I don’t know about you, but I realised something profound years ago when watching the movie Crossroads with Ralph Macchio. The premise is a classical guitarist who is at the same time a committed blues fan enlists the help of an aging former blues musician in order to find a lost composition by guitar great Robert Johnson, which he then hopes to be the first to record.
The real life myth, for those that are unaware, is that Robert Johnson signed a deal with the devil at the crossroads between heaven and hell, exchanging his immortal soul for musical prowess and success. Ralph and friend end up at said crossroads and the finale of the film is Ralph duelling with the devil’s guitarist, played by Steve Vai.
Now, little Stevie is pretty awesome in his attacks against Ralph, lots of technical wizardry and flawless playing but Ralph holds his own, on his trusty old Tele. Then, just when we think all is lost as Steve plays a showstopping solo, Ralph (Eugene) pulls out from his trick bag one of his classical pieces, played at a blistering pace, completely bamboozling Steve.
So, what is the response from the guitarist that represents the hordes of hell and is the finest in the eyes of his lord and master? An even harder classical piece? Technical fireworks befitting one of such stature? A sonic journey that mere mortals can only wonder at? No. He tries to copy Ralph. That is his downfall, and is a metaphor for the devil not being able to create but instead only destroy, and in the process is destroyed himself.
That was a lightbulb moment for me. Create, don’t copy. I had years of copying Hendrix, Satriani, Vai, Johnson and many other guitarists but then I realised that this is only a stage that one goes through. Use others for inspiration and to gain understanding, but ultimately one must go on and create from one’s heart and mind. Worked for me, and I am sure it will for you too, if it hasn’t already. To read more, check out my facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/modalmethodmusictheory
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