The Album That Changed My Life

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Just after this album came out, my guitar teacher hooked me up with a copy. I listened to it as intently as you did and I was equally impressed with his virtuosity. Imagine my delight when I heard he was playing at a Chicago hotel in the Loop. I asked some friends if they would like to go to see him, but rockers being rockers they said no way, man. As a guitar student, my interest was to see an absolute master play the standards we are all supposed to learn. I went solo, found the hotel that cold and snowy winter day, and made my way into the venue. The club was an empty room with a small stage and cocktail tables. I chose a seat close to ringside. I ordered a drink and waited for the room to fill. I sat by myself until this man came in dressed in an overcoat and fedora. He looked at me and said, "So, this is a jazz club. Who's playing?" I excitedly replied Joe Pass would soon be taking the stage and it was going to be good. The guy asked me if he could join me for a drink. Why not? We talked a few more minutes about jazz, rock, and believe it or not, bluegrass. He liked Clarence White. We passed the time a bit more until he said he had to go and excused himself. A few minutes later, this same guy walks out on stage with an ES-175. It was Joe Pass. He had shaved his mustache because of a skin rash. He smiled and said, "Looks like it's you and me, Dave. What do you want to hear? I don't think anybody else is going to show up." "How about 'Satin Doll'?" "You got it." He played a 45-minute set, packed up, and thanked me for making his play date worthwhile. It was a guitar memory I have long cherished. He was humble and appreciative. A role model and the definition of a guitar hero.

"My dad was a simple man, he worked on the railroad." He knew who Joe Pass was and thought enough about it to buy you the record. Your dad might not have been as simple as you think.

I was lucky enough to see/hear Joe Pass in 1980. He did a solo act with nothing but him and his guitar. It was mind-blowing. After the show, he was humble enough to stand at the exit door and thank us for coming. He shook hands with us and answered questions. What a monumental talent. There won't be another one like him.

It’s so obvious how well you were raised. Bless your Dad. He raised a really special man. ❤

Music is only a secondary message of this video. The power of a father's affirmation is the more powerful statement.

When Rick does air guitar, I have no doubt he is playing the correct notes.

Rick, I get teary eyed when you talk about your dad. I was raised in a similar household. Dad listened to Oscar, Trane, Miles, Getz, Dizzy, etc but also current pop music, ie Bacharach, James Taylor, Carol King, Chicago. In the 6th grade I started learning the clarinet so could eventually move up to an alto saxophone. The rest is history. I played in a lot of jazz, rock group until I got married. Anyway, like you I owe a lot to my dad for introducing me to great music. He's in the last days of his two year battle with cancer, but what he gave me is priceless. I feel a strong bond with you and we're close to the same age. Thank you for sharing so honestly and with a teacher's heart, brother. God bless you! ❤

I'm not a musician, but I've completely fallen in love with Rick's analysis and assessment of music, it's fascinating, and it's made me love some old favorites even more. This video was so heartwarming and told me so much about Rick's life and family, I found it really touching. Thank you for the gift of music that you bring us all, Rick. Thank you, Mike Beato, for buying that copy of Virtuoso by Joe pass, that was a really great investment.

Joe Pass "Virtuoso" sales are gonna go up this week! lol

The hero in this story is Dad. He knew what motivation you needed. Then sat back and let it happen. True legend.

I'm 70 and when I was 13 my parent thought I should learn a musical instrument. I chose guitar and struggled with it, never really progressing despite weekly lessons. I recently bought Rick's complete package and am starting all over again but his time I feel like I'm making daily progress. I turn on a lesson and there's Rick, the same, patient teacher not frustrated that I didn't get it the first 10 times I played it. I'd like to get to the point where I can play for my own amusement, but if you're like me with zero talent or even a lot of talent, I'd really recommend plunking down the $$$ and get Rick's lesson package. he shows you the right way to learn. (I really struggle with barre chords, but I'll get there)

I didn't grow up with a dad, but I can vicariously enjoy a moment hearing a story like this. Thank you for sharing one of the best videos I've seen since I got a computer.

This ( 12:46 ) is an incredibly important quote for two reasons “when I wasn’t working… I would… practice for HOURS and hours and hours. Scales, arpeggios, new songs, learning Joe Pass solos, Larry Carlton solos, ANYTHING that was out. Rock, Jazz, Funk, Blues. My dad would just sit there…, never say a word for HOURS. He was incredibly supportive - he never would SAY anything - but he was there EVERY day. When I’d go out to practice, my dad would come out and sit down.” Rick’s father’s rock solid, consistent, quiet support along with Rick’s ear and drive and inquisitiveness, together, both showing up every day, is powerful.

The term "influencer" often comes with a negative connotation and I love that Rick has become a true -- positive -- influencer. Everything he recommends or introduces to me that is new I take seriously and listen regardless of genre. I love this channel and how it has grown into such a large community of music lovers.

Rick's enthusiasm is addictive and entertaining! Thank you

Beautiful dedication to your father and his love for his son.

Joe Pass makes a record in ‘73, Rick Beato still grooving to it 48 years later. That’s staying power. Right there. Some music will just go on forever.

Some of my fondest musical memories are sitting six feet in front of Joe Pass at the original Yoshi's in Oakland California and whispering requests to him. He would play three to six tunes that I had requested before finally saying "Hey man, this isn't a wedding you know? " Thank you Joe. We love you.

Amazing, Rick! Your Dad must have loved to hear you play! You really surprised him when he came home from work. You made him so proud of you!🌟😊