'Learn what you love'–John 5's Six-String Stories

World renown guitar virtuoso and monster enthusiast, John 5, took a break from touring with The Creatures in support of their explosive shred-fest of a live record "It's Alive!" to visit the offices of Alternative Press and...play "The Brady Bunch" theme song...

In this APTV exclusive, John 5 discusses how television (the TV set, not the band...) was his first musical influence, the inexplainable feeling he gets when he hears a great riff and his contentment as both Rob Zombie's resident axe man and leader of The Creatures.

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[Avatinfernus]

I'm past 40 and decided to start my guitar journey. Better late than never :D John 5 is an inspiration

[emiliopalomo]

He's been playing for so long that one hands is larger than the other from stretching around the neck. Talk about dedication. What a badge of honor, god John is a legend.

[TazTaylorBand]

John 5 is a total class act all the way around.
I have opened for him 3 times and am looking forward to doing it again in a few weeks!

[jessefinnigan]

John 5 always just shocks me with how down to earth and chill he is despite the fact that he's easily one of the best and most versatile artists to ever live. Like, this man does not have an arrogant or mean bone in his entire body and just radiates so much positivity. Absolutely wild.

[yvanlenyvan]

If they love Black Sabbath, teach 'em a few chords and they will never put that guitar again

Best.Advice.Ever.period.
John5 is a motivational speech that came alive, I can't stop listening to him. The man can play some freak riffs but he made the simplest sounds for MM and Rob Zombie and that still works

[rjc]

Credit where it's due to John for his versatility. I don't know of many guitarists who can go from metal to classic rock to bluegrass to flamenco and not miss a beat!

[alexaymp]

Met him backstage at Ozzfest back in 2000-2001, I was 10-11 years old. Even back then he was as genuine and humble as you see in this video. John is the man!

[talisfiney]

All I can say is John 5 is one hell of a dude and one badass guitar player

[ThinkReal]

John 5 exudes inspiration.
He's the nicest guy who could melt your face with his sonic shreds.

Love this guy!

[tomfairbairn]

John 5 and Buckethead should tour together

[stevejames]

A fan of music, and an appreciation for all styles makes this guy unique. Has the talent and the chops to play whatever he wants. One of my new faves. Finger pickers are the best.

[deezynrth]

I think this is a great video for beginners to watch for inspiration and motivation. His playing and perspective on guitar as a whole is brilliant too!

[bwgti]

So weird. The last video with John from Hard Rock Cafe playing some cool vintage gear got so much dislike.
It was kind of depressing.
John seems like a decent guy. And obviously he can play.
Nice video. Glad commenters enjoyed it.

[kingsleycracknell]

When John 5 whacks out, Beautiful People I just melted.

[eliasaltman]

So true with learning what you love. I started without a teacher so I could learn whatever I wanted that I found on the internet and I do think that’s the main reason why I haven’t quit. You just feel so cool like “yeah I can play Walk by Pantera I’m so cool” so you keep playing and playing and you never stop

[highsierra]

John 5 can smoke anyone I know off the stage... he seems to be as grounded as one could be for his expertise. Must get tons of attention yet stays professional with an edge of curiosity and fun...

[chrisorellp]

His advice about learning to play music you like is spot on. I played piano as a kid and quit because I was being trained classically and hated classical music. I’ve recently picked up guitar, stuck to music I actually enjoy, and have been loving it.

[BrianMarto]

I just got into John 5 I love his humble attitude, and he is a brilliant player well he is from a different dimension,

[Bradgilliswhammyman]

This guy is amazing, great inspiration and humble. He doesn't try to hide the mystery of why different types of sound really energize him.

[mrc]

You can always tell a true musician if they appreciate every genre. Any one who says they only like one style.. Is not true musician.
John 5 is there real deal.