Andy Timmons - How to play the Jimi Hendrix-inspired tune, “Electric Gypsy”

For tabs and text of this video lesson, see the September 2021 issue of Guitar World-
MELODIC MUSE by Andy Timmons
GYPSY MELODIES
Andy Timmons teaches a song of his that is among the most requested at gigs and clinics, called “Electric Gypsy,” which goes all the way back to his very first CD, Ear Ecstasy, from 1994.
#AndyTimmons #ElectricGypsy

[guyunger]

One of my all time favorite pieces of music. This speaks, to me at least, on a deep level. Much respect Andy!

[ladgrove]

What an incredibly good teacher! This is fast becoming one of my all time favourite pieces of guitar music.

[liquidtongue]

One of the absolute best guitarist I have ever had the pleasure to hear live.

[vitorisaia]

Well, the man modded his own signature guitar. Respect.

[christopherhansford]

Andy, as soon as you started playing that riff, I had an internal sensation like getting into a hot bath. I've listened to your music more than any other artist over the past year, especially Resolution. Many, many dog walks late at night have been spent with your music in my ears. Your phrasing, melodies, tone and balance between aggression and sensitivity just really touch my heart and I want to say thank you. Please keep on making more music, and putting out more content on YouTube like this so that I can continue being inspired and learn from you.

[Vhonskievlogs]

Skills and guitar tone are one of a kind.

[Romdryl]

Holy smokes. How am I just now hearing this great piece. AND to get insights from the man himself! Feel like I just tripped and stumbled into gold. Keep on keepin' on Andy!

[krzmi]

This video is such a gem! Thank you Guitar World!

[CentaurusRelax]

You’re awesome—great song, and generosity for sharing the ‘how.’

[gavinsnyder]

I don't think Andy get enough credit for how great of a player he is. He's an incredibly melodic player to begin. But on top of that what makes him stand out to be if his impeccable use of dynamics. Not only does he know how to play dynamocally, but he know when. Which is arguably one of the most over looked guitar skills. Every lick, every measure has this dynamic wave to it which makes it feel very alive. As opposed to something more neutral like how a drum machine often sounds. It just has this very human feel to it while also being consistant rythmically. There are other players who have dynamics down too, but I feel like Andy takes it a step past most. Most players have something they excel at. Guthrie Govan is awesome at improvising. Paul Gilbert is a beast at picking. Steve Vai has his smooth legato runs. An Andy Timmons has his incredible use of dynamics.

[James_NL]

Thank you so much for the lesson Andy, you rock!

[JupiterJones]

One of the coolest touches to his new guitar is that they shaped the pick guard after his old broken one.

[jomesias]

Andy is just AMAZING!! Thanks for the lesson Guitar World, it is priceless

[jamesewton]

I love this piece live with that tasty bass intro. So soul wrenching.

[Nagzzzski]

Gotta LOVE finding a beautiful song like this 🥺😄

[Dlee]

Man I think it's awesome when people like this take the time and break it down for us. Awesome man!!!

[analogman]

Just discovered Mr. Timmons and this tune through guitar wizard Eric Woolard. Love the oddball phrasing in these fills.

[KPSoutside]

Andy is a great player and one hell of a great teacher. Much respect!

[spkay]

Thanks for such a great lesson on one of your finest compositions. So much great soulful and instinctive playing on this tune which is so reminiscent of Jimi!

[TheLochs]

I met Andy in 1986 0r 87 at NAMM when it was in Chicago. He was kicking ass and I stopped and talked to him, great player and nice guy.