Friday, February 26, 2021

More chatting.......

 

The YouTube Virtuoso with a Heart: Frank’s Journey from Music to Wisdom

How an unassuming musician captured hearts with his candid reflections and gentle counsel

In an age where influencers vie for attention with polished productions and meticulously crafted personas, there is a distinct charm in authenticity. Frank, a self-proclaimed “virtual granddad” and musician, embodies this unique appeal. Through his channel, he shares songs, anecdotes, and musings that strike a chord with viewers from all walks of life. But it isn’t just his music that captivates; it’s his heart—generous, sincere, and full of wisdom. In a recent video, Frank’s reflections provided not only insight into his journey but also lessons that transcend the digital world.

1. Navigating Monetization Frank never set out with the goal of monetizing his content, despite encouragement from friends, family, and fans alike. “I kept getting asked to put a PayPal link on,” he shares, revealing his reluctance to capitalize on his passion for music. Yet, yielding to the persistent requests, Frank added a PayPal link and monetized select videos. However, true to his principles, he refuses to profit from covers unless explicitly permitted. “I’m not gonna try getting money off other people’s songs,” he says firmly, reinforcing his respect for fellow musicians and their work.

2. A Humble Response to Support Frank’s sincerity shines through in his interactions with his audience, particularly when it comes to donations. While he appreciates the gestures, he is adamant that viewers should never sacrifice their own comfort to support him. “If you don’t have a lot of money, please don’t give it away to me,” he advises, underscoring his wish to be a source of joy without burdening others. A comment, he assures, holds as much value as a monetary contribution.

3. The Challenge of Staying Connected With a growing following, keeping up with comments has become increasingly difficult. “I’m spending more time reading comments than practicing the next song,” Frank admits, signaling the delicate balance he strives to maintain. Though he treasures the personal connection, the sheer volume means he has had to adapt. From now on, he shares, he will read as many as possible but may forgo leaving his signature ❤️ on each one.

4. The Value of Authentic Engagement Frank’s heartfelt commitment to his audience is evident in his willingness to respond to questions—even encouraging fans to email him if they seek detailed answers. His humor and warmth come through in playful asides, like the suggestion that someone might write asking to give him “three million dollars,” a moment softened with self-deprecating wit.

5. Lessons on Aging and Life’s Inevitable Truths Despite being approached by younger viewers for advice on aging, Frank humbly confesses, “There’s not really any tips on getting old. You either get old or you don’t.” What he offers instead is pragmatic: survival. Frank’s perspective—marked by acceptance of life’s uncertainties—urges his viewers to live without fear of aging or death. “Just live,” he says, encapsulating his philosophy in a single, profound directive.

6. A Diplomatic Approach to Challenges Drawing from his time as a telephone engineer, Frank recounts a story that exemplifies his diplomacy. Facing frustrated customers, he would feign personal woes to defuse tension, effectively shifting the dynamic from confrontation to compassion. This anecdote is emblematic of Frank’s broader life approach—disarming conflict with empathy and humor.

Summary: Frank’s story is more than that of a musician navigating the complexities of digital fame. It’s a testament to the power of genuine connection, humility, and the wisdom that comes from decades of living. His words remind us of the importance of kindness, the futility of worry, and the joy found in simply being a good person. In an era consumed by instant gratification and relentless competition, Frank stands as a gentle voice advocating for contentment, one heartfelt song at a time.

Wednesday, February 17, 2021

The Lessons We Learn: A Reflection by Frank Watkinson

 

From School Prizes to Ferraris: Why Not All Rewards Are What They Seem

In a candid moment shared on February 17, 2021, Frank Watkinson, a beloved folk musician known for his heartfelt songs and covers on YouTube, offered a glimpse into his life and philosophy. In this poignant and humorous reflection, Frank recounts formative experiences from his childhood and professional life that shaped his outlook on rewards, fairness, and hard work. His words resonate deeply, serving as a reminder that the journey often teaches more than the destination.

Frank Watkinson:
I did have a lot of people saying that because I’ve got so many subscribers, I should get an award from YouTube. Well, it turns out I won’t get an award. I do too many covers, and they don’t like people that just do covers, so... never mind. I wasn’t expecting one anyway.

It reminds me of when I was nine. My mum—my dad died when I was nine—and my mum moved us all up from the east of England to the north. I started a new school, and it was about a month or so till the exams. When I got there, all their subjects were a bit different. Like history, they were doing Romans, and I was doing Norman Conquest. And for English literature, they were studying different books than what we’d been studying. But it didn’t matter; I just plodded on with it all.

Then when the exams came, it turns out I came second in the year for all the classes. The lads came to me and said, “You’re gonna get a prize now, because if you come first or second, you get a prize.” And so I thought, “Oh great.”

Anyway, a couple of days before prize day, the teachers called me into the office and said, “We’re not going to give you the prize, Frank, because it’s not fair to the person that’s been at school for the whole year who came third. So we’re going to give the second prize to the person who came third, because you might have had a better education than him before.”

It didn’t wash well. I thought, “It doesn’t seem quite fair to me because I didn’t even know what they were doing. But never mind, that’s the way it was. They want to play that game.” From then on, it taught me a lesson. If someone hangs a carrot in front of you and says, “Work hard, and you can get this,” you know... just think about it. It’s a trick. These rewards and that—it’s a trick. Don’t fall for it. I never fell for that again.

I think I probably would have been a lot more clever if I hadn’t learned that lesson so young. To upset somebody… it reminds me of one day when I got a job at this company. One morning, one of the CEOs pulled into the car park in a brand new Ferrari. I walked over to it and said, “That’s amazing. That’s a beautiful car.”

And he goes, “Do you like it?”
“Yeah, I love it.”
He says, “Well, if you put the hours in, and if you work really hard, and you go that extra mile every day… I can get a better one next year.”

That’s what you need to learn. It’s all a con. Anyway, thanks again. I’ve gotta go. She’ll be home soon from work. She still thinks I’m pottering in the shed all day. All right, see you later. Bye. 

###

ChatGPT Prompt:

please write out this transcript: write a title, sub title and introduction speaker=Frank Watkinson date: Feb 17, 2021

Saturday, February 13, 2021

Leaning Toward Wisdom Podcast: Interviews

 

Podcast #1: February 2021 A Beginner With Confidence  


Podcast #2: December 2021 He Parties Like An Animal, A Sloth
  1. 17:33 I'll Follow You Into The Dark
  2. 32:41 Natural Start Strum
  3. 38:48 The American Songwriter Aware
  4. 47:35 How Many Original Songs Do You Have
  5. 49:05 Picking Patterns
  6. 51:47 Holiday Traditions
  7. 1:19:53 What Music Are You Listening To
  8. 1:22:12 Recent Rolling Stones Tour

Thursday, February 11, 2021

Comments: This could be my last song.

 


  1. @GradoRuns7 days ago Frank deserves to have 10 million followers. The more people that hear his music, the better the world will be
  2. @theresafriedle90037 days ago We are all created with a God size hole in our heart that we try to fill with all sorts of things. Until we allow God to fill His space, we will always feel empty. I pray that you ask Him to come to you, I promise, He will be happy to!
  3. @markschafer75107 days ago Growing Old is a Priviledge denied many
  4. @robynliscinsky15118 days ago Wow, I just hit 60 last year. As a woman who raised my children alone, I had plans, where they went?..not sure. Do I have regrets? Some. But I sure do pray this last curtain call of mine will leave something good in others. I want to be remembered by how big my heart was, not by things I didn't finish or fix etc. Our lives are like a day. Born into a sunrise, live thru all kinds of weather & storms. And we fade from this life with a sunset. Make yr day the best you can.
  5. @evanlif94413 years ago “You’d be a fool to judge a wise man just by the lines upon his face” I love this line
  6. @PinkthePimp3 years ago I feel bad for the people that will find this in their recommendations years down the road. Because this gentleman is a true inspiration. God bless Frank, love your music and your songs it inspires me. I am a 20 year old soldier deployed overseas and I found your music very therapeutic.
  7. @jamesmclean529811 months ago My 15 year old daughter came across this and she shared it with me. I am 67 with this young daughter who I know loves her daddy to the fullest and she is all of my world. A wonderful song with so much emotion and feeling. God bless
  8. @freakshow78751 year ago Dude I've been sobbing for like 12 minutes cause I got so sad cause I thought you were on your way out. I'm still crying but it's tears of joy to know you're still kicking it and making beautiful music. You scared the crap out of me and made me realize I need to spend more time with my Dad now that he's getting old and busted. Thank you for gracing the earth with your ideas and voice. Love you man 
  9. @beetsme6472 3 years ago I’m a young girl listening to this but wow... I don’t think I’ve ever appreciated someone so different from me so so much. I don’t even know this man but his song is so beautiful and made me realize the value of youth. Thank you so much Frank
  10. @Katie-md7mh3 years ago I just turned 18. And I really am terrified of growing up. But this song really made me think. Youth is truly wasted on the young. And I dont want that to be true. 
  11. @bobc75573 years ago Thank you for this. I'm quiet old. I've lived a long life. And I'm not afraid of dying anymore because I've done it all. All that I wanted to do. To all the young children or adults out there- do everything you want to do. Because one day you could die, and you want to look back in happiness, not in regret. Make memories, fall in love, get a dog, learn some music, be in a film, go to a carnival, sing a song, write a story, bake a cake, eat a pretzel, have a bonfire, walk down a cobblestone street- it's never too late to enjoy the small things in life and live the best you can. Remember- you're never too old to be happy. Sincerely, Robert 
  12. @beeeeeeaaaaaan3 years ago This is almost certainly going to be buried but I can’t just move on without telling you that this truly is one of the most beautiful songs I’ve heard. You can feel the heart and care in every aspect and every note. Absolutely one of the most touching things I’ve ever heard. Thank you Frank. Thank you 
  13. @cassiopeia.hawthorne3 years ago (edited) i fear adulthood so much. i can't even properly explain how emotional it makes me feel because i know that there will come a time when my childhood is over and that i'd have to eventually make and write my own story. i'd like to thank you for this song, mr. watkinson. it is truly amazing. 
  14. @troubleslug6011 year ago Hi, this is going to be a little weird but my father is wondering if he could use your song on his funeral. He is getting older and loves the song, he still listens to your covers and songs while making dinner. He is planning his funeral because he wants to be sure it'll be his own funeral with his favorite songs. It would mean alot. PS because of my father I descovered you and I love everything you do! Love from Belgium Frank!  
  15. @lorenzovazquez81733 years ago You didn’t just write a song, you told the story and feelings of an entire generation. This is truly wonderful. You might not have changed the world, but you changed me (and for that I’m grateful)
  16. @DAxt-sc1hm3 years ago This man is an exact mirror image of my father who passed in 2011. Right down to the hairline and glasses. I cried the first time I watched him.
  17. @AnsleyMadsen2 months ago I really appreciate this song! I'm going through sort of a rough time. Hearing you say how you hope you've played your role right, how you've learned that you can't fix everything but you wish you could really made me realize the beauty in life. So, thank you Frank Watkinson.
  18. @the.tinyasian3 years ago  My grandpa is about to move in with us, and at first I was slightly annoyed because we’d have to take care of him. This popped up and I can’t believe I was so selfish to think that. I’m going to cherish the moments I’ll spend with him. Thank you, kind sir, for sharing this.
  19. @_cr4zy_4ss3 years ago I’ve often struggled with suicidal thoughts and feelings, but this song makes me want to grow old. I want to be able to tell my grandkids stories about what life was like when I was younger, I want to serve a purpose in this world. This song is truly beautiful  
  20. AleFeleOnYT1 year ago (edited) I just saw your video and wanted to tell you how much it touched my heart. Your passion and love for music is evident in every note you play, it's amazing to see how you convey such deep emotions through this. You are truly an inspiration and I hope you continue to find joy in your music. And since we're almost there, Merry Christmas! Much love from Italy.
  21. @simonhershberger41573 years ago (edited) Wow, as a 15 year old just shy of being a man this song really puts life into perspective for me. I don't want to spend my whole life planning on fulfilling my dreams and letting them slip away. Thank you Frank, you brought tears to my eyes but you might have legitimately just changed the course of my life. God bless you, you eternally young man -Simon 
  22. @elkistrying52111 month ago Three years ago, I heard this song but didn’t save the video. I couldn’t find it despite trying to, but I always remembered it. Today, I stumbled across your video on a different platform and thought I recognized your voice- and finally, I have found this song again. Thank you for this beautiful song, and for doing what you do. This world can be a dark and scary place, but you are a beacon of hope and light
  23. @evanrussell21723 years ago Tomorrow is the 5th anniversary of my dad's passing. He was 45. I didn't get the chance to say my final goodbyes. It was just supposed to be a normal day at school. Then I was pulled out and told he died. I never got to see him again. It hurts. I was 11 then. I'm 16 now. It still hurts. I'll never get to see him get old, but at least he didn't have to suffer then. I'm not happy it happened, but I understand why. I'm not over it, but I accept it. I know I'm just venting, but I know I needed a nice place to share. Thank you. 
  24. @petiteperspective96201 month ago i played this song for my sweet elderly dog - one of my dearest friends - as his last song before he peacefully passed away this morning. as a grieving poet, i thank you for this art, Frank. i wish you well. (':
  25. @BIGMURDERDRONESFAN700011 months ago you are an absolute angel, i'm 15 years old and recently lost everything. lost all my friends, everything i've built over the years.. but this song is so beautiful, even when everything in life seems bleak. thank you frank, for brightening my day with this amazing song
  26. @EvilRidingHood3 years ago I would just like to say, sir.. it is an utmost honor to be able to hear a song so purely written from your heart and your soul. You sharing this with us is a great blessing, and it is one of the purest forms of art I have ever witnessed. I thank you from the very depths of my soul, sir, for gifting us with your wonderful music and your wisdom.
  27. @wil5853 years ago As a young girl, 15, this makes my heart cry. This is so beautiful. I’ll make sure I make the most of my life for you Frank, and I will learn this song when I’m older.
  28. @blaze_unleashed72863 years ago My grandfather died days ago, died in his sleep in a hospital from lung failure. He was the closest man to a father figure in life, he lived his life as a good man and for that of which I'm proud of the legacy he left behind. But also leaving me wishing I had done more with him, this song hits close to home and for that I am grateful. Thank you.
  29. @blurrytoken94893 years ago I'm a suicidal 22 yo but seeing old people say things like, "this would probably be my last this or that...." It hurts man! I don't want you to go. Live on!
  30. @shaniaaman8783 years ago
  31. Imagine if we didn't have Youtube, we would't have had the privelege to witness such talent. Mainstream media/Hollywood only entertains younger artists and even have a shelf-life for them, once they're past a certain age, it's on to the newer, younger act. But that system disallows us from listening to authentic experiences of people at different stages of their lives, such as Frank's who so wholesomely sings about his perpective of life as an older individual. Truly marvelous.
  32. @cadekuntz57733 years ago You've probably made a person from every age range cry from this, all with their own separate interpretations and thats the mark of a true artist to me, thank you 
  33. @captainjacksparrow74823 years ago Someone once told me that there’s no such thing as growing up, you’re always the same person, you just learn things and become wiser as time goes on. It’s easy for young people to think that old age is far away, but it’s not. I’m 19 now, it feels like just yesterday i was 10. When i’m 30, it’ll feel the same, and then when i’m 40, 60, 80, and then, well, i don’t know what i’ll think. Probably the same things Frank is.
  34. @myloiw1 year ago "Since dawn began" "i hope i played my part well" "intelligence or elligance" "you'd be a fool to judge an old man by the lines on his face." "I regret" This song hit home, you managed to get a 15 year old to stop and just watch how deep-rooted this was written, the end, how raw cut this is, how you seem to strung the strings with such care, I can tell what was put into this song, so much emotion, I caught myself looking back at where I came from, and how I managed to get here and this made me cry, and I don't do that often anymore. Your voice is so beautiful, and it has so much emotion behind it. Thank you for writing this Frank
  35. @thispowwow65743 years ago You know, I almost didn’t click on this, I was having a rough day. However, in my many years of life, and in my many years of using this app, I’ve never been more content, and I use that word because it’s what this man is telling us through this song. I’m a sucker for music like this, especially when my mom passed away, but this takes the cake. I can say this is 100% worthy of it’s spot in the recommended page. I’m so happy I found this, and judging by the other comments, I’m not alone. Amazing story = Amazing song.
  36. @radhikaaa18113 years ago It's my biggest fear. Growing older and finding out that there wasn't more to it. And I just needed to make more of it. This is perfect. Your voice is magic and it doesn't hurt that you make me miss my grandad even more than always. Thank you! Love from India
  37. @Cat-lb3eo2 years ago as a 17 year old who has an immense fear of growing old & having a fear of dying any time, this song weirdly comforted me. i know people can die any moment but when you are young, death isn't something that you think is knocking at the door. but when you are old, you know your time is... near. that used to scare me. hopefully, i'll get to be old one day & i'll be content w/how i have lived my whole life. beautiful song, sir. keep up!
  38. @whoisdooor1 year ago This is so powerful it made the entire world stop for everyone watching it. I love to see old people giving youtube their best tries. Respect ️️
  39. @theenigmabegins3 years ago I'm 25, And have never felt the fear of my mortality like I do now. This song means a lot to me, And I hope this shows it. It makes me think of all the things I'll never get to do, And never have the strength to say.. But it's a peaceful melancholy in the most inexplicable way, And I just want to thank you for writing and performing this from the bottom of my heart. I've never seen your channel until today, And I found this song in a post on another app, But I cannot overstate my gladness at the fact that I did. You sir, Are a legend. From one artist to another, Thank you. And well done.
  40. @Oheyitsclaudette3 years ago It’s 3am and I’ve been having trouble because of how anxious I am of growing older and facing the troubles that come with it but seeing this video and listening to you have such fondness for the life you’ve lived and an optimism for the uncertainty gives me a little bit more hope that maybe I’ll be okay too. I’m turning 22 next month and I’m afraid I haven’t planned my life beyond this point so maybe I’ll just wing it until I can say I can sing my final song too.
  41. @amanileon31043 weeks ago This song is so amazing and made me cry and feel so many emotions. It's absolutely beautifully written with all the perfect words. My first thought when hearing it was I want this song at my funeral when that time comes some day. Outstanding Frank, you've gained a new subscriber and fan of the art you make <3 Thank you for sharing your songs with the world
  42. @roisinhayes60483 years ago I am a music therapist that works with people in palliative care or approaching end of life. This song is absolutely beautiful and expresses many of the challenging emotions that can come up in therapy. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, song and skills! 
  43. @jimward2041 year ago Thank you, Frank. I'm 72 and your song fits me to a "T". When I was a kid the days seemed to crawl by, and the length of a a year was nearly impossible to comprehend. Now, the years fly by...some friends and most of my family are gone. I find myself wondering if I've made an impact on the lives of the people around me. And yes, I do have some regrets, but I try not to think about them because there are no "do-overs" in life. To you younger folks out there, treasure each day and the people you meet along the way. Make no rash decisions you'll regret down the road. 
  44. @dhruv87593 years ago after 5 years this will be recommended in someone YT feed and he/she will acknowledge this like us.
  45. @willb36361 year ago Mr. Watkinson, As a young man in my early twenties, listening to your song gave me an idea of what my life in the future will be like, and I appreciate your perspective. My grandfather often talks to me about similar things you sang about. I was intrigued when you said age does not always result in wisdom, as that is not commonly said. Thank you for gracing Youtube, and may your life be fruitful and cherishable, sir. Cheers, Mr. Watkinson.Show less
  46. @hanabiburuu3 years ago Today we celebrated my grandmother’s 75th birthday. She’s a stroke patient and is always very sick so we always treat like each one could possibly be her last. Recently, I’ve been having strange dreams about her, and I can’t help but feel like her time is finally coming to a close. Despite how socially anxious I am even towards my family, I’ll wake up tomorrow and try my best to spend even just a little bit of time with her. She is my last grandparent alive, and I don’t want to make the same mistake of not getting to hug her tightly one more time the same way I didn’t get to hold my other grandmother. 
  47. @what.823 years ago I had an argument and felt tense but this song came up in my recommendation, I feel light and calm now. Thank you Frank :) God bless you
  48. @danthemantis38781 year ago You froze the world for a tired, worn-out 16 year old, and made me cry too. Utterly, utterly beautiful. PS, don't believe you can't sing, you have an amazing voice!
  49. @ajaywood36821 year ago The song got me emotional, but something else made me cry. I scrolled through the comments and saw that you hearted every singular comment on the video. My soul recognized another soul trying to love as best he can, and trying to live the most he can. I'm a confused individual who happens to find daily interests to keep my mind busy. However, I often find myself thinking about life and how none of it makes sense. I find positives and negatives all the time. As a 19 year old man, my life is just starting, and yet I''m completely understanding the complete joys and udder sorrows that life has to offer. I'm proud of you, fellow existing human. Thank you for existing. Thank you for being authentic. Thank you for being emotional. Thank you for being you. This is what life is all about: experiencing it and then talking about it
  50. @liatafarella2 years ago I’m 18 and have just moved away from home—time is fleeting and I am terribly upset. This is much needed. Thank you so much.
  51. @marijnvandenberg67603 years ago (edited) You know why 'grandpa' is generally just such a positive, wholesome stereotype Frank? Because it makes us think of people like you. I'm really filled with good memories of grandparents that passed, and appreciation for the ones still with us. Anyway, I don't usually wax lyrical like this, but since you seem quite involved with your audience, just wanted to let you know! PS Really nice guitar playing!
  52. @nikore1111 year ago hi frank, im 13 and i started writing songs 2 years ago, every time I come to ur page I feel so happy and calm! and it makes me cry...this is so touching, thank you!
  53. @Bubblily2 years ago I feel like this isn’t only just a song, but a lesson. Look, I’m only 15 and I still have my whole life ahead of me, but this song has made me realize how important all the moments and experiences I’ve had in life are. All of the people I’ve met, all of the friends I’ve made, the family I was lucky enough to be born into, it’s all important. I’m glad to have heard this song, Im glad to be alive.
  54. @upsher6 months ago (edited) Even three years later I come back to it. I guess it's sort of... fear. An unsettling feeling that I spend my time on wrong things, and can't calm my mind down to simply rest, let alone do something productive, but spending more time not even fixing things, no, it's rather sitting and thinking how would I fix them. Melancholy, I guess. I do keep my promise from three years ago and listen to your covers and songs. Thank you for giving your charm to put mind at ease after carousels of complications life is full of. Bow from Russia to you, sir.
  55. @polixtpwk1999 3 years ago (edited)
  56. At the end of 2019 my godfather who was a paraplegic and was in a wheelchair for 30 years, who was like a second father to me passed away at 70. He loved to sit down and play a song for me on his guitar and this just reminded me of him, your singing, the lyrics, everything. This made me break down into tears. I'm 21 years old and losing a loved one now that I'm an dult can dawned and hurt me a lot more than when I was a kid, it's harder now. But everyday I just remind myself to try to make him proud. Thankyou for this, it really meant a lot for me to see it. I will show it to my dad tonight and give him a hug, he was my godfather best friend.
  57. @axelzimburg6947 1 year ago Hey Frank! I came across your song here by pure chance. It popped up in my recommended and i figured " why not, an old dude playing his guitar, what could go wrong". The song resonated with me in a way I didn't expect. It was very mellow and beautiful. I'm 21 and in my first year of Uni and the first few lyrics already hit me. I spent most of the past 2 years indoors due to covid (Europe was a bit strict at times) and I already have some many regrets. These two years flew by so fast and I did barely anything worthwhile. I was responsible for a lot of my failures simply because I didn't try hard enough, or at all.

    Your song made me think of myself. How many regrets do I want to have when I'm as old as you! Your song surprised me and has given me a little bit of perspective of how much I'm responsible for my own future. Thank you
  58. @noratherecluse1306 3 years ago My little sister wrote this poem some time before her suicide. It has no name, from what I know, but this is how it goes:

    As I stare Ever so carefully The darkness stares Right back at me The heartless world Clings to fake ideas I no longer make My world was shredded Torn apart As my world So was my heart I lost feeling And became so numb Blissfully ignorant Of what is to come The smile on my face Is so forced by me Sorry to tell you I want to be free Like a shadow in the night Invisible to all. She died on March 28th, 2018.

Thursday, February 4, 2021

Another thank you......

 

The Humble Granddad Who Conquered Hearts and Ping Pong

How Frank Watkinson's Everyday Charm and an Unlikely Table Tennis Tale Inspired a Thriving YouTube Community

In the unassuming corner of a living room in the English countryside, Frank Watkinson, a 68-year-old folk musician, has quietly amassed over 200,000 YouTube subscribers. With his heartfelt melodies and unvarnished authenticity, Frank has captured the attention of a global audience. But in this "Thank You" video, he shared more than his gratitude for the milestone—he told an endearing story, when he was around 30 years old, about a ping pong match that resonates as much as his songs.

Frank, often described as the quintessential “boring granddad” by his detractors, defies that label with tales that illustrate wisdom through simplicity. His YouTube success is not rooted in flashy production or aggressive self-promotion. Instead, it lies in his commitment to being unapologetically himself—a trait that shines in both his music and his anecdotes.


The Ping Pong Epiphany

Years before YouTube became a part of Frank’s life, he found himself on a holiday at a caravan park. It was the kind of quintessentially British getaway where families gather around for simple pleasures, from communal dinners to nightly drinks at the campsite clubhouse. One morning, while his wife went shopping with their children, Frank wandered into the clubhouse and stumbled upon a table tennis tournament.

With no prior ambition of winning, Frank decided to join in. His table tennis experience was limited to casual games at the factory where he once worked. There, a friend who was a skilled player had given him a pivotal piece of advice: “Don’t try to hit the ball back; just stop it.” This seemingly minor suggestion would prove transformative.

Frank’s initial matches in the holiday tournament were unremarkable. He beat an older gentleman and then a young boy with ease. But the final pitted him against a formidable opponent: a 19-year-old German player who exuded confidence. The young man arrived with professional gear, a branded table tennis uniform, and an air of superiority that intimidated everyone in the room. Frank, on the other hand, borrowed a battered old paddle from the communal box.

As the match began, Frank employed the strategy his factory friend had shared. When the German smashed the ball with precision and power, Frank didn’t counterattack. Instead, he focused on simply stopping the ball, letting its momentum work against his opponent. The young player, frustrated by his inability to score easily, began to overreach. Each powerful smash sent the ball careening out of bounds, handing point after point to Frank.

“I didn’t win that game,” Frank recalls with his signature humility. “He lost it. He was better than me, but he tried too hard. If he’d just calmed down and played a normal game, he would have won.”

By the end of the match, Frank emerged as the unlikely champion, clutching a small trophy that he’d never expected to win. It was a victory not of skill but of composure—a lesson that Frank would carry with him into his later endeavors.


The YouTube Parallel

In many ways, Frank’s YouTube journey mirrors his table tennis triumph. Just as he hadn’t set out to win the tournament, he hadn’t intended to build a massive online following. His approach to creating content is devoid of pretension. “I’m just a granddad in the front room when the missus is at work,” he often says.

Frank’s videos are raw and unpolished. There are no elaborate intros, no flashy graphics—just a man, his guitar, and a genuine desire to share his music. He offers no grand strategy for success, only the advice to “be yourself and don’t fake it.” His authenticity has struck a chord with viewers tired of overly curated online personas.

Yet, as his subscriber count climbs past 200,000, Frank remains grounded. He acknowledges the influx of comments and messages but emphasizes the importance of staying true to one’s roots. “If you try too hard, you’ll lose sight of what matters. Just do what you do, and if it works, great. If not, try something else.”


Lessons from Ping Pong and Life

Frank’s ping pong story and his YouTube success share a common thread: the virtue of not overreaching. Whether facing a confident German teenager in a table tennis match or navigating the unpredictable world of online content creation, Frank’s philosophy remains the same. Effort matters, but so does restraint. Trying too hard can be as counterproductive as not trying at all.

His advice resonates in an age where social media often rewards the loudest voices and the most aggressive self-promotion. Frank’s quiet triumphs—both on and off the table—remind us that authenticity and a steady hand can achieve more than sheer force of will.


A Folk Hero for the Digital Age

As Frank continues to write songs and share stories, his audience grows not because he seeks it but because he earns it. His music, often reflecting themes of love, loss, and mortality, complements his narratives of everyday wisdom. He’s not just a musician or a storyteller—he’s a reminder that simplicity and sincerity still have a place in the world.

Whether it’s through a ping pong match or a YouTube video, Frank Watkinson’s journey inspires us to embrace who we are and find joy in the unexpected victories along the way.