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Studio Musician Academy — Music
Studio Musician Academy

The studio musician academy podcast explores the career paths and creative methods of the top instrumentalists in the recording industry. We are making expert mentorship available to every musician who wants to expand their career. We pull back the curtain to take you on the other side of the glass and inside the creative minds of today’s top studio musicians. From getting the gig, to creating the sound and playing the part, learn how the masters have built their careers by serving the song in their own, unique ways.

Copyright: © 2023 Studio Musician Academy

Latest Episodes:

Jerry Roe - Drummer/Bassist (Luke Combs, Post Malone, Dolly Parton) Jun 25, 2024

Todays guest is Jerry Roe. Jerry is an ACM award winning, first call Nashville session drummer/bassist, and one half of the heavy duo, Friendship Commanders.

Jerry’s career is a shining example of how to remain unapologetically authentic to one’s creative and personal identity while crafting a top tier career in the music business.

Jerry has held down the pocket for artists like Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Dolly Parton, Post Malone, The Legendary Shackshakers, Secondhand Serenade, and a continued list of marquee acts that would take us the rest of the length of this podcast to recall. More importantly, Jerry has a one of a kind sense of humor, and an unmovable passion for art in all of it’s forms.

In this hilariously insightful episode, hosted by fellow drummer Miles McPherson, Jerry recalls his journey to becoming one of Nashville’s most in demand session drummers, shares the “secret” contents of his session gig bag, discusses the importance of retaining an authentic identity, and tells us why he believes that AI is a bubble that will burst with catastrophic impact.

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JIMMY WALLACE - KEYBOARD (THE WALLFLOWERS, JOE WALSH, MIRANDA LAMBERT) Mar 26, 2024

Today’s guest is Jimmy Wallace!

Hailing from Shreveport Louisiana, Jimmy is a Nashville based Keyboardist who has checked all the boxes of a fulfilled career in serving the song. Jimmy has toured with artists like The Wallflowers, Kenny Wayne Shepard, Joe Walsh, and Jewel. He’s served in the studio alongside acts such as Dierks Bentley, Miranda Lambert, Parker McCollum, and Bonnie Bishop. Balancing a steady career between live gigs and studio work is an insurmountable feat for most musicians. However, Jimmy has managed to find success in a discerning approach to taking gigs that fill his pockets with both soul dollars and legal tender.

While experimenting with college life, Jimmy met a young Kenny Wayne Shepard during a dive bar blues jam in Shreveport. As Kenny’s career bloomed, Jimmy recognized the opportunity to learn on the job as opposed to a college classroom, and left college to hit the road with Kenny on an international tour with The Eagles. In the following decades, Jimmy has kept his heels dug in firmly below his instrument, while allowing his boots to keep walking in the direction that he sees creative fulfillment.

Jimmy’s career path has had several course corrections that have left a valuable trail of insight on developing and sustaining a fulfilled career in the recording industry. In this conversation, we hear an incredible perspective on attracting the gigs you want through carefully selecting the gigs you need. We explore the role of traditional keyboard instruments in modern production, and hear incredible stories of chance connections that led to massive opportunity.

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Terence F. Clark - Drummer (Robert Cray, Sheryl Crow, Lauren Diagle) Mar 12, 2024

Today’s guest is Terence F. Clark. Terence is a Grammy Nominated drummer, producer, composer and artist. Following the motto of “There’s not a right way, but there is a wrong way,” Terence has combined his technical skill with an artist-first mindset that has helped him master the art of serving the song.

Terence has held down the pocket in the studio for artists like Robert Cray, Sheryl Crow, Lauren Daigle, Toby Mac, and Joss Stone. He is currently in the touring band for Keith Urban, and a top call for the drum chair in the studio scenes of Nashville, Memphis, and abroad!

In this episode, we track Terence’s journey from a Memphis church to sitting along side his musical heroes in the studio and on the stage. We unpack powerful philosophies on serving the song, invaluable tips for executing sessions, and inspiring stories that fuel the creative spirit.

Terence has an infectious passion for his craft and possess a confidence, rooted in humility, which has served him well in earning the trust and admiration of legendary producers, artists, and fellow musicians.

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B. JAMES LOWRY - Guitar (Tim McGraw, Pretty Lights, Jewel) Feb 27, 2024

Today’s guest is B James Lowry! B James is a Nashville based guitarist, composer, and producer. He’s sat in the coveted guitar chair on recordings for artists like Tim McGraw, Luke Bryan, Pretty Lights, Jewel, and even the Chipmunks!

After getting his start as a touring side-man with some of the industry’s biggest acts, B. James made a risky leap in burning his ships and transitioning into the session scene full time. Trading a six figure career to become a $50 per track demo player might sound insane, but his all in bet eventually earned him a seat at the table amongst Nashville’s most sought after session players.

In this episode, B James shares stories from his journey, as we unpack his career path, creative approaches, and the equivalent of a masters in psychology which is unofficially required to successfully navigate the red ocean of the recording industry.

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Kent Wells - Producer (Dolly Parton, Reba, Kenny Rogers) Jan 02, 2024

Today’s guest is Kent Wells. A guitar player, producer, studio owner, and songwriter, Kent’s road case bumper sticker is “Enjoy the climb.” Over a 30+ year, he has summited the peaks of every aspect of the recording industry.

Kent began his ascent after his available notice on the musicians union bulletin board caught the eye of Keith Whitley’s bandleader. After standing behind the spotlight of one of Nashville’s most exciting new acts at the time, he then went on to tour with legends like The Oak Ridge Boys, Kenny Rogers, Reba, and Dolly Parton.

Eventually, the thrill of playing some of the biggest stages in the industry began to dim. Kent had discovered a new passion for the challenging and competitive world of session playing, and set out on a new journey in the recording industry. While steadily climbing the ranks of the session guitar chair, he began producing demos and eventually opened a studio on Nashville’s music row. After an unexpected call from Dolly Parton placed him in the producer chair along side one of country musics biggest stars, his ascent reached new heights and has continued on over the decades.

In this episode Kent shares some incredible stories that highlight the challenges of navigating the journey, what a producer looks for in players, and how to survive the dream of making a living making records.

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MIKE BRIGNARDELLO - BASS (REBA, BLAKE SHELTON, BILLY RAY CYRUS) Dec 19, 2023

Todays guest is Mike Brignardello. Mike has been holding down the groove as a first call session Bass player for over 40 years. Mike’s career journey started in his soulful hometown of Memphis. He then hit the road with Christian acts, DeGarmo & Key and Amy Grant, before becoming a founding member of the rock band Giant, and eventually planting his bass in Nashville’s country music session scene.

We could list all of the artists that Mike has served over the years, but it would be easier to say that if an act recorded in Nashville in the past four decades, it’s a fairly safe bet that there’s a Briggs baseline on at least one of their records. A self described, “street player” Mike’s mastery of his instrument truly came from an on the job education.
The challenges of navigating a life long career at the highest level of the recording industry has worn out the most optimistic of spirits, but Mike’s unconditional love of the music and the process of creating it, has only grown stronger over time. So how does one survive the dream for this long? You’re about to find out!

In this episode, Mike shares stories from his road trip of a career, the lessons learned in a signed band, the secret to finding inspiration at every turn, and so much more!

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Bryan Sutton - Acoustic Gutar (Rick Skaggs, Taylor Swift, Garth Brooks) Dec 05, 2023

If you’ve ever seen or heard a guitar picking unicorn, you were probably witnessing the work of Bryan Sutton. While our brief introduction could barely scratch the surface of covering the immense accomplishments of one of the most sought after acoustic guitar players in the recording industry, we’ll do our best.

Bryan is a Grammy award winner and nine-time international Bluegrass music association guitar player of the year. Over the past 30 years Bryan has shared the stage and studio floor with the highest echelon of artists across the Country, Bluegrass, and Americana genres. Ricky Skaggs, Bela Fleck, Garth Brooks, Taylor Swift, Blake Shelton, Dolly Parton, Eric Church, The Dixie Chicks, and Carrie Underwood are just a brief sampling of the icons who have called on Bryan’s gift.

Bryan’s career journey is the epitome of chasing passion and allowing the success to follow. In an industry that often draws a clear distinction between touring musicians and session players, Bryan has intentionally designed a career that allows him to scratch the itch of all of his creative aspirations. Beyond his hired gun role, Bryan has also had incredible success as a band leader, record producer, mentor, and educator.

In this episode, we explore the flight plan that landed Bryan on the coveted island of first call guitar players. We cover the mindset, technical skillset, and theoretical approaches, which Bryan has perfected along his journey.

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Kris Donegan - Guitar (Darius Rucker, Shania Twain, Colbie Caillat Nov 20, 2023

Today’s guest is Kris Donegan. If there’s a model example for developing your own preverbal box to fit into, Kris’ career is the blueprint. His unique approach to the session guitar chair has landed him on records with artists ranging from Darius Rucker, Shania Twain, and Kane Brown to Colbie Caillat, Third Eye Blind, and Michael W. Smith. He is an ACM guitar player of the year nominee, with numerous #1’s and Grammy winning recordings on his deep resume of studio sessions.

Kris has navigated the delicate balance of defining a creative identity that sets him apart from the crowd, while allowing that identity to be free from pre-conceptions with flexibility to bend and fit into each unique session. Through a career-long evolution, Kris has expertly navigated the nuances of what it takes to maintain success, and sanity, at the highest levels of the recording industry.

In this episode, we explore Kris’ career journey, the challenges along the way, and the lessons learned in the process. From discovering how to stand out while still fitting in, what to learn from getting replaced on a record, and how gear can be a rocket or an anchor, this episode is packed with invaluable lessons and unbelievable stories!

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Steve Brewster- Drums (Dierks Bentley, Faith Hill, Chicago) Oct 24, 2023

Todays guest is first call, Nashville session drummer, Steve Brewster. Over the past 30+ years, Steve has lended his eclectic approach on the drum set to records for a vast array of artists such as Richard Marx, Faith Hill, Dierks Bentley, Michael W. Smith, Chicago, and Jewel.
Steve has mastered the art of session playing, with an approach that puts the artistic vision of the song and the big picture of the band performance before his own instrument. Utilizing what he refers to as his “stylistic mix dial.” Steve fine tunes his approach to serve each unique song.

In this episode, hosted by session drummer Miles McPherson, we explore a range of career necessities such as how to use your creative voice to fit the track, treating the drum set for the room, secret weapons for you session bag, and the art of communication to achieve the clients vision.

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Mike Waldron - Guitar (Martina McBride, Lee Ann Womack, Jon Bon Jovi) Oct 10, 2023

Todays guest is Mike Waldron. Mike has been picking through major tours and studio sessions for over 30 years. As a first call guitar player, he’s supported artists like Martina McBride, Lee Ann Womack, Luke Combs, and Hillary Scott.

Starting his career in LA club scene, Mike followed the “say yes to every gig” mentality which helped him polish his craft and connect with countless artists and songwriters. One of those songwriters, Jan Buckingham, suggested he make the trek to Nashville and with her help, Mike was playing the Grand Ol Opry a few short weeks later.

Since then, Mike has become a master at the craft of session playing. He’s participated in around 15,000 sessions, several of which have earned #1 status and coveted Grammy nods. Mike has learned countless lessons along his journey that he was kind enough to share with us in this incredible episode. From how to make your own luck to refining technique to get guitars to cut in a mix, and managing the ups and downs of the fickle music industry, Mike’s experiences are a priceless collection of light bulb moments that we hope will help you continue to grow as a player.

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Greg Morrow- Drummer (Dixie Chicks, Bob Seger, Luke Bryan) Sep 04, 2023

Greg Morrow has dominated the drum chair in Nashville record sessions for nearly 3 decades. He’s laid the groove for artists spanning from Deana Carter and Steve Earl to Garth Brooks and Dixie Chicks to Luke Combs and Jon Pardi. Greg is a two time, ACM Drummer of the Year award winner, and can be heard on countless number one records.

Greg found his passion for drums early. He starting a band as a pre-teen and played club gigs around his hometown of Memphis through high school. Through a chance meeting at a festival and the help of fellow Memphis raised studio legend, Chad Cromwell, Greg landed his first major tour with Mercury recording artist, Larry Raspberry and the Highsteppers, before he was out of high school. After touring with Amy Grant, DeGarmo & Key, and Faith Hill, eventually Greg’s path led him to Nashville where he quickly rose as a first call studio Drummer and touring musician.

Greg believes that one of the keys to success in the recording industry is filling a deep well of musical knowledge that can fill up a variety of buckets at a moments notice. In this interview, I learned how deep that well reaches through the incredible stories of both success and temporary detours that Greg has masterfully navigated throughout his incredible career.

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TODD LOMBARDO (KACEY MUSGRAVES, NIALL HORAN, MORGAN WALLEN) Aug 21, 2023

Todays Guest is Todd Lombardo! Todd’s career has been a masterful balancing act of execution as a first call studio musician, songwriter and producer.
His catalog of recording credits have amassed over 3 billion streams. He’s earned 2 nominations for ACM acoustic guitar player of the year, and has collaborated with artists ranging from Niall Horan and James Bay, to Morgan Wallen and Sam Hunt, to Kacey Musgraves and Vince Gill.

Todd’s path into the upper echelon of the recording industry started with his exploration of creating demos in his home studio and collaborating with a variety of songwriters. Eventually those projects caught the ears of many of Nashville’s top producers and Todd found himself on the tracking floor as one of the select few, first call guitar players in the studio scene.

While keeping up with a demanding schedule in the studio, Todd continued to carve out time for his Instrumental projects under the name TOLO, as well as songwriting and producing with artists such as Lera Lynn, Jana Mila, and Sarah Buxton.

This episode rounds the bases of Todd’s home run career, covering topics like building confidence in the chair, creating parts that fit the track, home recording ear, and so much more!

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Jeffery Roach - (Tim McGraw, Ne-Yo, Giorgio Moroder) Aug 07, 2023

Today’s guest is Jeff Roach! Jeff is a phenomenal keyboardist, and arguably one of the best sound design/synth programmers out there. The man doesn’t even own Omnisphere. That’s how much of a badass he is. Always a great energy in the room, and an incredible ear for music. If you’re looking for clues on how to maintain a consistent career on an instrument that has buried many in its ever-evolving, technological wake- you'll love this episode!

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Tom Bukovac- Guitarist (Steve Nicks, Willie Nelson, Joe Walsh) Jul 18, 2023

Today's guest is Tom Bukovac. If you're unaware of this man, strap in. Yes, he's played on everything. Yes, he's toured with Joe Walsh, Faith Hill, Ann Wilson, and more. And yes, he's handsome.
Most importantly however, he cares for the craft on a level that is truly awe-inspiring. Prepare for some wisdom, laughs, and tales from one the self proclaimed "soon-be-legends."
But he's already a legend in our hearts and minds.

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Dylan Wissing- Drummer (Alicia Keys, Drake, Jay Z, Kanye West) Jul 05, 2023

Today's guest is Dylan Wissing!

Dylan is an in demand session drummer, studio owner, and educator. The New York Times applauded Dylan as “a musicians white whale.” We definitely agree and are honored to have been able to catch him for this incredible interview.

Dylan’s work can be heard on records for artists including John Legend, Alicia Keys, Drake, Kanye West, Jay-Z, and Eminem to name a few. A student of chasing down the perfect sound, Dylan has put his sonic stamp on sample packs for companies like Native Instruments, Cymatics, and Soundtrap.

In this interview, we discuss the power of mentorship and share stories from Dylan’s work with his first drum mentor, the legendary Kenny Aronoff. We explore lessons learned on the stage during Dylan’s time as the founder of ska band, Johnny Socko, unpack the breakthrough moments in his transition into a session drummer, and dive deep into the technical and creative approaches Dylan has mastered over the past three decades of work as a professional drummer, and explore what it takes to build an maintain a drum overdub recording facility.

We are blessed to have Dylan join us for the special edition of the Studio Musician Academy Podcast, live from the Namm Show in Anaheim CA. Lets dive in!

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Caroline Jones- Singer/Songwriter (Zac Brown Band) Jun 12, 2023

Today’s guest is Caroline Jones. Caroline is a multi-instrumentalist and multi-genre singer songwriter. Her latest solo project reached #4 on the iTunes country charts. She’s been featured on the Grand Ole Opry, The Tonight Show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and The Today Show.
Caroline is also the first female member of the iconic Zac Brown Band. Caroline brings an amazing perspective as both the hired musician and as artist hiring the musicians, depending on which side of the glass she’s sitting on for a session.
Exploring multiple instruments through the creative vision for her own songs, once she got introduced to the Nashville session musician world, Caroline found herself immersed in a passion for learning from the greats, and rising to that greatness. Caroline’s journey thus far is an amazing testament to the power of mentorship, and the many forms it can take.
From Zac Brown to Jimmy Buffet, Mac Macanally and Kenny Chesney, Caroline’s incredible talent, and relentless passion for her craft, has earned her way into some of the most coveted creative circles.
Opportunities that have led to invaluable experiences to fuel her artistic success. We are honored to have the opportunity to share Caroline’s amazing story. Let’s dive in!

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Jenee Fleenor- Fiddle (Jon Pardi, Steven Tyler, Blake Shelton) May 25, 2023

Today's guest is Jenee Fleenor! Jenee is a first call fiddle player, songwriter, vocalist, and recording artist. She is a 4 time CMA musician of the year award winner, and the first woman to be nominated for the award. In 2019, Jenee was the first fiddle player to win the award in over 20 years. In an era when her primary instrument was largely considered out of vogue in the mainstream market, Jenee discovered a unique path to bringing a fresh approach which landed her on records with artists like Jon Pardi, Steven Tyler and Blake Shelton.

Jenee’s focus on excelling as equal parts student and master of her craft has elevated her impact to the highest levels of the recording industry. Her passion for the craft of songwriting, intention of lyrics, and an unparalleled ability to deliver infectious melodic parts are a few of the cornerstones to success that stood out to me in this conversation. Beyond the playing, we explore the methods Jenee has discovered to maintain an inspired spirit, manage an intense schedule, and maintain longevity in an ever evolving industry.

Jenee has a strong belief in paying it forward through her experiences to empower others, and we are grateful to have the opportunity to share her story with you.

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Eli Beaird- Bassist (Willie Nelson, James Bay, Shawn Mendez) May 08, 2023

Today's guest is Eli Beaird!
Eli is a first call session bass player and runs Beaird Music Group, one of Nashville’s most in demand demo studios. Eli is an ACM Bass Player of the Year Nominee and his bass laying can be heard on records for artists ranging from Shania Twain and Willie Nelson to James Bay and Shawn Mendez.
Eli’s perspective as a bass player, band leader and studio owner offers an amazing insight into the various pathways musicians can take towards the coveted chair of their instrument. In this episode we explore Eli’s career path, creative process, the value of pre-production, the band leaders role on sessions, and so much more! Here we go!

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Steve Mackey- Bassist (Luke Combs, Dolly Parton, The Wallflowers) Apr 10, 2023

Today’s guest is Steve Mackey! Steve has been holding down the low end as a mainstay session player for over two decades. He comfortably floats between genres having supported artists like Luke Combs, Indie Aria, Lucinda Williams, The Wallflowers, Delbert McClinton, and Dolly Parton. Mackey is an ACM Bass Player of the year nominee, and has been featured in the house bands for Bonnaroo Super Jam, CMA Fest, and The NSAI Songwriter hall of fame.
Steve is the bass playing version of a champion race horse. He discovered his passion, put blinders on and played one note in front of the other through an amazing journey to the metaphorical finish line of success in the recording industry.
In this episode we unpack the twists and turns of navigating the roller coaster ride of a music career. Mackey breaks down his creative mindset when approaching a session and dives deep into developing the skill sets that can keep a musicians name at the top of a producers call list. He believes being a great session player means having the instincts to get the job done, while bringing something fresh to the table, and I can say he absolutely nailed that in our conversation as well. Without further ramblings, lets get to the show!

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Adam Shoenfeld- Guitarist (Big & Rich, Jason Aldean, Tim McGraw) Mar 16, 2023

Today's guest is Adam Shoenfeld! Adam’s double decade, career journey has had stops in every landmark of the industry. As a first call session guitar player, touring sideman, hit songwriter, and producer, Adam has been tapped by artists like Big & Rich, Tim McGraw, Jason Aldean, Luke Combs, Jimmie Allen, and countless others.

Adam is a 7 time ACM guitar player of the year nominee. His playing can be heard on over 45 #1 songs, and he has co-written songs for Jason Aldean, Big & Rich, and Faith Hill. If all that hasn’t kept him busy enough, Adam has kept his creative exploration fresh with his bands Digital Brains and SunKat, as well as his most recent solo record entitled All The Birds Sing.

Adam made the pilgrimage from New Jersey to Nashville after graduating high school, and landed a gig at the legendary Woodland Studios. It was here that he honed the nuanced craft of making records by utilizing the studio after hours, and was eventually brought on as a house musician for demo sessions. As the story often goes, one gig led to another and eventually, Adam was on the top of the list for session and tours at the highest level.

Someone once said, “Nashville is full of good musicians, but there’s always room for one more great one.” Adam’s story is a testament to the opportunities that await those who put in the work and stay the course. We are honored to have the opportunity to explore Adam’s incredible career and share the lessons he’s learned along the way. Here we go!

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Nir Z- Drummer (Chris Cornell, Carrie Underwood, John Mayer) Feb 28, 2023

Nir has circled the globe in his journey to becoming one of the industry's most in demand session drummers. Beginning his career in his home country of Israel, continuing on to New York City, and then finally landing in his current home base of Nashville.

Throughout his musical expedition, he has collaborated with countless iconic artists including Genesis, John Mayer, Chris Cornell, Carrie Underwood, and Blake Shelton. Nir’s impressive versatility and passion for perfecting the intricacies of the recording process have allowed him to remain a first call drummer for over four decades and counting.

Nir has an incredible home studio which he has optimized for being able to quickly navigate a variety of drum sound approaches with a unique combination of microphone configurations. His sounds are so highly sought after that companies such as ToonTrack and That Sound have called on him to create some of the most acclaimed drum sample collections in the industry.

This conversation dives deep into the early stages of finding your creative tribe, discovering opportunity organically, developing a deep musical toolbox, and unpacking unique recording techniques to execute a stand out sound and performance. We are grateful for the opportunity to welcome our friend Nir Z to the podcast. Let's go!

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Derek Wells- Guitarist (Dolly Parton, Kenny Chesney, Maren Morris) Jan 20, 2023

Today’s guest is Derek Wells!
We’d typically start this episode intro with a description of our guests occupation, but there isn’t a box big enough to fit Derek’s career into. He’s literally checked all of them. As a first call session guitar player, bandleader, record producer, publishing executive, and board member of pretty much every industry organization, Derek has masterfully navigated every corner of the music industry.
Derek’s playing can be heard on over 50 #1 records. His pickin can be heard an artists such as Dolly Parton, Kenny Chesney, Maren Morris, Thomas Rhett, and Carrie Underwood. As a producer he’s led the charge for artists like Maddie and Tae, Scotty McCreery and Granger Smith. He’s earned awards for ACM musician of the year and Music Row guitar player of the year; as well as a Grammy Nomination for Maren Morris’ album “HERO” Most recently, Derek took on the position of Vice President of A&R/Production at Spirit Music Group in Nashville.
Through all of Derek’s astounding success he has remained a humble, kind, and compassionate leader in the recording industry community. In this conversation we explore the journey that led Derek to where he is today, unpack his creative approach in the studio, and discuss the perspectives that have helped Derek remain grounded and focused on the opportunities that each day brings while staying patient and persistent in the process. And with that I am honored to welcome Derek Well’s, a legend who clearly did not need this introduction.

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John Willis- Guitarist (Taylor Swift, India Aria, Jewel) Jan 02, 2023

John is a first call guitarist, songwriter, and producer based in Nashville, Tennessee.
Raised in Louisiana, John found his calling for guitar picking at an early age, and after discovering the roll of studio musicians, he traveled to LA to train at the Guitar institute of technology.
After making fast friends with his instructors, John earned opportunities to see first hand how records were made. His next step was Muscle Shoals, where he honed his craft, and caught the ear of famed record producer David Briggs, who urged him to take the leap to Nashville. Through a 20/20 vision of purpose, and blind faith to trust the process, John has dominated the guitar player chair for over four decades.
John’s playing can be heard on records ranging from Alabama and Willie Nelson, to Kenny Chesney and Taylor Swift, to India Arie and Jewel. If that wasn’t enough, John has also honed his craft as a songwriter, producer, and studio owner.
Through continuing to expand his skill sets and creative approach, John has crafted the roadmap for long term success in an ever-evolving industry. The stories we unpack in this episode cover lessons that could easily be the one stop manual for success and fulfillment as a studio musician. Grab a pen, because you’re going to want to take notes!

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Mark Hill- Bassist (Kelly Clarkson, Eric Church, Luke Bryan) Dec 01, 2022

Today’s guest is Mark Hill, Mark is at the top of the list for holding down the bottom end on recording sessions in Nashville. Clocking in for over 600 session dates a year, he’s well past the 10,000 hours mark of mastering his craft over the past 32 years in the industry.
Mark’s head turning tone and deep pocket has earned him five nominations for ACM Bass player of the year. He’s toured with artists like Reba, Martina McBride, and Steven Curtis Chapman. He held down the band leader roll for Keith Urban, and has collaborated on records with artists like Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Eric Church, Luke Bryan, and pretty much everyone else.
Mark’s focus on delivering a mix ready tone is arguably at the top of his undisputed calling card for Nashville’s top producers. However, he lays out so many golden examples of the skills beyond the instrument that go into becoming, and remaining a first call session musician. We’re honored to have Mark on the show, and stoked to have you here to learn from his journey. Here we go!

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Alex Wright- Keys/Piano (Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, Kane Brown) Nov 08, 2022

Today's guest is Alex Wright!
Alex has quickly become one of Nashville’s first call Keyboard players.
After graduating from Berkley College of Music and moving to Nashville in pursuit of a career on the business side of music, Alex found himself on a unique road that landed him on the stage and in the studio with artists like Florida Georgia Line, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Kane Brown, and countless others.
Solidifying the truth that there are countless ways to arrive at one’s purpose, Alex got his start providing overdubs for emerging producers and songwriters from his home studio. As those relationships grew, his parts made their way on to several chart topping singles, and opened the coveted doors to the top of the studio musician mountain.
Alex is a relentless student of his craft. He spent countless hours exploring sound design with a goal of discovering the pathways to head turning sounds and parts, then used those skills to refine a fresh approach that would help him discover his own unique identity within commercial music.
Alex’s journey is packed with lessons that will offer hope, inspiration, and knowledge to anyone who is navigating the path to career fulfillment. Alex is a shining example of the future of studio musician legends and we couldn’t be more excited to share his story with you!

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Pat McGrath- Acoustic Guitarist (Lori McKenna, Jim Lauderdale, Parmalee) Oct 30, 2022

Today's guest is Pat McGrath.
Pat is a first call acoustic, utility player who has lended his playing to countless hits for over 30 years.
Starting his career gigging on the west coast, Pat felt called to the set out on a path to session playing in Nashville and never looked back. After landing in Nashville, Pat began building relationships at local jam nights and touring gigs which led to referrals for a foot in the door opportunities on demo sessions, and eventually into the studio with artists like Luke Bryan, Parmalee, Lori McKenna, Jim Lauderdale, and countless others.
Whether he was on a fast paced demo factory session or a high pressure, major record, Pat understood the importance of always maintaining a clear focus and setting high bar of execution, knowing that every session is an opportunity to solidify the next one.
Pat is in tune with both his instrument and his mindset every time. His presence has been a blessing every time we’ve worked together and the experiences he shares in this conversation are no exception. Let’s dive in!

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Rachel Loy- Bassist (Vince Gill, Willie Nelson, Brett Eldredge) Oct 12, 2022

Today’s guest is Rachel Loy. Rachel is a first call bass player, producer, and songwriter. She has performed on stage with artists Kenny Chesney, Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, Vince Gill and many more.
In the studio she has played Bass on records for Vince Gill, Willie Nelson, Brett Eldredge, and Charlie Worsham to name a few.
As a producer Rachel is one of two solo female producers to land a record in the top 20 Country charts.
Led by her internal creative compass, Rachel has masterfully balanced a diverse range of occupations by following her inspired instincts to carefully dedicate her talent towards the projects that bring the most creative fulfillment.
Rachel's career journey thus far has been an unforgettable trip around the world of the music industry. With career making opportunities found at dive bar 2 for 1's, backing some of the most iconic artists in the industry, and making the journey the priority to the destination.
This conversation is a masterclass in career navigation, and I am so excited to share it with you. Here we go!

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Sol Littlefield- Guitarist (Tim McGraw, Sam Hunt, Kelsea Ballerini) Sep 29, 2022

Today's guest is Sol Littlefield. Sol is a first call session guitar player, based in Nashville, TN. His playing can be heard on records from artists like Tim McGraw, Sam Hunt, and Kelsea Ballerini. He’s participated in a catalog of recordings which have been streamed nearly 10 billion times.

Sol’s journey from recording his garage bands in small town England to solidifying himself among the top of the Nashville studio musician hierarchy is nothing short of a PHD thesis on leveraging curiosity, early adoption, and the power of mentorship to overcome the odds and discover a path to success.

Sol’s ticket to Nashville was stamped by mentor’s he connected with in the early days of online forums and YouTube. His departure was made possible by his unwavering belief in his purpose as he dropped out of high school and packed his visa for the states. His final destination is still to be determined, but in this interview we’ll cover the highlight reel of the incredible stops he’s made on the journey so far.

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Jacob Lowery- Bassist (Sara Barellis, Reba McEntire, CeCe Winans) Sep 13, 2022

Todays guest is Jacob Lowery! Jacob is member of the legendary Michael McDonalds touring band and has held down the low end in the studio and on stage with an all start list of diverse artists like CeCe Winans, Sara Barellis and Reba McEntire to name a few. Jacob started his musical journey in his hometown church in Louisiana at the age of 5. Starting on drums, then transitioning to bass. He quickly recognized that music was his clear calling and eventually landed a position as a church music director in Austin, Texas.
After having the opportunity to work in the church’s studio, Jacob dove as deep as his pocket into record production, and followed the road to Nashville, TN. Since then Jacob has solidified his reputation as a first call bass player and a guaranteed great hang! Jacob has mastered the essential instinct of how to navigate the artist/producer vision and collaboratively serve the song. He truly and authentically makes everyone in the room feel heard and appreciated.
Jacob is also the host of an epic podcast called The Sideman Chronicles, which you should definitely add to your playlist. But first, lets dive in to the show and find out how Jacob has plucked, picked, and slapped his way through his illustrious career!

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Justin Ostrander- Guitarist (Jimmie Allen, Sam Hunt, Luke Bryan) Sep 01, 2022

This week's guest is Justin Ostrander. Justin's career is a little engine that could, Goliath- slaying, summit of Everest mountain of inspiration. After leaving his career as a college math professor, Justin followed his lifelong passion for guitar playing to Nashville.
Without a back up plan and armed with years of performing, studying records, and "practicing for his job," Justin blazed his own trail to becoming one of the marquee session players in the industry. His playing has been featured on record by Chris Janson, Jimmie Allen, Luke Bryan, Sam Hunt, and countless others. Justin's path is a shining example of what happens when talent, purpose, perseverance, and patience collide into a slow burn of massive success.

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Lucas Sader- Guitarist (John Legend, Will Smith, Jennifer Lopez) Aug 15, 2022

Today's guest is Lucas Sader. Lucas is a musical director, show programmer, session guitar player, and producer. His masterful execution of his instrument to help serve the artist's creative vision, has earned him a Grammy nomination, and collaborations with artists such as John Legend, Will Smith, and Jennifer Lopez.
Lucas's emphasize on pre-production, and learning to translate the artist's inspiration into the sonic equivalent, is a rare talent that has helped him excel in sessions, recording remotely, and on the stage. If there's a blueprint for thriving as a multi-faceted musician, it's Lucas's story. Let's dive in!

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Justin Schipper- Lap Steel, Guitarist (Shania Twain, Florida Georgia Line, Keith Urban) Aug 02, 2022

Todays guest is Justin Schipper. Justin started his musical journey as a guitar player, and after moving to Nashville, found his path to becoming a leading session player through his unique approach to sounds and parts on the pedal steel. His multi-instrumentalist talents have landed him on the stage and in the studio with artists like Shania Twain, Florida Georgia Line, Billy Gibbons, Sam Hunt, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, and countless others.
His dedication to his craft has landed him 5 nominations for ACM multi-instrumentalist. He has also found great success in sync licensing with many placements in film scores and commercials as well.
Justin has a relentless passion for capturing the vision of the artist and the producer in the studio. He’s always eager to take the time to find the perfect sound and part to serve the song. Justin’s story is a powerful example of how preparation, intention, and action become the perfect recipe for fulfilling one’s passion.

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Dave Cohen- Keys/Piano (Lady A, Joe Nichols, Mckenzie Porter) Jul 04, 2022

Dave Cohen is an undisputed triple threat in the studio. As a keyboard player, songwriter, and producer, Dave has earned three ACM awards, two Music Row awards and has participated in over 100, #1 records. As a songwriter, his songs have been recorded by artists like Lady A, Joe Nichols, and Mckenzie Porter.
Dave earned his seat at the tiny table of studio giants, through is ability to serve up fresh sounds, undeniable hooks, and a welcoming smile that makes every artist and producer feel like they're just jamming with their friend. His career has been guided by the mantra of, "What's next?" A questioned that Dave has discovered an answer to several times during his illustrious career.

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Evan Hutchings- Drummer Jun 21, 2022

This week's guest is Evan Hutchings. Evan is an A list studio drummer, songwriter, and producer. He is a 3 time ACM award nominee, two time Arkansas Drummer of the year winner, and has 10, #1 songs to his credit. As a producer and songwriter, he has had placements in shows like Grey's Anatomy, Impulse and Catfish.
In addition to his work on sessions, Evan has also mastered the craft of remote overdubs from his home studio. His experience in discovering the spirit of songs through playing in church, combined with his obsession with studying rhythm, and his motivation to seek out mentor ship, helped him find a path that has led to calls from a marquee list of artists and producers. Evan is a master who remains a student of his craft.

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Jerry McPherson- Guitarist (Faith Hill, Martina McBryde, Toby Keith) Jun 09, 2022

Jerry McPherson is a guitar strapped chameleon. He has spent decades lending his licks to a catalog of recording that have amassed more than 10 billion streams.
Jerry has mastered navigating between Pop, Country, Rock, Christian, and we've yet to find a genre he can't bring some magic to.
As a musician that found his voice by first studying the greats that came before him, he is passionate about paying that knowledge forward to accelerate the career path of the next generation!

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Danny Rader- Guitarist (Keith Urban, Jason Aldean, Kenny Chesney) May 24, 2022

Todays guest is Danny Rader. Danny is prominent, multi-instrumentalist studio musician, songwriter, and producer. He is three time ACM award winner, the 2021 music director for the CMA awards, and his pickin' has been featured on over sixty, number 1 records! With a unique ability to straddle the line between side man and studio musician through his career, Danny has toured with artists like Keith Urban, Jason Aldean, and Kenny Chesney.
Danny has mastered an insane range of instruments, developed deep skillsets in the technical aspects of the recording process, all while having the ability to step out of the studio and onto the stage to deliver a compelling live performance. Danny is a jack of many trades that really has mastered them all. His journey is a masterclass on developing a diverse tool set to be prepared for any job.

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Rob McNelley- Guitarist (Bob Seger, Joe Bonamassa, Buddy Guy) May 09, 2022

Welcome to the studio musician academy podcast. Todays guest is Rob McNelley. If a six string and a Swiss army knife had a baby, they’d call him Rob. While so many musicians have had to make a clear career choice between touring and studio work, Rob has managed to break the mold, and follow the opportunities that are most inspiring to him, regardless of category.

Rob has toured with artists like Delbert McClinton and Bob Seger, while remaining one of the most in demand session guitar players in the recording industry. Appearing on records ranging from Alan Jackson to Lady Antebellum and Joe Bonamassa to Buddy Guy, Rob has truly mastered the essential skill of developing stylistic versatility, while still maintaining his own artistic identity.

A mastery which has led to his playing being heard on recordings that have been streamed over 10 billion times, and earning him 3 awards for the ACM guitar player of the year. With a career that would led the best of us to feel comfortable riding on cruise control, Rob continues to seek growth through making time for daily practice and creating his own music as a solo artist.

Rob’s story is filled with a valuable lessons on finding a path for your passion, and blazing that Trail on your own terms.

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David Dorn- Keys/Piano Apr 26, 2022

This weeks guest is David Dorn. David is a first call session keyboard player, producer, songwriter, and studio owner. He is a four time ACM award nominee and has played on countless Grammy award winning records. The songs that have been blessed with his gift have amassed over 4 billion streams. As a producer, he has landed many songs in film and TV as well.
In our experience working together, Dave has always brought a positive energy and relentless commitment to chasing down the perfect sound and part to serve the vision of the song. His deep classical training, combined with an obsession of modern sounds, technology, and mainstream sensibilities has put him on the very short list of first call, keyboard session players in the recording industry.

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Miles McPherson- Drummer (Paramore, Jelly Roll, Kelly Clarkson) Apr 12, 2022

Welcome to the studio musician academy podcast! Today's guest is Miles Mcpherson. Miles is a top call studio Drummer, audio engineer by necessity, a macro enthusiast, and an all around crazy wonderful mother f$#%er. He is a 2 time ACM award winner, Modern Drummer award nominee, and has 19 #1 records in which he hit things on. He's participated in records that have been streamed over 4 billion times! On the live side, he has toured with Kelly Clarkson and Paramore.
In addition to his in studio work, Miles has a one of a kind home recording studio with an efficiency of workflow that I have never seen anywhere else. Miles is the definition of a 1 of 1 human being. He has the uncanny ability to be the class clown, team captain, and honor roll student and, for the most part, gracefully dances between those roles based on his analysis of the environment he’s working in.
He believes intention, experimentation, and execution will win over fancy equipment every time. Miles talent, personality, and commitment to his craft has made him a first round pick in the recording industry. Hold on tight, here we go!

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