August 2026 Challenge Response – James B

[James B]

Hi folks,
As a guitar player who likes to sing. One of my struggles is adding a finger style instrumental break in a song. It really adds a lot to the song if you can pull it off. So I took an old folk song that I’ve always liked, “The Last Thing On My Mind” by Tom Paxton and worked up a solo between verses. It needs a little work but I left it as it is to showcase the struggles.

[Michael Krailo]

That’s really special James. I like this one a lot. It’s a beautiful tune and you did it justice.

Root note patterns >>> CAGED shapes >>> TRIAD'S. Just put in the work and watch your guitar skills soar.

[Ben C]

Man, you are talented. What a brilliant voice and great playing

[AndréM]

The golden throat does is again! lol
Man you succeeded with your finger picking solo, love it.

AndréM

AndréM

[Don Patton jr]

Hi James,
Many things to like about this performance!
Finger style of play, vocals and the solo played! It all came together quite well … bravo 👏🎶🎵

Don P

[Dieter]

A wonderful song, played and sung with so much feeling—top-notch.

Dieter

[sciencefiction]

Another 5 start performance, James! Your middle solo was great, and any small mistakes made here (maybe 1), only enhances the overall ambiance and authenticity, I think. Great.
Larry

[Jonathan Amos]

I know that struggle well, I sing nearly all of my songs without any instrumental section. I feel after the fullness of chords, it’s hard to make an instrumental section have the same effect playing solo. And I’m afraid of making mistakes with a tricky solo. You did really well and overcame those difficulties. Classic song too, of course!

Jonathan Amos, Matsuyama, Japan

[Alan L]

I know this song well, I used to play it in a band. Love your version! Your solo is great- honors the melody, fills the gaps in between notes and keeps the rhythm moving along. Great stuff!

[Tremelow]

You are such an accomplished singer/guitar player that I was curious to hear what would challenge you. I think you tackled the solo extremely well. I wouldn’t have been able to tell that that’s your struggle. Great performance as usual, James.

[ranja]

Thanks so much for that James!
Ron

[Wayne Nunez]

Well done,love it!

[JoeD1]

Pro quality James. Your vocals and solo were just fine in my ears.

Joe

The sight of a touch, or the scent of a sound,
Or the strength of an Oak with roots deep in the ground.
--Graeme Edge

[Lights]

Beautiful song indeed, James! Always very nice to hear you singing.
Lights.

[Alan O]

James, that was beautiful! I always enjoy your posts.

Alan

[David H]

That sure was enjoyable to listen to. You blended the solo wonderfully. Mission accomplished.

[Mike W]

Great song choice James – that one took me back to the folk clubs of my youth. Lovely finger style and you certainly succeeded with the solo and you’re right – it adds a lot to the piece.

[Author]

Posts