The masses don’t lie. As Carson Daily signed off from MTV’s wildly popular Total Request Live (TRL) in 2008, it was Britney Spears and her debut music video Hit Me Baby One More Time that took home the coveted prize as most requested video during the show’s tenure. But who are we kidding, of course it was….
As a solo guitarist, there are seldom experiences similar to that of performing for an engaged audience. You could describe it as being in a ‘flow state;’ communicating and fascinating your audience becomes the only real pertinent task, but before we reach this moment, so many other pieces must come into play. The entire process usually starts in your bedroom. You’ve spent a few weeks chipping away at a song you can’t wait to practice, when suddenly the seed is planted…how cool would it be to play this for someone? You perform it for a friend – and despite your own self-deprecating criticism of that one miniscule slip going from G to C – it was a pretty smooth ride and you’re excited to try it again. Whether you’re contemplating the upcoming talent show or maybe even the weekly open mic in town, there are opportunities for budding guitarists to share their talents…you just need to find them.
This is where I feel a majority of budding guitarists sell themselves short. As someone who was always looking for excuses as to why I wasn’t ready to perform in public, this much is true: there will never be an ideal time. You just have to get out there and do it. Performances won’t always go as expected, but each experience is a learning opportunity for you to refine your sound and increase your comfort level. Remember, it isn’t about trying to be the best player, it’s about enjoying the experience and allowing others to share these moments with you.
Not sure what to play? I’ve been taking lots of requests on the cruise ship, and while I’d say there are very few surprises here, the ones I’ve picked work well when arranged for solo acoustic guitar. Also keep in mind these suggestions are for request-based performance that attempts to appeal to a varied demographic. In most situations, I’d say just play whatever speaks to you!
Red Hot Chili Peppers – Under The Bridge
Bon Jovi – Wanted Dead Or Alive
Beatles – enough said.
Rolling Stones – Satisfaction
AC/DC – Shook Me All Night Long
Guns ‘N Roses – Sweet Child Of Mine
Paul Simon – Me & Julio Down By The School Yard
Crowded House – Don’t Dream Until Its Over
Eagles – Take It Easy, Hotel California, Peaceful Easy Feeling
Eric Clapton’s Unplugged – Layla, Before You Accuse Me, Walkin Blues
Ed Sheeran – A Team
Jason Mraz – I’m Yours
Jack Johnson – Taylor, Better Together
Sam Smith – I’m Not The Only One
Tom Petty (or the John Mayer cover) – Free Fallin
Nirvana Unplugged – Man Who Sold The World, All Apologies
Vance Joy – Riptide
Lumineers – Hey Ho
Johnny Cash – Ring Of Fire
