I've always had a proclivity for starting something and never finishing it. That's the way I've been for as long as I can remember. I get interested in something like photography, and really get into it; I learn all I can about it and really have fun at it. Then, after a time, I get bored and forget about it until weeks, months or maybe even years. Then I'll pick up my camera (Canon 80D) and go crazy again taking photos or filming. This is just one example. My interests are far too many, maybe.
Such is the case of, my guitar. I bought my very first guitar in 2012 and like all the other things, I learned how to play it, was crazy and obsessed about it. I learned a few chords and played at a beginners level. I was so excited every time I got a chance to play my guitar and sing. Alas, came the boredom. Looking back, I don't know why I got bored and put it down. I was having so much fun. Oh wait, I remember why. THE BARRE CHORDS! When I came across a song that had a barre chord, I cheated. I played the easier way to play the same chord. It was ok for a while but I became disenchanted. I tried to learn how to make the barre chords but I wasn't have much success. So, that was one of the reasons, I put my guitar down and never picked it up for months.
The second time I picked it up, was brief. I just lost interest and thought to myself "I'm never going to be able to play like those guys." and "I'm never going to be able to play those barre chords right." So, down went my guitar. It sat in a corner and never touched.
And now, up and into my arms goes my guitar once again. Why? Barry Manilow. I went to a Barry Manilow concert not too long ago and it was an epiphany for me. When I was young I would sing his songs in my room over and over again. I never dreamed I would actually see him in person. That was so very awesome. My love for music was ignited and there was no putting it out. I picked up my guitar and I said to myself "I'm going to learn how to play barre chords one way or another." I'm still not that good, but I'm going to keep playing and playing and playing until I get it.
I have to give a shout out to Tony Polecastro and one of his Youtube videos entitled "Give me 12 minutes. I'll save you 15 years." I watched this video and it motivated me so much. Part of the reason I would put down my guitar was, intimidation. And, I don't intimidate very easily. Watching all those guitar players on Youtube bust out licks, and yes barre chords so effortlessly, was extremely intimidating. I would always tell myself, "forget it, I'll never be able to do that." Then I watched Toney's video. Now, I don't give a shit about anyone else but me and my situation. Thanks Toney!
I don't know how long I have to live. But, I want to, not only get good at playing, I want to express what I feel inside via my music.
