Seeking PS3 Rock Band Players willing to Play with a Blind Player

[superblindman]

Greetings,
As my user name implies, I am in fact a totally blind rock band player. I play both guitar and drums, and I do so by listening and memorization. So for the most part, I can’t simply pick up and play any song that may come up in DLC. I haven’t even learned all the songs from the original game disc. But given time, I can learn any song. Sometimes I do find that I am able to play a song instantly simply because the progression from note to note makes perfect sense to me, but that is a rare treat. At any rate, the fact that I have to memorize songs creates a huge problem playing online. I may get into an online mode with somebody, and they will remain blissfully unaware that I am blind as long as they pick a song I can play. But as soon as they pick one I haven’t yet learned, it becomes painfully obvious to them that something isn’t right, and they usually end up leaving after I’ve failed out. This is understandable, don’t get me wrong. You want to play, and it’s awkward to have a bandmate that plays one song just fine, and fails the next utterly. So yes, I am limited by how fast I can memorize songs. There’s no way I can keep up with all the incoming DLC. Currently I can play something like 55 of the 240 or so songs that are in the game right now. Personally I don’t think that’s a bad number given the memorization thing, but it does limit me. So I’m wondering if there is anyone willing to work with this limit. The number of songs I can play will of course grow over time, but I will always be limited. It’s not about score for me at all. I don’t claim to be the best. I’m not. The 55 number is the number of songs I can play on the easy skill level. I have recently started a medium career, but I have as yet only played about eight songs on that level. I have to essentially relearn them all over again, as it were. So if anyone is interested in playing some rock band with a blind guy, feel free to add PSN ID superblindman to your lists. You will also be adding my fiancé, as we choose to use the same PSN profile. But you’ll be able to tell which of us you’re playing with by the difficulties we choose. Believe me. Thanks for reading.

[schmeankman]

Umm... I don't know how this works.... but I'd be fine with it. Just give me a list of songs you can play, if this isn't some sick joke.

[woodwindpizza]

Man, that's amazing. I totally just sent you a friend request :)

[Verditude]

I guess he has his fiance read these posts?

BTW, ignore the adverisement-bot, those are problems around the internet.

[GC_Chick]

Actually he doesn't. His screen reader reads the forums just fine. I have to read him the playstation messages and stuff of course :)

[Verditude]

Actually he doesn't. His screen reader reads the forums just fine. I have to read him the playstation messages and stuff of course :)
Oh, that's cool. I thought it might get screwy with the usernames and extraneous stuff.

Sorry if my signature is annoying you.

[Apples]

That must take great talent to learn. I'm on the Xbox, but I wish you the best of luck in finding bandmates.

[GC_Chick]

Nope! Hehe he actually has his own account and I have mine on here. Although, I mostly lurk..but hey I have a cookie! woooo!

[darkrei9n]

Greetings,
As my user name implies, I am in fact a totally blind rock band player. I play both guitar and drums, and I do so by listening and memorization. So for the most part, I can’t simply pick up and play any song that may come up in DLC. I haven’t even learned all the songs from the original game disc. But given time, I can learn any song. Sometimes I do find that I am able to play a song instantly simply because the progression from note to note makes perfect sense to me, but that is a rare treat. At any rate, the fact that I have to memorize songs creates a huge problem playing online. I may get into an online mode with somebody, and they will remain blissfully unaware that I am blind as long as they pick a song I can play. But as soon as they pick one I haven’t yet learned, it becomes painfully obvious to them that something isn’t right, and they usually end up leaving after I’ve failed out. This is understandable, don’t get me wrong. You want to play, and it’s awkward to have a bandmate that plays one song just fine, and fails the next utterly. So yes, I am limited by how fast I can memorize songs. There’s no way I can keep up with all the incoming DLC. Currently I can play something like 55 of the 240 or so songs that are in the game right now. Personally I don’t think that’s a bad number given the memorization thing, but it does limit me. So I’m wondering if there is anyone willing to work with this limit. The number of songs I can play will of course grow over time, but I will always be limited. It’s not about score for me at all. I don’t claim to be the best. I’m not. The 55 number is the number of songs I can play on the easy skill level. I have recently started a medium career, but I have as yet only played about eight songs on that level. I have to essentially relearn them all over again, as it were. So if anyone is interested in playing some rock band with a blind guy, feel free to add PSN ID superblindman to your lists. You will also be adding my fiancé, as we choose to use the same PSN profile. But you’ll be able to tell which of us you’re playing with by the difficulties we choose. Believe me. Thanks for reading.

Most awesome player of the year award...

[nbalive2005]

Your amazing :D
give me a list of songs you can do im gonna add you later...
this is also amazing for me since i've always wanted to sing online :D

and i only have 79 songs by the way

[superblindman]

I assure you all, this is no joke. Also, I admit to not being able to name all the songs I can play off the top of my head. Truly I need a way to keep track of these things for all to see, but as yet I don't have one. Yes, my screenreader reads all of this, enabling me to read and write posts myself. I won't start an outcry for more accessible forums, (there are a few issues), because I've already started an outcry regarding the main site in another forum. Lastly, if it interests anyone, the most recent song I was able to do that rare first playthrough trick with is Devour by Shinedown. I shall make an effort to get the entire RB track list in front of me, and write a list of the songs I can play, and keep that list updated... somewhere. Perhaps in this thread. I don't know yet.

[GC_Chick]

That's really mean and immature.

[Verditude]

Now that's an ass move.

[Comrade_Classen]

i dont think your friend said this....hey dont be putting extra long stuff to give this cool man some trouble...i think its so cool to overcome an obstacle to do something people probably think you cant do

[superblindman]

I assure you that, while my screenreader is incapable of detecting inconsequential, and irrelevant gibberish, I am not.

[Comrade_Classen]

I assure you that, while my screenreader is incapable of detecting inconsequential, and irrelevant gibberish, I am not.

you should totally make a video so people can see what you do and how amazing it is

[war_lord]

Wow, talk about an inconsiderate post.

Anyway, back on topic, I'd be happy to play with you superblindman. I'll add you next time I'm on (or you can add me, PSN is in my sig). I'll just let you two lead so you can choose the songs that you can play.

[superblindman]

Well, if I can get my fiance to bust out that fancy shmancy digital video camera she's got, I don't see where making a video would be a problem. It's something we've considered before. Also, just to be absolutely fair in this situation, I am not the only blind player. The other one I know, however, has neither a PS3 or 360 unfortunately.

[GC_Chick]

War Lord, let me just say I love your icon! That kitty is totally rockin' that strat haha! At least it looks like a strat..not really sure. It's so tiny! :D

[jayt0302]

leave it up to a 19 year old loser who likes MSU to post some bs garbage like that. Wont be surprised if Karma smacks u back in the face

[afterstasis]

i play on the xbox, but i'm very glad to see some support from the PS3 folks and hope you find some good band members to play with!

and to "spartanhockey", please log-off for good. you're pathetic.

[war_lord]

lol Thanks! I forget where I found the pic, but that's part of why I liked the picture so much (especially since the RB2 Strat is getting a similar paint job)

[OakTea]

I'd just like to say that you are really awesome and cool. I don't think I'd ever be able to do that. (But really, that's not a good thing to say.. Because all it takes is will power, right? :) )

Honestly though, I think that's a great skill. I don't really play online very often, but feel free to add me, you can pick a time if you want to jam some time in the afternoon on weekdays, after 3 pm, maybe? My username is OakTea.
You can message me with a date if you'd like, or if you've got a band going, and you need another member.

[GC_Chick]

lol Thanks! I forget where I found the pic, but that's part of why I liked the picture so much (especially since the RB2 Strat is getting a similar paint job)

Hahah it totally rules! I bet that kitty plays on expert!

[GC_Chick]

But im not blind so I can see if someone is approaching or opening a door

Look my fiance is really blind now if you wanna make a joke out of it and make yourself look stupid then that's fine. I can just keep reporting your posts as harrassment. If you don't care then go read the other kazillion posts on this forum and leave this post to people who actually want to play rockband with him. You act like you're two.

[OakTea]

But im not blind so I can see if someone is approaching or opening a door

But you are an as*hole, so you can't see when you're not wanted, or when you deserve to be punched in the face.

EDIT: I hope quotes/signatures don't bother you; sorry if they do. But again, I'm up for playing with you if it'd be more fun to play with others. :)

[Libertad87]

I don't want to be mean, but why don't you do vocals. that seems a bit easier to do if you're blind.

[GC_Chick]

But you are an as*hole, so you can't see when you're not wanted, or when you deserve to be punched in the face.

*falls over laughing* OMG that was AWESOME! *gives you a cookie*

[GC_Chick]

I don't want to be mean, but why don't you do vocals. that seems a bit easier to do if you're blind.

He has a fear of singing..believe me I'm trying to get him to. He won't even sing in front of me :(

[funkydunkleman]

spartanhockey should be banned from the site asap.

superblindman, after reading yours posts, I'm speechless. I could not even begin to think how to play this game blind. Maybe easy vocals, but anything else would be a total failure for me, and I've seen the note charts for about 8 months. I would play with you in an instant, but I'm on the 360. But I wish you well with this game and your life. You're probably accomplishing more than I could do with one eye shut.

[Nobak]

It's not necessary to feed the troll, really.

How do you learn the songs, though? I imagine it must be a somewhat cumbersome process.

[superblindman]

It's true. Something I've had all my life. It's not logical, I know, but I can't help it. I can say, though, that the other blind player I mentioned started on voc, thinking that's all we blind folks could do. I gleefully showed him the light, and now he can play some songs better than I can. But it's a tossup. He has no downloadable content, so he focuses on the songs he has. So while he plays certain songs better, I play more songs.

[Seraphixla]

He has a fear of singing..believe me I'm trying to get him to. He won't even sing in front of me :(

Ha, Rock Band is pretty much the only way anyone can get me to sing.



(Though that's partially because my friends don't want to or shouldn't sing)

[Apples]

spartanhockey should be banned from the site asap.

superblindman, after reading yours posts, I'm speechless. I could not even begin to think how to play this game blind. Maybe easy vocals, but anything else would be a total failure for me, and I've seen the note charts for about 8 months. I would play with you in an instant, but I'm on the 360. But I wish you well with this game and your life. You're probably accomplishing more than I could do with one eye shut.

That user has been taken care of. Let us not have one bad apple derail the topic. I'm sure there are plenty of quality PS3 bandmates out there.

[art.is.resistance]

Haha, well, I'm glad to see the troll was taken care of. I made this account after his posts to stick up for you, but apparently his posts have been deleted.

To stay on topic, I would gladly play with you if I had a PS3. Sadly, I'm a 360 owner.

[GC_Chick]

Ha, Rock Band is pretty much the only way anyone can get me to sing.



(Though that's partially because my friends don't want to or shouldn't sing)


I HATE my voice..but I'm a sucker for unlocking stuff so I'm working on a singing career. SuperBlindMan thinks my voice is ok and thusfar I'm on medium and am five staring everything..so I guess I can sing? LOL maybe? False sense of security? LOL Maybe they're being nice..I can't help but think that.

Just started playing guitar on hard though :)

[Hisan]

It's true. Something I've had all my life. It's not logical, I know, but I can't help it. I can say, though, that the other blind player I mentioned started on voc, thinking that's all we blind folks could do. I gleefully showed him the light, and now he can play some songs better than I can. But it's a tossup. He has no downloadable content, so he focuses on the songs he has. So while he plays certain songs better, I play more songs.

My sister has been blind since age 3 (bilateral retinal blastoma, spread from one eye to the other, both had to be removed at the optic nerve). I wish she had even a FRACTION of the resolve you do.


Keep f*****g rocking, man.

[GC_Chick]

Haha, well, I'm glad to see the troll was taken care of. I made this account after his posts to stick up for you, but apparently his posts have been deleted.

To stay on topic, I would gladly play with you if I had a PS3. Sadly, I'm a 360 owner.

awww that's awesome! You should stick around :) Mostly from what I've seen these boards are fun. It's nice to know there are so many supportive people who want to help my fiance. I know when we first heard about rockband, we weren't sure if he could play it. When he started after we found out he could, he thought he'd never get any higher than easy. I've since then convinced him that I do not see any reason why if he takes his time he can't up the difficulty. It's a process just like with all of us..I used to struggle on easy and now i'm actually starting a career on hard..it's kinda intimidating but medium is just simply too easy for me anymore. That time will come for him eventually.

[Seraphixla]

I HATE my voice..but I'm a sucker for unlocking stuff so I'm working on a singing career. SuperBlindMan thinks my voice is ok and thusfar I'm on medium and am five staring everything..so I guess I can sing? LOL maybe? False sense of security? LOL Maybe they're being nice..I can't help but think that.

Just started playing guitar on hard though :)

I can match pitch okay, but my voice is crap, except on a few songs - namely Creep, Don't Fear the Reaper, and When You Were Young. When I started I went ahead and skipped to expert, but I got stuck on Black Hole Sun/Epic.

[art.is.resistance]

awww that's awesome! You should stick around :) Mostly from what I've seen these boards are fun. It's nice to know there are so many supportive people who want to help my fiance. I know when we first heard about rockband, we weren't sure if he could play it. When he started after we found out he could, he thought he'd never get any higher than easy. I've since then convinced him that I do not see any reason why if he takes his time he can't up the difficulty. It's a process just like with all of us..I used to struggle on easy and now i'm actually starting a career on hard..it's kinda intimidating but medium is just simply too easy for me anymore. That time will come for him eventually.

Yeah, it is a little intimidating at first. When I first started playing Rock Band, I was failing quite a few songs on easy, for all of the instruments. Since then, I've finished the guitar career on expert, and I'm half way through the expert vocal career. Sadly, I'm still stuck on medium drums.. :o

But yeah, all it takes is time. I'm sure both of you will be on Expert before too long.

[GC_Chick]

I can match pitch okay, but my voice is crap, except on a few songs - namely Creep, Don't Fear the Reaper, and When You Were Young. When I started I went ahead and skipped to expert, but I got stuck on Black Hole Sun/Epic.

LOL I like it when my best friend Michelle comes over and she sings bon jovi. I start belting out "All I wanted..was a burger and fries" she starts giggling but pulls it together before she fails out. It's amusing. She has to completely ignore me..or like I have a bad back so on orange crush I'm like "I got my spine and my spine really sucks" hahaha I think I'm the big distraction to get past on the singing career for her haha.

LOL it's ok though we got her the ps2 version for her birthday so she can sing without me roflol!

[GameJunkyJim]

I wish I had a PS3. I'd play with you. You're totally ****ing hardcore.

Who's your proxy on the net, your fiancee?

Good luck with all your endeavors.

[Supergeek]

A lot of people are insecure about their singing voices. Most people cannot sing worth a damn, me included, but that does not stop me from being the primary singer for my local Rock Band group.

Keep the faith, superblindman. I think it is great that you are stretching yourself this way.

[GC_Chick]

I wish I had a PS3. I'd play with you. You're totally ****ing hardcore.

Who's your proxy on the net, your fiancee?

Good luck with all your endeavors.

Nah he has a pc with a screen reader so he can surf the net and post on here like everyone else. I run my mouth of my own accord and generally it's amusing...well ok maybe not that amusing...hahaha

[GC_Chick]

A lot of people are insecure about their singing voices. Most people cannot sing worth a damn, me included, but that does not stop me from being the primary singer for my local Rock Band group.

Keep the faith, superblindman. I think it is great that you are stretching yourself this way.

oooh a local rock band group..wish there was one of those around here..

Here's an idea..I'm a show photographer haha maybe i could be a rock band photographer haha. It would be amusing!

[GameJunkyJim]

Nah he has a pc with a screen reader so he can surf the net and post on here like everyone else. I run my mouth of my own accord and generally it's amusing...well ok maybe not that amusing...hahaha

Yeah I read that a bit later. I hope the censored curse word doesn't send the reader awry.

I have my old 360, and I would totally sell it to you for like, 20 bucks (to pay for shipping) just so I could play with this man.

I mean, Rick Allen only had one arm, but your fiancee is playing a visually based rhythm game blind. He has immediate respect points, and I'm an arrogant bastard, I hardly respect anyone.

[GC_Chick]

Anywho I'm gonna quit hounding the forums. I'm not sure if it's ok to post aim or msn sn's on here and if it's not Apples you can yell at me..although I'll pout :p

You guys can add me to aim at gcchick01 or tribalphoenix83@hotmail.com

For those of you who asked for a setlist of what SBM can play we'll get that together and post it on his profile. I figure that will be the best place for it :)

[GameJunkyJim]

Must say though, that probably won't include drums at that price.

[GameJunkyJim]

Anywho I'm gonna quit hounding the forums. I'm not sure if it's ok to post aim or msn sn's on here and if it's not Apples you can yell at me..although I'll pout :p

Might not be a good idea if people have already trolled the thread. Might wanna keep it to PM request.

[Seraphixla]

Might not be a good idea if people have already trolled the thread. Might wanna keep it to PM request.

I'm pretty sure that was just one guy.

[packerfan8675309]

i have a hard time beliving this is true..but if it is, all i can say is wow. You are the most dedicate rock band players ever and I would be honored to play with you. Unfortunately, I have a 360. Your amazing dude!

[superblindman]

Regarding a comment made earlier, I now believe that I, too, will get to expert in time, though on drums before guitar as I can already play some drum songs on hard. And GC_Chick will get there before I do. Why? Because Green Grass and High Tides... on easy... still... scares... the blind man!

[GameJunkyJim]

I'm pretty sure that was just one guy.
Never can be too safe though. I got jacked through my MSN. I moderate on Bungie.net and some of those kids don't like their stupid threads locked.

Luckily we have secondary passwords for forum tools, but still.

Better safe than sorry.

[BuRn7 CaK3]

Most awesome player of the year award...

i agree. if i had a PS3 i would totally add you right now... but sadly i dont :(

Thats is an Amazing Skill.

[Sychosymatic]

I don't mind playing with you. I'm actually quite intrigued to see how you do. And I don't mean to be condescending with that, it's just the surprise factor creeping up, you know?

Anyway, my PSN is the same as my username on here, so you can send me an invite sometime if you want. I'll play whatever isn't being taken up at the time. Heck, I'll sing since that's pretty much what I've been trying to improve on.

I look forward to playing a game with you if you want.

[Shiiru Reborn]

SuperBlindMan, let me just say that it is amazing that you are able to play rock band. Your willpower and ability to not let being blind get in the way of things is inspiring. I would be honored to play with you if I only had a PS3. Great job and keep on rocking.

[jtrousd]

Unfortunately, I'm on the 360, so I won't have the privilege of playing some songs with you.

However, I'd like to remark that it's a very inspiring feat you've accomplished, sir, and I think that even if you had come in here saying you only knew a handful of songs, you would have earned the respect and admiration of this community. Keep on rocking, brother.

[hewhoislikegod]

Spoken like a true gentleman.

I second those remarks.

[Ventura]

This is the most amazing thing. Superblindman, you are an inspiration to us all.

I'll be adding you to my list right away. I don't play online a lot, but if by chance I might ever end up in the same band as you, I would be honoured to play any song you desire.

[Chris_Gonzalez]

You're so determined, man. It's touching. I'll shoot you a friend request soon. I can play Expert Guitar/Bass/Drums and Medium Vocals, and I'm up for anything you want to play.

[Langalear]

you are truly an inspiration, i have never played online but would be more than willing to with you sir. I will send a friends request as soon as i am able.....keep rocking!!

[WhiffleBallTony]

Dude, you are my hero. Seriously, that's ****ing awesome that you play even while blind. If you ever get a 360, I'll send you a friend request.


Never can be too safe though. I got jacked through my MSN. I moderate on Bungie.net and some of those kids don't like their stupid threads locked.

Luckily we have secondary passwords for forum tools, but still.

Better safe than sorry.

I really think that saying they don't like their threads locked would be an understatement. Have you seen the Halo 3 forum since you took your leave? It's beyond out of hand...

[GC_Chick]

First off I would like to thank you all for just being so supportive. As awesome of a concept as it is, it's even more awesome to watch. One day I will definately do the video idea someone suggested. SuperBlindMan has like UBER patience and a lot of determination and I whole heartedly believe when he reaches expert it's gonna be nothing short of amazing. As I said earlier, I believe this is completely doable and I encourage him greatly to continue on. Also, as he said earlier, he's not the only blind person currently playing rockband. There's one person with a ps2 and we constantly encourage his friends to get rockband so that they can play with us.

Believe me this is not a joke. I swear to you it's not. He and I both love the game and the community surrounding it is awesome (save for the run of the mill trolls but hey every good forum has em). To those of you who asked for a 360 gamer tag, we have a 360, we just bought rockband for the PS3. We can still add you! You guys can pm us or something.

[Rod_Stixx]

Very impressive. If I was on PSN, I would absolutely play with you - and we would have a blast, too.

[sillystou]

Damn, you really have to have mad skills to play RockBand when you're blind. I know I sure wouldn't be able to do that.

[WhiffleBallTony]

First off I would like to thank you all for just being so supportive. As awesome of a concept as it is, it's even more awesome to watch. One day I will definately do the video idea someone suggested. SuperBlindMan has like UBER patience and a lot of determination and I whole heartedly believe when he reaches expert it's gonna be nothing short of amazing. As I said earlier, I believe this is completely doable and I encourage him greatly to continue on. Also, as he said earlier, he's not the only blind person currently playing rockband. There's one person with a ps2 and we constantly encourage his friends to get rockband so that they can play with us.

Believe me this is not a joke. I swear to you it's not. He and I both love the game and the community surrounding it is awesome (save for the run of the mill trolls but hey every good forum has em). To those of you who asked for a 360 gamer tag, we have a 360, we just bought rockband for the PS3. We can still add you! You guys can pm us or something.

I'll send you a PM. It's always nice to play with people who just want to have fun and are mature. So many people I see online are immature and it makes it hard to find good people to play with.

[Pengwyns]

I'm not sure how helpful this may or may not be, but here is a link to a website with all of the note charts for all the disc songs and most of the DLC. All instruments and difficulties are included. I honestly have no idea what the process would be like to learn the songs from sound so this might not be helpful, but I figured it couldn't hurt.

http://ajanata.com/charts/rb/

[GC_Chick]

I'm not sure how helpful this may or may not be, but here is a link to a website with all of the note charts for all the disc songs and most of the DLC. All instruments and difficulties are included. I honestly have no idea what the process would be like to learn the songs from sound so this might not be helpful, but I figured it couldn't hurt.

http://ajanata.com/charts/rb/

Oooh that would be helpful but the thing is the charts are image files. Screen readers can't read those. Just shows up as "Graphic". It's a long process. Sometimes he gets through a song on the first try..sometimes he has to go listen to it for a bit and sometimes it's just trial and error but once he gets it he's like oooh that's what that is so I guess it makes sense haha I just think it's awesome to watch him play :)

[daftuprising]

It really is an accomplishment man, keep rocking.
But one question. GC, do you have to be with him when he plays, in case he can't tell what note to play by sound? Playing by sound sounds really, really difficult, so I imagine he could need help.

[GC_Chick]

Nope I don't. He learned both Shinedown songs while I was in the shower! I missed it! *pouts* But no I don't have to be around. He figures it out on his own eventually. If I am around I'll help him out but only if he's just absolutely not getting it like his timing is off or if it's a really hard solo. Even then if he has the note right I'll just tell him his timing is off :)

[Wanny1]

It's amazing how he takes it easy and do some crazy things like learning the charts.. I would find it hard to be blind..

Anyway! I'm on PS3 and I play expert drums. If you wanna add me and play with me, it's fine. My psn is : Wanny1

Keep rocking, Superblindman! You are strong..

[spidey]

im spyderjeremy add me or ill add u next time.

[statboyinva]

Count me in! Hopefully you'll be able to pick up the System of a Down songs on Thursday without too many problems. My screen name is the same on the PS3 as it is here.

I'd also like to share a story with you. One of my best friends is a high school chorus teacher. We have sung together many times in the past, and have done paid performances as well. We also offer our time to sing at the local juvenile detention center every Christmas and Easter, along with his brothers (one used to be a chorus teacher and the other runs the youth department at a local church) and some other friends. A few years ago, he had a student who accompanied us (once he turned 18 - minors aren't allowed to go into the center because they could potentially see someone they know) that was blind. Not only did this man have a good voice, he played keyboard and sang at the same time! He had written a song (a good one at that), and he sings and plays it every time he goes with us. He's inspiring to everyone who has the good fortune to see and hear him, and you've touched these forums in a similar way. I hope to see video of you soon - I'll gladly steer my friends to the video as well.

It would be an honor to play online with you.

[naughty_ninja]

I think this person has it worse than you:

http://www.rockband.com/forums/showthread.php?p=965355#post965355

[GC_Chick]

It's not about who has it worse. He was just explaining his situation and asking for some people to play with. Most of the time when he plays online if he fails out one song they get mad and leave. We want some people who will play, knowing his situation. That's all. He's definately not looking for sympathy he just wants to play!

By the way that link doesn't exist.

[frizzy_bj]

Simply amazing!

I would be more than happy to play with you on the PS3. I play all the instruments but I am mainly an expert vocalist.

When I get on the Playstation later today, I will be sending you a request.

You have all my respect, sir. Keep on rockin' it!:)

[schmeankman]

Alright, when I get on today I am going to send you a request. :)

[GC_Chick]

Alright, when I get on today I am going to send you a request. :)

Yay request! BTW love your sig..Mark Twain was a very wise man and I've read a lot of his stuff. Agree with a lot of it too!

[schmeankman]

Yay request! BTW love your sig..Mark Twain was a very wise man and I've read a lot of his stuff. Agree with a lot of it too!
Thanks! I just found out we are releated, (5th Cousins 5 times removed, distant I know, but I'm proud of it :p) and I have started getting into his work.

[Comrade_Classen]

Count me in! Hopefully you'll be able to pick up the System of a Down songs on Thursday without too many problems. My screen name is the same on the PS3 as it is here.

I'd also like to share a story with you. One of my best friends is a high school chorus teacher. We have sung together many times in the past, and have done paid performances as well. We also offer our time to sing at the local juvenile detention center every Christmas and Easter, along with his brothers (one used to be a chorus teacher and the other runs the youth department at a local church) and some other friends. A few years ago, he had a student who accompanied us (once he turned 18 - minors aren't allowed to go into the center because they could potentially see someone they know) that was blind. Not only did this man have a good voice, he played keyboard and sang at the same time! He had written a song (a good one at that), and he sings and plays it every time he goes with us. He's inspiring to everyone who has the good fortune to see and hear him, and you've touched these forums in a similar way. I hope to see video of you soon - I'll gladly steer my friends to the video as well.

It would be an honor to play online with you.

are you sure it wasn't stevie wonder??

lol all jokes aside i find it amazing how people overcome things just to do normal things....i have paranoid schizophrenia and for a long time i was home schooled but i finally did my junior year for the first time at my public school....so i am always happy when someone overcomes their obstacles to do what they want.

Oh and i was the one that requested the video...i would love to show my friends this

[woodwindpizza]

Accept my friend request already please :)

[Archaicbereft]

I'm on the xbox 360, but if this is true, you rock and I wish you all the best :D
keep on rockin'

[TKS]

yeah i would rock with you guys but i'm on the 360 , but since you said youd do have a 360 you can add me on there , my gamertag is ScottEdmondson . it'sjust my full name , i know very creative:)

[kingtonyx]

This is truly awesome. True dedication!

How many of the expert players could blindfold themselves and beat any song (except for Silver) on Easy?

probably none

Amazing work, sir! Keep it up :D

[GC_Chick]

Accept my friend request already please :)

We will add you shortly I promise. Sunday's usually we don't get on till around the afternoon or later because we have other projects we're working on to take care of. :)

[mercuryshadow09]

I assure you all, this is no joke. Also, I admit to not being able to name all the songs I can play off the top of my head. Truly I need a way to keep track of these things for all to see, but as yet I don't have one. Yes, my screenreader reads all of this, enabling me to read and write posts myself. I won't start an outcry for more accessible forums, (there are a few issues), because I've already started an outcry regarding the main site in another forum. Lastly, if it interests anyone, the most recent song I was able to do that rare first playthrough trick with is Devour by Shinedown. I shall make an effort to get the entire RB track list in front of me, and write a list of the songs I can play, and keep that list updated... somewhere. Perhaps in this thread. I don't know yet.

All i have to say is wow man, not to derail this thread but how do you learn the songs, i mean it doesn't seem like it would be that easy not being able to see when you have to hit notes, i wouldn't have any problem playing with you but i play Rock Band on 360, but i have a PS3 so if you want to add me i'm not on that much and i only have a handful of PS3 games, and i sure would like to see a vid of you playing.

[Nobak]

This is truly awesome. True dedication!

How many of the expert players could blindfold themselves and beat any song (except for Silver) on Easy?

probably none

Amazing work, sir! Keep it up :D

Well there was the guy who played Foreplay on expert drums blindfolded...

[war_lord]

Sent the friend request... hope to see yall on PSN soon!

[rylin]

Mr. Superblindman,
kudos to you.
I can't even begin to imagine the obstacles you've had to deal with.

Good luck, and keep rocking!

[moneyp]

Pretty damned cool. I'm assuming one of the songs you can play is The Hand That Feeds. I've actually played it on Hard blindfolded (nowhere near as difficult as it sounds. The song is very repetitive and easy to memorize.)

I'm on 360, so unfortunately we can't jam, but eager to see whatever video you come up with.

[Chthonic]

Respect, man. Respect.

Unfortunately, I'm playing on a 360, so I won't be able to jam with ya. Good luck finding some bandmates, though.

[sitbooboosit]

Man that's amazing.
If I had a PSN account I'd add you, but unfortunately I'm on the 360.

[keith921]

I have PSN but I don't really play online often. I'll send you a request though! Much Respect man!

[jeccaneko]

and skkitzzo (or however his name is spelt) can play the majority of songs without the tv on. Which is pretty much the same - check the YT vids

Exactly. You don't need to see the notes if you have them memorized. I personally have played some songs, such as Welcome Home, so much on expert bass I could play that without the TV on or looking. I play bass mostly, so I can't say the same for drums or guitar on any song.

SuperBlindMan, keep on truckin'. Sounds like you're having a lot of fun with the game to memorize that many songs, even on easy. That's amazing stuff.

As some others here, I can't play with you. I'm a 360 player. :(

[Der_Lex]

Awesome stuff, Superblindman. If I don't forget (I'm very forgetful about things like this), I'll add you next time I'm online.

I have a question though: when bandmates on other instruments mess up, does it throw off your playing as well, because you're not hearing what you expect to hear?

[Alphadown99]

Most awesome player of the year award...

HEAR HEAR!
"For totally rockin' dedication to playing the game so dear to all of our hearts!"

Anyhow, that's pretty awesome. If I weren't on 360 I'd definitely accept that offer.

[superblindman]

I know my fiance already said this, but I just want to thank everyone for their support and compliments. I also know that it has been some time since I posted here, but that's because I've been working on things all day. However, my fiance and I shall be adding all those who sent requests, and more than likely all those who sent their ID's, within the next couple ours. I assure you all once again that this is absolutely true. As a matter of fact, I almost didn't make this post in the first place, as I was very uncertain of the response I would get. And even when I did finally decide to do it, I wasn' expecting a response quite lke this. You guys have been great, and I look forward to playing Rock Band, and perhaps some other games, (RB is not the only game I can play), with all of you. To the person who asked how I learn the songs, it is a process that I've found takes more time to explain than I used to think it would. Make no mistake, I am not simply pressing buttons and hoping for the best here. There are rules, and certain paterns that I can count on Harmonix to use that make learning easier. When you play by memorization enough, you realize that the songs are created in a logical way. I only have a few beefs with the layout of certain songs, but I shall not mention them here. All in all, if those rules continue to hold true, and I can keep finding those paterns, I will be able to keep learning songs. As I said before, the songs I get through successfully the first time I play them are so easy for me because I've heard enough of the song, even if I heard the song outside of the game itself, to figure out what each note might be, and found myself to be right. You should see the look on my face when I'm trying a song, going on what I think the notes are, and succeeding. I occasionally lose the ability to speak if the song is one I really like. Critical Aclaim did that to me.
Finally, I shall address the question of other failing bandmantes. It's a question I never actually thought of before, as it turns out, because it hasn't caused me any problems. I imagine it would if the band in question was playing a song I didn't know, but since we never do, it simply doesn't bother me. For while I'm playing, and while they're playing, the song is playing itself in my head as well. It is because of this that I tend to pick out things that certain people are going to miss just before they miss them. If I know what skill level they're playing on, for instance, and know a really hard part is coming up, I'll ask myself, "Are they gonna get that? No? Ah well." I think the only time I was thrownoff even a little bit was the first time I ever heard a singer fail out. I had never heard the vocal track just vanish before that, and I believe I stumbled, but I recovered quickly enough.
I hope this has served to answer some questions. Feel free to ask more. I'm a very open person. I will keep watching this thread as always. And again, to those who added us, expect to see us online very, very soon. Thanks again, guys.

[schmeankman]

I know my fiance already said this, but I just want to thank everyone for their support and compliments. I also know that it has been some time since I posted here, but that's because I've been working on things all day. However, my fiance and I shall be adding all those who sent requests, and more than likely all those who sent their ID's, within the next couple ours. I assure you all once again that this is absolutely true. As a matter of fact, I almost didn't make this post in the first place, as I was very uncertain of the response I would get. And even when I did finally decide to do it, I wasn' expecting a response quite lke this. You guys have been great, and I look forward to playing Rock Band, and perhaps some other games, (RB is not the only game I can play), with all of you. To the person who asked how I learn the songs, it is a process that I've found takes more time to explain than I used to think it would. Make no mistake, I am not simply pressing buttons and hoping for the best here. There are rules, and certain paterns that I can count on Harmonix to use that make learning easier. When you play by memorization enough, you realize that the songs are created in a logical way. I only have a few beefs with the layout of certain songs, but I shall not mention them here. All in all, if those rules continue to hold true, and I can keep finding those paterns, I will be able to keep learning songs. As I said before, the songs I get through successfully the first time I play them are so easy for me because I've heard enough of the song, even if I heard the song outside of the game itself, to figure out what each note might be, and found myself to be right. You should see the look on my face when I'm trying a song, going on what I think the notes are, and succeeding. I occasionally lose the ability to speak if the song is one I really like. Critical Aclaim did that to me.
Finally, I shall address the question of other failing bandmantes. It's a question I never actually thought of before, as it turns out, because it hasn't caused me any problems. I imagine it would if the band in question was playing a song I didn't know, but since we never do, it simply doesn't bother me. For while I'm playing, and while they're playing, the song is playing itself in my head as well. It is because of this that I tend to pick out things that certain people are going to miss just before they miss them. If I know what skill level they're playing on, for instance, and know a really hard part is coming up, I'll ask myself, "Are they gonna get that? No? Ah well." I think the only time I was thrownoff even a little bit was the first time I ever heard a singer fail out. I had never heard the vocal track just vanish before that, and I believe I stumbled, but I recovered quickly enough.
I hope this has served to answer some questions. Feel free to ask more. I'm a very open person. I will keep watching this thread as always. And again, to those who added us, expect to see us online very, very soon. Thanks again, guys.
This is amazing sir. I do have a couple of questions, and I am sorry if these sound stupid. So when you play, I'm guessing your fiance will be playing with you, right? Also, to avoid me picking songs that you haven't memorized yet, will you/your fiance send the invites? I'm sorry, I just wanted to know before playing online with you, to assure I don't mess anything up. Thank you. By the way, I sent you an invite on PSN.

[superblindman]

Well, she has chosen to play as well tonight, but I'm not entirely sure that's what you were asking. It is not absolutely necessary that she play when I do, as I have memorized some of the game's menus, and can select songs easily enough given those little preview clips. Which brings me to my next point. At least until we get the written set list done, it would be a whole lot easier if I, or in tonight's case we, got to pick the songs. That way, we'd always pick one I can play. But once you get to know me, and once we get that list up so you guys can start following it, things'll be a bit faster.

[Sherlock507]

I have total respect for you. Playing the songs is hard enough, but memorizing them and then playing them must be pretty challenging. Add Sherlock507 and I'll add you. I don't have any DLC as of right now, so I hope any song I choose (or who ever is the leader) you will be able to play.

[josh.]

You are one effin' epic dude! Like the other 360 players, I'd love to play with you, but I don't have a PS3. I can barely even look away while I play, and I'm an avid Drummer too. And don't be shy about your singing voice man. People would always say I'm monotone and stuff, and every time I play with some buddies, the first song I sing is More Than a Feeling on Expert. Hell, I even sing songs like Welcome Home and Screaming For Vengeance. Just takes time to get those beautiful vocals like Brad Delp or Rob Halford :D

[schmeankman]

Well, she has chosen to play as well tonight, but I'm not entirely sure that's what you were asking. It is not absolutely necessary that she play when I do, as I have memorized some of the game's menus, and can select songs easily enough given those little preview clips. Which brings me to my next point. At least until we get the written set list done, it would be a whole lot easier if I, or in tonight's case we, got to pick the songs. That way, we'd always pick one I can play. But once you get to know me, and once we get that list up so you guys can start following it, things'll be a bit faster.
Oh alright then, thank you!

[dark__gamer]

what difficulty do you play on

[SgtPhobos]

Wow, if I had a PS3 rather than XBOX360, you'd definitely get the invite from me, glad to see some PS3 players stepping up and showing the love.


Rock Band brings people together, it cares not of disability or handicap. Rock Band is the way, Rock Band is the light!

This post has pumped me up. I'm gonna rock out extra hard tonight after reading this!

Thanks

[DemiGodRaven]

you hath been added, good sir. looking forward to playing sometime.

[PacoL250]

Most awesome player of the year award...

He's got my vote. :)

If I had RB on my PS3, I'd totally rock out with you. Good luck though in finding those who do. I'm sure you will. :)

[troywhalen]

I don't believe this..

[flamingtoilet]

I'll definitely add you next time I get online. My wife's blind and does vocals, but I'd love to teach her to do drums or guitar.

[GC_Chick]

I don't believe this..

That's up to you.. It is true and if you play with him for a bit you'd notice. Sometimes he'll miss notes at the beginning because the lead in is too quiet. Sometimes because he misses the first note of a section he'll screw the whole thing up. That's not something someone pretending would do because if they were pretending they'd be trying to impress. We're not out to impress..he just wants to play and so do I. :)

[jacobB12`]

Hey man i had a great time playing with you guys tonight we need to do it again sometime

[GC_Chick]

Hey man i had a great time playing with you guys tonight we need to do it again sometime

Definately! I think I screwed up more than he did on that last song we played haha. I haven't played bass on a lot of songs! That and only five and a half hours of sleep *falls over*

Was definately fun!

[war_lord]

Missed all the fun... apparently just barely! :( Ahh well, maybe tommorrow! :)

[RoboEnigma]

Just wanted to add my support.

I sometimes try to close my eyes while playing Rock Band, but I can only do it for just a few seconds, so I can only imagine what you have to do.

True talent.

New question, do you play any real instruments?

[instantdeath999]

Apparently a little late. I'll just echo everyone else... it's absolutely amazing that you can do this. Just unbelievable.

Out of curiosity, what are your favorite songs? Both to play and listen to?

[Matt LOL]

Seriously, this is one of the most awesome things I've heard of.

[GameJunkyJim]

Definately! I think I screwed up more than he did on that last song we played haha. I haven't played bass on a lot of songs! That and only five and a half hours of sleep *falls over*

Was definately fun!


:(

We need to take up a collection. Goal: $1000 to get you Rock Band 2 for your 360 and all the DLC. I'm really feelin' left out here.

[NickyStardust]

Most awesome player of the year award...

Seriously that **** is crazy!

[TthevoiceE]

hmm, playing blind, thats just insane...

i love games, so i can never imagine NOT playing videogames. but to do it blind is just nuts! thats talent.

On the other hand, id definately play with you if i had a ps3 but i got a Xbox360.

You did say you play other games correct? Well if you want too add me my gamertag is TthevoiceE . I have a few other games as well that id play with you online. But, what can you play ? Can you play First person Shooters? Real Time Stratagys? Sports games? and how well do you playem? not that i care how well you can play them, as long as you enjoy playing them and have fun.

Add me, hopefully we have somthing we both can play.

[LoopyChew]

Another 360 player who doesn't own RB PS3 (despite owning a PS3), and I just wanted to add to the admiration. Perhaps one day there will be cross-platform gaming and we'll be able to play together. :-)

[m85021]

Most of our household and friends are still playing on easy.

Add RodSquad1167, and feel free to look me up online. Always willing to jam tunes on easy....

[superblindman]

Greetings again,
I shall try to address everything here at once. I again thank those who have just seen this thread and have commended me. It is truly flattering. As for taking up a collection, I will say two things. First, I would never ask for such a thing, and second, I think a thousand dollars would be just a liiiiiiiittle too much. And besides, as much as I hate to say it given the number of 360 players here, I'm not so sure I want that version. I want to take advantage of the fact that the downloadable content I already have will work with RB2, and the music-rippage from the first disc for RB2. Not only that, but we don't really have the storage space for two sets of instruments. I'm glad you 360 players want to try me out as much as the PS3 players do, but I just don't see it happening.
In regards to what my Fiance said to the brand new nonbeliever, all of it is true. Both of those who played with us last night experienced at least one of these things. Sherlock witnessed me missing the first note of Welcome Home because I couldn't hear the lead-in over the crowd, and Jacob witnessed me failing out during Disturbed's Inside the Fire because I missed the first note of the solo, and got thrown off. I came back alright, but there it was. As she said, play Rock Band with me, and you'll probably realize the truth of the whole thing. Either that, or when we do the video, I'll just, ya know, pop out my prosthetic eyes, and then ask you if that's enough proof. Or, if you prefer, we'll film me hooking up the PS3, so you can see the little pieces of tape my Fiance put on the RCA cable to account for the color-coding so I could do it myself. I swear to every one of you a thousand times, and hopefully for the last time, that this is o joke. Those who played with me last night were playing Rock Band with a blind guy and his fiance, and we had tons upon tons of fun. Well, at least I did.
Regarding the question of difficulty for the newcomer to the thread, I primarily play on easy, as it is the difficulty where song memorization is easiest. I did continue my medium career last night though, after all the online fun, and finished two more songs. Kinda stuck on Sabotage now, though.
Yes, I do play a real instrument, though it's not one found in Rock Band. I've been playing the piano since I was 3. I'm not great by any means, but I've served to entertain people in the past.
I didn't go into detail on the other games I can play because, after all, this is a Rock Band forum. I will say, though, that I can play most every fighting game, some sports games including boxing, baseball, and wrestling, some games in the Beat-em-up genre, the occasional RPG, *that's a story I can't go into here), and I occasionally help with parts of all other types of games I think I might be able to handle. This doesn't mean I can play the game in question, but if there is a part of that game I feel is playable, I'll gladly give it a shot. In doing this I have racked up some pretty sweet gaming accomplishments that surprise even me, though once again I can't get into that here. No shooters, unfortunately. I haven't yet figured out a way that's possible. If anyone ever does, let me know.

I think that covers about everything that was asked. As always, I'm glad to answer more questions, or just continue general discussion about Rock Band.

[darknessmoon]

Playing on 360 here, but I'm glad I got to read your story. Hopefully you will find many PS3 rockers out there willing to jam out with you! :D Best of luck to you!

[PaperMario21]

Greetings,
As my user name implies, I am in fact a totally blind rock band player. I play both guitar and drums, and I do so by listening and memorization. So for the most part, I can’t simply pick up and play any song that may come up in DLC. I haven’t even learned all the songs from the original game disc. But given time, I can learn any song. Sometimes I do find that I am able to play a song instantly simply because the progression from note to note makes perfect sense to me, but that is a rare treat. At any rate, the fact that I have to memorize songs creates a huge problem playing online. I may get into an online mode with somebody, and they will remain blissfully unaware that I am blind as long as they pick a song I can play. But as soon as they pick one I haven’t yet learned, it becomes painfully obvious to them that something isn’t right, and they usually end up leaving after I’ve failed out. This is understandable, don’t get me wrong. You want to play, and it’s awkward to have a bandmate that plays one song just fine, and fails the next utterly. So yes, I am limited by how fast I can memorize songs. There’s no way I can keep up with all the incoming DLC. Currently I can play something like 55 of the 240 or so songs that are in the game right now. Personally I don’t think that’s a bad number given the memorization thing, but it does limit me. So I’m wondering if there is anyone willing to work with this limit. The number of songs I can play will of course grow over time, but I will always be limited. It’s not about score for me at all. I don’t claim to be the best. I’m not. The 55 number is the number of songs I can play on the easy skill level. I have recently started a medium career, but I have as yet only played about eight songs on that level. I have to essentially relearn them all over again, as it were. So if anyone is interested in playing some rock band with a blind guy, feel free to add PSN ID superblindman to your lists. You will also be adding my fiancé, as we choose to use the same PSN profile. But you’ll be able to tell which of us you’re playing with by the difficulties we choose. Believe me. Thanks for reading.

I would totally send you friend's request but I'm on xbox 360,
I wish you the best!
rock on!
:)

[Snowman-1771]

Quote:
Originally Posted by superblindman
Greetings,
As my user name implies, I am in fact a totally blind rock band player. I play both guitar and drums, and I do so by listening and memorization. So for the most part, I can’t simply pick up and play any song that may come up in DLC. I haven’t even learned all the songs from the original game disc. But given time, I can learn any song. Sometimes I do find that I am able to play a song instantly simply because the progression from note to note makes perfect sense to me, but that is a rare treat. At any rate, the fact that I have to memorize songs creates a huge problem playing online. I may get into an online mode with somebody, and they will remain blissfully unaware that I am blind as long as they pick a song I can play. But as soon as they pick one I haven’t yet learned, it becomes painfully obvious to them that something isn’t right, and they usually end up leaving after I’ve failed out. This is understandable, don’t get me wrong. You want to play, and it’s awkward to have a bandmate that plays one song just fine, and fails the next utterly. So yes, I am limited by how fast I can memorize songs. There’s no way I can keep up with all the incoming DLC. Currently I can play something like 55 of the 240 or so songs that are in the game right now. Personally I don’t think that’s a bad number given the memorization thing, but it does limit me. So I’m wondering if there is anyone willing to work with this limit. The number of songs I can play will of course grow over time, but I will always be limited. It’s not about score for me at all. I don’t claim to be the best. I’m not. The 55 number is the number of songs I can play on the easy skill level. I have recently started a medium career, but I have as yet only played about eight songs on that level. I have to essentially relearn them all over again, as it were. So if anyone is interested in playing some rock band with a blind guy, feel free to add PSN ID superblindman to your lists. You will also be adding my fiancé, as we choose to use the same PSN profile. But you’ll be able to tell which of us you’re playing with by the difficulties we choose. Believe me. Thanks for reading.

You are my hero and I bow at your skill. I play on expert and I think your skill level is better than mine.

[billmcdougal]

I'm glad to see you're mostly getting mature responses. I'd love to play with you, but I'm on 360.

I do have a question. It's not Rock Band related, but I'm just really curious. In your last reply, you said that you play some other games including most fighting games. I'd really like to know how it's possible to play a fighting game without eyesight. With Rock Band, each song is the same every time, so you can memorize it if you're good enough, but with a fighting game, you're playing against an unpredictable human that can adjust their response to your playing. How can you tell when to block or when you can strike; can you actually block an attack just by hearing it coming? Either way, I'm impressed.

[memphus]

Quite impressive. Unfortunately I have an Xbox so I will be unable to enjoy playing with you.

[thirdmortal]

I don't know if anyone else has mentioned this but you can download the charts to the different songs at this website: http://ajanata.com/charts/rb/

It would take a lot of work but maybe you could convert them to a form you can read. I would then listen to the track on the stereo and try to match up the rock band chart with what you hear. Once you felt confident with the chart and the song, try it on the game. Just trying to think of ways to make it easier to learn songs, good luck with everything.

[zirjacks]

WOW! Amazing! I don't play online much but you can add me and maybe sometime we can jam a tune or two. PSN ID is zirjacks. Keep Rockin'!!!

[superblindman]

Greetings again.
Someone did already suggest the note charts, but I much prefer learning each song using the methods I've already established. I do listen to each song already in an atempt to learn it. Sometimes I just pay attention when my fiance plays that song, and sometimes I happen to have the song on my PC, and sometimes I listen to the full song in practice mode. I haven't found a song yet that my methods don't work with.
As I've said, I don't know if fighting games should be discussed in this forum. Suffice it to say that fighting games of today, especially the later ones, possess more than enough audio for a blind player to tell exactly what is going on. Not necessarily to block a specific attack unless it's slow enough to detect by ear first, but enough to switch between fighting offensively and defensively depending on the circumstances. It's enough to beat the AI of most of those games, and while I don't do nearly as well against a real opponent, I can say with perfect honesty that I can occasionally defeat the sighted.
I feel that there is no greater time than now to do a shameless plug for a section of my web site. If you visit:
http://www.brandoncole.net/gaming.htm
you'll find examples of blind people, including myself and several others, playing all sorts of games, including Rock Band. All samples on the site are audio only, but I have created a place where the blind can show other blind people, and the rest of the world, what mainstream games are out there, and playable. Check that site out, and you might get a better idea of what we folk play on our consoles.

[GameJunkyJim]

Greetings again.
Someone did already suggest the note charts, but I much prefer learning each song using the methods I've already established. I do listen to each song already in an atempt to learn it. Sometimes I just pay attention when my fiance plays that song, and sometimes I happen to have the song on my PC, and sometimes I listen to the full song in practice mode. I haven't found a song yet that my methods don't work with.
As I've said, I don't know if fighting games should be discussed in this forum. Suffice it to say that fighting games of today, especially the later ones, possess more than enough audio for a blind player to tell exactly what is going on. Not necessarily to block a specific attack unless it's slow enough to detect by ear first, but enough to switch between fighting offensively and defensively depending on the circumstances. It's enough to beat the AI of most of those games, and while I don't do nearly as well against a real opponent, I can say with perfect honesty that I can occasionally defeat the sighted.
I feel that there is no greater time than now to do a shameless plug for a section of my web site. If you visit:
http://www.brandoncole.net/gaming.htm
you'll find examples of blind people, including myself and several others, playing all sorts of games, including Rock Band. All samples on the site are audio only, but I have created a place where the blind can show other blind people, and the rest of the world, what mainstream games are out there, and playable. Check that site out, and you might get a better idea of what we folk play on our consoles.

Speaking of websites, thank you for the link you showed me last night. I'll be getting a copy of that reader for my cousin when I get my tax return next year.

$1000 is not too high though, figure $200 for the game, plus every DLC song, plus the $5 import fee when you get RB 2 on the XBox. Then all you'll have to do is buy the DLC twice each week to keep playing with the PS3 people and with the XBox people.

Think of your fans!!

[TigerT07]

i play on my 360 but i would totally play with you if i had a PS3..good luck finding band mates =)

[KaYotiX]

Props to you and your fiancee!!!! Im on the 360 but if i had the PS3 version id add ya.

[superblindman]

I just want to make a quick apology to the ones that were looking for my Rock Band set list yesterday. Some stuff came up, most noteably a severe thunderstorm, and that tends to put a damper on things such as that. As for that proposed collection, I assure you that I am thinking of the fans, but I still refuse to ask for such a thing. In short, I'll believe it when I see it, and I can't see. Heheh.

[Rokkstar]

I am confused? How did you type all of that if you are blind? How will you read our replies? How can you memorize the guitar part, you have to see the chart? How can you memorize the drum part? This is a joke... Just looking for some adds it sounds like to me. Kind of hard to believe, just explain this first.

(I apologize if it's not)

[Cranioclash]

I am confused? How did you type all of that if you are blind? How will you read our replies? How can you memorize the guitar part, you have to see the chart? How can you memorize the drum part? This is a joke... Just looking for some adds it sounds like to me. Kind of hard to believe, just explain this first.

(I apologize if it's not)
I'm not going to speak for him on the chart stuff - that's pretty impressive and I only have a vague understand of what it takes to do that.

Most people can touch type without looking at the keys, and he mentioned earlier in this thread that he's got screen reader software that reads the text out loud.

Superblindman, if I'm wrong let me know!

[Sarcasto]

Very inspiring thread, and if you had the 360 I'd add you, best of luck!

[thirdmortal]

I am confused? How did you type all of that if you are blind? How will you read our replies? How can you memorize the guitar part, you have to see the chart? How can you memorize the drum part? This is a joke... Just looking for some adds it sounds like to me. Kind of hard to believe, just explain this first.

(I apologize if it's not)

You obviously did not visit his website. He has a guide on there on how to play several different games for the blind. You should check it out.

[R4di4ti0n]

I offer you a very big congrats. It takes a special kind of person to do what you are.

Its definatly welcome. I cant tell you how annoying it is to see people with disabilities quit all together, because they feel like theres nothing left. My grandfather went blind during one of the wars, but he still keeps up today. Sky diving, motorcycling (riding not driving, hah), and diving, just to name a few hobbies. Hes also a pretty renowned basket maker. Im getting a little off topic. I guess what im trying to say is i have a lot of respect for people like you, who take lemons and make them into a full 5 course meal. Im on the 360, so we will never play, but keep it up man. You are straight |P ]I[ |M| |P. If your reader didnt catch that, its pimp.

This thread reminds me of N0m4d. Crazy good shooter play, who is paralyzed. Some people are just amazing.

[Zechman]

superblindman, I am just . . . speechless.

Hat off, and saluting.

Besides the fact that my Rock Band is on the 360, I can't send you a friend request because I'm not sure I deserve the honor of playing with you.

Rock on!

--Dwayne

[sparki1980]

I would so play w/ you if you were on 360, I'm listening to your Hysteria failure... and aside from failing you're doing much better than I could attempt blindfolded. I guess the bad thing about not seeing the notes is that you can't blame video lag or the onslaught of totally hot groupies rushing the stage. Anyway, you're amazing... this stuff is awesome, and if we had the same console I'd be sending a request.

[Bearclaw]

It's awesome that you have the tenacity to learn songs by sound alone. I wish I could play with you, but unfortunately I play on a 360. Keep rocking man.

[Mex]

I am confused? How did you type all of that if you are blind? How will you read our replies? How can you memorize the guitar part, you have to see the chart? How can you memorize the drum part? This is a joke... Just looking for some adds it sounds like to me. Kind of hard to believe, just explain this first.

(I apologize if it's not)

Maybe you should read the whole thread?

[metalfenix]

Whoa man, like everyone said, hats off to you!! I don't know if your wife will read this to you, but in any case, I must express my admiration. Playing one of the most visual oriented instruments in the game being blind only using your musical ear....simply awesome.

And your dedication inspires me to keep trying and trying for the things I wish in life. Right now I'm taking a vacation off Rock Band, but when I return I'll send you a request to your PSN so we can play (I'm a vocalist)

[Tr1cky Tpr]

words cannot express the awesome. You truly are a great person, if only i could play you (take a wild guess why)

[superblindman]

To everyone out there, my current list of songs I can play is complete. And uh, in counting, it was about, um, 20 more than 55. Heheh. So I lost track. But I actually ended up adding a few to the list as I was creating it, trying out some songs I hadn't yet tried and succeeding. At any rate, that list will appear on my profile shortly after I post this very reply.
To Rockstar, believe me when I say I was expecting people with your misgivings. I've said before that I very nearly didn't post this thread at all, because a small part of me thought that just about everyone would react as you have. But yes, I do use screenreader software to read text. Nobody is reading it to me, unless you count the semirobotic voice coming from the computer's speakers. As for typing, well, I'll simplify by saying I started taking typing lessons in third grade. And as for Rock Band, I feel I've explained the way I play in as concise a way as I can possibly manage. The ears are very, very powerful things if one knows how to use them. And as a blind person, I MUST know how to use them. Whether you continue to disbelieve is up to you, but I assure you that the people I've spoken to over MSN now know me at least well enough to tell you that I speak the truth. I do recommend you check out my web site, as that is yet further proof.
More proof is coming as well. Not only do we still plan to do that video mentioned several times in this thread, but myself and the other blind guy I mentioned who plays Rock Band are co-writing a Rock Band Guide for the Blind, in an effort to bring more of the blind community into the Rock Band fold. We feel it's an opportunity they can't miss. And soon after that, we will be cohosting an audio-only Rock Band demonstration, which will showcase some of the methods we use to play songs.
I again thank all those who came to this thread and chose not to instantly doubt. As I've said before, you guys are great. And again, if you're one of those that is able to play RB with me, look for that song list on my profile. It will be updated every time I learn a new song. And if this thread continues, I will inform you all here as well.

[superblindman]

Right. So, uh, in my endeavor to post the list on my actual profile, I learned the hard way that the biography area has a character limit. Therefore, I must post it here. I hope everyone that is interested catches sight of this post, as I don't intend to repost the entire list when I learn a new song or two. I will only post those new songs I have learned so as to conserve as much space as possible. For now, here's the entire list of songs I can play. Enjoy.

List of Rock Band songs I can play in alphabetical order:

29 Fingers by the Konks
Afterlife by Avenged Sevenfold
All the Small Things by Blink 182
Amazing Journey by the Who (barely)
Are you Gonna be my Girl by Jet
Attack by 30 seconds to Mars
Bang a Gong by T-rex (barely)
Black Hole Sun by Sound Garden (comes close on the solo)
Blitzkreig Bop by the Ramons
Blood Doll by Anarchy Club (still have some trouble with this one)
Brain Power by Freezepop
Buddy Holly by Weezer
Bullets and Guns by Them Terribles
Can’t Let Go by Death of the Cool
Celebrity Skin by Hole
Cheeseburger in Paradise by Jimmy Buffett
Countdown to Insanity by H-Blockx
Creep by Radiohead
Critical Aclaim by Avenged Sevenfold
Crush Crush by Paramore
Dani California by the Red Hot Chillipeppers
Day Late, Dollar Short by the Acrobrats
Detroit Rock City by Kiss
Devour by Shinedown
Dirty Little Secret by the All American Rejects
El Scorcho by Weezer
Electric Version by the New Pornographers
Enter Sandman by Metallica
Ever Fallen In Love with Someone you Shouldn’t have Fallen in Love With by the Buzzcocks (another close call)
Girls who Play Guitars by Maximo Park
Go with the Flow by Queens of the Stone Age
Here it Goes Again by OK Go
I Get By by Honest Bob and the Factory to Dealer Insentives
I Think I’m Paranoyed by Garbage
I’m so Sick by Flyleaf
In Bloom by Nervana
Indestructable by Disturbed
Inside the Fire by Disturbed (still have some trouble with this solo)
Interstate Lovesong by Stone Temple Pilots
It Hurts by Angels and Airwaves
Joker and the Thief by Wolfmother
Junkies for Fame by Shinedown
Learn to Fly by the Foo Fighters
Leaving Here
Main Offender by the Hives
Maps by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Mississippi Queen by Mountain
Monsoon by Tokio Hotel
Move Along by the All American Rejects
Nightmare by Crooked X
Orange Crush by REM
Outside by Tribe
Pleasure by Bang Camero (have a little trouble during the song, but can mostly play it)
Reptilia by the Strokes
Roxane by the Police (only played it once. Be warned.)
Say it Ain’t So by Weezer
Seven by Vagiant
Should I Stay or Should I Go by the Clash
Super Sprode by Freezepop
Still Alive by Glados (have trouble with the second chorus)
Suffragett City by David Boie
The Hand that Feeds by Nine Inch Nails
The Kill by 30 seconds to Mars
They Say by Scars on Broadway
This ain’t a Scene It’s an Arms Race by Flallout Boy
Time is Running Out by Papa Roach
Time we Had by the Motherhips (just barely. One of those songs where I’m not sure what I’m missing.)
Timmy and the Lords of the Underworld
Train in Vain by the Clash
Vasoline by Stone Temple Pilots
Wanted Dead or Alive by Bon Jovi
Wave of Mutilation by the Pixies
We Care a lot by Faith No More
Welcome Home by Coheed and Cambria
When you were Young by the Killers

[PlayFreebirdNow]

Congrats on being awesome. I'd play with you, but my friend invites are messed up and I get the "Can't Connect to Session" thing.

[LoopyChew]

You can do what I did for this kind of thing and make it your one and only blog entry. Granted, mine is for DLC, but the concept remains the same.

[princeofcups777]

I guess he has his fiance read these posts?

BTW, ignore the adverisement-bot, those are problems around the internet.

There are tools for the blind that can vocalize a web page for you, links and all. Works best on compliant web pages with proper tag ids, etc.

[NightmareSnake]

I would totally join your band and be your singer!

Except, of course, that I play on PS2 and therefore have no online capability.

But hey, I've heard of deaf players, but I thought playing blind was impossible! You ROCK!

[superblindman]

My fiance suggested that I actually post the list on my own web site as well, and link to it from my profile. I am considering this. It would be slightly easier for me to update this way.

[Mitsurugi16]

Hi folks. I am the other rock band player SuperBlindMan mentioned. Unfortunately, I don't have a ps3 or xbox 360. My Dad decided to fork up cash for a wii... which pissed me off because I wanted to play rock band online with my ps3 user friends. That and Soul Calibur IV, but that's beside the point.

I have to give SuperBlindMan a lot of credit, because if it hadn't been for him, I wouldn't be playing anything, instead I would only be doing vocals. But now I can play easy guitar, and normal drums. Guitar is simply figuring notes out... drums, well, I just don't have enough coordination to play anything on hard. lol. I can list some of the songs I know how to play off the top of my head, and hope to learn more...

Welcome home
When you were Young
Wanted Dead or Alive
Say it ain't so
Run to the Hills
\paranoid
Dani California
Detroit Rock city
Here it goes Again
Blitzkreig Bop
Nightmare

Right now, those are all the songs I can finish. I intend to learn more, and once I get a ps3... when it happens, first song intended for download is BYOB. Which reminds me, speaking of downloadingable content... where's Bon Jovi's Shot through the Heart? That'd be an awesome song to play.

[war_lord]

Welcome Mitsurugi! You and SuperBlindMan are amazing for being able to overcome adversity the way you guys do... Keep on rocking!

[superblindman]

Yes, welcome, Mitsurugi. Heheh. I'm actually glad you're here now. The more of us the better. Gotta turn away all these doubters. Heheh. I actually know someone else who got his PS3 just last week or so, and will probably be getting Rock Band within the month. So perhaps another shall join these forumsin time. We are here, rockers, and we're here to stay.

[Mitsurugi16]

I only wish I had a ps3. Right now I'm stuck with my stirdy and reliable, but sadly lacking ps2 version of rockband...

[0tj]

That's awesome that you can memorize songs. I would play online with you in a heartbeat, but sadly I own a 360.:(

EDIT: Just read Mitsurugi's post and many cudos to you as well.

[Shinobi51190]

Damn you guys are good. I actually tried to play a song on expert drums once with my eyes closed because of something my dad said. I passed but only because I already knew the chart relatively well and cheated a little by opening my eyes 3 or 5 times lol. But to memorize all the charts you guys did by ear alone? That's ****in amazing! I'd say you've definitely inspired most of us. Too bad I'm on the 360 though. Could've added you otherwise.

[Goshdarnit]

OK. I play drums. I'm working through Expert now, but usually play Hard online because I don't want to annoy people by screwing up! My PSN name is Goshdarnit. You can send me a friend request if you still want more names, or I'll send you one. Are you superblindman on the PSN as well?

Looks like your friend list might be full up, judging from the success of this thread though!

Oh yes, and much respect by the way!

[Zoop]

And here I thought I was cool for beating expert drums and you guys steal my crappy little thunder! ;)

Awesome work guys, I'm truly amazed. Hook these cats up with some goodies, HMX.

[Shinobi51190]

And here I thought I was cool for beating expert drums and you guys steal my crappy little thunder! ;)

Awesome work guys, I'm truly amazed. Hook these cats up with some goodies, HMX.

Awesome idea!!!!

[Mitsurugi16]

Just wanted to say for myself, thanks for all the support, folks. It's good to see people who are so supportive... I can't say for SuperBlindMan, but it certainly gives me more motivation to learn more songs... I'm a slower worker than he is because I tend to like perfecting one song or at least manage to finish it before I move on to another one. It's fun, both learning and playing... and I might video as well.

[shadebug]

I would totally play with you (shadebug_us), I got no probs playing with people on lower difficulties.

Have you ever used IRC? I think screenreaders work for it (though whether you'd want to hear what a screen reader on an irc channel would say is another matter) and it's a decent enough way to organise matchups if you get into #rockband on irc.gamesurge.net

[verdige]

This is one time I wish I had a PS3, really. I find it astounding that you can do this and I'm very very impressed and you must be quite talented indeed. Hopefully you have lots of cool players to play with and have fun with by now.

Wish you all the best in future conquests!

[Sherlock507]

I already posted on this thread (forever ago), but I'll do it again.

I played with him online a couple of nights ago and he was great! Even if he missed a note, he knew where the song picked up and kept going like anyone of us would. PS3 users, he is a MUST add. An amazing person and he's really nice too! Keep on truckin man.

[upfromtheashes]

I just now saw this thread for the first time, and I have to say...it honestly brought tears to my eyes. Not because I know what it's like to be blind or have a loved one lacking sight or anything like that...but just because I'm always moved by people who are determined enough to say "DISABILITY? I DON'T THINK SO!" and go chase their dreams.

You are the rockingest rocker on this board, and I will send a friend request tonight. My PSN is upfromtheashes.

I'm sure that you encounter people all the time who pity you. I don't pity you one bit. I'll bet that you have a better life than most.

[TyrionXavier]

I'll add you to my friendslist when I get home. That's probably the coolest thing I've ever read in my life. I'll totally play with you.

I'm Expert level guitar, Hard/Expert level drummer, and I can sing on Medium/Hard (really depending on the song). 150 songs and climbing.

Look forward to it, man.

[nikkilee]

Sign me up brother. My PSN is sixxlee and I can play hard/expert drums, as well as expert bass. This cat is kicking some serious ass on the wild side......God Bless Brother

[LegolElf]

superblindman and mitsurugi... Amazing, Amazing work! I just read through this entire thread before posting, and I am truly amazed. I must admit, when I started to read the first post I thought it was a joke. Then by the end of said post I had tears in my eyes from how sincere and honest you were, and I knew this was for real. Keep it up! You have more drive and determination than I ever will.

I have recently started to try Band World Tour by myself doing guitar on expert/hard and medium vocals. I love it on the songs I know, but i just hum the vocals on the others and concentrate on guitar. That is hard enough, and I'm truly amazed that you memorize these songs and notes and play the way you do. It's inspiring, and I applaud the two of you.

Keep up the good work. I'm on 360, otherwise I would add you as well. Again... great job! :)

[Mitsurugi16]

You're not kidding. It's hard to learn some of these songs, too... Run to the Hills was a nightmare to learn, because even on easy there really isn't a way to tell when a power cord is playing or whether that's just another regular note.

[CONAN9845]

I almost wish I had a PS3 now... Well, almost.

I think this is awesome. Good luck to you.

[superblindman]

Greetings again,
I haven't posted here in a couple days, I know. Shame on me. At any rate, I wanted to, once again, thank those who have read this thread and offered their support in any way, be it add requests, or just a friendly word. I appreciate it immensely. To the one that asked, yes I am also superblindman on PSN. And to the one who suggested it, while personally I have no idea if any Harmonix employees have seen this thread, other than perhaps Apples, I don't expect, nor do I ask for, any material contributions. It makes me happy enough to see the response Clement, (mitsurugi), and I are getting, because this is the first atempt I, at least, have made to reach out to a mainstream game's community. Granted I've attempted to reach mainstream game developers before, but that, well, that didn't go so well. You know you're not being listened to when you're blind, and you get automated letters thanking you for your appreciation of the developer's graphics. Oy. And yet, though this is the first time I've truly reached out to others regarding my mainstream gaming, that's really part of what the gaming section of my web site is all about. It is there to help other blind players as well, certainly, but it is also there as a sort of beacon for any developer who looks at it. It kind of says "Hey, here we are." Actually, I think it says that literally, now that I think about it. It hasn't had much success, save for within the blind community itself where it is semipopular, but I'll always keep it there, and keep updating it. Its address was once given out to yet another, very renouned mainstream developer by a well-known audio gaming group, (a group that develops and helps promote games made especially for the blind), but we never got a response back from them either. This single post is the most successful thing that has come out of my efforts, and those of the rest of the blind community who play some mainstream games.

So yes, part of me does hope that Harmonix is watching. Not because I'm looking for publicity, but because it will show that, through use of a public forum, that message has been received by at least one developer. I will always be an advocate for this sort of thing. It is my dream that one day, all games will be perfectly accessible to everyone. Perhaps that dream is a long way off, but that doesn't make it any less mine. It's why I contacted the developer who came back at me with a comment about graphics, it's why I instantly accepted when I was asked if it was alright to plug my site to that other developer, and it's part of the reason I started this thread. Whether you guys realize it or not, you've begun to bridge a wide, yawning chasm simply by your acceptance. A chasm that has existed for years and years.

I tell you all these things to make a point. If you didn't understand why I keep repeting how greatful I am, hopefully now you do. The chasm is still wide, the bridge still unsteady, but every person who doesn't dismiss all this as a joke adds one more support, and makes that bridge just a little larger, that chasm not look so threatening. I speak idly when I say this next, as I know what it sounds like, and I promise I am NOT trying to offer any subtle hints. I would love, absolutely love, to work for a game developer. An game developer, really, though Harmonix would be near, if not at, the top of my list. The reality of acquiring such a position is understandably small, given that I certainly couldn't be a graphic designer, and I would make only a substandard tester, as I couldn't provide the amount of feedback that would be asked for. But still, the thought sticks with me. I have ideas. I have a lot of ideas. Those who have chatted with me via MSN have heard some of these. Most of these ideas are very subtle, nonintrusive ways that games, even games like Rock Band, could be made more accessible. I uh, I actually sent the ones concerning Rock Band specifically to the Harmonix feedback email. I had to, as soon as I found out such an address existed. They wanted feedback, so... Heheh.

Anyway, I shall cease my ramblings for a moment. I feel as though I'm treading a thin line, and again I don't want to seem as though I'm looking for too much. I know the truths, the realities behind all the things I have said and proposed, and I am not bothered by them. But even those truths won't ever stop me from trying to spread the word about accessibility, and games that can already be played. Rock Band has its own page on my site because I want all blind people toplay this game. I hold it in the highest regard, and shall continue to do so as long as it exists. I thank you all once again, and though I will now apologize for the length of this message, I hope I've provided you all with a deeper understanding.

[dark__gamer]

superblindman do you type all your posts out or do you use a program were you talk into a mic and it writes what you say?

[loser21]

im just curious why this is still around, by now dont you got enough friends/ why is this still going? just asking

[billmcdougal]

I would imagine that it is still around because people are still very interested in it.

[steelcurtain187]

That is pretty amazing. Too bad I am on Xbox because I would love to play with you sometime!

[GameJunkyJim]

im just curious why this is still around, by now dont you got enough friends/ why is this still going? just asking
It's still going because he's worthy of respect, and he's hardcore as hell.

Nobody has to read the thread if they don't want to.

[ASPSAX]

It would be impressive enough if you just played drums, but the fact that you're memorizing the guitar charts too increases your hardcore-ness sevenfold. I would totally play with you if I had a PS3. Rock on, dude, rock on. \(m)/

[superblindman]

Greetings again,
To the one that asked most recently, I assure you that all my posts are typed out by me, using a program called a screenreader. This has been touched on earlier in the thread. And to the one who asks why this is still around, well, what can I say? It's still generating responses. And I'm not going to turn down a friend request simply because I "have enough." It wouldn't be right, and certainly wouldn't show commitment on my part to the message I am trying to promote. I for one am very thankful for the responses this is getting, as I expected very few at the outset. I find myself literally surprised when another person happens upon this thread and makes a comment. And it's a wonderful feeling.

[CPRxChris]

superblindman, I started reading this thread...your story is amazing...

I joined the Rock Band forums just to say that...Harmonix should pay you lol...

I requested you on PSN...I would be more than happy to play a game with you, anytime.

Oh by the way, my PSN ID is the same as my name on here, CPRxChris.

[sphere]

Memorize every song?

My hat just jumped off of my head. I didn't even take it off, it knew the drill.

I'd add you, but I play 360. The only two songs I ever memorized were Sweet Child o Mine and More Than a Feeling, because they're my two favourite songs and they repeat a lot. You have to do them all... my god.

[superblindman]

Well, I haven't memorized EVERY song, but that is how I have to play. If you look further up in the thread, where my entire guitar song list is located, you'll see my total is somewhere around 73. And again, I would only accept payment from Harmonix if I actually worked there, but that's something I have also already discussed. Ah, but I can dream. Heheh.

[superblindman]

Just wanted to say a couple more things. Firstly, the complete list of songs I can play on Guitar is now on my web site. You can find it at:
http://www.brandoncole.net/rock%20band%20guitar%20set%20list.txt
And secondly, I wanted to say here that "Life is Beautiful," and "My Curse" have been added to that list. Finished both today. I will be putting a link to this list in my profile as well. Make sure to check back for all the latest updates.

[Mitsurugi16]

Just thought I'd drop by again and say something, as I haven't done so in a while myself.

Superblindman and I have been friends for a while, and I think I can say confidently that in regards to mainstream games, we have the exact same view. I have made various attempts to reach mainstream gamers, and have had limitted success. So far out of the five or so boards I have posted on I believe one board and only one was completely positive towards my statement of being blind. As a blind person, and as Superblindman said, it is very encouraging, and bridges the chasm that, unfortunately, grows wide and is indeed hard to bridge.

I appreciate all the work he does on his gaming section portion of his website, and I regularly submit samples for him to post, as a way of showing my own enthusiasm and support, and I do support him, whole-heartedly and without question. As I said in my first couple of posts, all my success in playing rock band is thanks to him. Without him, I would've never known it was possible to do anything other than vocals. He offered me a lot of assistance, and I appreciate every moment of it.

I too appreciate the support of everyone here. This, as I said, has had the most success I've seen in attempts to bridge the gap between sighted and blind gamers. Granted my setlist isn't as big as Superblindman's, because for one, he's better than I am, and two, I don't have the option of downloadable content. I'm still waiting for the next track pack to come out, because as of now there aren't any on the first one I like. lol.

[CloudWolf]

Wait, how did he type that if he's blind :confused:

A really amazing achievement though, playing Rock Band blind. I couldn't do it if I was blind, I'm sure of it. Too bad I'm on the Xbox, otherwise I would certainly send you a friend request :)

EDIT: Nevermind the first question, discovered the answer on the previous page

[Starfleet_Rambo]

God bless you and your fiance. I'm on 360, so I can't play with you, but I totally would if possible.

This was a beautiful post to find after all the Rush DLC nonsense. :cool:

[Starfleet_Rambo]

Whoa...wtf. I finally noticed this was an old thread.

How did I miss this???

Still awesome. I wish I wasn't so late for the party. ;)

[Reedus]

I found this thread by searching for third eye blind topics. I'm surprised I never saw it before.

I'd like to add you to my friends list on PS3 next time I'm on and hopefully we can play online sometime.

several of the questions I had when I first started reading this thread have been answered, but I do want to commend you on your excellent grammar and spelling. amazing to think that a blind person's writing skills are better than most everyone else's!

I look forward to (hopefully) playing online with you soon!

[GC_Chick]

You guys, feel free to add us if you see this post in your search and are interested in playing with us :) We haven't been on in a while due to the fact Brandon started a new job but he usually still plays on the weekends or in the afternoon when he can.

[HMXDungHeaver]

I'm very much impressed by your ability to play the game without the tracks, and salute your ability to memorize them.

Sadly, I'm on XBL and cannot play with you, but I wanted to let you know that you are the man and to keep up the good work. Very glad you enjoy the game enough to put all that time and effort into it.

Also, congrats on being with GC_Chick, she seems to be quite the kickass fiancé!

Keep rocking!

[Mitsurugi16]

Just to say it again. Thanks to everyone for the support... this is when I really want a ps3 just to play with people. I owe it all to brandon for teaching me all this, without his help and support, and of course poking fun I never would have managed this. I have just started my medium guitar career and have finished two songs. Enter Sandman, and Welcome home. Granted I don't use star power as much and usually save it for when I'm about to die, I still manage them. Thanks again, and thanks also to the devs who read this thread. I can't wait for rock band 2!

[toMsons1987]

This thread breaks my heart, in all honesty. I hate when people can't enjoy the simple pleasure people take for granted daily, including me. I hope one day you try to get eye surgery done, to help you see even a little bit. Doctors said that I will eventually be blind in one eye, because of an accident.

Anyways, if you ever want to play you can add me. I'll accept happily, and don't mind to fail or help people. So I hope to play with you one day, best regards.

[Wedge19]

Add me as a friend, I don't play online much, but I love Devour by Shinedown, and I know thats the one you said that you nailed pretty easily. You may want to try They Say by Scars On Broadway. I can do that one with my back turned on expert, pretty fun song, too. And how cool would it be to say that you can play an expert song without ever seeing the note chart? Good place to start moving up in the difficulty levels. Keep up the awesome work

PS my PSN is Wedge19

[Satoshi]

Greetings,

Feel free to add me. I may not be online as much as I would like to be, but if you wish to have another guy to play, add me :)

PSN is Satoshi006

[haruki_jitsunin]

If I played on the PS3, dude, I'd add you...

However, I think the most logical step for you would to go vocals, wouldn't it? I'm sorry if that sounded offensive, but if you're mostly concerned about playing online or easily learning a song, wouldn't vocals be a bit easier than learning the whole guitar chart of each song individually?

[Ice2ms]

I will play with you for sure ill make it my mission ! I am amazed that you can memorise 55 songs... i have like 3 songs tops in my head xD. Also Im a bassist (everyone needs a bassist :D)
Im going to add you this second.

[Borbel]

Utmost respect to both of you guys and anyone else who can play this game blind. I met a blind friend in college and you sound a lot like him. He never let it get in the way of anything he wanted to do, and he taught me more about life than I could ever teach him!

Crappy I'm on 360, otherwise I'd be going out to get the XBL Gold membership just to jam with you. Good to see so many people have offered encouragement on here, and I'll echo it - you'll be playing expert someday, believe in yourself as much as everyone on here believes in you!
Rock on Bro's!

[superblindman]

Greetings once again,
Wow. I haven't posted on this thread in some time, as I thought it was no longer being viewed. Turns out I was mostly wrong. We shall gladly accept add requests, perhaps today, and shall work on adding those requesting that we add them. To the one hoping I get some form of eye surgery someday, I say two things. First, I really don't mind being blind. It's the way I was born, and while I'd love to be able to, for instance, play certain video games I currently have no chance of playing, that's about the only real reason for it. Other than that, I have no desire to be sighted. My blindness has given me a unique perspective on the world, which I would prefer to keep. I don't want to be drawn into the shallow need for shiny or goodlooking things. Secondly, there is currently no eye surgery in existence that can cure a complete lack of eyes. Mine ae prosthetic. To the one who suggested I do vocals instead of playing guitar, I have another two things to say. Firstly, I'm terrified to sing in front of people, as is well-documented. Secondly, vocals are the easy way out, and rarely do I ever take the easy way out. I want to learn. I want to memorize. I love the challenge of it, and the thrill when I finally do get that song I've wanted to get for so long. To the one who suggested They Say, been there, done that. I think I remember actually yawning the first time I played that song. Perhaps the only song with no thrill associated. Not a terrible song, though. And lastly, to the gracious Harmonix developer who posted here, I say thank you. I have been wondering if any of you have been reading this, if only so you fully understand just who plays, and loves dearly, your games. Also, GC_Chick is the greatest fiance I could ask for. You're right about that. And since she hasn't been here in a while, I'll tell her you said so. Thanks again, all. Even you, Clement.

[superblindman]

Oh, and I almost forgot. My list of songs has grown. Most recent are Running Wild by Airbourne, Hammerhead by the Offspring, and Dreaming by Weezer. Both SOAD songs came before that, as I may or may not have already mentioned.

[NogNogga]

Very inspiring post...

Sadly, I am also on XBL, it would be a lot of fun to get a full band going with our blind guitarist :)

[churnek]

Darn I'm on xbox, but you sir are a hero! (not an hero)

[Mitsurugi16]

So thanks to all even me, huh? Wonder what he means by that. Knowing him probably something to poke fun at me. lol.

In terms of eye srgery, I agree with him. There really isn't any reason I want to be sighted again. Sure being able to play certain games owuld be nice. But has anyone considered how much we'd have to start all over again? I can confidently say I'd look at something and go, What the heck is that... feel it, then recognize it. And then, there's colors and writing. Nightmare...

As I've said earlier. My songs on medium now include enter sandman and welcome home, and for now those are the only ones. For easy, two more. Highway star on the guitar and train kept rolling on medium drums. That's it for now.