Gig Fatigue

June 27th, 2008

Just got back from playing an exhausting show at a biker rally in Johnstown, PA with my band. Had a show last weekend as well, so that’s why there haven’t been any new lessons for a little while. I’m completely worn out and am reminded of the words of John Mayer that went something like this

“There are a lot of people, myself included, who can play with the same intensity as Stevie Ray Vaughan for about 20 seconds, but then your arm cramps up……”

I think what Mr. Mayer was trying to say is that it’s nice to emulate the legend, but it’s also nice to realize that playing the way he did, for as long as he did, as cleanly as he did is an impossible venture. Better enjoy trying and doing the best you can, because if you don’t you’ll be miserable :)

I’m dead tired, and tomorrow I’m going on vacation for the rest of the weekend. When I come back, I’ve got a great lesson that I think you’ll really enjoy.

Leave a Comment

7 Comments

  1. Randal Dunn Says:
    July 19th, 2008 at 11:14 am

    I just wish I could play like that for 20 mins LOL!!! I am just starting out playing and learning on my own. I saw your video on youtube and i must say, I have learned a lot from them. I am just buying them one at a time, but hopfully I will move on with my playing. This may sound funny but the only place I play is in church!!!! I’m beggining to be known as the bluesy church boy. I get a kick out of it. It’s just my favorite guitar style of playing, I like Chet, he is the man, I just don’t like to play like him. Thanks for teaching me new things. Randal (Poteau,OK)

    [Reply]
  2. Robert Says:
    July 15th, 2008 at 2:49 pm

    Hi Anthony, I know that feeling! Yeah, the SRV stuff is tiring, especially on heavy gauge strings like he used. I cheat in this aspect…

    Biker gigs can be tough!

    [Reply]

    Anthony Stauffer ( StevieSnacks Teacher ) reply on July 17th, 2008:

    It’ s a blast to try to play this stuff as long as it’s followed by a good night’s sleep. BTW, I saw on your site that you’re originally from Umea. I’ve got a sister who lives about 20 minutes from there, married to a doctor, we’ll be visiting them in August. Beautiful part of the country.

    [Reply]

    Robert reply on July 19th, 2008:

    That is interesting to hear! What town do they live in? I come from a small town 15 minutes from Umea. Let me know if you want any info about Umea and area for your visit - that’s where I grew up so I know it quite well.

    [Reply]
  3. Timmy Says:
    July 9th, 2008 at 6:03 pm

    Thanks…. thats what I figured. The average listener would be none the wiser.

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  4. Timmy Says:
    June 28th, 2008 at 6:48 pm

    Hi Anthony
    Do you play Stevie songs in regular tuning while gigging or do you have another guitar ? I guess your bass player would also have to tune down , or have 2nd bass as well.

    Since I’ve been doing forearm exercises and using the gripmaster thing, I’ve gotten a lot stronger and can feel the difference. Heck if atheletes condition certain muscles for their sport , guitar players oughta too !

    Take care , God Bless

    [Reply]

    Anthony Stauffer ( StevieSnacks Teacher ) reply on July 5th, 2008:

    I tune down 1/2 step all the time. I just force my band to tune that way too. Everyone complains at first but they get used to it….hehe…

    [Reply]

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