There is not a single person I know who does not like music. Whether it is to calm their nerves or to find a temporary safe refuge for their troubled soul, music can be such a magical thing to engage in. Many people don’t realize all the years of hard work and training that goes …
Although metal music has traditionally been male-dominated, over the past couple of decades, we have seen a significant rise in all-female and female fronted metal bands. These powerful female figures have made their definitive mark on the music industry, playing a critical role in the continuous innovation of the metal genre into an increasingly inclusive …
Thinking of buying a guitar amp but confused by all the jargon? It takes quite a bit of time to get your head around all the ins and outs, especially when there are so many brands, specs and features out there. Fortunately, there’s some high-level information you can learn and understand quickly without getting overly …
As far as playing guitar goes, country songs aren’t usually very complex. In fact, their simple chords and straightforward rhythm make them a great starting point for beginner guitarists. The trick to growing your repertoire is to pick up and master a bunch of heavily used chord progressions of the genre. Don’t go scouting for …
The prince of indie, Mac DeMarco has captivated and reinvented what it means to be an independent artist and songwriter in modern times. He initially garnered a devoted following through his laid-back jangle pop, lo-fi indie sound, and open-heart lyricism. But Demarco’s success wasn’t just some overnight happening, born in British Columbia in 1990, Mac …
Music teachers and instructors always have this very positive attitude in them that I admire. They tell aspiring musicians that learning to play an instrument is easy if you have a passion for it. And by passion, they mean commitment, dedication, and focus on what aspiring musicians want to achieve. While I somewhat agree with …
Have you ever wondered why some songs sound so heartbreaking and sad? There are many factors that affect a song’s vibe, like the lyrics, song structure, and chord progressions. Using chord progressions in minor keys is a surefire recipe for crafting a powerful, emotional experience for the listeners. Depending on how you use them, these …
It’s impossible to imagine a world without Keith Richards’ three-note strut in “Satisfaction” or Jimmy Page’s chugging wonder in “Whole Lotta Love”? As a repetitive, melodic hook, a well-written guitar riff can make a song unforgettable. They have shaped genres, immortalized musicians, and inspired a generation of guitarists. A riff doesn’t even have to be …
You don’t have to be a huge fan of Taylor Swift to appreciate her remarkable talent for songwriting. And her voice, while perhaps not the best in the world, sure has a timbre to it that can stir the soul. What endears Swift to her fans is the relatability of her songs. The musical pieces …
There are many reasons why Bob Dylan continues to be one of the most iconic singer-songwriters of all time. While some love his deep lyrics, others can’t resist his emotive vocals. But for guitarists, we love how he often uses the simplest guitar chords and easy strumming patterns to create pure songwriting magic! So many …