About Author: The Music in Me is My Lifelong Passion

Reflection

Hi, I’m STEVE, author here at String Shock. I can still vividly recall that moment, four decades ago, when my fingers first hovered across the strings of a guitar; I was 15, and it felt like the beginning of a thrilling adventure.

The passion that ignited within me then is the same fire that fuels my music today. It started out as strumming a few chords; then became an exploration of a new world of melody, rhythm, and sonic mayhem!

My path to learning the guitar was eclectic. I soaked up everything I could from magazine articles, thumbed through music books, and listened regularly to my favorite artists. The local guitarists in my hometown weren’t just neighbors; they were mentors. I found that a healthy dose of competition amongst musicians helped me to learn and grow in my craft.

And when it was time to get serious, I dived into a summer of private lessons, focusing on the craft of improvisation. Not just another step; but a leap into expanding my abilities.

That insatiable thirst for growth led me to a transformative experience: recording music. It started with a dual cassette player – a simple tool that invited me to experiment with layering rhythm and lead guitar tracks.

This was no mere pastime; it was a turning point. I wasn’t just playing music; I was creating it. And that notion propelled me toward writing my music, with a dream of eventually sharing it with the world.

Music for me wasn’t just a series of notes. It was about the PASSION that vibrated with every pluck and strum.

The Mechanical aspects of playing the guitar mattered, sure, but what captivated me was the emotion, the expression – the life breathed into each note.

I eventually moved on from my humble garage band beginnings, formed in the echo-filled space of my teenage years, to join the ranks of various rock bands, mostly started with my best friend.

Along the way, my passion for music only intensified. I worked with enthusiasm, learning to harness every ounce of emotion into my performances and my writing.

Crafting My Soundscape

When I think back to those early days, what flipped the switch for me was my discovery of a dual cassette player.

This unassuming piece of equipment became my studio, letting me lay down a rhythm track and then, with a mix of anticipation and skill, layer lead guitar over it.

It was in those moments, headphones on, guitar in hand, that I realized the power of creating my music.

The thrill of those first recordings led me down a path filled with chords, melodies, and the drive to craft something truly mine. I still remember forming my first garage band in high school. It wasn’t just about making noise but about the connection and energy shared with friends as we brought our sounds to life.

Moving up from the dual cassette to my first four-track recorder was like opening the door to endless possibilities. Suddenly, I could refine my tracks, experiment with sounds, and piece together more sophisticated musical statements. The quality of our jams improved, as did the depth of our songs.

From those raw, garage band days to the present, my goal has never wavered: to write and record my music.

But for me, sharing my creations isn’t just about showcasing the mechanics of playing. It’s about allowing the listeners to feel the passion behind every note.

That’s always been the guiding light of my musical endeavors – to evoke emotions through my playing and forge a personal connection with each person who hears it.

More Than Just Music: An Artistic Lifestyle

My journey isn’t just about the guitar strings and recording equipment; it hits a deeper chord.

The way some people dissect literature and admire art, I dive into lyrics and poetry, seeking the profound messages within. It’s fascinating how a single line can carry such a wide range of emotions and interpretations.

I live for really well done ‘ROCKumentaries’(documentaries) as well. These factual stories about rock n roll music legends are more than entertainment to me, they’re a source of learning and insight into the lives of those who’ve had a significant impact on the music world.

Believe me, I could spend hours discussing the finest details of these stories, and we certainly can do that here. If the love of music resonates with you, I invite you to join me.

Guitar riffs and music notes are two things that reverberate through my life. In every aspect, I see and feel the rhythm. Whether I’m going through my daily routine or engaging in hobbies, the beats find their way into my actions and thoughts.

Let’s make melodies, let’s get inspired, and most importantly, let’s share the passion that amplifies every note we play.

I hope this glimpse into my life has struck a chord with you. For those who’ve walked a similar path, I’m thrilled to connect and share our musical stories.

For those just starting out, I want to encourage you and show that the passion for music is a lifelong companion. A companion that will be there for you in the good times as well as the bad times.

Tune in, reach out, and let’s chat about everything music and guitars. Please leave a comment, subscribe, or email. Steve@stringshock.com 

Steve Accardo 🎸