About
http://mikedawes.com Mike Dawes / 2007 / Guildford Mike began his musical adventure aged four, when his parents introduced him to The Blues Brothers. In his early childhood he experimented with keyboards before picking up his first electric guitar at 12. Instantly taking to the guitar, Mike quickly became involved with the local music scene, involving himself in numerous bands and projects. In 2003, at 13, Mike reached the semi-finals of Jimmy Page's 'Riffathon' competition. Read more on Last.fm
Genres
- fingerstyle
Frequently Asked Questions
- What band is Mike Dawes in?
- Mike Dawes is best known as a solo fingerstyle guitarist, but he also performs as a touring member of the Justin Hayward band, the legendary frontman of The Moody Blues. In addition to his solo work, Dawes has collaborated with other musicians and bands, including the supergroup Nik Mystery. However, his primary recognition comes from his innovative solo guitar performances and arrangements, which have garnered millions of views on YouTube and widespread acclaim in the acoustic guitar community. If you're searching for tickets to see Mike Dawes live, you'll often find him billed alongside Justin Hayward or featured on solo tours at major music festivals and venues. His unique style blends rock, pop, and acoustic virtuosity, making his concerts a must-see for guitar enthusiasts and fans of modern instrumental music.
- What tuning does Mike Dawes use?
- Mike Dawes is renowned for his creative use of alternate guitar tunings, which contribute to his distinctive sound. One of his most frequently used tunings is DADGAD, a popular choice among fingerstyle guitarists for its open and resonant qualities. Dawes also utilizes variations such as CGDGAD and other custom tunings tailored to each arrangement. This approach allows him to incorporate complex harmonics, percussive techniques, and melodic lines simultaneously, giving his performances a full, orchestral feel. If you're eager to learn Mike Dawes' songs or emulate his sound, exploring DADGAD and experimenting with alternate tunings will be essential. His use of innovative tunings is a key reason why his covers and original compositions stand out in the world of acoustic guitar. For aspiring guitarists, following Dawes' tuning choices can open up a new realm of musical possibilities.
- What kind of music is Dawes?
- Mike Dawes creates music that sits at the intersection of rock, pop, and contemporary instrumental genres. While he's primarily labeled as a rock guitarist, Dawes' intricate fingerstyle technique and use of percussive elements make his music appealing to fans of modern acoustic and pop music as well. His repertoire includes stunning acoustic arrangements of popular rock and pop songs, as well as original compositions showcasing technical mastery and emotional depth. Dawes' performances are celebrated for their dynamic range, blending melodic hooks with virtuosic guitar skills. Whether he's reimagining a classic pop anthem or delivering a high-energy rock instrumental, Dawes' music offers something for a wide audience. For those searching for innovative, genre-blending musicians, Mike Dawes is a top choice in the contemporary music scene, and tickets to his shows are highly sought after for their engaging and inspiring live experience.
- Where did Mike Dawes study?
- Mike Dawes studied at the University of Southampton in the United Kingdom. During his time there, he honed his musical skills and began exploring advanced fingerstyle guitar techniques that would later define his career. The university environment provided Dawes with opportunities to collaborate with other musicians and perform at various events, helping him build a foundation in both music theory and live performance. This academic background, combined with his passion for innovation, has contributed significantly to his success as a world-class guitarist and educator. Aspiring musicians often look to Dawes' educational journey for inspiration, proving that formal study can complement natural talent and creativity. If you're interested in following in Dawes' footsteps, a strong academic grounding in music, like that offered at Southampton, can be a valuable asset in shaping a successful career in the industry.
- Who is considered the best acoustic guitarist of all time?
- The title of the best acoustic guitarist of all time is subjective and often debated among musicians and fans. However, Tommy Emmanuel is widely regarded as one of the greatest acoustic guitarists in the world. Known for his incredible fingerstyle technique, energetic performances, and deep musicality, Emmanuel has inspired countless guitarists, including Mike Dawes himself. Other legends frequently mentioned in this context include Michael Hedges, Chet Atkins, Andrés Segovia, and John Fahey, each contributing uniquely to the evolution of acoustic guitar music. Tommy Emmanuel's influence spans generations, and his ability to blend technical mastery with emotional expression sets a benchmark in the acoustic guitar community. For those seeking tickets to experience the pinnacle of acoustic guitar performance, catching a Tommy Emmanuel concert is highly recommended, as he continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his extraordinary skill.