Rik Emmett discusses Triumph, guitar skills, and new book Ten Telecaster Tales
r player. Triumph fans know this. But his guitar mastery goes beyond the stage. “People only see me as the finger-pickin’ guy in Triumph,” he told me. “But I can pick up any guitar and make it work. I didn’t get to show that side until later.” It’s no surprise his new book, Ten Telecaster Tales, is a hit.
Why Write Ten Telecaster Tales?
“Everyone’s got a book today,” Rik joked. “But mine’s different. I’m not complaining about the music biz or talking trash. These are stories about how I inspired people, like Dave Grohl. Sometimes, it’s just a hug that makes a difference.” And it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. “I talk about the way I quit Triumph. I needed something else. I was an emotional wreck with substance abuse problems.”
The Secret to Creating Great Music
You can tell Rik takes making music seriously. “It’s about chasing the spark,” he told me. “That’s the secret. You hear a song in your head, and you need to chase it down. Sometimes it’s easy, other times it’s like trying to pick up mercury with a fork.” And if you think that sounds intense, you’re right. For Rik, it’s all about connecting with people. “You see people respond to your music, and you know you’ve touched them.”
The Power of Music
“I owe everything to music,” Rik mused. “It’s a universal language. It doesn’t matter if you’re Chinese, Iraqi, or wherever. You play a chord, and it speaks to people.” And Rik’s just grateful to have had his journey. “Not everyone gets the chance to do what they love for most of their life,” he said. “I don’t take a day for granted.”
A Legacy Lives On
So what’s next for Rik? More music? Another book? “Oh, I don’t know,” he said with a laugh. “I’ll keep creating stuff until I can’t. Then someone else can take over.” But one thing’s for sure: his legacy will live on through his music, his stories, and the impact he’s made on countless fans worldwide.
In the end, chatting with Rik Emmett was like talking with an old friend. He’s just a regular guy with extraordinary talent and profound wisdom to share. Triumph may have melted our faces with their roaring riffs, but Rik Emmett’s true power lies in his heart and his ability to touch the lives of many through music.