Learning with Li

Published on July 21, 2007

DragonForce's lead guitarist Herman Li jetted back to Bangkok last Saturday, the first stop on his 10-day Asian Guitar Clinic, packing out the AUA Auditorium with more than 200 teenagers, most of them boys.

"I'm so sorry for the girls who were forced to come along with their boyfriends," joked the Hong Kong-born guitarist.

"But it's great to see you all again. We really enjoyed our show here in May. Feel free to ask anything you want."

Most of questions posed to Li, considered by many as one of the world's best shredders, were about his techniques and how he manages to play with his tongue.

Below are his answers to some questions posed by The Nation.

You started playing the guitar in your teens. Who inspired to pick up the instrument?

I used to play video games all the time… that was my main hobby. When I was in my teens, I wanted to try something new so I started playing the guitar.

You are left-handed, but known as a right-handed guitarist. How did you force yourself to use your right hand?

I'm both left- and right-handed. I can punch people with my right hand. So, my right hand is also good. For some things I tend to use my left hand. For others, I use the right.

How did you create your signature sound?

It's taken me years and years of playing guitar and development. Every day, you know, you learn something. And today in the clinic, I have to learn something as well.

How many hours a day do you practise?

Usually four hours. I put on a CD and I play along with it"

You won the "Best Shredder" award at the annual Metal Hammer Golden Gods 2005. Why do you play fast?

I think it gives more energy. The songs sound better.

How do you work out the guitar parts with fellow DragonForce guitarist Sam Totman?

Well, two guitarists are better than one.

We have different styles, but we've worked together for a long time and we understand each other well.

When you know someone well, you can make your argument clearly. You say what you want. That's why we play together. We both express what we want.

You are now touring with your guitar clinic. What guitar lessons will you be giving the audience?

Anything and everything they ask me. They have any trouble playing, or want to know why something sounds bad, they can ask.

Why did you select an Ibanez guitar?

I have been using Ibanez for 14 years. It's easy to play and sounds good.

Do you plan to record a solo album?

Not for the moment, but possibly in the future. Right now, I don't have the time. If I do one, it will be different from the DragonForce sound.

Which guitar hero would you like to jam with?

I'm lucky enough to have already jammed with my favourites - Steve Vai and Joe Satriani. I consider myself really fortunate to have been given that opportunity.

What advice do you have for up-and-coming guitarists?

The more they learn, the more worthwhile it will be.

Jirasak Watthanaboon

Special to The Nation