6 things we learned from Thurston Moore's masterclass
Sonic Youth founding member and inimitable guitarist Thurston Moore joined 6 Music's Steve Lamacq for a special masterclass. The pair took us on a journey from the early days of Sonic Youth through to Thurston's solo career today ahead of the release of his new album, Rock N Roll Consciousness. He brought along not one, but two guitars to illustrate the tale - although according to Thurston, 200 guitars would have been the ideal. Here are 6 things we learned during the Masterclass...
1. Anything goes when it comes to subject material
Watch Thurston Moore play the first song he ever wrote, "I Don't Have To Mow The Lawn No More"
Thurston Moore talks about his early influences and his rebellious debut song.
2. Doing weird things to a guitar can produce magic
Thurston Moore explains Sonic Youth's early sound
Thurston goes through how Sonic Youth created their guitar sound...with screwdrivers!
3. Listen to Patti Smith for inspiration
Thurston Moore speaks of Patti Smith's influence
Thurston Moore was really inspired after seeing Patti Smith in 1976.
4. Confidence will take you places
"I knew that I wasn't the world's greatest guitarist..." - Thurston Moore plays down his iconic "guitar agitator" sound
Sonic Youth frontman Thurston Moore tells Steve why technique isn't everything.
5. Sometimes you just need to pay the rent
Watch Thurston perform Sonic Youth classic 100% and discuss his reasons for signing with a big record label
See a live performance of 100%, taken from the band's 1992 album Dirty.
6. Creative tuning is key to a great guitar sound
Watch Thurston Moore play Sonic Youth classic Sunday and talk about his unique approach to guitar tuning
See a performance of the classic track in the 6 Music Live Room.
