Another Old Guy

I'm 54. My very athletic youngest son is graduating from high school and heading off to college, so I was faced with finding something to do with my time other than attend games, help train, etc. I used to play some bluegrass guitar (banging out G/C/D with capo as necessary) and can sing, always liked doing some small performances. But I really want to rock. I have dreamed of getting my kicks on Route 66.

I've gone years without playing and I doubt if there has been a week that went by without thinking that I should spend more time with music and less with other stuff that I do. People that knew I played would ask if I was playing any.

The time has come! I enjoy the process and challenge of learning (as well as being a little obsessive about my interests), so I am really looking forward to this. I think this forum will be a great source of information and inspiration. Thanks.

Welcome to Guitar Tricks!

I'm glad to hear you are ready to start rockin' again! What kind of performances have you done in the past?

You will meet some great people in this forum that have similar experiences! It's your time to shine! I hope to see you around in the forums keeping us posted.

We played some local community shows like the Arts and Crafts show. I remember being surprised by how many offers to play we received. Of course, our appeal was based entirely upon the fact that we did not charge for any appearance. We learned to say "no" a lot. My guitar playing was very rudimentary, but I guess I added a little rhythm to the mix.

I still remember vividly the first time that I was ever able to play the guitar in any kind of group. Practicing on my own was good and the sound was okay. But that first time with a bass, mando, banjo and other guitars was like an explosion! The sound was so much more than the sum of its parts. I want to experience that again - but rock this time.

Yeah, sometimes you have to start doing free gigs. You get some great experience from it though.

I'm sure you will find an awesome band to join! I agree that the experience of all the instruments combined truly is amazing. Especially with rock.

I have had a hard time because I have been in the hospital 12 times in 11 months due to COPD
Just when I get my fingers nice and hard on the tips I come home and lose the mood for playing but the last 2 times I had my guitar sent up to me and the nurses enjoy the soft deep finger picking tones.
I heard (Have you ever been lonely,Have you ever been Blue) SOLO at the end of a movie and I practiced that song solo then started singing it.
I sing and play almost all JD songs and many nurses are young and never heard of JD.
Today three Nurses are playing at local clubs South of me and getting good money
HANG IN
BOB LECH

Sending my wishes your way for a quick recovery Bob.

I am so glad you are still playing guitar. Music is a great way to cope and pass the time. Sounds like the nurses are impressed with your playing abilities!

Funny the you mention being obsessive about your hobbies. I tend to do that as well. After a week, friends start letting me know that they're a idle tired of hearing about scales and guitar types, etc.