargetparrot2 жыл бұрын
im one of them who found you through the jim root rig rundown. i mean yeah i loved that becuase im a giant gear nerd, but i appreciate your perspective on gear and your an inspiration on the guitar. big things ahead for you, looking foward to where you go from here.
@toddhahn36902 жыл бұрын
I wasn't a subscriber until long after any Jim Root interview that you've done. I discovered your channel by force of the algorithms lol. You just seem genuinely happy to be putting out content on KZbin, which is what basically drew me in. Congrats on your recent accomplishments and good luck man!
@carpingdownsouth70822 жыл бұрын
I discovered you though your baritone playing and purchases. Not even a slip knot fan. But enjoy the content, you do you man !
@chrisreed35932 жыл бұрын
Congrats on your record deal bro! Been a fan for years and not just for the slipknot stuff! Your gear reviews helped me in a ton of ways and I look forward to all the new stuff your doing and can’t wait for new content! From one veteran to another hoah!
@JaFoste_Studio2 жыл бұрын
I'm here because of your positive attitude...like you've ALWAYS got a smile on your face. Congrats on the label signing!
@metalfreak47912 жыл бұрын
Congratulations on getting signed!!!! Can't wait to hear your band jam and when you start touring, please come to San Antonio , Texas!! \m/
@PuttinOnTheRiffs2 жыл бұрын
Congrats bro!
@thetrendkiller84442 жыл бұрын
I came around the start sometime, think you had less than 1k subscribers. Found ya looking at people play Revolution Is My Name. I wouldn't say you were/are a Jim Root guy man, but there definitely ain't no denying that you are a Wes Borland guy. Everything I've seen screams Wes. Whatever is fun for ya though man, keep enjoying yourself is the main thing and don't overthink sh#t. If you have to try or work to be a certain entity or image that you want to show, it's not real. Anyways, cheers bro!! Here's to 5 more years and a hell of a 2022!!
@Emoboijeffrey2 жыл бұрын
I found your channel via your mark v 25 unboxing. It’s been a fun ride watching you grow 👏
@noeramirez75752 жыл бұрын
I’ll be interested to see what guitars you mostly play now! Also, I started to use that philosophy for myself and started getting rid of guitars that I don’t play anymore. I had an acoustic that was just collecting dust and I thought it was dumb to keep it just in case I wanted to play it but I rarely ever did since getting it. So I’m currently selling it and using some of the money to fund guitars that I actually will play.
@heatherbari17662 жыл бұрын
Stay being you, that is what I like about your videos, and you have taught me a lot.
@roosterj25992 жыл бұрын
Ray. I respect where your coming from. I never saw you as a Jim Root clone or fan boy. Just good ol Ray. I'm very proud of you and happy for your success. I knew you would make it. You have what it takes and some to spare. God speed Ray and Stay Metal🤘🤘🤘
@bryanb28522 жыл бұрын
I did not know you even did a Jim Root interview lol I subbed because I just like the channel
@grimmfm62392 жыл бұрын
You are like my spirit animal. I have written my whole life, and playing music for a living is a dream. And I am happy to see you get to do it, enjoy every minute bro. I first found you through a thumbnail or something saying military vet guitar player or something like that. Followed right away before hearing a lick. You are very good bro, the album riffs sound just so good so clean. You got me going…hmm I might go check out a baritone guitar. And as far as Slipknot I never really dug them myself and never even saw that video yet. I never was a cover guy myself I like writing.
@sublyme21572 жыл бұрын
That's funny, I actually found your channel a couple weeks ago, it was your "Do I regret buying a Les Paul" video. Sorry to hear about all that Jim Root drama! Slipknot was cool twenty years ago when I was young (Duality and Vermilion Pt2 were my jams!), but things change as you get older :) Congrats on the record deal, and best of luck man!
@jasons.39212 жыл бұрын
It was just a matter of time for you to figure this out. I for one am very happy for you Ray. I wish you nothing but success and happiness in your future endeavors. Also, looking forward to hearing what ya got cooking. Cheers my young brother!
@brandynosborn33742 жыл бұрын
Damn man, I guess I didn't really even notice. like, I didn't come here for just purely Slipknot content. I found a best bud, someone who shares his passion and his drive to create and evolve into the artist we all know you can be! To me, just being a part of your story by witnessing all you've created that's special man! You are like a KZbin Brother to me and I'm sure many others! Always refreshing to see someone giving it their all and staying humble an honest through it all. I keep coming back for the same reason, to see what the bro Ray is throwing down! Keep grinding man! 5 years has felt like just the start! :)
@martink.94662 жыл бұрын
Glad to see a passionate man chasing his dreams and living it! You are great! Keep going!
@dartthewarrior2 жыл бұрын
I found you from “the” video, but stayed for that true, full Ray experience! Stay safe dude!!
@Merjia2 жыл бұрын
Ray, gotta tell you, my headphones fall off every time I watch one of your videos because the inro makes me bang my head that hard. Felt this was the right time to tell you, keep on kicking ass bro! \m/
@Vvaughensahnoun2 жыл бұрын
Good luck Mr Ray I love your content here on youtube
@MikeYeary2 жыл бұрын
I personally never saw that interview, probably because I'm not a big Slipknot fan, but I can totally understand not wanting to stand in someone else's shadow. I'm just here for your great attitude, and playing!
@ledthrax2 жыл бұрын
I was introduced to your channel because of the Jim Root interview, but I quickly went down the rabbit hole of the rest of your channel. I could tell that you were your own artist from videos way before the interview. You definitely have your own signature sound and things you are known for so I completely understand moving away from other artist’s signature gear. Will i still chat with you about Slipknot, JR, and other cool stuff like we have done when I got to hang at shows with you? Hell yes, but that’s because we are both big fans of those things, not because you are link to som other artist. That’s complete crap that people were pulling that. You keep doing you Ray and a lot of us will be along for the ride!,
@captpootis84952 жыл бұрын
Whatchu do is whatchu do, I stay here because I’m here to see what you do. If it makes you happy man then do it. No one deserves to feel trapped in a cage. Be blessed man 👌
@broncoxy2 жыл бұрын
I don't know when or how I found you, but since I did I follow this channel and watch the videos that I'm interested in, because I just think that you're a genuine and cool dude and its honestly so nice to see you achieving your dreams and goals with all thats happening. Always had the feeling that you were the kind of person that really wants to do stuff his way and who doesn't give too much about what other people think about it; if you like it, you'll do it and I like that and can absolutely understand what you're talking about. You're not 'the guy with Jim Root', you're Ray and its good to see that you know that aswell. Am excited for what is about to come, the way you're sounding telling that ' this'll be your year' really makes one curious for what kind of treats you got for us in your pockets ^^
@nacktheslayer98822 жыл бұрын
keep doing your thing man. i found you like a year before that jim root interview with those metallica gear videos you did
@rodreyes84362 жыл бұрын
Congrats dude. Looking forward to seeing how the year unfolds. I think it’s good to grow as a musician and a person, I’m wishing you well on this all!!
@alexskibicki22622 жыл бұрын
I understand what you’re going through. I at one point went through a phase where I wanted to buy and try out different basses and and guitars. And after years of trying different Models of instruments, I’ve decided to stick with models I truly like. As for wanting to your thing, I’m all for that, I’m all for that. I’ve played for a number of different bands over the years and while serving as a member of these bands, I’ve formed side-projects to create my own music. And now I play in my own band. Anywho, when it comes to owning instruments, as long as it has a sentimental value to you, that’s all it matters.
@naruto1997972 жыл бұрын
I understand you wanting to divert away from being the slipknot guitar guy and being more of a individual I'm looking forward to seeing where you go next as far as content and your band stuff
@elus1ve0ne642 жыл бұрын
Hey man, Congrats on the record deal brotha !! It’s awesome to see that the dream is still possible. You’re an inspiration 👊 😎
@charlesholland68512 жыл бұрын
Congratulations on the signing! And I feel ya on everything you said in this video.
@Blep42O Жыл бұрын
This was all news to me but I haven’t seen your old videos so you keep doing you.
@Swiftnl2 жыл бұрын
Ray I have always enjoyed your content and to be honest the interview was off topic for what you do. I personally enjoy getting geeky and drewl on gear as a hobby gitarist and your content fits the gitarist life. Stay strong and chugg on ✌️
@1thess5232 жыл бұрын
I've never listened to Slipknot a d I don't even listen to the same type of music you play, I just found you as a gear channel and enjoyed your personality and content. I play skate and pop punk 👍
@maxcady52872 жыл бұрын
That's all right. I remember when i was crazy about Mark Tremonti guitars and so, i used to have 3 of his usa signatures... with time and hours of guitar like you, evolving i realised i needed something different. Flatter radious, higher frets, floyd and though i keep the lp scale. I sold them all, but thanks to those now i know what suits me better. Great video!!
@JahmezFox2 жыл бұрын
I found this channel when you did the tone comparison between the Squier and Fender Jim Root telecaster but I stayed for all the awesome content, so fuckin shit that people just tried to use you to get to Jim
@rangerc3102 жыл бұрын
Love that you are becoming you as a artist.
@jeffalfred57852 жыл бұрын
Can't wait to see what greatness the future brings for you. Enjoy the ride and ...STAY HUMBLE!
@gytrplr2 жыл бұрын
The interview with Jim was great because you both turned into huge guitar nerds but only hang around to hear how you grow. Can’t wait for the Tunes peace
@johnp70802 жыл бұрын
Started watching you through a Slipknot rabbit hole. Stayed for you and your content. Decided to subscribe today!
@ScreaminT812 жыл бұрын
RAY, but I need you to message Jim for me!!! NOW. Ha no I’m kidding. I found you with the whole Dean/Gibson debacle a couple years ago. Following you on here and on IG since then. I love the content and your growth in the YT realm has been extremely inspiring to myself as a vocalist. Seeing you being picked up as an artist with some amazing companies is proof that if you work hard you can get to where you wanna be. You’re an infectious human being and I’m glad you’re kicking ass my friend. Cheers, and hey… STAY METAL RAY 🤣🤣🤘🏻🤘🏻
@RaddDadd292 жыл бұрын
Hey Ray. I totally understand where you're coming from. You don't want to be a shadow of a man, or another musician. I've been watching your stuff for years and have seen you evolve to become a great musician/guitarist. I'm so excited to hear what the future holds for you and us (your listeners). Keep on keepin on man. One question, do you have a reverb store or somewhere that you list your gear for sale once your done with them? I'd love to own a guitar that you played. Cheers man!
@sillyness34562 жыл бұрын
That interview was cool, but I honestly enjoy your show VLOGs the most, because they remind me of how I used to play shows... My last show is closing in on being four years ago...
Actually, I found you because of the EVH amp comparisons lol. Ended up getting a 6l6 2x12 combo. It’s rad you’re looking to be your own person, have fun man!
@viking79372 жыл бұрын
Very happy you are pursuing your own path. Congrats on the record deal!
@manhattanmike69592 жыл бұрын
Do you Ray. You don't owe me an explanation. Love the channel
@impossivel20062 жыл бұрын
You did an interview with Jim Root? That's cool man.
@carlmcgilton11202 жыл бұрын
You should do your own thing. You have put in the work and time. I think you are correct in moving on to what ever makes you satisfied. Great content SMR.
@HGB7772 жыл бұрын
Congrats on the record deal man!
@slipvayneknot2 жыл бұрын
Congratulations brother! That’s awesome!
@codysroom63032 жыл бұрын
Ray bro, i wish i had the attitude and energy as u. As well as your gear and talent. Im so happy for you. You went all in and now its paying off huge good on u brother. And yes 😆 lol i to found your channel from the jim route interview video. Then i saw u weren't a "music journalist" you were a sick af guitar player with a smile always. Your whole vibe is why i love your content.
@MrJingles0212 жыл бұрын
I found you through the Jim Root video, and the time you were featured on SWOLA. But I quickly saw you as a fellow single cut fan who plays metal.
@JoeKyser2 жыл бұрын
I feel like the sediment of being a signed artist is losing its grace these days. Especially with the way social media has carved out the space and made it the way it is.
@mcchurch1182 жыл бұрын
Definitely makes sense. I'm starting to get the same way with my collection. It is cool to have signatures but having something that is your own identity is awesome as well \m/
@darielsshadow42642 жыл бұрын
Respect bro frfr u killin it.
@nyteshade79682 жыл бұрын
I found ya via the house of masks and stuck around cause I enjoy the content, Sorry that people suck bawls and made ya feel stuck but you’ve been an inspiration to me just on your own merit and doin your own thing Keep doing you buddy 🤘🏽
@toastynotez2 жыл бұрын
Just because he's your influence doesn't mean you live under his shadow bro. You are doing you, and a great job at it. Smart move setting the expectation. Mad respect. I stayed because you enjoy and love playing the guitar. Everything else was circumstantial!
@dylanroyka13622 жыл бұрын
great video man, I will always support. One thing im wondering about that guitar is what gauge strings are you using, i couldn't stop looking at the. they look thick
@tatocta2 жыл бұрын
Since you metioned it, what happened to that Slipknot Tribute Metal Band you were in?
@joeformayor2 жыл бұрын
Ray I’ve said it again. You my friend are your own artist and creator. I’ve never once saw you as a Jim Root copy. Personally I have only liked two of Slipknot’s songs. It’s nothing against them it’s just not my cup of tea. I found you when I was researching Schecter C1 guitars and you did a video comparing your Evil Twin vs a buddy’s C1 Apocalypse. From that moment on I respected your content and have been hooked. I personally haven’t seen the interview with you or Jim. Anyway congratulations on the signing!!! I can’t wait to see what new ideas you come up with. I look forward to see you here in my hometown Memphis in April. Again congrats on everything!!!! Well deserved.
@Terry3Gs2 жыл бұрын
Totally understand your points & yeah being the end all for mr. root would be a big PITA when probly most of the stuff is a google search away. And on the record deal ... congrats ray !! Well earned/deserved. :)
@fabricedufour53252 жыл бұрын
Good on you brother. Congrats and best of luck \m/
@robflores51722 жыл бұрын
Totally get it. I was never into signature guitars even in the beginning I was always about customizing guitars. With the exception of certain legacy players like Jason Becker and Shawn Lane. Actually plan on refinishing my first guitar again soon!
@themog49112 жыл бұрын
Good for you Ray and good luck 🤘🏻
@thorpenator91482 жыл бұрын
Love the big block inlays on that guitar.
@mg82242 жыл бұрын
Hey man, can you ask Jim what kind of hair products he use?
@ronchabot34492 жыл бұрын
Happy for you brother keep doing what you're love the content and your a great guy also keep having fun brother 🤘🎸🤘🎸🤘🎸
@billyhollister60602 жыл бұрын
So Ray you made the grade your a recording artist signed kudos my virtual buddy well bloody done
@circlesofficialmusic2 жыл бұрын
I don’t put you in a bucket with anyone from Slipknot or any other band. You are who you are & I respect you for that.
@schneibgamer12 жыл бұрын
Man that white Jim root is my favorite, I love the rugged look of it
@chugmarks2 жыл бұрын
That whole "If it doesn't play, it doesn't stay" is good. I have a brand new Solar AB1.7 that I LOVE...but it's just doing mixing with me. I don't know what it is and I'm sad to think I have to let it go hahah
@stevemorovek64702 жыл бұрын
Good for you man. That’s really SHITTY for those people that ask you all garbage. Cheers brother. Looking forward to see where this path takes you 👊🏻
@martincavazos12812 жыл бұрын
Still the coolest thing that you bought the Jazzmaster, it was an honor! -GM58
@Leo_Safko2 жыл бұрын
Congrats Ray!!🤟
@jonathanwapner62622 жыл бұрын
I regret selling my white JR Strat. I needed the money. That guitar was so great though. I just assumed I'd be able to get another one, but they stopped making them, and white ones are impossible to find.