Guitarist Music vs Listener Music
“This comment says: ‘Only guitarists like Vai and Satriani, because their music isn’t very good.’”
Good comment. Let’s take a closer look.
Some music is designed to impress musicians
For guitarists, difficulty can be part of the appeal:
- technique
- tone details
- harmony choices
- phrasing complexity
- virtuosity
That doesn’t make it bad.
It makes it niche.
Other music is designed to move listeners
Listeners tend to choose:
- feel
- identity
- hooks
- emotional clarity
- vibe and chemistry
That doesn’t make it “simple trash.”
It makes it accessible.
The problem is not quality—it's target
When people say “that music isn’t good,” they often mean:
“That music is not for me.”
Different audiences. Different scoreboards.
Be honest about your lane
If you’re making guitarist music, don’t expect mainstream listeners.
If you want mainstream listeners, you must build listener value:
- hooks
- clarity
- emotion
- identity
Conclusion
Guitarist music and listener music are two different products.
Choose your lane—and stop judging yourself by the wrong audience.
FAQ
Can you do both?
Yes, but it’s hard. The best do it by making technique serve the song, not the ego.
Is niche a bad thing?
No. Niche is great if you build a business model that fits niche reality.
How do I know who my audience is?
Ask: who shares it, who buys it, who returns for more—and why.
Transcript
This comment says: ‘Only guitarists like Vai and Satriani, because their music isn’t very good.’”
Good comment. Let’s take a closer look.
Some music is designed to impress musicians.Other music is designed to move listeners.
Vai and Satriani are respected by guitarists because difficulty is part of the appeal.That doesn’t make the music bad.It makes it niche.
Frusciante is chosen by listeners because the appeal is feel, identity, and impact.
Different audiences. Different scoreboards.
Be honest about the target.If you’re making guitarist music, don’t expect mainstream listeners.
Take Your Guitar Playing To The Next Level!
Wouter Baustein
Music Producer, Music & Mindset Coach
If you like clear, practical guitar and music coaching instead of random YouTube tips, you need structure. My guitar books and coaching programs give you that structure, so you can finally make real progress and level up your playing.
