Uninspired, un motivated, always playing same licks

[Longhair]

Pick up a keyboard or guitar and learn some basic chord progressions. It is amazing how a different instrument will open the creativity flood gates.

 

[Rockmusician]

I don't know what's wrong with me, I've been completely uninspired and unmotivated to play music... I play but feel like I'm playing the same dam licks over and over again(especially when I solo).. But grooving as well like completely stuck...I've been playing three years and this is first time his has really happened...

The last week I've felt like I lost my **** somehow ( I doubt that though)

so frustrated also because I think I suck compared to the type of player I want to he and should be.... It almost makes me want to quit playing...

I don't know it's like I have too high
expectations on myself I strive for perfection and when I dont get even close to it I get depressed /upset

Music is like therapy to me...


Maybe I should just not play for a few a while???? Idk

I have been dealing with the same problem for several years. I started playing in1978 and can do everything on the bass that I have ever wanted to. It is no longer a challenge and I am bored.

 

[poorbassist15]

I went through the same thing last month, I didn't feel any inspiration to play or write anything, so I started to seriously learn how to play organ, and I started listening to King Crimson more than I already did. I started to move away from my Rush binge, and I explored a lot of other progressive rock bands. Learning the new instrument, and exploring a genre I thought I knew(but really didn't) was a really eye opening experience for me. Hope you get through it man.

 

[OmnitzGarima]

I go through this from time to time. There are lots of good suggestions on here.

Recently I've found that learning new melodies helps a lot, it breaks me out of the rut. I learn them on guitar, then on bass. It improves my reading skills, which is great. And I think it helps my improvisation as well.

But, sometimes I find the best thing is to sit back and just listen. Listening is a part of the process, too. Don't worry that you aren't playing, it will come back.

 

[Popbumper]

Interesting to hear about people "getting bored", given I have been at it less than a year. For me, the freshness is still in the discovery. There's SO much to learn, and I am happy to be learning and absorbing everything I can!!

I don't dismiss the fact that things can be weary in any "study" - heck, I have been involved in the pinball hobby for more than 10 years, and have done just about everything there is to do (from constructing cabinets, to restoration, to electronics repair, to giving public seminars, to competing), so I am bored with it as well.

I wish you the best, hope you can get out of the slump. Remember, making music is a GIFT and is virtually infinite from a creativity standpoint!!

Chris