Luke Combs on Learning to Play Guitar at 21 and the Moment that Led Him to Music | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

A young man discovers his passion for music and transforms his life through self-teaching and performing.

Key Insights

• 🎼 Lack of ability to read music initially limited the individual's options in pursuing a music career.
• 🖐️ Self-teaching and determination played a significant role in the individual's transformation from a music teacher aspirant to a musician.
• 🥺 A pivotal moment, inspired by a supportive parent, led to the individual discovering their passion and talent.
• 👻 Overcoming societal expectations and finding their own path allowed the individual to pursue their dream and find success in music.
• 🤳 The individual's journey showcases the importance of self-belief and taking risks to pursue one's passion.
• ⛽ The experience of performing at a local venue and receiving positive feedback fueled the individual's passion and solidified their career choice.
• ✊ The individual's story demonstrates the transformative power of finding one's true calling and pursuing it wholeheartedly.

Transcript

The Joe Rogan Experience and my brain I'm thinking okay well I I only thought the only option was to be a music teacher in my head I'm going well that's the only option is to be a music teacher and I don't want to be a music teacher because I'm really bad like I can't read music I I like I'm like I can't do math like I have some sort of like I just... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: Did you ever try to learn how to read music?

Yes, I took a music theory class in high school and attempted sight singing auditions for Allstate chorus, but my dyslexia and lack of understanding hindered me from succeeding.

Q: Was there any coaching or assistance you received to overcome your difficulties in reading music?

I did try to seek help and received coaching, but something about reading music didn't click with me. It felt more instinctual than something I could logically comprehend.

Q: How did you transition from being a party trick singer to a serious musician?

After moving back home and feeling lost, my mother reminded me that famous musicians like Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw didn't start playing guitar until they were 21. Motivated by this, I taught myself how to play guitar and started writing my own songs.

Q: What made you realize that pursuing music was your true calling?

After my first gig at a local bar, where 200 of my friends came to support me, I made more money than I did from my regular jobs. I had a blast performing and realized that pursuing music was not only enjoyable but also financially viable.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The individual initially believed that their only option was to become a music teacher, but they lacked the skills and interest in reading music.

• After trying out for Allstate chorus multiple times and failing due to their inability to read music, they gave up on pursuing music in a structured setting.

• A pivotal moment occurred when their mother encouraged them to pick up the guitar, leading them to teach themselves and eventually perform at a local venue, ultimately changing their life's trajectory.