Hot Music & Instruments Posts
How To: Play "Just the Way You Are" by Bruno Mars on the ukulele
We don't know where soulful singer Bruno Mars came from nor how he got this big, but our iPods are sure glad for his discovery. As the smooth-voiced guest singer on popular tracks like "I Want to Be A Millionaire" and "Nothin' On You," Bruno Mars adds a touch of catchy rhythm and beauty to rap songs.
How To: Play Avril Lavigne's "Take Me Away" on the acoustic guitar
You either hate Avril Lavigne or you love her. A few years ago, she wore all baggy pants and baggy shirts with punky ties and black nail polish and said she never wanted to be like Britney Spears. And today, she's grown into a much more mature woman who has her own perfume line, though the girl's got one heck of a mouth on her.
How To: Play Jackson 5's "I Want You Back" on the bass
Before Michael Jackson turned kind of creepy and lost his nose, he was the pint-sized frontrunner of his sibling band Jackson 5. The group sang songs that were super catchy and also fun to play for musicians.
How To: Recognize which chords belong to which piano scales
Don't you dare touch that piano until you've watched this helpful lesson in piano music theory! While practicing scales alongside your piano teacher is super important to becoming a master piano player, you can't skimp on the music theory.
How To: Sing without injuring your vocal chords by supporting with the diaphragm
If there's one thing we learned from high school show choir, it's that trying to scream out songs like your favorite pop artists will eventually ruin your voice and even scar your vocal chords so you'll never be able to sing well again. In fact, lots of famous pop musicians have had to get throat surgery later in life to correct all the damage they did to their vocal chords when they were younger.
How To: Play Michael Buble's "Haven't Met You Yet" on the acoustic guitar
Learning how to play popular songs on the guitar gives you all the trappings of rock stardom - swoon-worthy finger dexterity, girls, and unkempt hair - without the drug addictions and STDs. Become a small town hit by learning how to strum Michael Buble's single "Haven't Met You Yet" on the guitar.
How To: Play the tetra effect, pentatonic scale, and whole tone scale on piano
Rapper Lil' Wayne has admitted he can't read, instead citing that his musical prowress comes naturally to him. While this may work for the musician, most piano players, singers, and sax players can benefit from a lesson in music theory or two.
How To: Play "On Moonlight Bay" on the ukulele
Want to play "Moonlight Bay" on your ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike, which presents a complete breakdown of the song and its chords. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information...
How To: Play Louis Armstrong's "When You're Smiling" on the ukulele
Want to play the Louis Armstrong's version of "When You're Smiling" on your ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started play...
How To: Play "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" on the ukulele
Want to play "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" on your ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike, which presents a complete breakdown of the song and its chords. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For mor...
How To: Play the Beach Boys' "Sloop John B" on the ukulele
Want to play the Pet Sounds version of "Sloop John B" on your ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing "Sloop Joh...
How To: Play "Ob-la-di, Ob-la-da" by the Beatles on the ukulele
Want to play the Beatles' "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da" on your ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-...
News: Five-Arm Turntable Has Got It on Lock
If you have a fear of needles, you may want to sit this one out. Billed as an "analog answer for the digitalized DJ," this five-arm turntable plays an ode to the lock groove. What's a lock groove? Glad you asked. Whereas normal grooves lead the stylus in toward the label of the record, lock or "locked" grooves form a perfect circuit, looping around on themselves forever and ever. Throw in a few extra tone arms as London-based artist Yuri Suzuki has done and you've got yourself a full-featured...
How To: Play the melodic minor scale on the piano
What's the difference between a harmonic minor scale and a melodic minor scale? Well, a melodic minor scale is the scale you'll play that acts as the main tune, or melody, of a song, while a harmonic minor scale is the scale you'll play to harmonize or complement the melodic tune.
How To: Play the harmonic minor scale on the piano
This tutorial teaches you how to play the harmonic minor scale on the piano, which is important because the scale is featured in many songs. Some things to remember: the seventh note is the leading note, and the first note of the scale is what the scale is named after.
How To: Fall to a piano key for begginers
In this tutorial, we learn how to fall to a piano key for beginners. First, you need to have an arm technique down that will allow your arm to fall down and help your arm have more power. Then, you will need to activate your fingers in the correct way to help them fall to the right keys at the precise moments. Using these techniques will help you avoid stress to your body while you are playing the piano. When you practice these more, you will have a better time playing the piano, and more pre...
How To: Play the dizi, a Chinese bamboo flute
In this video, we learn how to play the dizi, a Chinese bamboo flute. First, fine the mouth hole where you place your mouth. After this, look to see the different finger holes that are on the side of the flute. At the end, you will see air vents that are not to be confused with the finger holes. To prepare the flute, you can twist it so the pitch is changed when you play it. Now, place your fingers along the finger holes and start to blow into the mouth opening. After you do this, you will be...
How To: Play a ghost catcher
In this tutorial, we learn how to play a ghost catcher. First, you want to place your index finger on the top of the end of the ghost catcher, then use your other fingers to help hold it. Now, place your mouth on the other end of the instrument. You will pick the strings with your right hand and put the ghost catcher in the left corner of your mouth. Start strumming with your index finger, while still holding it with your other hand. Push your thumb the opposite way, going down instead of up....
How To: Scream sing like Mitch Lucker from Suicide Silence
In this video, we learn how to scream sing with Mitch Lucker. First, you want to prepare your body by deep breathing in and out. You then want to breath in deep with your voice and start to make a growling noise. Once you have this sound, you will want to practice with it very often. Next, get a full stomach of air and then drop your voice very low. After this, release all of your breath while breathing out in a low voice. Then your voice will sound extremely low and you will be scream singin...
How To: Change acoustic guitar strings
Chris Rego teaches us how to change acoustic guitar strings in this tutorial. First, you will want to loosen up the strings and then remove them from the place they are at. After this, you will want to replace the strings and then wrap it three times around the post. Use the winder and insert it inside the key while you are replacing the new string inside. After this, continue to tighten the string depending on what you want the sound to come out as. Continue to do this for all of the strings...
How To: Make a simple clapping noise in beatboxing
In this tutorial, we learn how to make a simple clapping noise in beat boxing. First, you want to suck air in through your teeth and make a sizzling noise. Block air from coming into your mouth and then open up the back of your tongue so your focusing all your air to go through the small space in your mouth at the back of your tongue. After you do this, you can just suck the air through the side of your teeth. You can also do this by taking a breath in and then breathing in through the sides ...
How To: Scream sing properly through your stomach
In this video, we learn how to scream sing properly through your stomach. A great method to do this is to fill your stomach with air and practice making a deep throat sound while you are breathing out. Make sure you are in the right mindset, then open up your throat and make a deep sound on it. You want to use the power of your voice and work hard at making the scream as deep or as high as you want it. It's hard to do this, so don't expect to do this over just one day. It takes several months...
How To: Play "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey on the ukuele
Want to play "Don't Stop Believin'" on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing this song (famously covered o...
How To: Play "The Honey Tree" by the Mostar Diving Club on the ukulele
Want to play "The Honey Tree" on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing "The Honey Tree" on your own ukulel...
How To: Play "You Are My Sunshine" on the ukulele
Want to play "You Are My Sunshine" on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing this great standard, watch thi...
How To: Play "Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina and the Waves on the ukulele
Want to play "Walking on Sunshine" on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing this great Katrina and the Wav...
How To: Play "Kokomo" by the Beach Boys on the ukulele
Want to play "Kokomo" by the Beach Boys (sans Brian Wilson) on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing this ...
How To: Play "I'll Be There for You" by the Rembrandts on the ukulele
Want to play the theme song from Friends on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing this song on your own uk...
How To: Play "White Sandy Beach" by Willie Dan on the ukulele
Want to play "White Sandy Beach" on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing this great tropical standard, wa...
How To: Play "The Hukilau Song" by Jack Owens on the ukulele
Want to play "Hukilau Song" on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing this great tropical standard, watch t...
How To: Play "The Rainbow Connection" on the ukulele
Want to play "The Rainbow Connection" from the Muppet Movie on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing this ...
How To: Play "59th St. Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)" by Simon & Garfunkel on ukulele
Want to play "The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)" on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing this ...
How To: Play "Joy to the World" by Three Dog Night on the ukulele
In this video tutorial you'll learn how to play the Three Dog Night version of Hoyt Axton's "Joy to the World" on the ukulele. This video lesson covers both the song's chords changes and various strumming patterns. For more information, and to get started playing Three Dog Night's "Joy to the World" on your own ukulele, watch this helpful video guide.
How To: Play "Pearly Shells" by Edwards & Pober on the ukulele
Want to play "Pearly Shells" by Edwards & Pober on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing this great tropic...
How To: Play "Surfin' USA" by the Beach Boys on the ukulele
Want to play "Surfin' USA" by the Beach Boys on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing this great early Bea...
How To: Play "Happy Together" by the Turtles on the ukulele
Want to play "Happy Together" on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing this great Turtles song, watch this...
How To: Play "American Pie" by Don McLean on the ukulele
Want to play Don McLean's "American Pie" on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing this Don McLean song on ...
How To: Play the Beatles' "Yellow Submarine" on the ukulele
Want to play the Beatles' "Yellow Submarine" on your ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing "Yellow Submarine" ...
How To: Play "California Dreamin' by the Mamas & the Papas on the ukulele
Want to play "California Dreamin'" (also known as "California Dreaming") on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started ...
How To: Play "Wipe Out" by the Surfaris on the ukulele
Want to play "Wipe Out" on the ukulele? Learn how with this free video ukulele lesson from Ukulele Mike. Whether you play the ukulele or bass kazoo, there is no better way to improve your chops than by learning to play your favorite songs. Not only is it more fun and much easier than running drills or memorizing a chord book by wrote, it's obviously also a wonderful way to build your repertory of songs. For more information, and to get started playing this great surf standard, watch this vide...