Beavercreek, Ohio (Top40 Charts/ PR Marketing) One reason people pick up the guitar is the appeal of learning to play their favorite songs. JamPlay, an online guitar lesson program that allows students to learn songs straight from the composers, is excited to introduce its latest instructor, Steve Stevens, a musician best known for performing with Billy Idol and Michael Jackson: https://bit.ly/PAs7Ak
"We recruit these celebrity guitarists not only to get students excited about learning guitar from their idols, but to help refine their skills," JamPlay spokesman Kevin Wimer said. "We try to get professional guitarists who have a high level of guitar expertise and who are personable on camera."
Stevens has recorded a series of 20-minute videos at JamPlay.com that show students how to play Billy Idol hits like "Rebel Yell," "White Wedding," "Flesh for Fantasy" and "Eyes Without A Face." Stevens has also recorded a series of lessons outlining his improvisation techniques.
Stevens was 7 years old when he received his first guitar from his father. He started taking lessons a year later.
"I learned how to play the guitar through a combination of teaching myself and lessons," Stevens said.
Online programs like JamPlay make it easier for people to learn the instrument, he said, adding that 30 years ago aspiring guitarists often figured it out on their own.
"I paired up with JamPlay because of the quality of lessons," Stevens said. "The people who run the company have a genuine love of the guitar, and I think that shows."
In addition to working with Billy Idol and Michael Jackson, Stevens released a series of solo albums including "Atomic Playboys," "Flamenco A Go-Go" and "Memory Crash."
"Steve's a very talented guitar player and a great teacher. We're going to be posting more lessons from him in the next few months," Wimer said. "You're definitely going to want to check them out."
According to Wimer, feedback for Stevens' artist series has been off the charts.
"His lessons have received more views and more comments than all but a few other lessons on our website. We have guitarists saying, 'I can't believe I'm taking lessons from Steve Stevens himself.' This is the first time Stevens has done lessons on camera, so it's been very popular," Wimer said.
Stevens appeared on several Billy Idol albums including "Billy Idol," "Rebel Yell" and "Whiplash Smile."
"My favorite Billy Idol song to perform is probably Eyes without a Face. It encapsulates everything a great Billy Idol song should have," the guitarist said.
Stevens co-wrote lyrics for many Billy Idol hits, and composed all the guitar parts.
"This is the most well-known guitarist we have worked with at JamPlay, and it's been great," Wimer said. "Steve is a down to Earth guy, not necessarily what you would expect from a rock star. He brought his wife to the studio. We had a barbeque and just made a day out of it. You can really tell he's passionate about music."
Stevens' passion for the guitar comes through in the advice he gives those wanting to learn new skills.
"First and foremost, you have to have a natural love of the instrument. Never think you will get rich playing the guitar. Be open to all styles of music, and if you are in a band, make sure you listen to what the other players are doing and complement them," Stevens said.
JamPlay has featured professional guitar players from acts such as Steve Vai, Atreyu, Animals as Leaders, Korn, GWAR and many more.
"Soon we're going to come out with an artist series with Chris Broderick from Megadeath ," Wimer said. "It should be a good one."
About JamPlay
Founded in 2007, JamPlay has quickly become the premier company for delivering media to eager guitar students from across the planet. JamPlay is the most active publisher of video guitar lessons on the Web. Nearly 200,000 guitarists have experienced JamPlay. It's ideal for those just getting started with guitar, or those interested in improving their skills and knowledge. For more information visit JamPlay.com or call 877-999-4JAM.
