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UkeToob Has Moved!!!!

2009-09-02T11:48:00.003-04:00

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Thanks,

Donnie Bubbles

HaileISela & Stotco - Life's beautiful

2009-09-02T07:00:00.003-04:00

Well done original song by HaileISela and his friend Stotco....

YouTube: HaileISela
MySpace: Stotco

Ben Mealer - I Saw Stars

2009-09-01T07:00:00.004-04:00

Ben, who's singing and mouth trumpeting are a perfect match for the banjolele, does a great job on this song he learned from a tutorial by Coveywood.

YouTube Channel: benmealer
Tutorial: Coveywood - I Saw Stars

St. Claire (was Forsythe) - Unknown Song

2009-08-31T07:00:00.004-04:00

The recording is a little squelchy at times, but worth putting up with for such a fine singer....

MySpace: StClaireBoston

africatwin07 - Georgia on my Mind

2009-08-30T07:00:00.000-04:00

Excellent instrumental take on the Ray Charles classic....

YouTube Channel: africatwin07

Chords and Lyrics: Ray Charles Georgia on my Mind - Ukulele

allstarmar - Brand New Key (the Roller-Skate Song)

2009-08-29T07:00:00.004-04:00

Fun song and a great performance by the modestly named AllStarMar....

YouTube Channel: allstarmar

Chords and Lyrics: Deana Carter Brand New Key - Ukulele

Phil Doleman - Angry Beavers Theme

2009-08-28T07:00:00.002-04:00

Back when my evil spawn ruled the TV remote, The Angry Beavers was the only show they liked that didn't make me want to poke my own eyes out, so I still have a soft spot for this song....

YouTube Channel: PhilDoleman

Howlin' Hobbit - Fly Me to the Moon

2009-08-27T07:00:00.004-04:00

Can't decide which is more shocking: how cool Hobbit looks in a fez, or the fact that so many people can walk past a busker of his talent and not drop some coins in his case....

YouTube Channel: HowlinHobbit

Chords and Lyrics: Frank Sinatra Fly me to the Moon - Ukulele

Sheepstar15 - Ain't Nobody's Business

2009-08-26T07:00:00.004-04:00

Bessie Smith's "Ain't Nobody's Business" by way of Eric Clapton's version played on a beautiful Makapili pineapple uke with just enough reverb to make it awesome ....

YouTube Channel: Sheepstar15

Chords and Lyrics: Bessie Smith Ain't Nobody's Business - Ukulele

Danielle Ate the Sandwich - Ooh Child

2009-08-25T07:00:00.004-04:00

This is it - the last Danielle Ate the Sandwich video we are going to post. Every time she releases one it is the best video of the week if not the month, so she is going into the "UkeToob Pantheon of Ukers You Should Already be Subscribing to and Hence There is No Reason for Me to Mention That They Have a New Video."

YouTube Channel: daniellesmagic

Agathe - New Born

2009-08-24T07:00:00.002-04:00

Great strumming, interesting and well produced video, but her voice is still the star of any show...

YouTube Channel: Peyrson

Chords and Lyrics: Muse New Born (Requires Work to Decipher)

plexophonic - I'm Pau

2009-08-23T07:00:00.003-04:00

Plexophonic back with another fun multi-track-split-screen extravaganza....

YouTube Channel: Plexophonic

jazzdog49 - Black Orpheus

2009-08-22T07:00:00.003-04:00

Day Six of Baritone Week: Bossa Nova played sweet and mellow on the baritone....

YouTube Channel: jazzdog49

Chords: Black Orpheus - Baritone Ukulele

Tarbank - Fresh from the Cave

2009-08-21T07:00:00.003-04:00

Day Five of Baritone Week: Tarbank prefers re-entrant tuning for his baritone. Not sure if I agree, or if I just believe anything he says with that melodious voice of his....

YouTube: Tarbank

Annie and Mac: http://www.youtube.com/user/annieandmac

Tom Allard - I Wish You Love

2009-08-20T07:00:00.004-04:00

Day Four of Baritone Week: Lovely round tones from the vintage Martin Baritone in this video recommended by Doogey9....

YouTube: AllardTom

Tom's Web Site: http://www.cigarboxukes.com

Chords and Lyrics: Frank Sinatra I Wish You Love - Baritone Ukulele

KDUS - Guaglione

2009-08-19T07:00:00.003-04:00

Day Three of Baritone Week: KDUS in a duet with an off camera soprano....

YouTube Channel: KDUS

Soprano: Bushman Jenny
Baritone: 50's Harmony baritone ukulele

Deach - It Hurts Me Too

2009-08-18T07:00:00.006-04:00

Day Two of Baritone Week and we're not saving the best for last. Deach, whose playing and singing is as loose and funky as his fashion sense, took advantage of his near death experience to channel some real blues growl for this number...

Elmore James:

YouTube Channel: Deach69

Chords and Lyrics: Elmore James It Hurts Me Too - Baritone Ukulele

Doogey9 - Cryin Holy Unto the Lord

2009-08-17T07:00:00.003-04:00

Todd, who you may know better as the insanely prolific Doogey9, is dedicating a week worth of new videos to his baritone uke. Knowing a good idea when we hear it, UkeToob is following suit by only publishing baritone videos this week.

YouTube Channel: Doogey9

Baritone Ukulele Hunt: http://baritoneukulelehunt.com/

WS64 - Honey Pie

2009-08-16T07:00:00.001-04:00

The great ukulele soloist, WS64, with another well realized cover....

YouTube Channel: WS64

UkeHunt Saturday UkeTube Special 2.0

2009-08-15T07:00:00.009-04:00

This is my second humble attempt to keep you entertained in Woodshed's absence and boy I am glad he comes back next week cause this is a lot more work than it looks! Out of respect (and a little tiny bit of laziness) we begin and end with the man himself....

Woodshed - Gossip (Backchat)

With a little "you, you got what I need" bonus round for good measure....

Katiephampham - Maybe I Will

Excellent Julia Nunes cover by the always fun Katie....

Wade Johnston - Will You Return?

Not one of Woodshed's favorite performers, but then he's not here, now is he....

Melissa McCraw - First Day of My Life
Charming and heartfelt performance....

The Masked Uke - Little Wing Tutorial

Fair warning! Tab those great songs now or the vigilantes will rise up and do it for you!

Ken Middleton - Ukulele Improvisation

Always a pleasure....

Woodshed - This Is Why We're Not Allowed Anything Nice

Demonstrating why he is qualified to write the book on uke strumming....

Sweet Hollywaiians - My Girl From The South Sea Isles

2009-08-14T07:00:00.003-04:00

One of the new songs on the Sweet Hollywaiians` new album, "Ticklin` the Strings."

CDbaby: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/SweetHollywaiians1

YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/laurelmookie

MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/sweethollywaiians
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sweet-Hollywaiians/43196384038?ref=ts

Seeso - I Wish It Would Rain

2009-08-13T07:00:00.004-04:00

Seeso really belts it out for iamdanielle's "Shake Your Soul" competition....

YouTube Channel: seeso

Tabs: The Temptations I Wish it Would Rain - Ukulele

schuermurrman - At Last

2009-08-12T07:00:00.003-04:00

Lana's Etta James cover features a use for a lamp that I am sure the Underwriters Association would not approve of....

YouTube Channel: schuermurrman

Chords and Lyrics: Etta James At Last

Monsterbazz - Enjoy Yourself

2009-08-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

Sebi kicks this Doris Day song up with a reggae groove....

YouTube Channel: monsterbazz

Chords and Lyrics: Doris Day Enjoy Yourself

Coveywood - Mr. Sandman

2009-08-10T07:00:00.003-04:00

Even though I have put up several of Coveywood's "Best Strum" videos, it never occurred to me to look for his full songs. Thanks to Ben Mealer for pointing out this excellent performance with his Pindrop Band....

YouTube Channel: coveywood

Chords and Lyrics: Pat Ballard Mr Sandman - Ukulele

Design Machine - Hello Mabel

2009-08-09T07:00:00.003-04:00

When Whitney has fun, we all have fun....

YouTube Channel: theDesingnmachine

Chords and Lyrics: Bonzo Dog Band Hello Mabel

UkeHunt Saturday UkeTube Special

2009-08-08T07:00:00.004-04:00

This seven video special is my humble attempt to live up to honor (curse?) bestowed upon me by Mr. Woodshed to satisfy your Saturday UkeTube craving in his absence...

The Pyles - Danny Says (Ramones Cover)

One of the most incredible voices I have heard in years....

RawUke - One Love (Bob Marley Ukulele Solo)

Quick, fun, percussive uke solo....

Colin R Tribe - Right Hand Playing Techniques Part 1

His impressive finger style playing and excellent tabs make him a "must subscribe" uker....

wwelti - Gaillarde (Anonymous)

Short and sweet Renaissance style solo....

Luke Baily - I Saw Jesus at....

Rip-roaring fun at the Ukulele Cabaret Chicago's Uker's Wild show....

jbdazen - The Geeks Are Out!

Geeks playing ukulele? What will they think of next?

TheGentleSurprise - Carryin' That Load (Ray Charles)

A personal favorite - hope you like them too....

Colin R Tribe - Sound of Silence

2009-08-07T07:00:00.002-04:00

Colin's patented Uniquelele finger style playing is put to good use on this classic song. As always, email Colin and he will send you a copy of his excellent tab....

Simon and Garfunkel:

YouTube Channel: colinrtribe

shanifawni - Sentimental Heart

2009-08-06T07:00:00.002-04:00

Shani with a great cover of this She & Him song....

YouTube Channel: shanifawni
Chords and Lyrics: She & Him Sentimental Heart - Ukulele

Mark Occhionero - A Spanish Theme

2009-08-05T07:00:00.001-04:00

Original jazzy Spanish theme played on his 1890's reproduction of a Jose do Espirito Santo ukulele built by Michael DaSilva....

YouTube Channel: markocchionero

boundless - Ukulele Lady

2009-08-04T07:00:00.002-04:00

Way fun cover of the ukulele classic....

YouTube Channel: boundless

Chords and Lyrics: Khan and Whiting Ukulele Lady - Ukulele

No Skanks On Sunday - Take The Skinheads Bowling

2009-08-03T07:00:00.003-04:00

Introducing Amy, Jodi and Zoe's new all girl ukulele supergroup....

Camper van Beethoven:

YouTube Channels: helloukulele, amyknitty, ukulelezo

Chords and Lyrics: Camper van Beethoven Take the Skinheads Bowling - Ukulele

plexophonic - My Walking Stick

2009-08-02T07:00:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Michael Lande for bringing this great performance to our attention....

Irving Berlin:

YouTube Channel: plexophonic

Chords and Lyrics: Irving Berlin My Walking Stick - Ukulele

Chipswow - Biscuits

2009-08-01T07:00:00.002-04:00

Charming original from a charming original....

YouTube: chipswow

Myrsky27 - She

2009-07-31T07:00:00.002-04:00

She couldn't sleep, so she made us this great cover of She by Green Day....

YouTube Channel: myrsky27

Chords and Lyrics: Green Day She - Ukulele

Julesmail67 - Space Oddity

2009-07-30T07:00:00.002-04:00

Lovely solo version of the beautiful Bowie song....

YouTube Channel: julesmail67
Chords and Lyrics: David Bowie Space Oddity - Ukulele

Last Name Basis - Crazy

2009-07-29T07:00:00.002-04:00

Fun, sparse cover of the new classic....

YouTube Channel: jriley626

Chords and Lyrics: Gnarls Barkley Crazy - Ukulele

KowKowKooks - Worried about Ray

2009-07-28T07:00:00.002-04:00

I just can't get enough of her voice....

YouTube Channel: KowKowKooks

Chords and Lyrics: The Hoosiers Worried About Ray - Ukulele

BaronK69 - One

2009-07-27T07:00:00.002-04:00

Excellent cover of U2's best song....

YouTube Channel: BaronK69

Chords and Lyrics: U2 One - Ukulele

Neal Paisley - Boomerang

2009-07-26T07:00:00.003-04:00

It is always a treat when Neal puts out a new video....

YouTube Channel: NealPaisley

PaulinaSinaga - In The Jailhouse Now

2009-07-25T07:00:00.003-04:00

Paulina rocking the uke, bass and a mop beard....

YouTube Channel: paulinasinaga

Chords and Lyrics: Webb Pierce In the Jailhouse Now

Ukelilli - I Love You So Much

2009-07-24T07:00:00.002-04:00

Lilli garnered a good review from Simon Pegg, our greatest living actor....

YouTube Channel: UkeLilli

Web Site: http://ukelilli.com/

UkesterBrown - Pennies From Heaven

2009-07-23T07:00:00.003-04:00

Inspired by Michael Lynch's arrangement, Ukester Brown and his little dog recorded this classic song to remind you about the excellent (but mostly forgotten) verse that goes with the chorus we all know.

YouTube Channel: UkesterBrown
Chords and Lyrics: Bing Crosby Pennies from Heaven - Ukulele

Uncle Jeff - Free Bird

2009-07-22T07:00:00.003-04:00

Free Bird, as Uncle Jeff heard it sung by Hank Williams in a dream...need I say more?

Lynyrd Skynyrd:

YouTube Channel: UncleJeff64

Free Bird: Lynyrd Skynyrd Free Bird - Ukulele

The Pyles - Call Out My Name

2009-07-21T07:00:00.002-04:00

Incredible singer, and possibly the most talented smoker on earth! Thanks to Uncle Jeff for the tip on this one....

YouTube Channel: bummerwolf

BobbThompson - Blister in the Sun

2009-07-20T07:00:00.004-04:00

I do love this performance, but I posted it mostly as an excuse to link to Stacey George's beautifully produced and handy Luau Sing-Along booklet containing chords and lyrics for 26 ditties (including this one) that are guaranteed to get your summertime party started.

Violent Femmes:

YouTube Channel: bobbthompson

Chords and Lyrics: Violent Femmes Blister in the Sun - Ukulele

tUnE-yArDs - FIYA

2009-07-19T07:00:00.005-04:00

Another great video of tUnE-YaRdS from Hooves on the Turf, an excellent place to see and hear new artists....

tUnE-YaRdS:

Web Site: tUnE-YaRdS

UkeToob.com Interview: tUnE-YaRdS

tUne-YaRds: "FIYA" {Live} from Ray Concepcion on Vimeo.

tUnE-YaRdS - At the Secret Garden

2009-07-18T07:00:00.004-04:00

Exceptional film of an extraordinary performer (recently signed to 4AD) who takes the ukulele into uncharted waters....

tUnE-YaRdS:

Web Site: tUnE-YaRdS

UkeToob.com Interview: tUnE-YaRdS

tUnE-yArDs at the Secret Garden from hoovesontheturf on Vimeo.

FiPfft - Lithium

2009-07-17T07:00:00.002-04:00

I particularly enjoy the voice-boxed cymbal crashes in Fi's swinging multi-track cover of this Nirvana song...

Nirvana:

YouTube Channel: FiPfft

Chords and Lyrics: Nirvana Lithium

waitswatcher - Cemetary Polka

2009-07-16T07:00:00.005-04:00

There are so many very good uke videos that I try to save the big kudos for the really great ones. This is it - absolutely incredible finger-picking Tom Waits cover by his number one ukulele playing fan....

Tom Waits:

YouTube Channel: waitswatcher

Chords and Lyrics: Tom Waits Cemetary Polka

Free MP3's - WaitsWatchers's Instrumental Covers of Tom Waits: http://www.box.net/shared/neckughhee

Amanda Palmer - If You Want to Sing Out, Sing Out

2009-07-15T07:00:00.001-04:00

Nice, casual performance of a great Cat Stevens song....

YouTube Channel:

Chords and Lyrics: Cat Stevens If You Want To Sing Out, Sing Out

Sweetafton23 - Our American Cousin

2009-07-14T07:00:00.003-04:00

Molly hits again with this charming song about the assassination of Abe Lincoln....

YouTube Channel: sweetafton23

Colin R Tribe - Ben

2009-07-13T07:00:00.001-04:00

Okay, I'm sick of hearing about MJ too, but then Colin put up this great instrumental and....

YouTube Channel: colinrtribe
Tabs: Ask nicely at colinrtribe@btinternet.com and he will send them to you

Danielle Ate the Sandwich - Fortunate Son

2009-07-12T07:00:00.005-04:00

I am not a CCR fan, and Fortunate Son is near the top of my "worst songs of all time" list, yet Danielle knocks it out of the park and has had me singing it for days now - now that is magic....

Danielle Ate the Sandwich:

YouTube Channel: daniellesmagic

Chords and Lyrics: Creedence Clearwater Revival Fortunate Son - Ukulele

Capotastomusic - Fur Elise

2009-07-11T07:00:00.003-04:00

Nice performance and tab for a song that will make your mother say "awwww..."

YouTube Channel: Capotastomusic

Web Site: http://www.capotastomusic.com
Tab: Beethoven Fur Elise - Ukulele

Casetone2514 - Novocaine For The Soul

2009-07-10T07:00:00.003-04:00

Strange how well dark songs translate to the "bright and happy" ukulele....

Eels:

YouTube Channel: casetone2514

Chords and Lyrics: Eels Novocaine for the Soul - Ukulele

Katie Pham - Bucket

2009-07-09T07:00:00.003-04:00

The charming Katie Pham with another great cover....

Kings of Leon:

YouTube Channel: katiephampham

Chords and Lyrics: Kings of Leon Bucket - Ukulele

Degcon - Walk, Don`t Run

2009-07-08T07:00:00.004-04:00

DeG having fun with his green screen....

YouTube Channel: degcon

Tabs: Ventures Walk, Don't Run - Ukulele

Ken Middleton - Improvisation in Paris

2009-07-07T07:00:00.004-04:00

Ken taking a break along the banks of the Seine to improv on the song "If I get Murdered in the City" by the Avett Brothers.

YouTube Channel: KenMiddletonUkulele

Chords and Lyrics: The Avett Brothers If I get Murdered in the City - Ukulele

Michael Lynch - Hard Days Night - Lesson

2009-07-06T07:00:00.004-04:00

Another great lesson from Michael Lynch, with a little personal history to boot....

YouTube Channel: MusicTeacher2009
Chords and Lyrics: The Beatles Hard Day's Night - Ukulele

Coveywood - 4th Best Strum

2009-07-05T07:00:00.003-04:00

Another fun strum from Coveywood...

YouTube Channel: COVEYWOOD

Snake Suspenderz - Don't Get Around Much Anymore

2009-07-04T07:00:00.005-04:00

Snake Suspenderz, featuring Howlin' Hobbit on uke, is a great old time jazz band. If you are in the Seattle area, check out their live shows for a fun night out. And if you can't make a show, their new album, available in CD or on , will fill your home or auto with sweet sounds.

YouTube Channel: HowlinHobbit

Gentle Surprise - Birdhouse in your Soul

2009-07-03T07:00:00.007-04:00

I think I may have said this about at least three other songs, but this is really my favorite song of all time, and it's good to see The Gentle Surprise is out playing live with the Passive Aggressive Trio, even if the sound on this recording is a little rough....

They Might Be Giants:

YouTube Channel: TheGentleSurprise

Chords and Lyrics: They Might Be Giants Birdhouse in your Soul - Ukulele

UncleJeff64 - Git'ninny Blues

2009-07-02T07:00:00.007-04:00

This original is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Uncle Jeff, who has a mean claw-hammer but a sweet disposition, is performing live on the WDVX Blue Plate Special radio show this coming Monday.

Outside of the broadcast area, the show can be heard live on the WDVX Web Cast on July 6th, 2009 - 12:00 Noon Eastern Time (GMT - 5:00)

YouTube Channel: UncleJeff64

WS64 - Only You

2009-07-01T07:00:00.002-04:00

A richly fleshed out instrumental cover from the always exceptional WS64....

YouTube Channel: WS64

Chords and Lyrics: Yaz - Yazoo - Only You - Ukulele

AdelleTheGreat - Punk Rock Girl

2009-06-30T07:00:00.003-04:00

Great cover of an under appreciated Philly band....

YouTube Channel: AdelleTheGreat

HaileISela - I just can't get enough

2009-06-29T07:00:00.004-04:00

Tagged by the naked ukulele virus....

YouTube Channel: haileisela

Chords and Lyrics: Depeche Mode I Just Can't Get Enough - Ukulele

Seeso - She`s Out of My Life

2009-06-28T07:00:00.004-04:00

No matter what you thought of the man, you have to admit Michael did write some great songs. This beautiful instrumental cover by Seeso is a fitting tribute to a lost artist....

Michael Jackson:

YouTube Channel: seeso

Tabs: Michael Jackson She's Out of My Life - Ukulele

Portland Ukulele Big Band - Alexander`s Ragtime Band

2009-06-27T07:00:00.003-04:00

From Jim D'Ville, who made the video:

James Hill presented a three-day workshop at this year's Portland Ukulele Festival entitled "Ukulele Big Band". James wrote a big band arrangement of Alexander's Ragtime Band and then taught the different "horn" parts to the class. On day three, the Portland Ukulele Big Band made its debut performance in the Student Union at Reed College. You had to be there! The sound was incredible. I can't wait until next year to hear The Portland Ukulele Bigger Band! I wasn't in the class, I was on the faculty of the festival teaching Play Ukulele by Ear, a new approach to rid the world of excessive paper with chord symbols written on it.

YouTube Channel: jimdville

James Hill: www.ukuleleJames.com

Portland Uke Fest: www.portlandukefest.org

Jim's Band, Caravan Gogh: www.caravangogh.com

Hugh Coltman - Sixteen

2009-06-26T07:00:00.005-04:00

Cargo Video, and the similar La Blogotheque, are the best places to hear your favorite bands, and new bands that will soon be favorites. Their videos of acoustic performances, usually filmed in public places, strip songs to their bare essentials and let them shine. This performance, by the excellent Hugh Coltman, is no exception.

Hugh Coltman:

YouTube Channel: hughcoltman

YouTube Channel: cargovideo

YouTube Channel: La Blogotheque

Leila Valentine - Black Hole Sun

2009-06-25T07:00:00.006-04:00

One of the excellent videos you will find on the Toronto based Corktown Ukulele Jam channel....

Soundgarden:

YouTube Channel: torontoukes

Web Site: torontoukes.com

Chords and Lyrics: Soundgarden Black Hole Sun - Ukulele

africatwin07 - Not the Man I Used to Be

2009-06-24T07:00:00.001-04:00

According to africatwin07, the chords are simple enough G - Bm7 - C - Am - D, just rolls along like that with some pinky finger flicking around on the A string mostly.

Fine Young Cannibals:

YouTube Channel: africatwin07

Ben Mealer - Nearness of You

2009-06-23T07:00:00.001-04:00

Ben's sepia-tone version makes for a perfect cover of Hoagy Carmichael's Nearness of You....

Hoagy Carmichael:
YouTube Channel: benmealer
Chords and Lyrics: Hoagy Carmichael Nearness of You - Ukulele

Ukulele World Record

2009-06-22T07:00:00.003-04:00

Looks like everyone had a great time setting the new world record in London this last weekend....

YouTube Channel: Benjaminspeed123

littleponykate - I Fought the Law

2009-06-21T07:00:00.007-04:00

Now this is the true essence of punk rock: eight years old, four strings, one fuzzed up amp, and your brother hiding behind the chair with his trumpet....

The Clash:

The Bobby Fuller Four:

YouTube Channel: littleponykate

Chords and Lyrics: The Clash I Fought the Law - Ukulele

Side Note: My new eleuke showed up this week and man is it fun! I wouldn't recommend it for a first uke, or even for your primary uke, but it does serve two special purposes well:

1 - Without amplification, it's much less annoying for my family when I practice too much.

2 - With amplification, it rocks!

I bought mine from "My Music Life" on Amazon (see links below.) The fact that the bulk of their business is in music jewelry made me a little nervous, but the prices were too good to pass up - at least 25% less then I could find anywhere else for new, and only $15 to ship in US.

As promised, the Mahogany Tenor ($224 + $15 shipping) arrived in perfect condition seven days after I placed the order. The action is considerably higher than my fluke, so it's taking time to get chords like D not to buzz, but it sounds, looks and feels great.

Jake Shimabukuro - Video Interview

2009-06-20T07:00:00.007-04:00

When I heard Jake would be playing at the Colonial Theater in Phoenixville, Pa, which is right down the road from me, I jumped at the chance to see him live. If you haven't seen him yet, do not miss the opportunity - on video and record he is amazing - live you will not believe your eyes or your ears.

Once good tickets were secured, I decided to take the express train out of my comfort zone and try to set up a video interview with him. Much to my delight, his media manager, Michael Bloom, and tour manager, Mark Darlen, were amazingly helpful in arranging time for the interview, and the rumors about Jake are true: he is the most friendly, gracious and humble person I have ever met.

First Excuse: While acoustically good, the Colonial is 100 years old, and those were hard worn years. My plan was two cameras and a sound recorder covering Jake and I sitting in the front row, but we had no control over the house lights so we had to set up on stage. There was only one seat, which I thought I should graciously let Jake have, especially since it was his seat. This left me rocking around on the squeaky floorboards of the stage. With all that rocking and squeaking, I decided to just go with the one best camera and sound source.

The final footage was cut into two nine minute videos. My questions with time stamps are listed below in case you want to jump to a specific question/answer.

Part 1

0:00 - There are a few people in a lifetime that are truly extraordinary in their field: people like Tiger in golf, Bruce in Martial Arts, and Michael in basketball. More than just successful, they make the impossible look effortless, and accomplish amazing feats with a grace and economy of motion that is beautiful to behold.

If you wanted to add a musician to that list, it would be Jake Shimabukuro. Listen to him play and you will assume you are listening to several musicians. See him play, and you will be amazed.

0:35 - Sometimes, when musicians reach a high level of skill they get trapped in that skill and lose sight of the music. While complex, your arrangements serve the music well and don’t come across as excessive. Is this a balance you work to maintain when you are composing and arranging songs?

2:45 - In Malcolm Gladwell’s book, The Outliers, he asserts that it takes 10,000 hours of practice to be world class at anything: hockey, playing classical music, you name it – 10,000 hours. At 40 hours a week, that’s about 5 years. When would you estimate that you crossed the 10,000 hour mark, and does that time period correlate with any milestones in your career?

6:08 - Rumor has it that you are finally releasing the fabled "Book of Jake Tabs" next year. Is this true, and do you have a song list and release date yet?

Part 2

0:00 - In addition to your solo work, you have toured and recorded with musicians as diverse as Bela Fleck, Jimmy Buffet and Yo Yo Ma. In which of these situations do you feel most comfortable, and in which do you feel the most challenged creatively?

5:00 - Your brother, Bruce, is a talented ukulele player too. Do you have plans to work together on any projects?

6:10 - James Hill is the other ukulele player in your range. Do you know each other, and will there ever be a Jake/James duet?

7:35 - At the other end of the ukulele experience range, there is me. If I was a baseball fan and met Babe Ruth, I would have to ask him to play a game of catch. I would like to try and play something together with you, if that's okay? (Last Excuse: This is my first performance on video, and I'm sure you can guess who was hitting the flat notes ;-)

Jake Shimabukuro:

Web Site: www.JakeShimabukuro.com
Photo Credit: Hisashi Uchida

More Jake Shimabukuro on UkeToob.com

More Interviews on Uketoob.com

UkesterBrown - Brother Can You Spare a Dime

2009-06-19T07:00:00.002-04:00

All to appropriate these days, "Brother can you spare a dime" is one of UkesterBrown favorites, and as he says, the ukulele gives it the 4 part lonelies...

YouTube Channel: UkesterBrown

Chords and Lyrics: Brother Can You Spare a Dime - Ukulele

misterd699 - When I dream...

2009-06-18T07:00:00.002-04:00

Nice baritone number by Mark Di Marzio...

YouTube Channel: misterd699

shanifawni - Pregnant

2009-06-17T07:00:00.003-04:00

If you don't know the Cold War Kids, check out their videos on La Blogotheque. They are great on the albums, but the songs really shine when they are stripped down to the bones, as they did on La Blog, and Shanifawni does here....

Cold War Kids:

YouTube Channel: shanifawni

russbuss415 - The Sky is Blue

2009-06-16T07:00:00.004-04:00

Russ says this is his "lame attempt at animation done with with Sony Vegas and many hours of my life I'll never get back."

YouTube Channel: russbuss415

sharonswt - Love Game

2009-06-15T07:00:00.003-04:00

Really fun cover of Lady Gaga's Love Game....

YouTube Channel: sharonswt

adellethegreat - Spiderman Theme

2009-06-14T07:00:00.001-04:00

Spiderman, spiderman, does strange things in the background, spiderman....

YouTube Channel: adellethegreat
Chords and Lyrics: Bob Harris Spiderman Theme - Ukulele

GUGUG - Miserlou

2009-06-13T07:00:00.002-04:00

It is so much fun to watch GUGUG doing this song....

YouTube Channel: GUGUG

Ken Middleton - Wabash Cannonball - ukulele bluegrass

2009-06-12T07:00:00.001-04:00

Another excellent example from Ken's new book: 12 Tunes for Bluegrass Ukulele.

YouTube Channel: KenMiddletonUkulele
Tabs: 12 Tunes for Bluegrass Ukulele

thingsBIGthe - Any Way You Want It

2009-06-11T07:00:00.002-04:00

A uketopian picnic - four uke friends jamming Journey in the park...summer is officially here!

Journey:
YouTube Channel: thingsBIGthe

Chords and Lyrics: Journey Any Way You Want It - Ukulele

Colin R Tribe - I'll Never Fall In Love Again

2009-06-10T07:00:00.002-04:00

Uniquelele fingerstyle solo version of this Burt Bacharach and Hal David song, arranged and played on Ukulele by Colin R Tribe.

Burt Bacharach:

YouTube Channel: colinrtribe

Tabs: Email colinrtribe@btinternet.com and he will gladly send you a copy of his excellent tab, and wish you well to boot!

gadaya - The Aloha Rag

2009-06-09T07:00:00.002-04:00

A little and simple instrumental gadaya likes to play on the ukulele...

YouTube Channel: gadaya

Seeso - War Pigs

2009-06-08T07:00:00.006-04:00

Seeso's back and with a vengeance! His War Pigs was my official personal favorite for the Baron's Golden Era Metal Ukulele Contest, even if he didn't win, and his tab of the song is at the top of my "must learn to play" list.

Black Sabbath:

YouTube Channel: seeso

MP3: Seeso War Pigs - Ukulele
Tabs: Black Sabbath War Pigs - Ukulele

Colin Barley - Vampire Song (You Know A Lot About Me)

2009-06-07T07:00:00.002-04:00

Couldn't wait for Halloween to put this one up....

YouTube Channel: BarleyC

Tina and the B-Sides - Wire

2009-06-06T07:00:00.002-04:00

Minneapolis native, Tina Schlieske, is bringing back her band, Tina and the B-Sides, for a limited tour.

Tina Schlieske:

Tina and the B-Sides:

YouTube Channel: tinabsides90

Web Site: http://www.tinabsides.com/

Ken Middleton - A Bluegrass Calypso

2009-06-05T07:00:00.004-04:00

Ken has published his first eBook - 12 Tunes for Bluegrass Ukulele - and it's really good. His ukulele arrangements of 11 classic bluegrass songs, and this original bluegrass/calypso hybrid, are made all the richer by his clear and insightful performing notes for each of the songs.

YouTube Channel: KenMiddletonUkulele

Web Site: http://www.kenmiddleton.co.uk

UkeToob Interview: Ken Middleton

griemers - A Wink and a Smile

2009-06-04T07:00:00.001-04:00

Fine job, especially for a first time poster....

Harry Connick Jr:
YouTube Channel: griemers

Chords and Lyrics: Harry Connick Jr A Wink and a Smile - Ukulele

KowKowKooks - Candy

2009-06-03T07:00:00.002-04:00

Her voice gets me every time....

Paolo Nutini:

YouTube Channel: KowKowKooks

Chords and Lyrics: Paolo Nutini - Candy

Woodshed - Rockabilly Roustabout

2009-06-02T07:00:00.005-04:00

Woodshed was (almost) too modest to mention this quick little rambler with the other fine videos on the UkeleleHunt Saturday UkeTube....

YouTube Channel: Woodshed1

Web Site: www.UkuleleHunt.com

AlexGeh - Beautiful Girl

2009-06-01T07:00:00.002-04:00

One of several charming original songs on Alexander's channel....

YouTube Channel: AlexGeh

Chords and Lyrics: Alexander Gehlsdorf Beautiful Girl (In Notes)

Michael Lynch - Everyday (Lesson)

2009-05-31T07:00:00.005-04:00

Another excellent lesson by Mr. Lynch. I urge you to check out his channel for more great video lessons.

Buddy Holly:

YouTube Channel: MusicTeach2009
Chords and Lyrics: Buddy Holly Everyday - Ukulele

TheLex78 - Kiss

2009-05-30T07:00:00.003-04:00

I have been a sucker for this song for years...

Prince:

YouTube Channel: TheLex78

WebSite: http://www.ukulpic.fr/

Chords and Lyrics: Prince Kiss

HigeTomoGuitar - The Days Of Wine And Roses

2009-05-29T07:00:00.002-04:00

Excellent work on this jazz standard....

YouTube Channel: HigeTomoGuitar

Chords and Lyrics: Andy Williams Days of Wine and Roses - Ukulele

Ukisociety - Satellite of Love

2009-05-28T07:00:00.002-04:00

Ukisociety says he arranged this version himself because the online versions he came across didn't work right....

Lou Reed:
YouTube Channel: UKISOCIETY
Chords and Lyrics: Lou Reed Satellite of Love - Ukulele (not ukisociety's special arrangement)

degcon - The Boys are Back in Town

2009-05-27T07:00:00.002-04:00

Of all the theme-based-ukulele-video-contests out there these days, the Baron's Golden Era Metal Ukulele Contest has turned up some of the best performances, and DeG's is one of my favorites so far....

Thin Lizzy:
YouTube Channel: degcon
Chords and Lyrics: Thin Lizzy The Boys are Back in Town - Ukulele