If you like this site, you’re going to love my upgraded program …. Song Mentor! I am currently offering Premium memberships at an amazing price! This is a full-access, LIFETIME, any song/any time deal! If you are interested in saving, just drop me a note in the “Comments” section below and I will send you an exclusive link that will make you smile!
Welcome to Free Guitar Mentor!
Hi there! You have entered the wonderful world of the guitar. My love affair with this instrument is directly traceable to Sunday February 9th, 1964. Supposedly 73 million people tuned in to watch the Ed Sullivan show that night … well 73 million and one! Four lads from Liverpool and specifically; a Rickenbacker 325 Capri, a Gretsch 6122 Country Gentleman and a Hofner 500/1 violin bass. HOW COOL! And I must say ….. the rest is Rock n’ Roll history. From children's favorites to campfire sing-a-longs to classic riffs, travel with me as we move from beginner to inspired learner to player! Throw in some super guitar tips, links and posts and you're in for a great ride! You won't be disappointed!
SPECIAL BONUS! Below I have posted a FREE guitar/song lesson from my exciting Premium Membership Site for you to enjoy! SONG MENTOR features amazing & complete song lessons … designed to help you master The Greatest Songs On Earth! The content and the VALUE will amaze you! Click HERE or on the banner below to learn more.
{ 149 comments… read them below or add one }
Jackson you Rock!! Great website, great idea!
See Ya Buddy … Dave
Thanks Dave … appreciated!
Hi Jackson
Great looking site. The idea is terrific and a lot of work I bet. The videos are very polished and look good.
Great Job!
John
Thanks John …… a work in progress of course and lots yet to do!
Hi Jackson,
I would love to learn with you!!!!!
Lots of hugs,
Karin
And you will be one of my fave pupils! Thanks Karin!
Hi Jackson,
Like Karin I would like to learn from you.
Sorry I did not know about you when we were in Vernon with Karin !!
Greetings From South Africa
Dirk
Hi Dirk! Greetings TO South Africa! Hope you can glean some valuable info and tips from the site. Nice to have you aboard!
Would love to learn with you, but I gave my guitar to a friend…I will pass your website on to Dawson.
I am interested in learning how to play the keyboard, if you know a good site to learn, please let me know.
Well thanks for passing it on … but you know you can find a pretty nice acoustic these days for $100 or so. If you decide to pick one up again … you know where to find me.
Hi Jackson,
John McLean here. I'm Ben McLean's older brother. I've seen you in some of the plays you've starred in with him. I've always enjoyed your work on stage. I teach guitar in Calgary, AB so Ben sent me a link to your site. I just wanted to say that I think this is a wonderful thing you're doing. The world needs more people like you. Great singing and playing on those classics!
Sincerely,
John
Thanks so much John … for the very kind words … take care!
Congratulations Jackson! I am so impressed with your generosity in making this site available to inspire and assist guitar fans everywhere. I am sending a link to my brother, niece and nephew in Alberta who are all heavily involved in the music scene there. I look forward to visiting your site often just to see it evolve even though I am not a guitar player myself.
Thanks Val … appreciate your interest!
Hey Jackson
Thank you so much!! Purchasing the guitar from you was the best decision, my husband was totally blown away. What is the name of the video you posted playing it before I came to get it? My husband wants to watch it.
Again, Thank you!
Sherie
The video is WILD THING – Guitar Lesson and can be found on the Three Chord Song page – Three Chord Rock. So glad he loves the guitar!
Hi Jackson, I really like your lessons and attitude towards life that shows in your personality, you have already taught me more than you can imagine and got me started learning new things again on my guitar. It is easy to get in a rut with practising and new songs are much appreciated. Best regards Rich, live long and propsper,
Wow Rich …. thanks for the kind words …. I’m glad you feel rejuvenated! May the force be with you!
Hey Jackson, great site, Have to say you were a big influence on me back in the 80s' Mace days. (I spent alot of time at Garys'). You guys opened my ears up to some great music like the Arrows, the Doobie brothers and LRB when I was in my teenage Heavy Metal stage. Those songs stuck with me all my life and made me a better musician. Now I am passing that on to my kids. Thank you!
Thanks so much Lee … always great to think back to those great days! I hope in some small way the site can help with your family’s music! Hope you are still active and above all enjoying it. By the way … MACE is still playing. Not sure if you knew.
Jackson – Great site! I played guitar 20+ years ago and then had a few kids and life happened. Just recently decided to pick it up again and found your site. With my limited time your site has been a great help. Thanks and keep up the good work!
Brent
I know what you mean about those gaps Brent. Great to know that you are back at it though and hope I can help a bit with the re-entry! All the best …. Jackson
Hi my name is Bruce. I’m from Guadalajara Mexico and I want to congratulate you on a great site!
i wonder what the name of the song that plays at the beginning of your videos
Thanks so much Bruce. It’s the guitar intro to Layla by Derek and the Dominos.
Thank you, Jackson ! great website ! great lessons ! so cool !
Best wishes from France !
I much appreciate you taking the time to say so …. cheers from Canada! Merci Beaucoup!
Hi Jackson, I have been on few sites but find your lessons explain details a lot clearer. I lost my hearing 9 years ago and I loved trying to play guitar. You can understand how devastated I was because I was learning to play guitar at that time, but now I have had a Cochlear implant which gives me hearing back though it’s not same as natural hearing. Your videos are very clear and chord and strumming so clear to me and the way you demonstrate above is ace. Merry Christmas …. regards john
Much appreciated John and I’m VERY happy for your improved hearing and health!
I just stumbled onto one of your YouTube videos and as a three year guitar player, mainly learning from videos, I think your lessons are the highest quality out there! The video/sound clarity, the rhythm lesson, guitar/amp tone, your attitude, and your voice are all awesome! Great selection of covers to learn. Your website is so professional, that I’ll probably sit here all winter. Thank you, thank you, and thank you! Life is good!
Well thanks Terry …. there are a lot worse things you could be doing so ROCK ON!
Hi Jackson,
I don't know exactly how I ended up watching your video of "California dreamin" on You tube. I am 41 and started to learn guitar 2 years ago through video lessons. I just want to acknowledge that I saw a man in his essence: willing to share his skills and passion about playing guitar and music stories. I saw a bit of an actor, a great singer/player and a really inspiring, energizing one. The name of your web site suits you so much!
I wish you and the ones you love a beautifull and happy new year from France. Take Care.
Nic
Well Nic … if I ever need an agent … I’ll be sure to look you up! Thanks so much for the kind words!
hey Jackson, I really enjoy checking out you website. I have been inspried to learn new songs.. I do a local open mic night here in my town and did a song that was really accepted well, Please come to Boston. Thought you might like to post it for your subscribers Keep doing what you do best
Thanks so much Ken. I’ll keep that Dave Loggins song in mind … so glad you are performing for others!
Hello Jackson,
I joined the site a couple days ago and I am having a blast. My girlfriend says you have great smile and and a kind heart, believe me, she can tell!!! Thanks for the free lessons and hard work.
your new student, Tony
Thanks so much Tony … what a kind thing to say! Thank your wife as well …. and welcome!
Jackson, i just stumbled upon one of your videos I have to say I love it I am 53 yrs old and started playing accustic guitar 5 yrs ago and I am totally hooked , cant put it down . I am looking forward to all that your website has to offer ..
thanks a million …keep it up bigmario
Glad to have your enthusiasm with us Mike ….. welcome!
Hey Jackson, I just want to say THANKS for this page, is great what you are doing, because you open the opportunity to learn more about the amazing world of music with this awesome instrument… The Guitar.
Congratulations keep going!!
Thank you so much!
Jackson-just want to say how impressed I've been with your demeanor (easy style) of instruction. Other Web sites bombard you with many CD's to purcharse and of course a 'money back guarantee?' You, at least, give individuals a little time to see what you have to offer (which is fantastic to date). You are building a positive way to later market your instruction site. Have to compliment you on this. One thing you could do on your tutorial instruction is spend a little more time inf strumming techniques. . Especially if there is not "Boom-Cha-ah-Boom" rhythm, pattern. (included in many country songs.)
Regards, Dave
excellent site.@ just turning 64 i will welcome the help from you. so keep playing and instructing and of course keep smiling.
Thanks so much John!
I would like to see ac/dc, theres gonna be some rockin, it sounds and looks easy, i hope you can post it, great website, keep up the good work.
Hi Jackson,Years ago I tried to teach myself a little guitar, a little luck with some chords. Always wanted yo play Long Cool Woman,than found your site looking around you-tube, loved it and already working on the opening riff.so signed up and starting beginning lessons. I also would like to learn more of LCW,chords and how to that blues chop.THANX Jon
Well done Jackson your video on pretty woman is excellent you made it so easy to follow, keep up the good work and what a voice.. Best regards Kevin from sunny Spain.
Thanks so much Kevin and welcome aboard!
Hello Jackson
just wanted to drop in and say thank you for all your effort for providing these awesome tutorials they're excellent!
Thank you!
You are indeed welcome!
Hi Jackson
Great website. I've learned a ton in just a few weeks using your lessons. I must be about the same vintage as you. I was 11 years old for the first Beatles show. Had to sneak in to watch it. My parents weren't big beatles fans. Thanks for singing the whole song on 'Things We Said Today.' That helps a lot with turn arounds and transitions etc. Love the Layla intro on each lesson. Is there a lesson for it on the site? I can't seem to find it.
Thanks again. Nyle
Hi Nyle … the acoustic version is coming via the emails …. I also have the electric version on my membership site songmentor.com thanks for the kind words!
Wow! Great link to Songmentor.com and Help! by The Beatles sample video. I will do what I can to spread the word about your site. Keep up the great work.
Mark,
Las Vegas, NV
Much appreciated Mark … thanks!
Man,you are legandary.I wish that some day I could be as good as you.Keep on,keepin on
Many thanks Liam and I’m glad you are enjoying and improving! As for me …. just having fun!
Hi Jackson What electric would you recommend that sounds good for most of the songs you play
Hi Don …. well … one you might like quite a bit that doesn’t kill your wallet either …. is a Reverend Flatroc RT. The RT stands for Revtron which are very cool retro sounding pickups …. but they have some bite. Used around $350-450. Any of the RT models are worth looking at …. not just the Flatroc …. but I prefer their bolt-on guitars just because I prefer the neck. Reverends also have a bass contour control …. makes it a very versatile instrument! Hope that helps.
jackson i have been workin on ( hide your love away) for a couple of days now ,great song and then the other day i saw your new video on it as usual it was a big help ,i really enjoy your websit …….thanks again ,mike
Thanks so much Mike …. glad you found it helpful!
Hi, Jackson! I just wanted to tell you that of all the guitar sites I've visited, yours is by far the best! I have learned more from you then all the others put together. I can't tell you how much I appreciate your lessons….Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Much appreciated Jo … glad to help!
Hello:
I enjoy the lessons very much. Is there a chance to teach the song called "Diamond Girl" ? I think the song kinda grows on you and I still like it after all these years.
thanks
Thanks so much Marc … yes …. by Seals & Crofts … good tune … I will keep it mind .. the list is long!
Jackson, just wanted to say thanks. I love your tutorials and use them often. Much appreciated!!!
Dave Short
Well thanks Dave … your acknowledgement is much appreciated!
Hi Jackson…..I found a lot more cool stuff on your site today…Thanks for sharing.
Best Regards
Doug
HI JACKSON just joined and looking forword to your tutoring just what i need to improve my playing
thanks
Welcome Bob!
Jackson, thanks for a GREAT website. It's obvious you love what you do.
I particularly like the fill-in riffs. These are always a part of country music.
With music, there is always something new to learn.
I look forward to visiting your site frequently.
Thanks again… Greg
Appreciated Greg … enjoy your visits!
Hi Jacxkson
You are a great teacher, guitar player and singer! Your lessons have helped me a out lot already, but mostly you have got me excited about learning to play guitar. I can play a little guitar and I can sing a little too. What is more difficult for me to do… is to put the two together. Do you have any lessons or tips for singing and playing at the same time? Love Ya man!
Hi Adrian …. there are still some tunes that cause me grief when trying to sing AND play. Some of them are just too much work and time for me to tackle but most get better with repetition. Practice, practice, practice!
Something happened to my passion for music back around 1990 and I just stopped playing, and even listening. Sold my les Paul and gear and dedicated myself to hard work and talk radio. Recently, a little kindling has ignited after I picked up one of my now grown son's guitars and tried to slush out Rick Springfield's "Jessie's girl" after hearing it on a movie on TV the other night. After googling to find the proper chords I stumbled upon your site, which I found to be well done. The raging inferno is long gone, but here's hoping that little spark will grow into a well-seasoned and comforting fire. Thanks for your kindness.
Very cool story Rob. I wish you all the best stoking your fire and glad to help if I can!
Awesome run through. Especially your vocals.
Really enjoying the lessons. One of these lessons, could you cover Johnny Rivers Memphis especially the intro and the lead part?
Thanks Don! Memphis is actually a lesson featured on my other site songmentor.com
THANK YOU FOR GETTING BACK TO ME MY NAME IS EZ. I WAS IN A MOTORCYCLE WRECK LAST YEAR, A KID RAN A STOP SIGN ON ME AND HIT ME AND CRUSHED MY BACK INTO MY SPINAL CORD AND I WAS PARALYZED FROM THE WAIST DOWN. THEY PUT RODS AND SCREWS IN HALF MY BACK AND SAID I WOULDNT WALK AGAIN IM STANDING AND WOBBLING AROUND NOW. I STILL HAVE TO USE CATHETERS AND CAN'T USE THE RESTROOM NORMALLY. THAT'S THE PART THAT GOT SMASHED THE WORST ON MY SPINAL CORD. I STILL HAVE A LOT OF NUMBNESS YET AND MY HAND HAD PINS IN IT WHERE IT WAS BROKEN. BUT YOU KNOW WHAT, I DIDNT GIVE UP AND KEPT PUSHING MYSELF, PLUS I HAD A LOT OF PUSHING FROM MY GIRLFRIEND SO I PICKED UP THE GUITAR AND I AM NOW LEARNING HOW TO PLAY,. IT HELPS SOOTHE THE NEGATIVE IN MY LIFE SO THE POINT IS I'LL NEVER GIVE UP AND NEVER QUIT SO THANK YOU FOR HAVING THIS WEBSITE I REALLY APPRECIATE IT THANK YOU! EZ
Your story is inspirational EZ …. keep focused on the good and keep learning. Glad I can help a little.
Hi Jackson! I just recently found your site and wanted to let you know how great it is to get such helpful and easy to follow lessons from someone who has such a visible genuine passion for the guitar. More important to me though, is the fact that you have such a great teaching style… patient and ALWAYS with a smile on your face! LOVE IT!!! I am one who loves the guitar but has only dabbled on + off over the years… Your site has stoked the fire and I am finding myself watching your vids often and eagerly awaiting my next email lessons! THANKS FOR BEING YOU!!!
That’s a thoughtful note … thanks kindly!
I am a young person, and this site has all the classics! I am a begginer, but this helps all. Thanks Jackson!
Glad you are interested in the”classics” Garry!
u are the man bud learnt alot of your videos keep up the good work
Thanks Kevin!
MERRY CHRISTMAS GUYS THANKS FOR EVERYTHING I HAVE GOT SO MUCH BETTER SENTS IVE BEEN ON THIS SITE THANK YOU SO MUCH
Well EZ … there’s only one guy …. but from this one guy …. you are most welcome … Merry Christmas!
Hey, I' ve just found your site…it is great !!! I played bass guitar 30 years ago, but now I want to play guitar, so I'm going to buy one and take your lessons, they are easy to understand and fun to watch !!! Great job there friend and have a musical happy new year !!!!
Pierre Paquin
montreal, quebec
canada
Merci beaucoup Pierre …. and welcome!
great lessons thanks mate from oz Australia
Glad you are enjoying!
I've been trying to learn guitar for a wile, but no luck, glad I found this website, it is great, hopefully this time I will learn. Great job and thank you.
You are most welcome Sergio!
Hi there Jackson,
I just bought my first guitar ( i am 52 years old!). I've seen a lot of guitar lessons on the internet, but this is the first one i really like!
I think (no, i am sure) you can teach me how to play my guitar!
Thank you very much!
Love from the Netherlands, Babs
Love right back Babs! Enjoy!
Hello Mace! I recently took up guitar and I found your web site looking for (youtube)Blue Moon of Kentucky. Many thanks for your generous and valuables lessons, you're a great teacher! I do also enjoy the stories you write around the songs, best regards from Argentina!
Thanks so much Juan!
I'm 57 years old. I've "played" for over 40 years.. Dude, you just absolutely killed me with joy. Finally Finally I have found a mentor. I am so excited ! Thanks !!!
Thanks Duane … I’m glad you are excited … it’s good to have you on board!
Hi ! Could you please send me the link to the premium site? Thank you!!
You bet … it’s on the way Duane!
Mace, Is the $99 Lifetime membership still an option?
Sorry met to write Jackson…..not Mace
Hey Jackson,
I have to say you are really helping me to learn the guitar at the ripe old age of 56. Keep on rocking Buddy.
Best regards,
Chris.
Thanks Chris …. sound like you’re not as ripe as I am … ha ha!
Jackson,
looking for a lesson for the classic song pipeline, anything on your site available?
Thank you
Hi, your lessons are so easy to follow and understand, I have a fair knowledge of playing/singing and have been in many bands and soloing for quite some time, yet I still learn from each lesson you put up!! I would certainly like to extend my knowledge with you, Cheers !!
Thanks so much Graham! I appreciate your supportive words and I will send you that link!
Jackson, Lost your web site in a computer crash back in October 14. Just found you again and now I can sleep nights. Really appreciate your teachings and look forward to getting back in the swing of things.
Thanks Bert! Welcome back!
Hi Jackson, Like the easy way you explain things, but would be very helpful to me if you explain strumming patterns in more detail. I can't seem to make some of your songs sound right. I'm a novice, and I like songs like Margaritaville and Brown Eyed Girl as well as all of Johnny Cash's songs. If the strumming is out it sounds sh…house.
Yours is a common concern Peter. I admittedly created some lessons that were a bit lacking in that area. I’ve corrected that mistake with my Song Mentor program. Here’s a discounted link to a lifetime membership. I think you’ll be very happy with all the explanations of strumming:
http://songmentor.com/?page_id=2473
Dear Jackson – I would like to take a serious look at your "Lifetime Membership" Program.
I really enjoy your guitar lessons on YouTube !.
jdocholliday@yahoo.com
I enjoy your videos. Please send me the link
Here you go Bruce:
http://songmentor.com/?page_id=2473
Hi Jackson,
I stumbled upon your video lesson “smoke on the water.” I really enjoyed your video. You are a passionate teacher and performer. I just recently picked up the electric guitar (having played acoustic guitar for more than a couple of years.) Your video was helpful. I am curious: how much for your lifetime membership?
-Chris
Thanks for the kind words Chris. The regular online price for the lifetime program is $179. However, I offer it to FGM subscribers for $99. Here’s the link that will get you there for that price:
sale.song.mentor.com
Don't know anything about your Web site …stumbled across it while looking for a tutorial to play JOHNNY B GOODE.
Am presently looking for a tutorial to play the lead riffs for GOOD GOLLY MISS MOLLY …CCR version….
Can you help?
It’s not currently on the list but easy enough and the classic intro and riff. I will put it on the learn list.
Hey Jackson, you are doing some good things here, I have enjoyed learning Long Cool Woman intro, but trying to get the rest of it. Wondering if you would share the rest, looks pretty easy, just can't figure it out.. Thanks
Hi Kenny. Actually the complete lesson is on my Premium site songmentor.com Here’s a discount link should you decide to get involved. Take care.
sale.songmentor.com
Hi Jackson,
I just recently stumbled across your website and instantly fell in love with it. I first learned to play guitar in 1969, at age 19. I played everyday for many years before I almost completely quit playing due to work, family, etc. I retired 4 years ago and recently lost my wife of 42 years. With lots of extra time on my hands, I bought two new guitars and started playing again. Your videos have shown me songs that I played 40+ years ago in a band, but have forgotten. They've also shown me songs I never knew well. I played rythym guitar back then so never played much lead guitar, The riffs you teach are great. I will be contacting you about a lifetime membership. Thanks so much from Bill in Texas, Jackson.
Good morning. I've heard that a 60+ yr old guy can learn the guitar. Tried many in person and online courses and for some reason life gets in the way and I leave the learning to deal with with them. Now it's my time. Looking forward to hearing from you. thx…. Tal
This link may be helpful. sale.songmentor.com …. cheers!
I am interested in the lifetime access
You can use this link … sale.songmentor.com
hi jackson,
may I have your exclusive link… Cheers
Geoff
You bet! sale.songmentor.com
I'm interested in your package
Here’s a special sale link exclusive to Free Guitar Mentor subscribers!
http://songmentor.com/?page_id=2473
i thought this was a free site then why are you asked to subscrib can you carlfly this with thanks
I would be happy to clarify Frank. Free Guitar Mentor is a free site from which I send you 12 free lessons over 12 weeks. I also have a membership site called Song Mentor which features over 200 much more detailed lessons. It is a pay site but is completely optional. Many who take advantage of the free lessons, decide to join me at Song Mentor because they like the style and want to learn more. Also, Free Guitar Mentor subscribers have access to special pricing if and when they decide to join me at Song Mentor. I hope that helps. The address below will direct you to a short video which also helps explain. Take care enjoy your weekend!
sale.songmentor.com
Jackson, what was that guitar you used on the Johnny B. Goode tutorial video? It appears to be a copy of a Gibson ES 335, and a mighty good one at that. I could not read the name on the headstock, but could sure see the reflection of your ceiling fan LOL! Keep these lessons coming! Thanks. – WWS
It’s a Dillion copy with Gibson pickups. Fan has since been replaced.
Hi Jackson, sure have enjoyed watching your videos. Your big smile makes me smile too, every time. You are a very talented musician. Can I request a song? I'd Be A Lengend In My Time" by Ronnie Milsap. Or maybe Crazy Arms? That would be awesome! Stay cool my friend. Sincerely, T
Hi Teresa … thanks for the request. I have been tossing around the idea of creating a Country Song Mentor site. I will keep it in mind if that happens. Take care!
Hi Jackson! Thank you for accepting me into your classroom:) I am very excited to get going. I am a fellow Canadian, previously from Kelowna, now living in Phoenix AZ. Love your style, joyful personality, talent, patience, and most of all, your willingness to share all of this with us. Thank you for all your time and effort. Will be signing on to Song Mentor after I get my feet wet. Thank you again!
Thanks so much for the kind words! Glad to have a former Kelowna gal on board. Welcome and I look forward to your wet feet … lol!
Was scrolling looking to learn , Young Love : Sonny James , as a campfire song everyone can sing , instead came across, Jackson lesson I'll Never Find Another You by The Seekers . Absolutely loved it ! ( still learning) and maybe the Young Love will be a future lesson that you'd be great at teaching , thank you.
Thanks so much Kevin. Do you happen to own a 12 string? Certainly effective with a particular song. If you ever decide to have a look at my full song catalogue …. have a look at this. sale.songmentor.com
thank you! I have wanted to learn guitar for 60 years, (67 now) and there may still be time, thanks to you I have learned Tom Dooley, My first full song! I have been trying for six months with lessons, but it has been your site that made things click, thx again I will isit daily.
Pam (aka Petey)
Thanks Petey … glad I could help a lttle! If you decide to take it to the next level …. have a look at this …. sale.songmentor.com
Hi Jackson,
Whats your band? I enjoy your covers and all though I am a young 80s (33 years old) I enjoy older stuff. Tour soon?
Hi Brandon. Just local heroes and perhaps not even that … lol. Thanks for the kind words. We formed in the early 80s so a lot of our classic rock material was top forty at the time. Cheers!
sale.songmentor.com
I am interested in your Premium deal. Thanks, awesome website.
Thanks so much Doug … here is the link to the special pricing for Song Mentor Premium. http://songmentor.com/?page_id=2473
I am trying to learn the song Gloria but I am having problems following the strum pattern. I am sure it's just me but I could use a clearer explanation of how to do it.
Difficult to do in woriting but here you go: E chord …. 1 Down strum on strings 4/5/6 2. Upstrum on strings 1-4 x 2 D chord 1. …. down strum on stings 1-4 followed by 2. a tap on open strings as you are switching to the A chord A chord 1. down strum on strings 1-4 followed again by and open frap before going back to the E chord and beginning the sequence again. Hope that helps. My songmentor.com site and progtam does a much better visula job with strumming ….. for a peek … visit sale.songmentor.com
Good morning, I've been trying to log in to my Song Mentor account & keep getting redirected and can't find your website to log in. PLEASE HELP. Your website was the best I've ever had. So much help with learning songs.
Thanks in advance for your help,
Robert