Uploaded December 2025 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
In this in-depth interview, legendary guitarist Paul Gilbert sits down to discuss his upcoming album Washington’s Rules of Civility, a record inspired by perspective, maturity, and the idea of less whining and more personal responsibility. Known for his work with Mr. Big, Racer X, and his acclaimed solo career, Paul opens up about songwriting, guitar creativity, and what it means to take a more “presidential” approach to music and life.
We talk about Paul Gilbert’s evolution as a musician, balancing virtuosity with feel, and how decades in rock and metal have shaped his outlook. From shred guitar roots to thoughtful composition, this conversation offers insight into one of the most respected and influential guitar players in modern music.
If you’re searching for Paul Gilbert interview, Paul Gilbert new album, Washington’s Rules of Civility, guitar legends, rock guitar, shred guitar, Mr. Big, Racer X, or guitar player podcasts, this is a must-watch deep dive with a true icon.
New to the channel? #please_subscribe
0:00 Intro
1:00 Hectic Year End?
2:45 Washington's reaction
7:01 Being Presidential
9:36 Self Pity & Whining
11:15 Using AI to Write
13:43 Hostile Interviews
19:17 Melody or Shredding
24:20 Live Shows
25;15 Outro
Video used:
Paul Gilbert - Go Not Thither (Music Video) WROC youtube.com/watch?v=visjhSZl8xo&list=RDvisjhSZl8xo&start_radio=1
WROC is my first vocal album since 2016. The lyrics were inspired by the etiquette book, "George Washington's Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior." I truly enjoyed turning Washington's Rules of Civility (WROC) into ROCK songs! I hope my vocal and guitar melodies will stir your heart and improve your table manners. Spit Not in the Fire!
"Go Not Thither" - Written and Produced by Paul Gilbert
Lyrics inspired by Washington Rules: 53, 54, 55, 68, 3, 4, and 72
Hundreds of years ago, everyone must have been walking around kicking the earth. They kicked the earth so much, that a rule had to be invented to put a stop to it!
The rule to "Play not the peacock" is more difficult to follow. I know this, as I can't resist playing guitar solos while wearing a tricorn hat.
Paul Gilbert: Vocals and Guitar
Doug Rappoport: Guitar
Timmer Blakely: Bass
Nick D'Virgilio: Drums
Everyone sang the harmonies
In this in-depth interview, legendary guitarist Paul Gilbert sits down to discuss his upcoming album Washington’s Rules of Civility, a record inspired by perspective, maturity, and the idea of less whining and more personal responsibility. Known for his work with Mr. Big, Racer X, and his acclaimed solo career, Paul opens up about songwriting, guitar creativity, and what it means to take a more “presidential” approach to music and life.
We talk about Paul Gilbert’s evolution as a musician, balancing virtuosity with feel, and how decades in rock and metal have shaped his outlook. From shred guitar roots to thoughtful composition, this conversation offers insight into one of the most respected and influential guitar players in modern music.
If you’re searching for Paul Gilbert interview, Paul Gilbert new album, Washington’s Rules of Civility, guitar legends, rock guitar, shred guitar, Mr. Big, Racer X, or guitar player podcasts, this is a must-watch deep dive with a true icon.
New to the channel? #please_subscribe
0:00 Intro
1:00 Hectic Year End?
2:45 Washington's reaction
7:01 Being Presidential
9:36 Self Pity & Whining
11:15 Using AI to Write
13:43 Hostile Interviews
19:17 Melody or Shredding
24:20 Live Shows
25;15 Outro
Video used:
Paul Gilbert - Go Not Thither (Music Video) WROC youtube.com/watch?v=visjhSZl8xo&list=RDvisjhSZl8xo&start_radio=1
WROC is my first vocal album since 2016. The lyrics were inspired by the etiquette book, "George Washington's Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior." I truly enjoyed turning Washington's Rules of Civility (WROC) into ROCK songs! I hope my vocal and guitar melodies will stir your heart and improve your table manners. Spit Not in the Fire!
"Go Not Thither" - Written and Produced by Paul Gilbert
Lyrics inspired by Washington Rules: 53, 54, 55, 68, 3, 4, and 72
Hundreds of years ago, everyone must have been walking around kicking the earth. They kicked the earth so much, that a rule had to be invented to put a stop to it!
The rule to "Play not the peacock" is more difficult to follow. I know this, as I can't resist playing guitar solos while wearing a tricorn hat.
Paul Gilbert: Vocals and Guitar
Doug Rappoport: Guitar
Timmer Blakely: Bass
Nick D'Virgilio: Drums
Everyone sang the harmonies
