1 – They are Passionate about Music
Playing guitar should be more than just a hobby. It should be a lifestyle. If you want to make it as a guitarist, you’re up against people whose whole world revolves around playing their instrument. Additionally, you should take an active interest in other instruments too. Since you’re likely to be performing with other musicians, understanding the role of other instruments in the band will help you to fit in musically.
2 – They Practice Regularly
An instrument is a lifetime commitment. A successful musician realizes that there’s never enough to learn. Too many guitarists make the mistake of thinking that learning a few chords and throwing on the right shirt is going to buy them a sustainable career. Playing an instrument is not about placing fame above passion. Successful guitar players fall in love with practicing to the point where practice doesn’t feel like practice.
3 – They Maintain Their Gear
Maintaining your instrument is important – sometimes more than most guitar players realize. If you gig on a regular basis, a string change is necessary at least once a month to maintain optimal tone and playing ability. Keeping your fretboard clean is also extremely important. Dirty fretboards compromise your tone and playing ability. It’s important to give your fretboard and guitar body a good cleaning on a regular basis to remove sweat and dirt.
4 – They Constantly Seek Out Inspiration
We all have our heroes, those players who we aspire to be like. It’s extremely important to have people who you can draw inspiration from. When you’re feeling inspired, it’s a lot easier to reach your goals as a musician. Successful musicians know this and regularly draw inspiration from their favorite artists. At the same time, don’t compare yourself to other musicians. Be your own unique artist.
5 – They Have a Good Attitude
If you’re a gigging guitarist, you’re likely to be working in a group of other people (a band). Successful musicians understand the importance of a positive attitude. Let the other members of your band know that you appreciate playing with them. Never be intimidated and at all times be humble. Aptitude + Attitude determines Altitude. You can be the greatest guitar player in the world, but if you have the wrong attitude you won’t be at the gig.
6 – They Fit The Profile
Successful guitarists know how to turn themselves into a brand. Have you ever heard the saying “it’s all about image”? In many cases your image is very important. You don’t have to be the greatest looking person in the world, but your clothes and hair need to fit the profile of a gigging guitarist. Take a look at some famous guitar players. They maintain a consistent image. To be identifiable you need to do the same.
7 – They Practice Singing
Having the ability to do vocals can be a huge asset. In many cases, artists looking to employ guitarists are looking for people that can do backing vocals as well. This is because it costs money to hire additional backup vocalists. Also, if you want to follow a solo career path, it’s vital to have at least some vocal ability. If you’re unsure if you have any vocal ability, seek out a vocal coach and have them perform an assessment on your singing.
8 – They Play With a Good Rhythm Section
This point may seem slightly bizarre, however your performance as a guitarist is strictly dependent on your rhythm section. The key ingredient that successful bands get right is a good drummer and bass player. In some cases, an excellent rhythm section can determine whether your band is going to stick out or blend in with the herd.
