PRESENCE - Volume 27
Inspiration For Guitarists
“Don’t just learn the song—learn what’s happening behind it.”
In a recent clip, John Mayer talks about something most guitarists overlook: understanding the “why” behind what you play. It’s not enough to just copy a lick or chord progression. If you don’t know where it comes from, you can’t use it anywhere else.
This is exactly what I teach through The 3 Essential Skills. These are the tools that let you break down any song, any lick—and make it your own.
1. The Number System
Learn which chords belong to each key. It’s like a “map” of songs. Once you see this, you can transpose, write songs, and learn faster because you understand the structure—not just the shapes.
2. The CAGED System
This is how you connect the neck. CAGED shows you that every chord or scale you play is linked to a few simple shapes. Once you see those patterns, the fretboard stops being a mystery.
3. The Landmark Pentatonic System
Most guitarists only know one pentatonic shape—and get stuck. My method uses two “landmark” shapes plus diagonal extensions, giving you total freedom to solo anywhere on the neck.
When you combine these three skills, you stop memorizing and start creating. You’ll not only learn songs faster but also understand why they work—so you can transfer those ideas into your own playing.
👉 Watch video about my 3 Essential Skills here
Keep playing smart,
Dustin