While it doesn’t happen often due to my own playing schedule and other commitments, I love to go to open blues jams when I get the chance.
It’s always fun to meet new people and it’s always inspiring for me as a teacher to watch what other guitar players are doing.
The sad part, is that when I watch a lot of guitar players up there, I have to sit on my hands so I don’t jump up and try to fix it all (turns out that if people don’t know you, they don’t like “constructive comments.”)
2 things REALLY jumped out at me this time – more so that any time I’ve done this before:
1. Don’t play. Most jams when they are busy will have keys, drums, bass, 2 guitars, and harp or sax. That’s like 6 people on stage and guess what it sounds like when the keyboard player is trying to take a solo and the 2 guitars and harp decide to “comp” behind him?
The soloist doesn’t need any help from the rest of the band to play a solo. The comping is cool, but one person needs to do it. And it really can’t be a monophonic (one note at a time) like a harp or sax unless they really know what they’re doing.
1 guitar, playing very little, is more than enough to fill the space.
Now at the jam I was at last night, one of the harmonica players understood this and did his best to shush the band down when the keyboard player tried to take a solo. But since no one looked up (hint, hint) they never saw the signal to be quiet and let that solo come through.
And when I was up and it was the keyboard players turn to solo he turned around and looked at me expecting to have to do the same thing… except I’d already rolled off my volume to nothing and wasn’t playing a note. I stood there quiet as a mouse for 12 bars. The harmonica player was so happy… and since he’s a regular, I’ll probably get to play a little more next time (wink, wink.)
2. Use dynamics. There is nothing more aggravating for the listener than to try and listen through you. Your rhythm part during the vocal or solo may be super cool, but if no one can hear the vocal or the soloist because of “that darn guitar player,” no one cares how cool your part is but you.
Even with your amp on 10 you can still roll off your volume on the guitar, and more importantly you can simply play quieter. Don’t hit the strings so hard. You’d be amazed what a difference that can make. Or ditch the pick and just pluck a little with your fingers instead to soften the sound.
Also, turn off the extra overdrives and effects while someone else has got the spotlight. If someone else is doing a solo or singing, and you get noticed, consider that bad.
And one last thing if the jam is really busy and the guy who is running it is clearly a little stressed out – be patient and wait your turn. Yes, other people will go before you. I was the LAST guy to play after sitting there for 4 1/2 hours. I waited, had some food and drinks with my wife, and simply waited until my name was called.
No one there knew me (as it turned out the bass player did but he didn’t recognize me until I strapped a guitar on) so I was just another guy off the street. But I do my best to be patient, friendly, and encouraging to everyone else. I’m pretty sure I won’t have to wait so long next time.
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60 replies to "Sitting On My Hands…."
Hey Griff, Just reading this great article 29th Jan 2016.
As yet as a Guitar player I have yet to experience joining a Jam session. Or should I say a Learner Guitar player. However, in the 60’s I was a semi Pro Drummer and I was often invited to step up and play with Bands during their Gig ( At no Pay but Bands just knew me and asked if I would like to do either a song or set ( Usually a song.) So now I can’t wait to use all the info you have provided here when I stand in line to get up and just play what you have taught me in all the lessons and simply get the most satisfaction out of a Blues Jam and be invited again.
Cool.
Michael- Sydney- Australia Jan 2016
The first time I played out was for a “Deaf/Mute” fund raiser.
It was something else. The folks couldn’t hear; but they could “feel”
and all they asked for was more bass. Kinda tough when playing acoustic 12 string with two other acoustic players.
So…the drummer kicked the heck outta his kit and everyone was happy…the only problem was that I had to do a lot of muting so my strings weren’t singing with the drums.
In addition to rudeness, the volume is so ridiculously high that that you cannot enjoy the music. What is up with that?
This does not only apply to jams or just to blues. I have been at more than one bluegrass jam and listened to many bluegrass bands where the banjo player thought he was the star and everyone was there to be inspired by him. Like the man said “if you are noticeable when not your solo you are the problem.”
Back off.
Thanks Griff. Maybe some day you might think about doing a lesson or blog on just jam educate. Being kind of new at this, and not having my own band to practice with, it can be tricky singing playing guitar and leading the band when you only have half a clue on what your doing. I’ll be looking for jammin 101.
Kenny Zee
As always,I enjoy your communication skills Griff ,and since Iam considerably older than you I can interject that it would be a real joy to meet you and talk with you. I really enjoyed your video in which you were with your band. KUDOS AND TOP NOTCH! I personally do not consider myself an accomplished guitarist or musician in any way. So I really do admire those who are. At the ripe age of 17 ,While working in a record bar back in1956 I had the opportunity of buying a cheap guitar for 10.00 and by the age of 19, I was earning my living in lounges all over MONTREAL CANADA. I. Worked 6 nights a week ,52 weeks a year for 30 years. I recorded albums in Germany and MONTREAL.
I AM CURRENTLY RETIRED AND STILL practicing every single day and writing songs and poetic pieces. I THINK YOU ARE SUPERB ASA PLAYER AND A TEACHER. SO THERE,! GEORGE.
George,
It sounds like your a bit of a star guitarist yourself but clearly you, like many of us, get some degree of learning from Gfiff. The reason why I’m prompted to respond is to tell you that I am one of the lucky students that have actually met Griff, he flew to the UK in October to join us at a BGU UK Gig in Yorkshire, and I can confirm that not only is he a talented guitarist but a very talented teacher too. Without doubt he is one of the worlds one. If you do have a chance to see him perform then go, and say hello, he’ll be chuffed. Good luck.
I’m a ‘harp’ player who contributes many nights of the weeks to blues jams. I like your approach to teaching and have learned a lot from your emails, videos and quips. Thanks a bunch .. You are right on here with this blog note. I try to be conservative with my fills and lay way back on others’ solos.. I feel that they don’t need my help’.. but when I solo, I find that many guitarist, drummers, and keys do not give me that consideration. I often cut my solo short due to the droaning of the keys on the same note I am playing.. or the Guitar player ‘helping me out’.. I can’t be heard the way I want to be heard so I just back off. Fortunately most sets I play in are with real cool musicians. Thanks for your help in making the blues ‘cool’.. Ginny
I’d love to take advantage of this offer, but there is no link “button” to click on.
It is so good to have someone tell it like it is! I think that everyone can benefit from constructive comments. Myself included!!!
A LOT OF PEOPLE DONT PLAY AS GOOD AS YOU I NEED SOME ONE TO SHOW ME AVE.
Not just jams… Went down and saw 4 bands at a local place. Mostly instrumental progressive material. All great players. Thank God I brought ear plugs. This aggressive volume stupidity is what keeps me away from throwing the dice and seeing bands I’ve never heard of.
Another great lesson Griff; super important to learn how to “share” the stage in a jam session…in my humble opinion it’s also the same approach you should take when playing in your own bands. You’ll be amazed how clean and tight the band sounds when utilizing these same concepts Griff shared in this blog. Thanks Griff. Jam on.
BL
I just want to let you know how much I appreciate your help. I can always take something positive away with me. Thank you and I wish you and yours an excellent 2016.
Hey, Griff,
If you love jams, you’ll love this one. At The VU, in Newhall, CA. A bit of a drive for you, but worth it! Big horn section – – no junk! Every Sunday afternoon/evening. My son is the house bass player and keeps everyone informed prior to jam (house band special arrangements, special guests, etc.) Mostly blues and classic rock. Tell ’em Ed’s dad suggested it to you. Love your daily bread. Bye. Ben.
Hey Griff,
Great topic. Do you have a list of do’s and don’ts that you have compiled for Jam Nights. I am working with my son jamming together and I have a hard time controlling the Kirk Hammett in him.
Thanks for another good insight.
Bob
I use to go out and watch bands a lot and 99 out of a hundred bands seem to have this same problem where the volume is too loud, and players seem to be trying to outdo the others. Way too much congestion, ego, and lack of knowledge led me to cut down on seeing bands as I use to. Now I go see single acts where the musician can carry the night by himself, or herself. Still the idea of a band that is very tight and plays as a real unit is the most intriguing and interesting thing to look for, but it does seem hard to find.
I agree with Griff and Gary, I have played a lot of Shadows stuff over the years and find that if the backing level is well balanced, then the lead can do its stuff by just gently overlaying the lead part, and being aware of the other players- and you can still hear every instrument that is playing. I see no point in treading on other players shoes, but there are often people with a tremendous ego who can’t seem to hold it in.
I was at an 12 hour outdoor blues festival organized by Blues Society in my area (won’t say where). The first group were the organizers band. They did everything you suggested NOT to do. Everyone played loud. Full chord comps. No one looked up. When the song ended 1/2 the players didn’t notice and were still playing. Individually they might have been good but who could tell? I cringed. The rest of the day was fabulous.
Griff mentioned dynamics. It can be very powerful to bring the volume way down and then bring the volume back up! I was in Buddy Guy’s club in Chicago several years ago. Buddy’s brother was the headline act, but of course Buddy was there cheering on his brother, and finally Buddy got up on stage and did “While you been slippin’ out, someone else has been slipping’ in”. About half way through the song, he brought the volume way down and virtually whispered the next verse. You could hear a pin drop! Then he launched in to his solo and “blew that room away”! Great advice as always Griff. Thanks for all you do.
Thanks Griff. Excellent piece of advice. Will attempt to try this out at my next jam…. C
Sound advice Griff.
Cheers Griff
Sound advice I’m working on (killer blues solos made easy ) and I must say I have learnt alot from it and a steal at $17
No jam nights where I live so the backing tracks you get with the courses are a big help
Now saving for my next courses gig in a box sets
Great advice Griff. I’m new to electric but been playing acoustic for 45 years. Another tip for jams and open mics. The first time you go, just sit, listen, watch and learn.
Thanks for the lesson, I will try to follow it. This isn’t the type of advice that is found out there very often.
Great advice Griff. I’d like to kick in another piece of advice you gave in another email regarding ‘shiny objects.’ Jamm sessions reveal at least two types of players. The first group are guys who have learned something that is pretty cool and can’t wait to display it……..only whatever they’ve learned is either incomplete or have nothing to do with whatever the other guys are playing. The other type of player is the pro like yourself or as I imagine many of your students. These are guys who have a solid foundation on both blues structure and can ace anything thrown at them with SIMPLE rhythm and timing. Yeah, you can also do the complex and showy stuff but if you don’t have the basic chops down whatever goes on will sound…well, just awful.
This brings me to your other article on not getting distracted with all the ‘shiny stuff.’ You have a ton of great programs and it is so tempting to just dip into a piece of all of them. I don’t think this is a good idea. My advice to players is get one or two programs and stay with it until they are done. If you have questions contact Griff and he’ll help ya out. Once you’ve aced one of Griff’s programs you are solid for moving on to even more variety. And not only that…when it comes to your turn at the Blues jam you’ll not only have fun but they’ll want you back as well!
GRIFF,
YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY RIGHT ABOUT VOLUME, ETC. A GENERAL RULE OF THUMB FOR ME OVER THE YEARS HAS BEEN, IF I CAN’T HEAR EVERY INSTRUMENT IN THE BAND THEN I’M PLAYING TOO LOUD! ALSO, AS A GUITAR PLAYER I UNDERSTAND AND AM COMFORTABLE WITH QUIET SPACE.
HAPPY NEW YEAR
OLD SCHOOL AND STILL ROCKIN’
WHY ARE YOU YELLING….lol : )
Griff, I wish all players would take this to heart,to much goin on is a waste,I’ve played where everybody jammed thru the whole song,being a singer/guitarist there was no reason to sing as it all sounded mashed.together . Slan,Terry
Just wanted to thank you for a lot of great lessons and advice – older player starting out – have worked with several different teachers but find your work is direct- eAsy to understand and gives immediate results – happy new year!!!!
Great advice griff, I have seen in action what you are talking about at jam gigs, so many musicians dont want advice from anyone else, they know it all, and play the same way , and same old tunes , Ive heard for the last ten years, but Im an observer, and keep my comments to myself, its easier that way , just want you to know I totally get what you are saying. Cheers and happy new year to you and your family.
Must reading for ALL jammers! Also, try this: if you are one of two guitars, see where the other one is playing and take another position (If G1 is playing open position, you take “bar” or “power chords” or something else up the neck, and vice versa. Remember, sometimes only 2 notes out of the chord are all that’s needed (if at all when it’s not your turn to solo). If G1 is playing too loud and oblivious to the other band members and the crowd, don’t try to out-crank him. Also Remember: Only Pete/Roger/Keith and The Ox could get away with “let’s all play lead at once!!!
Read the bruce-a and Joe Klein comments!!
Griff = KHS (Knows His Stuff!)
Hey Tater,
Thank you for being so good to us … I own several of your courses and do encourage any student who is not currently working on one of your courses to purchase one and join the Blues Guitar Unleashed Forum …
You want to learn the Blues ? Buy one of Griff’s courses & join the Forum !
A.B.
Awesome article as always. Good to know when I finally reach that level of being able to play in jams. Think people should check out Youtube and look at any of BB King’s All-Star concerts and watch each guitar player. When it’s Eric Clapton’s turn everyone backs off as Clapton takes over and when it’s Buddy Guy’s turn next, Clapton backs off and Buddy takes over and so on. That’s how you do a jam session. Even check out a Brain Setzer’s video with Jeff Beck and Doug Gilmour and company for a Rock and Roll jam.
Good article. Not having done many of these open jams(just 2 so far), a question I have is: when it is your ‘turn’ how long do you solo? 12 bars? 24 bars? (for a 12-bar blues) What’s the etiquette? Also, when your turn is finished, do you unplug, or stay on stage and comp? I guess the article answered that one, which means I got that one wrong twice so far 🙂
Griff, good thoughts. I have found it best to first listen to the band and see where you can fit in before you get on stage. If your on stage, just stay in the background until your time. I also listen for dynamics and different accents, so it doesn’t all sound like mixing mashed potatoes with an electric mixer.
The worst event I’ve ever witnessed in music was a group of five playing in five different keys and five different pieces and all five of them were out of tune. But the crowd went wild. They must have been stoned out of their mind. Go figure
Reginald, how about this: I was at a concert where the lead singer didn’t shut up apparently during the lead guitarist solo (which I would guess had happened with the two before) and the lead guitarist stopped and then swung his SG Standard at the lead singer three times, connecting all three times really had. Fist fight ensued with the other band members walking away in disgust. Now that is BAD!
Essentially you have to ask yourself “What should I be doing to make the ensemble sound the best?” Sometimes the answer is “Stop playing”.
I’ve been to several acoustic jams where I couldn’t hear the best picker take a solo because of other guitarists of considerably lesser skill whanging away.
Or maybe in my case it would be “pack up and go home!” 🙂
Glenn: Sitting, listening and learning is always an option. I’ve used it many times.
I have given up on electric band jams probably because I get a headache everytime I hear Voo Doo Chile. I prefer accoustic jams which seems to eliminate all the problems you have mentioned.
Griff,
Great article about attending jams. I attended one last night and my expensive amp kept shutting down due to a loose tube being aggravated by the kick drum vibrating the stage next to it. I then helped the house band tear down their sound equipment as I choose to serve them in some small way based on the opportunity they create for fellow musicians to get up in front of everyone and interact with other musicians. I then went to my van and pulled out some tools and disassembled my amp and checked all the tubes for proper seating and reassembled the amp. I traveled. 5 minutes to the next Jam, loaded in my amp, small pedal board, and double guitar bag, signed up , talked briefly with the drummer running the jam, and started catching up with a number of fellow jam attendees that know me between the Jams and pictures a jam fan had been placing on Facebook of myself along with other regular attendees. Well, the night progressed and quite a few musicians came and went and I observed a number of musicians playing their amps at very loud levels through whole songs creating more of a traffic jam of music rather than a musical collaberation. Your point was right on the money. Well, I was somewhat interested in trying to offset my amp mishap during the previous jam, just so I could feel a little more joy of letting some of my riffs out of the pen when the solo opportunity presented itself. Well tme wore on and the venue started clearing out and the jam director put up three guitars, bass, drums, and keyboards announcing that this was the last round and we can all head home. Now, I could have reminded him that he forgot about me, but I decided to sit and watch the last round for a little while. It turned in to a volume contest of a strange version of Whipping Post which was all about not listening to the other players and just beating the song up with volume and no dynamics. It was time to leave. I packed up and headed home. I could have held in a lot of anger, but I have had many a night where I have had the honor of playing with the house band sometimes closing the night sharing some simply amazing musical moments. Trying to be humble and helpful has it ‘s rewards , but sometimes things don ‘t always turn out to your expectations at an average Jam night. Enjoy the great moments and the opportunities to watch, observe, and learn while in the audience. Happy New Year. My real job is an audio engineer and production company owner having mixed and observed Performances of beginners to seasoned Pros and celebrities for about 40 years and it has been an incredible education observing musicians at work and play. Happy New Year .
I once played an entire set on “0.” Weird gig, backing a visiting itslian orchestra. Didnt know a single song, but no one knew, or cared – i figured out about 3 bars in an electric guitat wasnt needed. People thought “we” sounded good!
Sage words from a wise person!
there was no box to click on for the $17.00 deal
That’s weird. Didn’t you see either the “Click here to order” or “Add to Cart” links? It works fine for me using Firefox.
Got a question.
If he video is free why, when I click on the link does it charge me $17.00? Not that the cost is unreasonable I’m just curios about th discrepancy. I already own every program you sell including two copies of one I accidebtally bought twice.
Thanks,
Walt
The video is free. If you want the course, you have to pay the $17.
I’ll take your extra copy if you don’t want or need it .lol I’ll even pay for the freight.Kim
Thanks Griff. Will pass this on to my jam buddies.
What you have said simply is, be a team player. Know your roll, play your part and support the team effort to produce great performance. This advise is goes beyond stage music. It is the secret of success in life in general. Good job man!
thanks for the info. been on the discovery trail . c ya
Griff, great advice, wish everyone would read this .
Less is more . . .
Great advice, Griff! I would also suggest to those running sound at open mic’s, blues jams or gigs to get the vocals to the front of the mix. Too many times, the vocals get buried below the instruments. Move the PA out into the room, use a snake, make changes as necessary using the actual levels heard in the room.
Not only great advice for musical etiquette, but great advice in life. Making someone else sound better or good, not stealing wind out of one’s sails, not showing someone up, demonstrates purity of purpose, not the veracity of ego. Being comfortable with whatever you are doing is a quality that allows for more learning and improvement. I’ve played the guitar for 50 years and still feel like, maybe an advanced beginner, but when playing with others, I just do what I do best, get in touch and from the heart!! very quietly!
Griff, I have admired your musical sensibility and skill from the get go! You are a lucky and passionate guy! Kudos! Do you give private lessons, not to undermine your on line courses! That would be a real special opportunity.
Blessings and peace
Fred
More honest, clearer words were ever written. As a singer song writer I can say that the people that I ask to back me up are the ones that add to what I am doing, not taking over or stepping on my vocals. I am want to say that lead guitar players are the absolute worst offenders. Even after talking with one or two of these people it happens. They wonder why I don’t ask them to join me.
I appreciate the words of a well known music player/teacher having what it takes to say things that need to be said.
Be Blessed;
Johnny Cache……:)
I have been listening thru and ” jamming ” with Carole King and James Taylor live at the Troubadour and the thing I take from what you have to say here is key….do NOT step on the other man’s music. Carole and James are a perfect example of that…and they do not regularly play together, but their musical intuition about what each other is going to do is incredible. Your advice was spot on today. I work with a lot of young musicians and the one thing they need to get into their psyche is that they contribute their part…they are not the center of attention. They want to show off their talents…or…are so shy about showing what they can do that you must coax it out of them. When they see the light…then things begin to change.
Keep the good stuff coming please…and best wishes for a fantastic 2015 to you and your family.
Very, very good advice that can be applied to virtually any gigging scenario.