TXBA Locals Member Testimonials

Wondering if the TXBA Locals program is right for you?
Read what our members have to say about the program and how it has affected their playing.

“I’ve followed Anthony’s page since the StevieSnacks days. I’m an intermediate player who has played for about 20 years. I’ve taken some in-person lesson over the years, but I am mostly self taught, especially now with the YouTube boom of the past 15 years, thanks to channels like his. I mentioned to a friend I was looking for a good online curriculum for a more structured approach, and he said I had to sign up for the TXBA Locals program. He said the production quality and instruction was unparalleled, and he was absolutely correct! I’ve been working through the Essential Fretboard course and I’ve already learned so much! I’m familiar with the “CAGED” system, but I’ve never had the light bulb moment I found almost immediately within the first few lessons. Thanks to Anthony for all the hard work. The quality and his love for the instrument and instruction is truly inspiring and highly appreciated.”

-- Joshua Higdon , 02/24/2023

“Thank you again Anthony! I just want you to know how much your site has helped me with my blues playing. Since I first encountered your SRV course on True Fire many years ago, I have become a big fan of your great guitar playing. This led me to Texas Blues Alley. Your unique ability to break down and explain concepts succinctly and concisely is a testament to both your talent as a musician and also an instructor. “

-- Norman Goodman , 10/30/2022

Translated From French A message of encouragement for all francophones who would hesitate to become a local member, I did it and I don’t regret a second. It brought me rigor in the work of the guitar, the lessons are so well structured with a progression that allows you to achieve the desired goal. The last course published on the rhythm & lead mix is ​​really a pleasure to follow, I learn a lot of things there. Go for it! Anthony, thank you for all this work!

Original Message. Un message d’encouragement pour tous les francophones qui hésiteraient à devenir membre local, je l’ai fait et je ne regrette pas une seconde. Cela m’a apporté de la rigueur dans le travail de la guitare, les cours sont tellement bien structuré avec une progression qui permet d’atteindre le but recherché. Le dernier cours publié sur le mélange rythm & lead est vraiment un plaisir à suivre, j’y apprend plein de choses. Allez-y foncez! Anthony, merci pour tout ce travail!”

-- Christophe MAGUY , 10/20/2022

“I took about a year before writing this in order to have adequate experience with TXBA.

This site is without a doubt the premier site for Texas Blues in terms of content, delivery and tech. Full disclosure I also have membership to two of the other most popular learning websites. I mention that to illustrate some familiarity with guitar song / learning websites.

Content… I am a Native Texan.. This site “gets” Texas blues. SRV the most obvious however the other seminal Texas Blues men are also showcased. IMO you don’t know the blues unless you know some history that lead to this unique music we call Texas Blues.

Delivery…. The detailed analysis with illustration,demonstration and explanation in video , tab and unique fretboard patterns are unique and immensely helpful. Song Guides are a wealth of insight. As an example it was a revelation on Texas Flood Song Guide to learn the majority of soloing takes place in two positions. Knowing that I was able to listen and learn faster with a new perspective. This also improved my ear to be able to mentally ” place ” a lead lick on the fretboard in my mind while listening. Tips like that are pearls.

Tech… Hands down the best… explanations of positions with color coded fretboard markers are simply genius. The human brain loves to learn by color , pattern and pictures ( it’s how we all didn’t die from snakebites thousands of years ago !). Anthony has dissected and demonstrated how to play without getting lost in theory. I have truly appreciated and benefited from speed drills,licks applicable to chord changes and best of all it’s laid out in an easily accessible manner rather than have to shift to a different educator on a website.

All in all, Anthony gives a distilled and comprehensive learning approach to my favorite music

BRAVO !”

-- Jerald Bays , 09/07/2022

“If you are interested in truly learning how to play Blues Guitar, this is the only online site that you will need. It has a tremendous balance of theory, concepts, technical instruction and tools. Their playing experience combined with an excellent teaching platform shows in the quality of the service. It is difficult to find services that do both very well!”

-- Ted Sidloski , 09/05/2022

“Your guitar teachings are absolutely FANTASTIC.. The lessons about the all the boxes is very well understood..I have really got back to playing my axe like never before..You are a FANTASTIC inspiration to all us! I thank you very much! Rock on!”

-- SHAN FAULKNER (pianorocker88) , 07/02/2022

“Over the years I’ve subscribed to a lot of online courses and online teachers, some good, most mediocre at best. TXBA is definitely a cut above the best. Technically it’s superior but more than that, the content is superb as is the way Anthony presents it. I really like how Anthony has branched out a bit from SRV to other blues & guitar luminaries. It’s great stuff and maybe for the first time in my many years of spending on online guitar instruction with other providers, I feel it’s money very well spent on TXBA. Bravo!”

-- Gery Sasko , 07/01/2022

“I’m pretty worn out today but I’m really having a hard time putting down my Strat. It’s nothing special, a standard mexi through a boss katana. It’s not the tone. I just don’t really want to go into the house for dinner.

It’s my fingers. They’ve changed. They can do **** now.

I’ve been stumbling though my life wanting to play guitar. Wanting not to be a “guitarist” mind you, just want to play with friends and have a garage band. Did it but not satisfied. So when I retired last year and was spending an hour or 2 a day in the garage burning up my ears and looking to learn some more songs and not really getting anywhere. I found this site and was curious and signed up.

I quickly found out how little I know/knew about playing blues guitar and the music.

I have no delusion. I would love to play like Jimi and Stevie, but never will no matter how much time I put in. But Stevie and Jimi are on my mind constantly. Their genius and the beauty and complexity of their work and technique are beyond me. Probably always will be.

But I’m putting in my time on this website, few hours a day as many days a week as I can.

Gave myself one hell of a case of carpal tunnel in my left hand. Nothing like waking up with a hot poker stabbing you. Got discouraged.

What the **** am I doing?

The carpal tunnel got better. Heavy strings were a bad mistake….for now.

Using this course actually got….maybe addictive?

Now things are different. I can feel it in my hands. And in the tone. It’s not the amp. It’s not the guitar. It’s study, it’s work. It can even be pain.

You want to learn? Put in the goddamn time.

So here’s my Testimonial. You want to learn to play guitar? Here’s the stuff all in one neat package with a bow. It’s. Right. Here.

Now just put in the time.

Find part of this course that interests you and dig the **** in. This is the ****.

I started with looking at basics; 5 box essential licks, mixing blues rhythm and lead, then started looking at some of the songs. voodoo chili blues, bold as love.

Anthony I can’t say more. I’m so very thankful. This site really is a review of blues and demonstrates what it’s taken all the great guitarists to get to where they are or were.

I’m here for a while.

I wish you, your family and the website continued success. “

-- Amazed in Missoula , 04/17/2022

“Thank you Anthony ! Since several years I have been studying your great courses, especially the SVR courses. Now I realized my first bluesrock album. Thank you Anthony !

-- Bernd Jung , 02/05/2022

“I joined Anthony’s TXBA just about a year ago (if not near exactly a year ago? was just around the beginning of 2021 I believe.) I started with the Texas Blues Speed Workshops and now, a year later, I still use those exercises, every day, religiously, as my daily practice regimen. I really wish I had made some sort of “before” video. Because the contrast between my abilities a year ago and now are just…well…night and day. I did put the work in tho. Daily. Every day, for a full year. And that’s the only part he (or any other teacher or program or method) cannot do for anyone wishing to improve. What he CAN do tho is, using his breadth of experience in this style of playing, years of teaching students guitar, and really superior web design skills…..he can, and did, build what I think is sort of a no-fail way to get you from point A to point B….if you are willing to put in the work. He has literally laid it all out for you, or me, or anyone, in really professionally made Part one, two, three, chapter 1, 2, 3 type video format with tabs and loops, tracking documents….I can’t list it all. But regardless of your learning style…..it’s covered and there waiting for you. I think the best lesson TXBA has taught me was that the magic, or the “secret” to “huge gains” that everyone is looking for is a lot closer than they know. If you are wavering, like I was for a couple of years…I’d say try it. Personally, my only regret is that I wish I had pulled the trigger and joined –and started improving so quickly– earlier. “

-- Ela K , 01/12/2022

“I’m 64 years old and have been playing as a hobby for decades. I estimate that my skill level is “advanced amateur”. (compared to our host and instructor, Anthony, I’m pretty weak.) :)

I joined TXBA on a recurring monthly subscription and after 6 months I came to fully appreciate just what an astonishing learning tool the Pro Player is, so I decided to upgrade my subscription to semi annually.

The ability to import and study youtube videos is the key for me. As long as you can see their hands, you can learn ANY solo from ANY artist NOTE FOR NOTE at whatever (pitch corrected) speed you need, along with looping whatever part you choose so you can study the lick in detail. I like to use it to closely study performances and learn solos. It’s like getting a lesson from the artist themself.

The courses are friendly, very, VERY thorough and accessible for all player levels, whether you’re just learning guitar or sharpening, maintaining or improving existing skills…. the lessons, combined with the Pro Player (and its many uses) is where the site really excels.

-- M. Fisher , 12/24/2021

“This is a great teaching site for blues esp SRV style. I mean for 20 bucks, half the price of a weekly lesson, you get hrs and hrs of lessons. If you are stuck in a blues rut I highly recommend TXBA. My only problem is bouncing around from lesson to lesson. I start one then OH MAN he has a lesson on Accoustic Layla then start that then OH MAN he has a lesson on SRV style then start that. You can’t beat Anthony as an instructor very easy for me to follow plus he has teaching vids on all the techniques you need. “

-- JAMES CROWE , 12/23/2021

“Anthony, I wanted to let you know that I have had many false starts learning blues and blues-rock guitar throughout my life. However, after 40 years I am finally getting traction with your courses and your methodical approach to learning blues guitar. I am currently going through the 5 Boxes Essential Licks course and all the bells are going off hearing these familiar licks, and I am now able to play them in context - not just a book of separate licks. Can’t wait to get to the Mixing Blues Rhythm and Lead course. I very much appreciate your skills and knowledge, I am having a great time! God bless… “

-- Chris Melisko, 12/1/2021 , 12/01/2021

“Hi Anthony,

I wanted to write a quick testimonial about the Mixing Blues Rhythm & Lead course - as well as TXBA in general. As a piano/keys person, I never, personally, wanted to pick up/learn guitar…. That was, until I first heard Stevie Ray Vaughan (back when he was blowing up and crossing into mainstream radio/video). When I saw SRV playing both rhythm & lead (this was the albums before Reese joined - which only made it so much cooler) my mind was blown and I was both hooked and WANTED to pick up guitar! Fast forward to 3 years ago, I finally got around to starting my guitar journey - and then discovered TXBA. This course (Mixing Blues Rhythm & Lead) is exactly what I was looking for. Being beginner/intermediate, this course breaks down the steps to getting these techniques in the brain and fingers. I’m currently on section 4 and highly enjoying this course (as well as the rest of TXBA).

Thanks so much for the time and detailed effort you put into this course! Keep them coming! I’ll be a member/student of TXBA for YEARS to come. So much cool stuff to learn and work through!

Sincerely - TJ”

-- TJ Love Band , 11/17/2021

“This course is changing my life for the better. Finally a breakthrough! Thank you TXBA and Anthony for your incredible platform and for this extremely well thought through course.”

-- Damien Green , 11/14/2021

“My understanding of blues guitar and my practice on the entire neck of the guitar has improved so significantly since practicing Mixing Blues Rythm & Lead. As I have been playing the shuffle guitar for over 10 years, this lesson offers a lot of power, with heart and method you know, Blues Power ,,, be prepared! Thank you very much TXBA, Smaël M.”

-- smaël Madougou , 11/12/2021

“Hey Anthony you have an awesome thing going on with a great insight into how to approach and view the guitar. Then a very essential and clear way of building step by step to greater confidence and understanding of what your playing and more so can play. Very timely for me and and straight to the heart, cheers mate.”

-- Grant Richardson , 11/12/2021

” Anthony gives deep insights into blues rhythm. You want to get good in soloing? You NEED this course!

The exercises are very well structured. Stepwise, more challenging and created for not only playing a tab. While i practise, i always get creative and play my own chops, using my new achieved knowledge.

I think that´s good. =)

Another real benefit of this course is the really nice learning tool. Anthony put so much heart and soul into his learning software. I did a lot online courses, but this is by far the best platform i have seen.

Since i took the course, my playing improved a lot. Especially in soloing, that is really suprising, because it was not my intention for what i came for.

***** Five Star Rating from Berlin, Germany “

-- Chris S. , 11/12/2021

“I did not think I will get a lot out of that but I was wrong , it taught my hear to listen to rythmn and pay more attention to it . Week done Anthony “

-- Henri Bost , 11/11/2021

“I am a self taught guitar player and have been playing for years off and on. My left and right hand work well but I had no training about fundamentals. This course, and all TXBA courses for that matter give me the foundation that i so greatly needed to give me the solid base that i never had. The lesson starts out very basic and is tempting to jump ahead to a skill level that will challenge me. Don’t do it. The ground work that you learn in the beginning is really important to your future playing.
Glad i became a member.”

-- Dale Tangler , 11/11/2021

“Anthony your new rhythm course is a big eye-opener. You showed me for the first time it’s “all about rhythm” not lead… lead follows rhythm… you showed me that it tells a story to any listener who hears it—a flashy lead part for a moment doesn’t. Flashy leads are a byproduct of a killer rhythm—-ask a a great rhythm player IE; Jimi Hendrix… he knew all that for sure:) Jerry Minton “

-- Jerry Minton , 11/11/2021

“I have spent a number of years trying to learn the art of guitar. Unfortunately it has been a disjointed journey, flitting here and there and not making any real progress. For me personally, the Mixing Blues Rhythm and Lead course has been a breath of fresh air. Its structure, organization and content are exactly what I needed to move the needle in a positive direction. Thanks for doing such a great job! “

-- Michael Butler , 11/11/2021

“I’ve enjoyed using this course. Lots of detail in the lessons. Lots of lessons! Exercises are challenging And useful. My hands aren’t so great these days but I still really enjoy trying and modifying things to suit me now and then. I’d say if you wanna learn blues electric this is the place.”

-- Stephen McMillan , 11/11/2021

“I’m a big fan of the Texas Blues Alley’s lessons and in particular this Mixing Blues Lead and Rhythm course. Anthony is an excellent teacher who teaches in a very pragmatic, structured and systematic way which I respond really well to. He breaks everything down into their basic forms and builds them back up again giving you a complete understanding not only of what something is but why it is.

I started this course in particular as although I’m a competent guitarist of many years, I’ve never dedicated time to developing my lead and rhythm. Opting, as I’m sure many others do, to just noodle or play over backing tracks. Although the lessons here aren’t particularly complex, the beauty is in the phrase “the obvious is that which isn’t seen until somebody expresses it simply”. Anthony takes you step by step through a lot of stuff you could probably quite easily figure out yourself if you spent some time. But again, he’s done that for you and holds your hand and has you feeling (and playing) miles better at the end of it.

I’d fully recommend this to a player of any ability who recognises there’s a gap in their ability to mix rhythm and lead. How good you’ll be is down to you, but Anthony will show you to get there (and how to think about what to do to get there)”

-- Andrew Kaar , 11/11/2021

“Course is very good. Exercises are nice to follow. I dont like the subscription method. Why not just sell the course like the old days? Some learn it in months, others in a year but many of us will practice years. Expensive that way. Now i´m joining only for one or two months at the time. “

-- wim vervaeke , 11/11/2021

“Anthony put in his heart and soul. So much in depth knowledge and modern tools to improve everything you need to play a great blues!”

-- Chris Seyboth , 11/11/2021

“This website is full of  Content. If you love Stevie Ray Vaughan this is the place to be. There are also excellent courses on other Guitarists such as Jimi Hendrix, Albert king, Eric Clapton,  BB king and John Mayer.

There are courses on rhythm guitar, fretboard navigation, mixing rhythm and lead and a number of song guides which walk you through songs and how they work.

The site also uses an incredible tool call the pro player which allows you to slow down songs and use loops to divide the licks.  The solos at Texas blues alley already have existing loops you can use to learn songs very quickly. You can also add songs from YouTube and many of these have loops added by the community at texas blues alley.

The pro player makes studying easy and the lessons here are great, I have personally felt inspired to pick up my guitar more and more.  “

-- Adam Hinchliffe , 08/03/2021

“I can’t say enough GREAT things about the Texas Blues Alley locals’ program. From guitar slingers wanting to add chops to beginners, this is the place for you! The program is broken down into 3 parts taking students from topics focused on “Where to play”, “How to play” and “What to play”. The video learning tools definitely set TXBA light years ahead of all competition. Anthony is an amazing programmer and teacher (but you probably already knew that from his YouTube videos). As a bonus he is available via email and through the TXBA locals network to answer questions and give guidance. As a TXBA Locals member I have learn more in 1 week than I did taking lessons or on my own over months. The TBXA proplayer makes looping licks and adjusting speed super simple and extremely effective. After 1 week as a TXBA local I can play an intermediate solo in the style of Texas Flood to the included backing track that is super tight and amazing! (a dream come true) As a bonus the TXBA Locals also have an online network where locals can connect and discuss all sorts of blues topics including amps, guitars and tone. You will not regret joining the TXBA Locals! I will see you on the network”

-- Kevin Bunch , 01/31/2021

“Do you love Stevie Ray Vaughan ? Albert King ? BB King ? Clapton ? In short, do you love blues ? If yes, you’re at the right place. Since I joined, I’ve learned things I though I would never be able to. The community is active, and Anthony is personally welcoming you and answering any question you could have. Highly recommended blues course, I’m a happy local and I’ll stay a local for a while !”

-- Frédéric MORA GARCIA , 01/13/2021

“After a few years hiatus from playing the guitar and trying other free options, I have returned to TXBA. Being a Local has allowed me to progress at a rate that would be nearly impossible otherwise. A great guitarist is not necessarily a great teacher. Being a teacher myself, I know the difference. Anthony provides clear and concise instruction from different points of view using a top notch, easy to use web-based software. The way in which he presents information allows me to play above my ability, constantly challenging me to get better while keeping my interest through the many varied courses available. The coupling of his innate understanding of learning/teaching with his technical knowledge of both the instrument and production make him unique. I feel like I’m writing a recommendation for college, but TXBA and Anthony deserve it. Anyway just do it. If you want to get better and you’re on the fence it’s worth a try.”

-- Aaron Fong , 12/28/2020

“TXBA transformed me from someone who plays guitar to a guitarist “

-- Brock Ellefson , 12/27/2020

“Been a local for 3 months only, and i have improved in things that i have been trying to play for years, very very satisfied whith the tools and content, and had a lot of fun jaming with the locals”

-- Eugenio Valente Gomes , 12/15/2020

“Learning from Anthony and TXBA has been a great experience. I wanted to learn blues guitar and found the right place. The way the material is presented is excellent and the pro player is an invaluable tool to help you learn. I enjoy the community as well. Everyone is encouraging and offer help when you get stuck. The community jams are my favorite part. To put what you learn to use, especially during these times where jams are not happening. I look forward to seeing what is to come for TXBA and am glad to be a part of it!”

-- Chad Mangham , 12/15/2020

“This website is a great platform to learn not only licks and tricks of Texas Blues playing but literally everything else that comes with it! Its not only courses and lessons, its an amazing community that is so embracing and helpful no matter what skill level you are at. If you want to further your skill and learn sooo many different things this is the place to do it. Would highly recommend to anyone looking to take their guitar skills to the next level! “

-- Tyson L , 11/30/2020

“After 2+ years with another program, and becoming very frustrated, I discovered TXBA through the Free Lesson Fridays on Youtube. After a couple of months as a Locals member I was able to do things I had come to believe were beyond my potential, like improvising to a backing track. I’m far from an advanced player, but I honestly believe that TXBA is the route for me to get there. Get on board and you won’t regret it. “

-- Jim Goode , 11/25/2020
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“SO many great things about this website ! I have truly become a better guitar player through TXBA. in short, the instructional content is amazing. Everything from the songs / artists covered here to how Anthony presents the material is fantastic. The guitar angles and video, the tab structure, the backing tracks,, all first rate. Probably my favorite part of this site is the community it has created. All the local members are so supportive of each other. When we do the community jams, there is ALWAYS some one to give you a compliment. I would suggest to anyone who wants to learn blues guitar, this IS the site to invest in. “

-- Tim Crain , 11/24/2020

“TXBA offers something for all skill levels. Anthony continues to upgrade his lesson plans with the an intuitive approach that makes learning this style of music attainable. What took me hours of hunting and plucking/picking 30 years ago now is laid out in a concise, user friendly format that promotes better playing. Dive in , it’s money well spent Dennis.”

-- Dennis F , 11/24/2020

“Back in the Dark Ages, my French teacher at NCSU told the class that people that whio were good at math were also good at music and vice versa. We are fortunate to have a musician with engineering (math) background here at TBA. The courses here are designed efficiently, logically and effectively.”

-- Drew Haney , 07/26/2020

“I’ve been following Anthony for several years and bought several of his courses and became a local. I must say my playing has become more fluid and my leads are now based on a solid foundation of the boxes, the essential licks and my own style. I can’t give enough credit to this web site.”

-- David a Hough , 07/17/2020

“Just wanted to let you know that I have spent an hour or so going through some of the material to “test the water” and I’ve already broken out of a rut I’ve been stuck in for ages…I’ve been working off a bunch of YouTube videos for a while and all it’s been doing is teaching me to play what the guy on the screen plays…this first hour with TXBA is already opening up my improvisation skills…loving it mate, thanks heaps.”

-- Dan Owttrim , 05/04/2020

“I am a long time admirer and customer from your Stevie Snack and DVD past courses. I just now joined the locals, because my wife and I retired a few months ago (I am 63) and I actually may have some quality time to put into my guitar passion now.

I just wanted to tell you that I have always seen your courses as the highest quality of guitar teaching methods overall and believe me I have consumed many over the years. Now that I have taken a peek inside the locals…I am blown away at what is available to me at my screen.

You have taken the teaching artform to the ultimate level. I am looking forward to many hours in the “Woodshed”. Thank you for sharing your passion. “

-- Russ Schreibman , 02/21/2020

“I have been a customer of TXBA for several years. What started as a great free resource via “Free Lesson Friday” quickly made me become a customer, after seeing the amount of content available to the locals I had to join. TXBA is a great starting block for beginning players and a great encyclopedia for advanced players looking to study up the blues greats. Side note: Anthony’s personal messages and responses to Local’s posts make you feel like you are in fact a “local” thanks for a great year! “

-- Vaughn Rohrdanz , 01/01/2020

“I joined TXBA locals yesterday! Today my fingers are RAW! The jump start I needed is here and it’s a lot of bang for the buck!”

-- Bill Tate , 12/27/2019

“I have purchased DVDs when TXBA was selling them, downloaded, subscription and I am now a proud local, I have tried “Many”, online courses but I always come back here, TXBA, home of the Texas blues, God Bless Texas and James Butler Bonham!”

-- james bonham II , 12/23/2019

“Hello, I purchased your product some time ago, and have only had time to work with 1 video, Clapton’s influence. It really helped me a lot in that previously I played crossroads much differently. I was all over the neck, and you are much more concise about your movement about the neck. I love the nuances. I missed so much, and you have just brought it all together for me. I am not very good with the hardware. I saw the video from 2019 Thanksgiving, and I do understand how the players produced their videos. “

-- Paul Dingman , 12/09/2019

“Only been a member for a short time (two and a half weeks), but I can say for certain that my playing has improved. I’m trying not to go too fast. Practice, practice, practice.

It’s tempting to click everything, watch a little, play a little, move on, but that’s a mistake. I have like 3 basic courses (texas shuffle rhythms, five essential box licks, and heavy swing blues) as favorites in the Pro Player (which is an awesome app by the way) and those 3 are more than adequate to keep me busy for a while. I went through the grip essentials video as well to help with that. HUGE HELP!!

My tone is improving because I’m learning to attack the strings properly and mute the strings properly for the “the shuffle” with a proper grip. Been struggling with that for years. Love where my rhythm improvements are being made also. Feel like I play the texas shuffle and swing style better and improvise better on the fly. That’s always been a challenge of mine.

Bottom line - TXBA - Highly recommended. “

-- BV from Maryland , 11/13/2019

“Having gone through many of the lessons and songs in TXBA, I have found that the strategies used by Anthony can apply to many other styles of guitar playing. This has been a real eye-opener. For example, If I jam with friends I can easily employ concepts I have learned here!”

-- Dan Ferguson , 11/05/2019
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“After learning on an acoustic for 7 years, I decided to get an electric and focus on learning to play blues in the style of Stevie Ray Vaughan, whom I’ve always admired. I was going along kind of just learning things in bits and pieces from various videos on YouTube, but I wasn’t making significant and steady progress.

Then I came across TXBA on YouTube and liked what I saw so I decided to try the Locals program. It seemed an easy decision given that it was not a huge financial investment.

So far, I’m very much enjoying the lessons and the website. I especially like that there are many technique-oriented lessons to play in this style of blues and there are more than enough song courses to keep me busy. I’ve just learned a solo (my first) in the style of Texas Flood. Before TXBA, I don’t think I would’ve been able to pull it off as easily. Anthony has built the Pro Player to give students a phenomenal tool to learn with. I feel that as long as I supply the commitment, Anthony will be supplying the tools and content that I need to grow.

Other things I like: the forums where you can get questions answered, the “influences” courses, the speed course, essential techniques, song guides, and heavy blues rhythms course.

In all honesty, every day I look forward to coming home from work and practicing. It’s that good!”

-- Enrique , 10/29/2019

“So…Anthony has just revamped his original 5 Boxes Essential Licks with demos and tabs…The entire collection breakdown is like this - Lesson 1: Building Block Licks - the fundamentals Because of Anthony’s other courses, I can play songs like “Texas Flood”, “Tin Pan Alley”, “Pride and Joy”. But here is the cool thing with this Lesson, I now understand beginning licks, continuation licks, and ending licks…and so this helps with improvising in the context of these songs and so I can sound “close” and convey the feeling of the solos.

  • Lesson 2 - are more Major sounding licks and double stops. These are good and I see applied to songs like “Tin Pan Alley”, “Love Struck Baby”, and other songs when using a combination of some Major sounds. I am still going through the course but here is the idea of each remaining;

  • Lesson 3 - Box 2 licks (yep - that Albert King sound)

  • Lesson 4 - Box 3 licks

  • Lesson 5 - Box 4 licks (not so much a Stevie thing - but Clapton hangs out here)

  • Lesson 6 - Box 5 licks (major sounding because we are using Box 1 shape (remember the course 5 Essential Boxes)

  • Lesson 7 - Transitioning Box to Box licks

I will keep everyone up to date - looking forward to continuing my journey mixing techniques such as this course with learning solos - current project “Fly on” (Little Wing)!

Now, being a “Local” really helps because we get the latest updates to include re-vamping some older products as Anthony continues towards his domination of Texas Blues mentoring and teaching…

Thanks, Anthony”

-- Tony Ludwig , 10/29/2019
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“I have really enjoyed being a member of the Locals program. There is always something new and interesting to learn. I think that my playing is improving too. Anthony has a great style of teaching and is easy to follow. The Pro player is also a great tool, the ability to loop small sections until you get them right is great as is the option to import video from youtube. All in all, I highly recommend this course to anyone who has an interest in learning blues rock, it is invaluable.

Thanks, Anthony and keep it up.”

-- Steve Harvey , 10/29/2019
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“Fantastic site! I have any been playing electric guitar for 8 months and have progressed a ton. Great value to join Locals program for a year or do month by month. TXBA and justinguitar.com are the best guitar teacher sites on the internet in my opinion. I really like the style here of teaching licks as separate building blocks, and then compiling into solos. Too many good lessons here, I need more time to play!”

-- Michael from TX , 10/25/2019
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“I found Anthony a few years ago on YouTube. I enjoyed the free lessons he was posting. I noticed that he was very involved on YouTube and Facebook and started to follow what he was doing. Then I decided I needed to see what the Locals were all about. Wow…just WOW! The amount of information that was available when I first joined was overwhelming and it just keeps getting better. You would be hard-pressed to find a more involved teacher with a passion for sharing knowledge. His explanations are simple to understand and I can go back over and over and replay it in slow motion if need be. The styles covered are pretty much everything I like.

The five essential blues boxes changed my playing forever. They have given me a home base to work and explore. The diagrams were easy to follow and I was playing to jam tracks the same night. Did I mention how cool the long version backing tracks are? They allow you to practice what you’ve been learning on a long loop basis.

And…we have our own forum! A place to ask questions, post videos and just generally chat about guitar stuff. Is it worth the monthly fee? You bet it is!… The Locals have a library of information that is unmatched. What are you waiting for?… Let’s do this!”

-- L.T. Wright , 10/22/2019

“Hello all, let me just start by saying how life-changing it is to be apart of this program! I am 17 years old and I have been playing guitar for a little over 3 years. Now being the broke teenager that I am, I was browsing YouTube for some guitar tutorials, and I stumbled up Anthony’s YouTube channel and I was immediately blown away. I began to watch every video on Anthony’s YouTube channel because I found it to be so educational. I recently joined the TXBA Locals and I am proud to say that I have made tremendous progress using these courses. There’s no other program like Anthony’s, he cuts to the chase and gives you the keys to playing the blues. The blues are a special thing to learn, and to have someone as great as Anthony to teach us, is just amazing and I thank him for putting together such an amazing website and YouTube channel. With great admiration!”

-- Matthew S Vera , 10/21/2019

“The Locals program is amazing and has seriously helped me up my game where now I’d say I’m an advanced player now. Well worth the monthly fee!”

-- Roddy Fraser , 10/20/2019

“In the 4 months that I’ve been a member of TXBA Locals, my playing has improved a lot.

Like so many others I’ve been dabbling with other online instructors and have spent time on most of the popular YouTube channels. But I was looking for a more focused approach.

I came to TXBA intending to learn more SRV songs and solos, but not just note for note, but to also learn the techniques to really play in that style.

I’m now at the points where I can play 3 songs, and I feel I’m getting a handle on things like raking, muting, and the basis of that Texas Blues rhythm style.

The Speed Builders really work! I dedicated a lot of time to those early on and I’ve seen very impressive results. Not only learning about 15 great licks but now have the speed and muscle memory to really execute them.

As a last note, the Pro Player software that Anthony developed is a Killer App! The interactive tabs that sync with the videos, and the ability to zoom in, set loops, and change the speed is awesome.

I’m very pleased to be a member of the community and look forward to the road ahead! “

-- Scott R , 10/19/2019

“TXBA has been a great resource to me learning to play again after surgeries on both hands. Lesson layouts are explained well and can be picked up fairly quickly to get into it and start playing. If you like Hendrix, Stevie Ray, BB King and Clapton (etc) this is the best place to learn that style of playing. Months and months of practice material available to learn. Anthony is one of the best teachers/guitarists I have had the pleasure to learn from. Blues on!!”

-- Steve Wingate , 10/19/2019

“Before I ran into Texas Blues Alley I was kinda overwhelmed with my frustration of hearing the playing and licks of my hero’s music and trying to figure out how they did what they did and sounded the way they sounded.

Talking about Hendrix and Stevie Ray…It was a blur…I felt like screaming…You can only take that self-taught pentatonic thang so far. Mr. Anthony was able to demonstrate in real-time HOW to play stuff…He took his desire and creativity to show that if you really want to learn how to play blues….YOU CAN…”I wanna show you…Lord, I wanna show you….”

Excellent instruction, plus the man is a friggin engineer! Do you know how awesome the Pro Player is? I’m excited because I’m realizing that my only limitations are the ones I place upon my self! All the necessary tools are available. The rest is up to me. I gotta pick up that axe and practice! I really want to thank Mr. A and all you Brother Guitar Players for inspiring me to keep on keeping on!!! Yeah!!!”

-- Vincent McCauley , 10/19/2019

“Hi all,

I think I am the only Local who has had a subscription for over half a year without touching the guitar. Shit happens. And I am 60 yrs young The day after purchasing a Locals account I broke my wrist; however I did not cancel my subscription, I enjoyed watching and listening to the lessons.

I have had no guitar teaching ever. For 3 weeks, I can play 30 minutes a day. I am having lots of fun with the 5 essential boxes licks. This is a unique approach to learn licks. In the past, I did similar things from youtube, etc. The info I get on how to play where and when is invaluable (less is more) Maybe one day I will be able to learn the easy version of some songs. But hey lets rock n roll baby.

By the way, I am a huge johnny winter fan

Greetings from rainy Belgium!”

-- luc beeusaert , 10/18/2019

“I discovered this site back when it was called “Stevie Snacks”. Long before there were the “Locals” or the super Pro Player.

I guess the main thing that pulled me in was the way Anthony broke everything down and then showing how it all comes together. He offered different levels of difficulty and his videos were crystal clear and easy to follow. If you ever had an issue with a download or a problem with anything, he made it right.

Then TXBA Locals came along. At first, I was not sure if I wanted to join a membership but once I gave it a chance I was hooked. Being able to watch and learn anything at any time is sweet. It really helps keep things fresh for me.

Then there is the ProPlayer. What an awesome tool. So many features right at your fingertips and the Dashboard is easy to navigate. That is worth the price of admission alone in my opinion. If you want to learn how to play the blues or improve your playing and technique, this is the place. I know it has given me more confidence and I feel much more fluid when playing the blues.”

-- Mark Wallace , 10/18/2019

“Joined TXBA yesterday and although my guitar playing needs lots of work since I’m a beginner, I am so impressed with the technical organization and teaching formats provided to the “Locals”.

With the push of a few buttons, I can easily loop a section of the teaching that I may be struggling with. I can zoom in to easily observe what Anthony is doing on the fretboard and the instruction is just that, instruction….just what I need in my guitar journey! I look forward to coming back to the TXBA site every day!”

-- Ed Stott , 10/18/2019

“I am a complete novice at age 55. When I was a kid I had a guitar and learned some chords. I have not picked up a guitar in 40 years. I love the teaching method and software platform that TXBA uses. I now can rip out a 50 note BB King solo. The secret is that you need a great teacher with a great platform. This is not some guy on youtube showing you what to do with his cell phone camera. These lessons are professionally produced. I have recommended TXBA to others that want to learn guitar. What are you waiting for? “

-- Patrick Silva , 10/18/2019

“TXBA is an awesome site! Great place to learn the ins and outs of that SRV style playing!”

-- Joseph Viso , 10/18/2019

“I have only just purchased Texas Blues Alley, and have started doing the daily drills and exercises, and so far I am seeing a difference even in such little time, so for me purchasing TXBA has been the best money well spent. The depth that all the lessons and courses go into is amazing and I’m glad to be part of this community!”

-- George Dickson , 10/18/2019

“The courses here are amazing. The level of detail is insane. Far better than any Stevie Ray DVD or youtube instructional. The solos have elements from live performances making many of them better than the recorded versions. Thanks Anthony!”

-- john Eustace , 10/18/2019

“There are some great guitar teachers on the internet. Anthony is one of them. I don’t have to tell you that. But Anthony is an engineer by profession and that probably makes him so unique in his effort to make learning easier for us. The effort is really huge and crucial: imagine it would be possible for us to learn a solo in a very short time. That would make our training much, much better. And that’s exactly what he’s trying to do with his special player and the ability to make the loops follow each other, and that’s what you can’t actually pay for with any money so valuable and unique it is.

Best Regards from Berlin :D”

-- Janusz Hamerski , 10/18/2019

“So, the past couple of days myself and two good friends (Ken and Doug) played about 6 different SRV songs. We also belong to another group and Anthony knows the person pretty well who has these “live” get-togethers. It was our first time together playing these songs - here is the real testimony!!!

Ken and I are both Local members…and so we have been studying the following: Texas Shuffle Sweet Little Thang Whiskey, Win, and Gin Mary’s Lamb Shooting Cold…. (and some others - like 5 Essential Blues Boxes and Essential Techniques)

Both Intermediate and Advanced lessons….(and so we mixed the two lessons) and so we played - Pride and Joy, Cold Shot, Mary Had a Little Lamb, Tin Pan Alley, Love Struck Baby, and a couple of non-SRV songs….

My point is this - Anthony’s courses work…we played in front of folks and we got big kudos…. We were the only group of 11 that not only attempted SRV style playing but pulled it off…. If you learn these courses as Anthony lays out - you not only get the solo, you get the fills for the song….and rhythms from courses like Slows Blues It was incredible especially when Ken did the tremolo picking - the house went nuts!!!! I just want to say - Anthony Thanks!!!!! Without you, without your courses - we would not even come close to what we accomplished!!!”

-- Tony Ludwig , 10/17/2019

“Hi, I am a TXBA local.

I’ve been around the block a fair bit as far as online tuition goes & I have been to all the usual suspects. I came across TXBA through a love of Stevie and a free lesson Friday video and I haven’t looked back.

Recently I was thinking to myself where have I made the most progress as a guitar player, where has my money been best spent? It didn’t take long at all to realize that TXBA has done more for my guitar playing ability in 5 months than 2 years spent jumping from place to place wasting good money after bad.

I find the TXBA website to be very well structured, the pro player to be second to none, you just won’t find a course video player with the features the same anywhere else. I find Anthony to be a highly capable & methodical teacher whose voice won’t bore you to death and I find the courses to be challenging but so rewarding.

To any aspiring guitar player with a love for blues music I could not recommend TXBA highly enough, it will become your secret weapon that you will want to tell everyone about and keep secret all at the same time. “

-- Tony Urey-guest , 08/12/2018

“Like many people, I initially came across Anthony’s lessons that were posted on YouTube. I am a long-time hobby guitarist and a dyed-in-the-wool blues fanatic, so I decided to take a chance and joined the TXBA Locals. My expectations were pleasantly surpassed immediately. I spent (wasted) many years chasing, “false prophets,” and trying to muddle through tablature and trying to, “sound-out,” songs. Anthony’s teaching method is logical and he genuinely shows you HOW to play the music: what he does NOT do is to confuse you with music theory jargon in an attempt to show you how much he knows and which always ultimately confused me.

All of the TXBA lessons, from the fretboard and theory-related lessons to the artist-specific lessons, are so well thought out and are of such high quality that I find myself looking forward to learning guitar again. It’s the best value on the Internet. You can see Anthony’s passion for the music and that he, like us, is a genuine fan of this great music!

Thanks, Anthony and the TXBA team!

I had played guitar for over twenty years (and not very well, I’m afraid) and I had stopped progressing and was frustrated on how to improve my playing; like most of us, I work and squeezing formal lessons in is not really an option for me.

I had very limited experience in terms of playing music with other people and I’ve never been in a band (I would like to be in one and maybe play a gig one day). I joined the TXBA Locals and I’ve worked through several TXBA courses. I’m happy to say that, thanks to Anthony’s teaching, I was able to join in on a jam session last night (03/28/2018). While I certainly wasn’t the best player in the room, I was able to apply much of what I learned on TXBA and, “hold my own”; I even got to take a few solos (which came off great and it was a lot of fun). I still have a lot of learning/improving to do, but thanks to TXBA, I’ll definitely join the jam session again.

Thanks, TXBA!”

-- Dan, Queens, NY , 07/31/2017