Celebrating Life Through Music

Several years ago a young friend of mine, an absolutely amazing guitarist in his own right, gave me a CD of some of his favorite artists. I wish I could put all of them here in this hub because his taste in guitarists is impeccable and I really enjoyed the music. There was one track however, which caught my ear and has never let it go. I have felt since then that I'm married to the music and it's cause for celebration!

My hope it that this hub takes on a life of its own, much like the music which inspired it. I recognize there are many things in life that aren't going to be enjoyed by every one and musical preference is no different. Some say that music is a universal language but most of us have our own dialect.

It is my intention here not to please everyone but to share with you, my readers, what in my opinion is, some pretty amazing music, from a number of genres, all having something unique about the music, the performer, the instrument(s) or the song itself. Initially, I was going to limit the number of tunes in the hub and call it a day. Now, I'm giving this hub its own life force, if you will, to go where it may based on the response and collaboration of the reader. Of course there must be some editorial freedom as well. If all goes well, we will enjoy the artistry and if that happens I will have accomplished my goal.

Here's how this hub works. Music and writing are inspirational and I enjoy celebrating inspiration. I also am very grateful for my hub pages family and would like for them to share in this party! So, I will present two artists from each genre and after each presentation you will have an opportunity to vote and comment on your favorite artist. I will use the results of the voting and your comments to publish my 50th hub. so, if you like music, enjoy writing or just want to join in on the fun, let's get started!

If you're anything like me you'll go nuts over a great guitar solo, right? Well, what got this whole musical thing started was my love for playing guitar. No, not a real guitar, the "air guitar." You know, it's like lip sinking for the vocals except you're using an imaginary guitar. I'm one of the best, because I have an active imagination and I'm writing this story.

We'll get this show started with Eric Johnson. Guitar Player magazine has called Johnson "one of the most respected guitarists on the planet". "Cliffs Over Dover", for which Johnson won the 1991 Grammy Award for Best Rock Instrumental Performance was the song my friend, Doug, shared with me years ago that practically knocked my socks off. It's the first piece I'll share with you and a great way to kick off the fun!.

A CD with "Cliffs Over Dover" was a birthday gift a number of years ago along with another very unique gift. Because Doug was an accomplished guitarist and he had seen me feign playing the air guitar to many a Rock n Roll tune he gave me cool gag gift. It was an official Doug Clarke autographed "Blue Air Guitar," the only one of it's kind. When I unwrapped this gift I found a plastic blow up guitar, but I cherished it for it's originality and meaning!

Steve Vai is a three-time Grammy Award-winning American guitarist, songwriter and producer who has sold over 15 million albums. According to Wikipedia, Vai started his own record label Favored Nations, in 1999, intending to showcase as he describes, "...artists that have attained the highest performance level on their chosen instruments." He epitomizes passion for the instrument and the genre.

Thank you so much for returning to our "Celebration of Life Through Music." This week we turn to Flamenco! Even if this genre isn't your every day cup of tea I think you'll have to admit it's emotive style causes waves of energy to surge through your system. The two gentlemen presented here are incredibly gifted musicians and I personally never tire of listening to their music.

First on board is Johannes Linstead, a Canadian currently living in Ontario and regarded as one of the worlds greatest guitarists. Johannes is also a Kundalini Yoga instructor (a fabulously sensual combination, si?) Well then, before you hear his virtuoso guitar play you may want to read his bio on the link below to get you back into the mood!

I began listening to Ottmar Liebert several years ago and could not stop. His romantic style in compelling to the ear and in the heart. He is an awarding winning guitarist whose passion is evident in every fret of his guitar. Check out the link below and you will quickly gain an appreciation for this tremendous musician.

I hope you enjoyed the Flamenco guitarists in this portion of our musical celebration. Don't forget to vote for your favorite Flamenco guitarists and if you haven't cast your vote for the electric guitar soloists, do that too! I'll publish the results of the poll as well as some of the coolest comments. So, come back for our next version of "Celebrating Life Through Music when we'll present some down home and surprise pickers!

And as always, Peace be with You!