BBRay
(Redhill)
Friday 24 Feb 2023, 4:36pm
Hi,
My name is Ray, I'm a young at heart 57 years, I live just south of Dorking and I'm a seasoned lead guitarist and songwriter who's currently on the lookout for a band to join or fellow musicians to collaborate with on various projects.
I have a strong preference for southern rock, proper blues, acoustic rock, and americana, I'm very versatile, can play pretty much any genre (or tuning) and have played professionally (Meaning I got paid LOL!) and am open to exploring new and different genres as well (as long as they are not "too weird"). I could list all the stuff I like but we'd be here some time and Tolstoy writes shorter novels.
What really gets me excited is the idea of being part of an originals band where I might add value with my playing style. I'm flexible and willing to try anything, and I have loads of gear (huge guitar collection) and transportation at my disposal. I'm also committed to attending rehearsals and gigs (I'm Old School because Old's cool), and I'm more than happy to chip in on the costs of rehearsal space and other related expenses.
I'm also a dab hand with a Ukelele and Mandolin but guitar is my main "Thang", I've also been known to tickle the ivories from time to too - I'm as good as Elton John ... when he was 4!
I can also add BV's if required.
Let me be clear that I'm not in it for the money. As long as fuel and beer are covered on gigs, I'm a happy camper. My main goal is to create meaningful and enjoyable music with like-minded people. If you need a guitarist for a project, I'm more than willing to lend my expertise. I have plenty of pro-recording experience, so I'm comfortable with studio work as well.
I have a bandmix page with some recordings on that I did with/for other artists where I did all or most of the guitar work - its varied so that you get a feel. You can find that here.
https://www.bandmix.co.uk/fenderguy/
I understand that some musicians might feel hesitant to approach me because they think their band or project might not be at my level. Please don't be put off by that assumption. I'm willing to look at anything and if I can help or support a project in any way, I will. I believe that every musician and band has something unique to offer regardless of level of skill (we all started somewhere), and I'm excited to explore new sounds and ideas.
I also want to clarify that I don't want to be the band leader. I did that for seven years with my own band, and while it was a rewarding experience, these days I'm happy to take orders and look for the cues. I believe that respect, collaboration and open communication are key to creating great music, and I'm committed to working closely with bandmates to ensure that we're all on the same page and delivering a fab experience thats fun for both band and audience under the guidance and steering of the band leader.
And of course, I have a really good sense of humour, I fully expect to be ribbed when I bugger something up (as I invetably will from time to time), I never get animated or angry and I like to think I'm a nice person to be around with ... oh ... and I don't have an ego - sold it on Ebay years ago and did quite well - I got a quid for it (which was 99p more than I expected)!
So, if you're a band, a solo artist or recording a prject where you need some string work and you're interested or would like to know more, please don't hesitate to get in touch. I'm excited to explore new musical opportunities whatever they may be and whoever they may be with.
Warm Regards
Ray (aka The Sheriff)
PS first round in the pub is on me!