Exploring Forbidden Riffs: A Guitar Player's Guide
As a guitar player, you might have heard the phrase “forbidden riffs” circulating around guitar stores. But what exactly happens if you play these riffs in a store? In this article, we’ll explore the reality behind this guitar playing lore and share our experiences.
What Happens When You Play a Forbidden Riff in Guitar Stores?
Playing a forbidden riff in a guitar store might elicit various reactions from both store employees and other customers. Let’s dive into these responses and explore the reality behind the myth.
Staff Reactions
Store employees, having heard the phrase “forbidden riffs” before, might approach your performance with a range of responses. Some may roll their eyes or smile knowingly, recognizing it as a cliché. Others might even join in or laugh, creating a light and humorous atmosphere. However, a subtle guide to not getting too carried away is important. Gently, some may kindly ask you to try something else, implying that there are more exciting or unique options available.
Customer Reactions
Customers in the store are also likely to have mixed feelings. Some might enjoy the nostalgia or humor brought by a forbidden riff. However, others might find it annoying if they hear it repeatedly. While it is generally best to be mindful of your surroundings and the overall vibe of the store, knowing how to react can be comforting.
Store Policy
Interestingly, the policies of different guitar stores may vary significantly. Some stores may have a more relaxed atmosphere where playing any riff is welcome, while others might encourage customers to explore unique or complex pieces. In such cases, it is important to read the unspoken guidelines and respect the environment.
Personal Experiences with Forbidden Riffs
I’ve had the chance to try playing forbidden riffs in guitar stores, and the results have been mixed. While some riffs like “Stairway to Heaven”, “Smoke on the Water”, and “Sweet Home Alabama” might invoke a sense of nostalgia or humor, others have led to unexpected outcomes. For example, one time, I tried to get a rise out of the employees by plodding along like a beginner. An experienced employee who was dealing with me playfully pretended to be patient until I suddenly started strumming “Für Elise”. His reaction was priceless: a simple “Awww dammit!” which quickly turned into a light hearted moment.
In essence, nothing actually “happens” as colloquially described. It’s just a saying that has survived through decades. While store employees might react in various ways, they would almost certainly prefer to hear any riff played well rather than any disruption or disturbance.
Why Play Forbidden Riffs?
The intrigue behind forbidden riffs lies in the lore rather than actual consequences. If you do decide to play a popular riff, why not make sure you play it well and impress the employees with your skill? After all, there is no shortage of unique and complex pieces available to explore and showcase your musical prowess.
Whether you want to add a touch of humor to your visit or show off your skills, it’s important to keep an eye on the store’s vibe and respect the overall atmosphere. So, the next time you head to a guitar store, be prepared to play anything from “Stairway to Heaven” to “Für Elise”, and embrace the unexpected!