Why I Don’t Just Shred: Evolving Beyond Flash for Real Musical Respect

For those who’ve followed my playing since the early days, you know I came up in the shred world — fast, technical, jaw-dropping runs across the fretboard. And don’t get me wrong… I can still melt strings with the best of them. But somewhere along the way, I realized something:

Shredding alone doesn’t move people. It impresses them — but it doesn’t always connect.

There’s a moment when you stop chasing speed and start chasing soul. When you start choosing phrasing over flash. When space and tone matter just as much as technique. That’s where the real growth happens.

I’ve spent years studying jazz, fusion, classical, funk, soul, and even old-school Detroit grooves. I’ve recorded with vocalists, horn players, violinists, and more — building tracks that breathe, not just blaze. These aren’t just flexes — they’re reflections of an artist who’s evolved far beyond just being “fast.”

In a world flooded with speed demons and algorithm chasers, I’d rather be the guy who feels every note — and makes sure you feel it too.

If you know, you know.

— Nate Franchesco
https://natefranchescoofficial.de
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