Maynard James Keenan's Unique Approach To Writing Songs

In this clip, Maynard James Keenan (Tool, A Perfect Circle, Puscifer) breaks down his songwriting process and gives advice on becoming a better improviser.

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[TerrapinFlyer]

One of my instructors at recording school 20 years or so ago was a engineer's assistant on Aenima. He said Maynard was the first true consumate professional vocalist he'd ever seen work. In total control of pitch, timbre, breath, proximity effect, etc., and almost never needed to comp vocal tracks or do lots of takes. Made a real impression on him.

[dontsqueakthecat]

I'm a foster mom. I can't tell you how many times I have had conversations kids say, "I can't do that."
"I'm rubbish."
"I'm too stupid."
"I don't know how."
And the worse, to me at least,
"I have no talent."

I have to figure out how to make them understand. . . . They haven't gathered enough information or spent enough time doing it for that to be an informed opinion.
I'm saving this clip to show them. I like the way Maynard explains how even though he knows how to do this it isn't a lightning bolt that comes out of nowhere. He works at it. Figured out the beats and counts. He is explaining this in a way I never have been able too. He admits what a lot of musicians keep hidden. About the work and learning you have to do to find that talent.
Absolutely beautiful. Gentlemen, I thank you both.

[Swampster]

I love Maynard's description of how improvisation is reliant on hard work. That it's not just a case of doing what you feel but a case of doing what you feel after decades of making sure that your chops are on point by using accurate musical cues. It's a simple truth.

[rapid]

Rick is such a good interviewer. He’s got a great feel for when to help keep it moving and when to just let the guest talk. To my point, at 5:54 he’s about to say something about Joni, realizes Maynard has something to say, stops himself from going on and just asks Maynard to continue. Most interviewers would have kept telling their own story, but Rick is humble enough and smart enough to know it’s not about him, it’s about the guest.

Go watch the Sting interview if you haven’t, it’s a perfect example of how to get someone to open up during an interview.

[vijaymehra]

Great to hear that his high school music teacher impacted him.

[Lysergicide]

Saw Tool on Monday for the 2nd time. Every time, I’m absolutely blown away.

[jessed]

I had Lateralus in my truck (6 disc CD changer) as a young man for years and years. I still enjoy the album in its entirety at least once a month of not more. masterpiece.

[madebyskovie]

It’s amazing to see Maynard open up when he realizes that Rick is a musician, and a fan. He’s so relaxed and Rick asks great questions. This is golden!

[thesilk]

I'm highly surprised how in depth he went in a such a calm cool way when answering a question he's been asked 10 billion times. Interesting to see how he has evolved over the years in interviews.

[insidejazzguitar]

Driving around with it on a loop, listening over and over again till you absorb it and start hearing little things… I can relate to that

[zeeeeroin]

He draws with his voice. Transposed artistic principle.

[midlifeadventures]

Maynard is a genius . He never drowns out the band . His ego is in check unlike a lot of frontmen . His lyrics intertwine perfectly with the flow of the band .

[BillCoz]

I love that Mayard shouted out Bon Scott as an influence.

[DianeLee]

What an inspiring conversation with a brilliant artist. Rick is unique in his ability to evoke conversations like this. Riveting! Bravo, Rick and Maynard 💜👏👏👏

[declanludick]

This is the most underrated channel (besides Ricks' main channel) on

[gabet]

Maynard is so freaking awesome. Always has been.

[AVM-Music]

The best thing about working musically with others is to see what they can bring to the mix.
We had a drummer try out and he was desperate to keep up with every guitar stroke, told him to do what HE feels and out came something totally unique

[R.A.D.G]

Probably the best interview of Maynard ever…. Even though he just told us how he works I still can’t wrap my head around it and probably never fully will. Absolute genius!

[weirdunclebob]

When are the Adam Jones, Danny Carey and Justin Chancellor interviews dropping?! Can't wait!

[royalukas]

A humble and amazingly creative person. I love the complexity of Tool’s music and artistic collaboration.
It was a pleasure to see them live.