"Isaiah Sharkey discusses his insights on guitar solos, derived from working with musical greats like George Benson, John Mayer, B.B. King, or Albert King - artists he could practically croon their solos"
In a revealing interview with a popular music website, guitarist Isaiah Sharkey shared his insights on what makes a great guitar solo. According to Sharkey, the key to a memorable solo lies in making it feel like the human voice and being deeply connected to the moment within the song.
Sharkey, known for his tasteful playing and work with artists like D'Angelo, John Mayer, Chris Martin, and Paul Simon, emphasized that a solo should not just be about technical display or playing many notes. Instead, it should express emotion as if "singing" through the guitar, respecting the song's vibe and timing.
This approach aligns with the idea that solos should serve the song's emotional landscape, capturing the spirit and essence of the moment rather than merely showcasing virtuosity. While direct quotes on this specific topic may not be detailed in the search results, Sharkey's performances and his gospel and jazz background reflect this philosophy.
During the interview, Sharkey mentioned George Benson, John Mayer, B.B. King, and Albert King as examples of artists whose solos can almost be sung. He stressed the magic ingredient for a good solo is simplicity and making it sound like a human voice. If a solo makes him feel good, it's all that matters, Sharkey said.
The interview, published on the website, also discussed various aspects of Sharkey's career and philosophy of music. Sharkey, who was interviewed while holding his Ritter Princess Isabella jazz guitar, emphasized the importance of taking the ego out of guitar playing. He believes that the nuance lies in asking what the song calls for and what will make the moment shine.
When on stage, Sharkey looks at the front row and notices that people sing melodies or solos from the records, which he finds meaningful. He never chased the prospect of being a celebrity player, but rather focuses on soulful expression and the context of the song when soloing.
Sharkey's father often said, "What comes from the heart reaches the heart," a sentiment that seems to guide his approach to music. The interview with Isaiah Sharkey, which is available for reading on the website, is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his unique perspective on the art of guitar playing.
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