Meaning: This quote by Roger McGuinn, a renowned musician and founding member of the folk-rock band The Byrds, reflects his approach to music and guitar playing. McGuinn is known for his distinctive style of playing the 12-string electric guitar, which became a signature sound of The Byrds. In this quote, he mentions playing basic folk songs and breaking them down on a six-string guitar, as well as incorporating fingerpicking techniques into his playing.

McGuinn's reference to playing basic folk songs and breaking them down reflects his commitment to preserving and honoring traditional folk music. Folk music has a rich history rooted in storytelling and community, and McGuinn's approach to playing these songs indicates a deep respect for the origins of the music he performs. By breaking down the songs, McGuinn likely means that he deconstructs them, exploring their melodies, chord progressions, and lyrical themes in order to understand and convey their essence authentically. This dedication to the fundamentals of folk music has been a defining aspect of McGuinn's musical career.

The mention of playing these folk songs on a six-string guitar is significant, as the six-string acoustic or electric guitar is a staple instrument in folk music. McGuinn's choice to play these songs on a six-string guitar demonstrates his versatility as a musician and his ability to adapt his playing style to different instruments. It also suggests that he values the simplicity and accessibility of the six-string guitar, which aligns with the folk music tradition of using instruments that are widely accessible to people from all walks of life.

Furthermore, McGuinn's reference to incorporating fingerpicking on these songs speaks to his technical proficiency and artistry as a guitarist. Fingerpicking is a playing technique commonly associated with folk and acoustic music, characterized by the use of individual fingers to pluck the strings and create intricate and melodic patterns. By incorporating fingerpicking into his renditions of folk songs, McGuinn adds depth and nuance to the music, showcasing his skill and creativity as a guitarist.

Overall, this quote provides insight into Roger McGuinn's approach to music, highlighting his commitment to preserving folk traditions, his versatility as a guitarist, and his dedication to honing his craft. McGuinn's influence on the folk and rock music scenes has been profound, and his passion for folk music and guitar playing continues to resonate with musicians and fans alike.

In summary, Roger McGuinn's quote encapsulates his reverence for folk music, his adaptability as a guitarist, and his embrace of fingerpicking as a means of expression. His contributions to the music world have left an indelible mark, and his approach to playing and interpreting folk songs serves as a testament to the enduring power of traditional music in contemporary contexts.