Interviewing Tommy Emmanuel: A closer look at his inspirations and songwriting approach
Tommy Emmanuel is a household name in the world of guitar virtuosos. His talent has been recognised both in his home country of Australia and around the world with numerous awards and accolades. From playing in various bands as a session guitarist to building a successful solo career, Tommy’s virtuosic playing and energetic performances have been captivating audiences for decades. He is known for his impressive finger-style guitar playing and live performances. He is regarded as one of the most influential acoustic guitarists of his generation.
One of the earliest influences on Tommy’s music was Chet Atkins. Chet Atkins was a pioneer in the world of country music, known for his fingerpicking style and use of the “Atkins Style” of guitar playing. Chet was also a sought-after producer, working with artists such as Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and The Everly Brothers.
The two guitarists first met in the 1980s and became fast friends. They went on to collaborate on several albums, including “The Day Finger Pickers Took Over the World” and “Sneakin’ Around.” Their partnership was based on a mutual love and respect for the guitar and they often traded licks and techniques on stage. Their musical styles complemented each other perfectly and their collaboration helped to bring finger-style guitar playing to a wider audience.
Chet Atkins passed away in 2001, but his influence can still be heard in the playing of Tommy Emmanuel and countless other guitarists. Emmanuel continues to tour and record, expanding on the legacy that he and Chet Atkins helped to create.
In this interview, we get a chance to delve deeper into the inspirations that have driven Tommy’s music over the years. We’ll also explore his songwriting process and how he continues to innovate and push the boundaries of his craft.
So sit back, grab your guitar, and join us as we explore the world of Tommy Emmanuel.
Thank you for your time Tommy.
Plato describes music as “the medicine of the soul” – how would you describe it?
Music is a part of our life on earth that gives us hope, joy, and wonder. It shows our diversity and unites or divides us, as well. Music is a part of our DNA. It’s our soul, our memories, our time on the planet. It also inspires and challenges us to find our own voices. We need it like oxygen.
Who has been your greatest musical influence in your life to date?
I have so many influences that I couldn’t name them all. I ended up with a playing and writing style that is somewhere in Pop, Rock, Country, Blues, and Jazz. It’s a hybrid picking style that loves to move the boundaries.
Where do your ideas come from? What is your creative process?
My ideas sometimes happen when I play my instrument, sometimes when I’m busy or active, or they come to me in a dream. If I get an idea that excites me, I try to follow it to its conclusion and make a new song using the tools I have gleaned over my entire life. That sometimes happens quickly. Sometimes, it takes me weeks to finish…revisiting, refining and trying to make every bit of this new piece right. I have no formula except to just get everything right.
Has your approach to playing changed over the years and if so, how??
I think my approach to playing has grown and evolved into a mixture of fun, adventure, and looking for depth of intention. I try to always fly my kite high when I perform on stage. I try to dig deep, push myself, and let go of fear or worries. I like telling stories without words, just letting the music spell it out in melody against chord ideas. When I was younger, I only wanted to emulate others whom I idolised, but in time I started to find my sound. It slowly opened a new world to me, fuelled by the exhilaration of performing new songs to an audience that responded in a positive way. I was hooked!
Who has been your favourite collaboration and why?
I enjoy all my collaborations with other players and singers. Sometimes, I love being just an accompanist. To find the right part for someone else’s delight is a big reason why I love this work.
What lessons have you learned in your life of music?
I think the best lesson I’m learning in music is BE A GOOD LISTENER!
Your concerts come across so joyful, so happy. You certainly love what you do and that shows through. What does it feel like for you sitting up there in front of your fans?
I truly love it when the sound, atmosphere, tuning, feeling, and the audience all collide in a joyous explosion! It sets me on fire out there! I enjoy taking that magic carpet ride with hope it happens again the next night, but every night is different. Some nights are a struggle, and some shows are just hard. I had to realise I’m just a human being, not a machine. I always try to do my best, and that you can always count on.
What’s next for you?
At the moment, I’m out in the world promoting my new album, Accomplice Two. The rest of 2023 is very busy. I’m hoping to write more songs, to improve on my instrument, to see my family more often, and I’m still looking for a good cup of coffee.
It has been an absolute pleasure Tommy. Thank you so much for sharing your time with me.
If you would like to see Tommy on tour, check out his website tour page and get your tickets booked.
