Robben Ford Discussion

[JackD]

I just joined the forum last week and thought I'd introduce myself. I'm Jack DiFranco, a full-time investment banker who spends most of his free time playing guitar. Robben has been a huge influence on my playing and my approach to music. I've been hip to Robben's playing and music for roughly 24 years. I started listening to him from the time of his first solo record, the Inside Story and have followed his music ever since. In fact, my band (formed 10 years ago) is called The Inside Story!

In my youth, I was a full-time musician and went to GIT in 1983-84. One of the reasons for doing so was to get a chance to study with Robben. During that year, Robben spent 5-6 months as a special instructor. He would come in on Fridays and have a full day of open labs with students (4 or 5 guys at a time for an hour). I would always be the first guy in line for the first session of the day and would come back later to sneak in for another session (or two). It was fantastic. Not only did I learn a lot, I got to know Robben. He was just great to be around. Always willing to share his knowledge. Always in a positive mood. He never gave the impression that he was a "bad ass" (and believe me, there were some cats at GIT at that time who thought they were). Overall, he was a really great guy. I also was able to play with him roughly 12 to 15 times!

I have seen Robben perform a number of times over the years--all very memorable. The first time was actually in a small restaurant in Malibu in 1983 with the late John Guerin (L.A. Express drummer). I saw him at the Baked Potato with Russell Ferrante, Roscoe Beck and Vinnie Colaiuta in 1984. I saw him in his last touring performance with Miles Davis (wild stuff). And I think I've seen him every time he's been to Detroit with his own bands. Like I said, they were all great.

I recently had the pleasure of sponsoring a guitar clinic with Robben in Detroit. I and my band actually had the pleasure of playing with Robben at the event and it was big fun. It was also great spending time with Robben again. It's amazing that he is still just as nice and down-to-earth as ever. His great personality makes appreciating his music and playing that much better.

I am thrilled that Robben is still going strong recording great new music and touring. His playing continues to get better and better. I look forward to hearing and seeing more of him in the future.

I also look forward to joining in on some of the forum discussions. Having followed and studied Robben's playing and music for so long and having spent time with him personally, I hope I can contribute to the dialog.

Thanks,

Jack