Fingerstyle Guitar!

In this episode - Fingerstyle Guitar . . .

In a previous podcast, we shared our experience at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee, where we attended a concert by the accomplished fingerstyle guitarist Tommy Emmanuel.

Suppose you've never seen Tommy in concert. I promise - you will never look at a guitar the same way again! And believe what you are seeing and hearing is possible. Every inch of his guitar gets plucked or pounded to propel the beat, scratched to imitate symbols, driven with a rhythmic thump, thump, thump to lead with the bass, and magic fingers that tickle the strings to drive pure harmonic tones. So, please don't pass it up when you can see him live.

During a local performance by Tommy Emmanuel at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, CA, on December 14, 2022, we were introduced to Mike Dawes, an exceptionally talented and creative guitarist renowned for his impressive fingerstyle technique. It was a delightful surprise!

Born in England on November 20, 1983, Mike developed an early passion for music and started playing the guitar at 13. His uncanny talent and dedication led him on a remarkable journey in the guitar world. With his unique approach to the instrument, Mike quickly gained recognition for his intricate fingerstyle arrangements and captivating performances. He is celebrated for his ability to blend percussive techniques, harmonics, and melodic lines, creating a rich and dynamic sound that pushes the boundaries of what's possible on the guitar.

Mike rose to fame in 2013 with his solo acoustic cover of Gotye's "Somebody That I Used to Know" on YouTube, earning millions of views and showcasing his talent in the guitar community. Since then, Mike Dawes has continued to build a strong presence in the music industry, captivating listeners with his original compositions and inventive covers of popular songs. To date, he has released several highly acclaimed albums, including "What Just Happened?" (2013), "Era" (2017), and "Shows and Distancing: Live in the USA" (2021). His music encompasses various styles, incorporating folk, rock, and jazz. One of his best covers is Jump, by Van Halen.

Mike has toured extensively with renowned musicians such as Justin Hayward from The Moody Blues and Tommy Emmanuel, solidifying his reputation as a standout in the guitar world.

In addition to his solo career, he is an active collaborator and session musician, working with various artists across different genres. Mike continues to inspire and influence aspiring guitarists through his workshops, masterclasses, and online tutorials, sharing his expertise and unique approach to the instrument. Mike Dawes continues to push the boundaries of the acoustic guitar and captivate audiences worldwide with his extraordinary musicality.

Check him out on Spotify, and if you get a chance, don't miss seeing him in concert. You will be amazed and delighted.

I'm Patrick Ball; thanks for listening. See you in the next episode.

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