Truetone Lounge

JOHN LEVENTHAL - Truetone Lounge Jan 09, 2024

John Leventhal returns to go in-depth on his first solo album, Rumble Strip. We discuss his process of composing, recording, and the gear he used to create the 16 poignant tracks on the album. Leventhal also discusses his signature acoustic guitar tones that utilize both the natural "acoustic" sound, plus an "electric" sound hole pickup run-through effects and a tube amplifier. He also weighs in on the 30th-anniversary re-release of The Wheel, his first collaboration with his wife, noted singer-songwriter, Rosanne Cash. John is a multi-Grammy Award-winning producer and musician. A short list of Leventhal's collaborators includes Marc Cohn, Shawn Colvin, Rosanne Cash, William Bell, and Sarah Jarosz. Rumble Strip - Release Date January 26th, 2024 https://music.apple.com/us/album/rumble-strip/1713810040

DUKE LEVINE - Truetone Lounge Dec 04, 2023

Duke Levine's resume is filled with a catalog of stellar solo albums, high-profile sideman gigs, and essential session work. We have Tom Bukovac to thank for making this interview happen, as he had requested Duke on a recent session here in Nashville, that gave us a chance to catch up in person with the Boston-area great. To kick off, we begin with a discussion of his latest gig, touring with Bonnie Raitt. Via the new gig, he has had his first experience with using in-ear monitors and having amps off-stage. We also cover his early gigs with Jonatha Brooke & The Story, Mary Chapin Carpenter, and how he got a record deal in the early 90s. Levine also talks about the eternal tone hunt, covering his move away from using compressor pedals to replacing them with low-gain overdrive pedals. We also cover his pedal board where he uses a Radial switcher to keep his tone as pure as possible by removing unused items from his chain.

ADAM LEVY - Truetone Lounge Sep 23, 2023

Adam Levy has an established guitar voice that we first heard on Tracy Chapman's "Give Me One Reason," then on albums and tours with Norah Jones, and sharpened to a fine point on his latest release, Spry. Besides his work as a guitarist, Levy has also devoted himself to being an educator through his Guitar Tips channel, Truefire instructional courses, and time spent as the Guitar Dept. Chair at the Los Angeles College of Music. Additionally, Adam made great contributions to the world of guitar journalism as a staff writer for Guitar Player Magazine in the 90s. Today Adam shares his musical adventures, expresses his love for his 1964 Gibson ES-335, and his excitement in releasing the "jazz album of his dreams," Spry.

Jeff King - Truetone Lounge Aug 07, 2023

Jeff King was raised in the Smokey Mountains of East Tennessee, where as a young boy, he found a guitar in an attic and was immediately hooked. Though he loved music and played frequent gigs, he did not study it in college, yet post-graduation, he decided to throw in his lot with a friend that moved to Nashville in the early 80s. With luck on his side, he fairly quickly hit the scene in a big way in 1985 by landing the lead guitar spot with the then-new artist, Patty Loveless. Jeff was soon riding the wave of success with Patty who was busy sending singles up the charts and wowing crowds and critics with her soulful Kentucky sound. This led to major screen time, as Loveless guested on the TV shows of the day, including Austin City Limits, The Tonight Show, Letterman, and the various music shows on The Nashville Network. Jeff was also getting to watch Patty make her records with guitarists Reggie Young, Ray Flacke, Albert Lee, Richard Bennett, and Steve Gibson. He soon was putting his watch-time lessons to use by working on demo sessions in-between road dates to the point that he was soon able to bid the road goodbye and focus completely on studio work. After decades of studio work, he was asked by one of his clients, Reba McIntire, to go out on the road with her, which lead to him also performing road dates with Brooks & Dunn. Jeff now tours with two legendary Country Music acts, and because of their less strenuous touring, he is able to keep his studio work thriving. On the gear front, King tells the backstory of his main guitar, a 1985 G-Bender equipped Glaser Tele-Style that is on its second neck. We also get a look at his Tom Anderson Strat, Gretsch Duo-Jet, studio pedal board, and his 1956 Fender Harvard amp.

Chris Scruggs - Truetone Lounge Mar 06, 2023

Truetone Lounge Chris Scruggs is the host of his own WSM radio show that runs on Friday nights after the Grand Ole Opry, fronts his own band, The Stone Fox Five, and is a member of the white-hot group backing Marty Stuart, The Fabulous Superlatives. He is also a busy session man with everyone from up-and-comers to hitmakers Kacey Musgraves & Sierra Ferrell, and more recently, he was the youngest member inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame. In today's episode, Scruggs tells his own story and, along the way, shares plenty of country music lore and spotlights 4 of his favorite guitars, a 1962 Telecaster, a 50s Fender double-neck steel, a 1959 Martin D-18, and a 1938 Gibson L5.

Luke McQueary | Truetone Lounge Dec 27, 2022

Luke McQueary was Don Kelley's final guitarist in his long line of amazing players. Today we sit down and talk about his beginnings and the importance of Don's tutelage in his progression as a musician and performer. Though Don Kelley is now retired, the tradition lives on with Kelley's Heroes Wednesday through Saturday, 6:30 -10:30 PM at Robert's Western World. Luke also shows off his rig which includes a specially ordered Custom Shop Telecaster Thinline, vintage Deluxe Reverb, and a small pedalboard.

Don Kelley - Truetone Lounge Oct 10, 2022

A short list of the veterans of Don Kelley's band includes Brent Mason, Redd Volkaert, Johnny Hiland, Guthrie Trapp, JD Simo, Daniel Donato, Porter McClister, and Luke McQueary. Kelley was bandleader and coach for these giants, helping each of them hone their playing and tone by playing 5-6 days of the week, 4 hours a night, under his watchful eye. As important as these players and their stories are, today we get to hear Don's story of growing up in Texas, serving in Vietnam, moving to Nashville to play with Joe Stampley, and how he came to lead his band and guide the careers of some of the finest guitarists in the world.

Truetone Lounge - JD SIMO - ELVIS Movie Guitarist Aug 08, 2022

An unseen star of Baz Luhrmann's Elvis movie is guitarist JD Simo, who was tasked with replicating the original parts and tones played by Scotty Moore, James Burton, Hank Garland, Reggie Young, and Tommy Tedesco. In today's special collaboration with Ask Zac, we sit down with Simo, as he tells the tale of how he was asked to take part, and the gear he used to replicate the legendary guitarist's riffs. We also take a look at his soon-to-be-released album Songs From The House Of Grease. Recorded with his trio, the album features his recently acquired Danocaster Singel-Cut, along with an ancient Alamo amp and a venerable 1965 Deluxe Reverb. Simo also shows off his new Xact Tone Solutions built pedal board.

David Hood - Truetone Lounge Aug 08, 2022

During David Hood's 50-plus-year career, he has played on more hits than just about any other bassist on the planet. From Bob Seger to Wilson Picket, and Rod Stewart to the Staple Singers, Hood provided the bass lines for countless Pop, Rock, and R&B hits that we all know and love. Many of us became aware of David through the beautifully made Muscle Shoals documentary from 2013, which focuses on the story of Rick Hall and his former proteges, the Swampers. Here, David, the last of the Swampers sits down with us at his former home away from home, Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, to lay down his own story.

Russ Pahl - Truetone Lounge Apr 22, 2022

Russ Pahl is one of the busiest guitarists and pedal steelers in Nashville, with credits ranging from Robert Plant to Carrie Underwood. He is a multi-instrumentalist, who moves between both instruments and musical genres in such a fluid manner, that he is just at home playing lead guitar with Dan Auerbach on Austin City Limits, as he is playing hardcore country pedal steel in Vince Gill's touring unit. In our Truetone Lounge interview, Russ covers his career, what he feels has kept him in demand over the last 30-years, and his highly customized guitar and pedal steel rig. #truetonelounge #truetone #russpahl

Carl Rydlund - Truetone Lounge Oct 29, 2021

Carl Rydlund is the guitarist you are hearing on many of the movies you have watched over the last 20-years. Major films he has worked on with famed film composer, Hans Zimmer, all feature Carl's guitar work. Today we sit down with one of the soundtrack kings, who recently moved to Nashville to continue his film work, and to take a teaching position at the renowned music-focused Belmont University. In our interview, Rydlund discusses his musical upbringing, his move to Los Angeles, and how his work as a copyist and guitarist on Hanna-Barbera cartoons turned into the soundtrack work that has defined him over the last 20-years. Rydlund also shares very practical advice for those wanting to get into soundtrack work, and also takes a very sensible look at gear, and what one actually needs to get the job done.

Truetone Lounge | Kenny Vaughan Sep 22, 2021

Kenny Vaughan is the perpetually calm and composed guitar slinger that is just as at home touring with Marty Stuart as he is fronting his trio in a club or recording in a studio with the likes of everyone from Lucinda Williams to the Pretenders. With an extensive background in rock, punk, country, and jazz, Vaughan brings a seemingly never-ending bag of tricks to every musical situation he participates in. In our Truetone Lounge, we drill down as to how he seamlessly moves between various genres, how he has held his gig with Marty Stuart for over 20 years, and his seemingly utilitarian view on gear.

Lindy Fralin - Truetone Lounge Aug 26, 2021

In today's Truetone Lounge interview with Lindy Fralin, the pickup man shares how repairs and rewinding in the 1980s led to the creation of his own pickups and how he eventually earned his current position as one of the industry leaders in both vintage replicas and groundbreaking original designs.

Jason Lollar - Truetone Lounge Aug 04, 2021

Jason Lollar is one of the premier pickup makers in the world, and even wrote a book on the basics of winding, and how to turn your mother's sewing machine into the perfect winder. In our Truetone Lounge interview, Jason takes us through his schooling at the Roberto-Venn School of Lutherie, and how he transitioned from guitar builder to pickup winder for many of the great guitar builders of today. Lollar also reveals the R&D that is involved in birthing new pickup designs, and how his work has influenced an entire generation of winders.

Jimmy Olander - Truetone Lounge Jun 22, 2021

Jimmy Olander's opening lick on Diamond Rio's "Meet In The Middle," let the listener know that they were about to hear something new. His double-bender meets banjo fingerstyle sensibilities created a singular sound that would lead off most of the band's hits over the next 3 decades. Today, we sit down with Jimmy in his home studio and get the full story of his climb from out-of-work banjo player, to double bender Tele man with multi-platinum success. Jimmy also gives us the inside scoop on his Joe Glaser-built Telecaster style guitars, and how he began using Matchless amps.

Ron Ellis | Truetone Lounge Jun 03, 2021

Truetone Lounge | Ron Ellis Ron Ellis, fueled by his love of great tone, and enabled by his background as a scientist, broke the code and began producing some of the most vintage authentic electric guitar pickups a little over a decade ago. Via his thorough research and analysis of working and broken vintage pickups, he discovered both the recipe and the proper ingredients to replicate various eras of holy-grail winds. Soon, he was breaking those rules to create modern interpretations to meet the very specific tonal demands of virtuoso players such as Julian Lage, Brad Paisley, and Josh Smith. In Today’s Truetone Lounge, we get his back story and all of the serendipitous turns that led to his involvement in The Blackguard Book and to eventually becoming one of the great modern pickup winders.

Ray Flacke - A Follow Up Conversation Apr 16, 2021

We had tons of comments on Ray's first episode, and additional questions posted, so we followed up with a second spot with Ray. In this episode, he talks about his playing style, gigging with the Everly Brothers because he "needed the money," interviewing Deep Purple's Ritchie Blackmore, and his acoustic instrumental recordings, including his take on Paganini's 5th Caprice.

Steuart Smith - Truetone Lounge - 2021 Quaratine Edition Mar 18, 2021

Steuart Smith is best known for having toured with the Eagles for the last 20 years, and for co-producing their "Long Road Out of Eden" album. His story begins long before in the Washington DC club scene, then expanding to the national scene through a band showcase for Colombia Record's Senior VP of A&R, Rick Chertoff. This led to collaborations with Rodney Crowell and Rosanne Cash on top-selling and award-winning albums, tours and production work with Shawn Colvin, and sessions with everyone from Vince Gill to Joni Mitchell. In our 2-hour interview, we cover his entire career as a session man, producer, touring sideman, and his ongoing role with the Eagles. We also cover his gear through the years, including what he currently uses on the road with the Eagles.

Dan Strain (Danocaster Guitars) Truetone Lounge - Quarantine Edition Feb 25, 2021

Danocaster Guitars is one of the most beloved and in-demand small-shop builders, yet next to nothing is known about Dan Strain and his small team that builds solid-bodies in Nashville, TN. After much prodding, Dan finally agreed to sit down and tell us about himself, his team, and the chain of events that led to the formation of Danocaster Guitars.

Elliot Easton - Truetone Lounge - 2021 Quarantine Edition Feb 10, 2021

Elliot Easton's well-constructed solos with The Cars were integral to their hits and were in many ways mini compositions within the songs. In our Truetone Lounge, we dive into how the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member constructed those solos, and look deeply into the recording process of those seminal albums. Easton also thoroughly contrasts the producing styles of Roy Thomas Baker (Queen) and Mutt Lang (Def Leppard, AC/DC) on the various Car's albums and the hard work, and eye for detail that both producers shared. He also discusses his involvement with Gibson, Kramer signature models, and his custom orders with John Page that influenced the creation of the Fender Custom Shop in 1985. Elliot also discusses having Ringo Starr play on a track for The Empty Hearts, his supergroup that includes members from the Romantics, and Blondie.

Ray Flacke | Truetone Lounge | 2021 Quarantine Edition Jan 28, 2021

TruetoneLounge | Ray Flacke We are so honored to have one of the all-time Telecaster greats, Ray Flacke, sit down with us to tell his story, after a long season of staying under the radar. Those not familiar with him should know that Flacke's influence runs deep on just about any player willing to pick up a Tele and play with gusto. With equal parts Ritchie Blackmore, Chet Atkins, and Roy Nichols, Flacke grabbed everyone's attention by the collar with his aggressive and staccato guitar work on the back-to-basics radio hits of Ricky Skaggs of the early to mid-1980s. After his stint with Ricky, he moved on to session work, and a return to touring with Marty Stuart in the early 90s, and the Jamie Hartford Band in the late 90s to early 2000s. After a stint out of the music limelight, Ray has a new passion, writing. He has just published a children's book entitled "The Boy Who Would Be Birds," and is in the process of completing his tongue-in-cheek autobiography, 'Kin 'Ell, Fired Again. Flacke also discusses his gear through the years, and how he has used super glue to save his right-hand nails, and baby powder on the neck of his guitar for left-hand precision. To order his children's book, send an email to rayflackenhauser@protonmail.com

Truetone Lounge - Rick Holmstrom Dec 21, 2020

Rick Holmstrom is an esteemed blues artist with a new solo album, See That Light, releasing on February 26th. Besides his esteemed solo work, he is also the bandleader and guitarist for legendary Gospel/R&B singer, Mavis Staples. In our Lounge interview, we cover how he got the Mavis gig at the urging of Ry Cooder, the low down on his new solo album, and an amazing walk-through of his favorite guitars including his 1953 Telecaster, Harmony Stratotone, and Danelectro double cutaway.

Jim Campilongo Nov 18, 2020

Jim Campilongo is one of the finest Telecaster players of the modern era. On his many great albums, Jim brings his beautifully unique approach to everything from honky-tonk, to jazz. In our Truetone Lounge discussion, we cover everything from his history as a player, inspirations, to his current practice regimen. We also could not help but talk of his love for late 50s Telecasters and Princeton Reverb amps.

Arlen Roth Nov 17, 2020

Famed Guitarist, and groundbreaking guitar educator, Arlen Roth, is our guest for the latest Truetone Lounge. We cover his touring days with John Prine, Phoebe Snow, and Simon & Garfunkel, and how his side hustle as a guitar teacher transitioned into authoring books. Those books turned to audiotapes, and then after his work with Ralph Macchio on the movie Crossroads, he turned to guitar instructional videos. The Hot Licks videos that were made from the mid-1980s through the 90s featured an amazing assortment of guitarists, from Andy Summers to Cornell Dupree. Roth continues to record and perform, and we discuss his recent Tele-Masters album, and what's on the horizon for him.

Gordon Kennedy Nov 17, 2020

Gordon Kennedy is a 2-time Grammy Award-winning musician, songwriter, and producer who happens to also have an amazing musical pedigree. His mother was a regular on the Louisiana Hayride with a recording contract, and his father was a member of the famed Nashville A-Team and ran Mercury Records’ Nashville division for 21-years. The stories abound about his musical upbringing, as he watches his record exec father steer the careers of Roger Miller, Jerry Lee Lewis, and the Statler Brothers, yet the pace doesn't slow a bit as it moves into his storied career. Multiple Grammy wins, working with Frampton, Clapton, Garth, Skaggs and so many other musical legends show that Kennedy is his own man, with his own incredible story. We also take a look at some of his stunning collection of instruments that includes two that are part of the Gibson Custom Shop Collector's Series; his father's b-bender equipped 1961 ES-335, and his 1959 Les Paul, formerly owned by John Sebastian.

Al Perkins Nov 17, 2020

Welcome to the Truetone Lounge. We are kicking off this show with the legendary Al Perkins. Al sits down with Truetone's Zac Childs (also a columnist for Vintage Guitar Magazine) for a casual and informative chat with Al about his life, career, and tools of his craft.

Andy Reiss Nov 17, 2020

Andy Reiss is one of the true western swing and jazz guitar greats in Nashville and can be seen just about every Monday night with the amazing Time Jumpers. In our Truetone Lounge interview, Andy discusses his time in San Francisco during the height of the hippy movement, his move to Nashville and mentorship with Harold Bradley, and how he ended up on tours with everyone from Slim Whitman to Reba McEntire. Reiss also educates us in the traditional 1950's-60's guitar styles utilized by the Nashville A-Team using a 1959 ES-335, 1958 Danelectro 6-string Bass, Waterloo WL-14, and a 1941 Stromberg archtop. For good measure, he also discusses and demonstrates his 1952 Les Paul, incredibly rare blond 1966 Barney Kessel Custom, and his 1964 Fender Pro amp.

Audley Freed Nov 17, 2020

Audley Freed’s musicality and easy-going attitude have garnered him gigs with Cry of Love, The Black Crows, Peter Frampton, Dixie Chicks, Joe Perry, Sheryl Crow, and, many many others. In our Truetone Lounge interview, Audley shares everything from riding to gigs in vans with his early band, Cry of Love, to playing with Jimmy Page at the Greek Theatre, to his current position as one of the most in-demand sidemen in the world. Freed also talks gear, with his Senn Pomona, 1965 SG Special, B-Bender equipped Pomona, Lazy J amp, and his minimalistic pedalboard.

Bill Crook - Crook Custom Guitars Nov 17, 2020

Bill Crook is one of the most respected electric guitar builders of the modern era. Bill shares his guitar building philosophies, and how his days touring with the group, America, influenced the features and functionality of every Crook Custom Guitar.

Bob Britt - Part One Nov 17, 2020

Bob Britt is a true journeyman guitarist who has played with a veritable who's who of legendary musical artists.

Bob Britt - Part Two Nov 17, 2020

Bob Britt is a true journeyman guitarist who has played with a veritable who's who of legendary musical artists.

Bob Weil - Truetone 25th Anniversary Nov 17, 2020

To celebrate Truetone’s 25th Anniversary, we sit down with founder and president, Bob Weil, to tell both his own story and that of the company he launched in 1995. The idea to launch a business began to germinate when Weil was using an off-the-shelf volume pedal that he wished had some sort of a visual indicator. Finding that no such pedal existed, he began learning about electronics, eventually starting Visual Sound and releasing the Visual Volume pedal in 1995. In Bob and Truetone’s joint 25-year story, we get everything from their first NAMM show, bankruptcy and rebirth, to the release of the flagship products Jekyll & Hyde, Route 66, H2O, and the 1 SPOT, as well as the eventual name change from Visual Sound to Truetone, the launch of the 1 SPOT Pro series, and why Bob decided to introduce the Truetone Lounge video series. We hope that after telling other's stories for years through the Truetone Lounge, you will enjoy getting to hear ours.

Brent Mason - Part One Nov 17, 2020

Brent Mason is one of the titans of the Nashville studio scene whose impact on the "Nashville Sound" cannot be overstated. His versatile and ear-catching guitar work has helped define the works of some of the greatest Country Music Artists of all time.

Brent Mason - Part Three Nov 17, 2020

In part 3 of our Truetone Lounge interview, Brent talks about the psychology of working in the studio and gives great advice to the aspiring session guitarist.

Brent Mason - Part Two Nov 17, 2020

Brent Mason is one of the titans of the Nashville studio scene whose impact on the "Nashville Sound" cannot be overstated. In part 2 of our Truetone Lounge interview, Brent discusses his iconic Tele playing...

Chad Jeffers Nov 17, 2020

Chad Jeffers is currently celebrating his 13th year playing arenas with Carrie Underwood. Prior to Miss Underwood, he toured with Keith Urban, Kenny Loggins, and was a member of a band signed to RCA Records. In this Truetone Lounge, Jeffers shares volumes of great advice for the up-and-coming players, coming from both the position of the artist and the sideman. He also stresses the importance of networking, hard work, and the willingness to take chances as recipes for success. Jeffers also illustrates how both being a multi-instrumentalist, and his willingness to learn has kept him working in a very competitive environment.

Chris Rodriguez Nov 17, 2020

Chris Rodriguez is one of the most in-demand sidemen in the music business. In our Truetone Lounge interview, Chris talks about an exceptional career playing music with some of the world's most beloved artists.

Guthrie Trapp - Quarantine Edition Nov 17, 2020

Via Skype, we chat with Guthrie on what he has been up to. We start off talking about picks, but move on to his philosophy of using the right amp for the right venue. He then takes on a lesson talking about using chord notes when soloing, and some substitutions.

Daniel Carson Nov 17, 2020

Daniel Carson is the long-standing studio and road guitarist with singer-songwriter, and Christian music artist, Chris Tomlin. In Our Truetone Lounge interview, Carson takes us from the Suburban to the tour bus on his career that started with Tomlin while Daniel was still in high school. Besides sharing his fascinating story, he also passes on important playing concepts, how he uses effects, and how he began learning the craft of songwriting from Tomlin and others.

Daniel Tashian Nov 17, 2020

In January of 2019, Daniel Tashian won the coveted Album of the Year award at the Grammy’s for his work on the Kacey Musgraves Golden Hour album. In our latest Truetone Lounge interview, we sit down with the award-winning producer/songwriter/guitarist to talk about the album, and how he began collaborating with Musgraves. He also shares how he was inspired by seeing his father perform with Emmylou Harris and the Hot Band, and his journey as an artist, songwriter, and producer. Daniel also talks about the ephemeral nature of inspiration, his attempts at capturing it, and how sounds and tones influence him.

David Grissom Nov 17, 2020

David Grissom is one of the top American roots guitarists. His singular playing style and tone have garnered him multitudes of sessions, tours with acts from the Allman Brothers to John Mellencamp, and a long-running successful signature model from Paul Reed Smith Guitars. In our Truetone Lounge interview, Grissom takes us from his childhood in Kentucky and Indiana to the storied music hub he has called home for over 30-years, Austin, Texas. Along the way, David sheds light on his voracious appetite for music and the formidable work ethic that helped forge him into one of the most revered guitarists today.

Derek Wells - Part One Nov 17, 2020

Derek Wells is one of the top session guitarists in Nashville, TN. He has played on numerous top 10 albums, singles, and was recently nominated for the 2016 Academy of Country Music Musician of the year award, in the guitarist category. We talk with him about his beginnings as a touring guitarist in Part 1. https://truetone.com https://truetonelounge.com

Derek Wells - Part Three Nov 17, 2020

In our visit with Derek in the Truetone Lounge, we talk with him about his gear, and he demonstrates some of his session tools in Part 3 of this 3 part series.

Derek Wells - Part Two Nov 17, 2020

Derek Wells is one of the top session guitarists in Nashville, TN. In our visit with Derek in the Truetone Lounge, we talk with him about his break into the session world in Part 2 of this 3 part series.

Duke Levine - 2020 Quarantine Edition Nov 17, 2020

Duke Levine is an in-demand sideman, solo artist, and is one of the foremost roots-based guitarists of that last 30-years. His well-crafted instrumental albums contain melodies and moods, which is why he has also done acclaimed soundtrack work with Mason Daring for many of the films of John Sales. Duke can also burn on the guitar when needed while playing with Peter Wolf, and the J. Geils Band, play Honky Tonk, or Country Soul guitar with his own combo. In today's Truetone Lounge, Levine walks us through his work with Mary Chapin Carpenter, Jonatha Brooke, Otis Rush, soundtrack work, his solo recordings, and covers his gear through the years. For all the serious gear heads, we look at Duke's 1953 and 1963 Telecasters, 1963 Stratocaster, and Relic Tele.

Greg Martin Nov 17, 2020

Guitarist Greg Martin lives at the intersection of hillbilly, blues, gospel, and rock, and is one of the greatest proponents of pure guitar and amp tones. In our Truetone Lounge interview, we cover his years of playing the club circuit, work with country star Ronnie McDowell, and his meteoric rise to fame with the Kentucky Headhunters.

Guthrie Trapp - Part One Nov 17, 2020

Guthrie Trapp is one of the finest guitarists in Nashville, TN. In our Truetone Lounge interview, we talk with Trapp about his early playing experiences on the Gulf Coast, why he moved to Nashville, and how performing with the Don Kelley Band punched his career into overdrive. We also discuss his musically eclectic new album, Life After Dark, that features Vince Gill, Sam Bush, Stuart Duncan, Jimmy Hall, The McCrary Sisters, and Bekka Bramlett as guests.

Guthrie Trapp - Part Two Nov 17, 2020

Guthrie Trapp is one of the finest guitarists in Nashville, TN, a town known for its amazing musicians. In Part 2 our Truetone Lounge interview, we learn about his Country Guitar ArtistWorks lesson series, and how his students all over the world are able to share their videos with him and get personalized help with their playing. We also dive headfirst into gear talk, with Trapp sharing some of his tone concepts. These concepts include how he dials in his amps, and how he uses pedals to enhance an already great-sounding amp tone. Guthrie also showcases 3 of his favorite instruments, a 1969 Gibson ES-335, Russ Pahl Jr Tele-style, and his Danocaster Double-Cut Strat-style.

Truetone Lounge Holiday Recap Episode 2016 Nov 17, 2020

In our Holiday Recap and Viewer Favorites episode, we take a trip down memory lane and look back at some of the best moments of our first season of the Truetone Lounge.

JD SIMO - Quarantine Edition Nov 17, 2020

We chat with our good buddy, JD Simo, and see what he has been up to in 2020. Simo also shares a lesson in the challenges of playing simple parts, and in arranging multiple guitar parts.

Jedd Hughes Nov 17, 2020

In the latest installment of the Truetone Lounge, Jedd Hughes sits down with us to amaze us with his playing and jaw-dropping stories. From growing up in the Australian outback to his “first gig” in Nashville being at the Grand Ole Opry, to his stellar work as a sideman, session work, and of course his deeply moving new album, West, it all gets covered here. Throughout the interview, Jedd’s singular playing style showcases why he is such an in-demand musical collaborator with many of the finest artists in modern music. Hughes also covers a bit of his favorite gear including a mid 60’s Teisco K2L, 1957 Telecaster, Collings OM-1JL acoustic, Ebo amplifier, and his small pedalboard.

Jeff Senn Nov 17, 2020

Jeff Senn, renowned guitar builder and guitarist, is the second guest on our Truetone Lounge series. During the interview, Senn speaks in-depth on his beginnings as an instrument repairman, his years as a touring professional, his transition over a decade ago into a well-respected guitar builder, and his instrumental band, Crazy Aces. Interspersed, Jeff demonstrates 2 of his own Original Senn instruments, along with a vintage 1959 Guyatone that helped inspire his latest release, the Original Senn Model 1.

Jerry McPherson Nov 17, 2020

In our Truetone Lounge interview with session guitarist Jerry McPherson, we look at his beginnings in Texas, early tours and sessions with Amy Grant, and his transition to his current position as a full-time and in-demand session player. We also look at his favorite session tools, and his patented robot arm, that at the touch of a button, moves a set of microphones to various cabinets in Jerry's amp isolation room. But this episode is about so much more than his bio and gear. It is packed with Jerry's insights on playing parts, how to use effects, and how to keep a listener engaged throughout the course of a song. This episode is pure gold for the aspiring session guitarist.

Jimmy Johnson Nov 17, 2020

In the latest Truetone Lounge, we take a trip down to Muscle Shoals, Alabama, to meet up with Swamper, Jimmy Johnson at 3614 Jackson Highway, home of the Muscle Shoals Sound. In our interview, Johnson covered everything from his early days as Rick Hall’s first employee, through all of his groundbreaking work with Aretha Franklin, the Rolling Stones, Wilson Pickett, Paul Simon, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Bob Seger. Along the way, we get amazing anecdotes about Tom Dowd, Jerry Wexler, Arif Mardin, Duane Allman, Eddie Hinton, and Pete Carr. Jimmy also shares of his involvement in the award-winning Muscle Shoals documentary, and how the film came to fruition.

John Jorgenson - Part 4 (Gear Rundown) Nov 17, 2020

In part 4 of our Truetone Lounge interview, John plays and tells the stories of some of his favorite guitars.

John Leventhal - Quarantine Edition Nov 17, 2020

Grammy Award-winning producer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist, John Leventhal, shares what he has been up to in 2020, and clues us into his guitar part on Shawn Colvin's "Get Out Of This House."

Justin Ostrander Nov 17, 2020

In this Truetone Lounge episode, we present Justin Ostrander, part of the new crop of session guitarists in Nashville, TN.

Kenny Greenberg Nov 17, 2020

Kenny Greenberg is equal parts session man, producer, songwriter, and touring pro. In our Truetone Lounge interview, we look at his multi-faceted career, and how he has continued to make his mark in Music City since his arrival in 1978. Along the way, Greenberg shows his appreciation for Richard Bennett and Tony Brown, two Nashville heavyweights who had a weighty impact on his career, and how his session work with Kenny Chesney eventually resulted in him playing live with him in stadiums across the USA. He also shares some important playing concepts, and how he navigates the give and take of playing with another guitarist in the studio. We close out with Kenny covering some of his main guitars, amps, and pedals that he uses both live and in the studio.

Kirk Fletcher Nov 17, 2020

In the latest Truetone Lounge, Kirk Fletcher shares the influences and experiences that have shaped him into one of the great modern bluesmen. Along the way, Fletcher recounts the thrills of gigging with blues greats like Charlie Musselwhite, and The Fabulous Thunderbirds, and of the challenges and rewards of launching a solo career. Kirk also clues us in to how he dials in his sterling tones using a 1950’s Telecaster, 3 pedals on the floor, and a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp. His upbeat manner and stellar playing will keep you smiling until the very end.

Kirk Fletcher - Quarantine Edition Nov 17, 2020

We talk to Kirk Fletcher from his home in Switzerland and go way down the rabbit hole talking about everything from Ry Cooder and James Burton, to our love of Guitar Player magazines from the 70s and '80s. Kirk gives us a little lesson on "Memphis Soul Stew," and he talks about his new Youtube Channel.

John Leventhal - Part One Nov 17, 2020

In Part 1 of our 3-part series with the Grammy award-winning producer John Leventhal, we discuss his early years, and why he picked up the guitar and began learning the craft of songwriting. He also describes the thrill of having his first outing as a producer result in a Grammy win for Shawn Colvin's 1989 album, Steady On. John also shares how a home studio demo tape led to him catching the attention of Marc Cohn and working on Cohn's huge hit, "Walking in Memphis." Leventhal also discusses how he met Rosanne Cash and began a collaboration that began musically and culminated in marriage.

John Leventhal - Part Three Nov 17, 2020

In Part 3, we discuss John Leventhal's gear. We cover the wealth of instruments and amps used in the studio, and the outright Spartan rig he uses on the road. Also, John plays a number of solo clips that both showcase his signature touch and tone, and pays homage to a number of his favorite guitarists. https://truetonelounge.com https://truetone.com

John Leventhal - Part Two Nov 17, 2020

In Part 2, we discuss John Leventhal's 23 years of musical collaboration with wife Rosanne Cash, and his recent work with Stax Records singer and songwriter, William Bell. We go in-depth on his philosophy behind the reimagining of classic country and folk tunes on Rosanne Cash's The List, the inspiration behind her "Southern" themed album, The River & The Thread, and the thrills and challenges of making the modern soul album, This Is Where I live, with William Bell.

Pat Bergeson Nov 17, 2020

Pat Bergeson visits the Truetone Lounge to talk guitar and to share his experiences as a veteran touring and studio musician. Besides his past work with Chet Atkins, Lyle Lovett, Wynonna, and Madeleine Peyroux, Pat shares of his recent work with guitar legend Tommy Emmanuel, and touring with Les Brers, a group of former Allman Brothers that includes Butch Trucks, Jack Pearson, Otiel, and Jaimoe. Throughout the episode, Pat’s playing and tone demonstrate why he has continued to be an in-demand guitarist in Nashville.

Pat Buchanan Nov 17, 2020

From touring with some of the biggest acts in the music business, to appearing in a music video with the legendary Miles Davis, guitarist Pat Buchanan has seemingly done it all. In our interview with Buchanan, we talk about his early years in Atlanta, his time touring with Cameo and Hall & Oats in the 1980's, his work with Cyndi Lauper in the early 90's, and his move to Nashville to become a part of the session scene. We also discuss Pat's current gig with Amy Grant, working on the Nashville television show, and we go in-depth about his favorite guitars, effects, and amps.

Paul Franklin - Part One Nov 17, 2020

Paul Franklin is arguably the greatest modern innovator of the pedal steel guitar. In our Truetone Lounge interview, we cover both his work in country music, and his groundbreaking steel playing outside of the genre with artists as diverse as Dire Straits, Sting, Barbara Streisand, and Megadeth.

Paul Franklin - Part Two Nov 17, 2020

In Part 2 our interview with Paul Franklin, we discuss his new streaming “The Paul Franklin Method” lesson system, Paul’s triadic approach to soloing, and some of the ins-and-outs for the beginner wanting to get into the pedal steel

Pete Anderson - Quarantine Edition - Part One Nov 17, 2020

With Grammy's and millions of albums sales under his belt, Pete Anderson has nothing to prove. Anderson sits down with us to tell us his story, from sleeping in cars to incredible commercial success with Dwight Yoakam. Pete also reveals how much he was involved in the overall success of Yoakam, everything from getting he and the band's "look" together, to rehearsing the band until they could play the tunes in their sleep.

Pete Anderson - Part Two | Quarantine Edition Nov 17, 2020

In part 2, Pete talks about gear and how he produces records. He leads off by pulling out his 59 Esquire, and the parts guitar that he uses for sessions and club gigs. Anderson also goes in-depth on how he handles pre-production on an album, and the process he goes through in both tracking and overdubbing on a project. We also get useful insight on eq for guitars, and how to help your guitar sit in the mix better.

Redd Volkaert Nov 17, 2020

In the latest installment of the Truetone Lounge, Redd Volkaert shares with us his journey from the bars of Vancouver, Canada, to the stages with Merle Haggard, to his Grammy win for his work with Brad Paisley, to his current status as one of the great Honky-Tonk guitar heroes. Along the way, Volkaert heaps praise on bandleader extraordinaire, Don Kelley, for his powerful influence, and the thrill of filling Roy Nichol’s shoes in Merle Haggard’s band. In the gear department, we discuss what he looks for in a Tele, and his working relationships with both Grammatico amps, and Durham Electronics effects.

Redd Volkaert - Quarantine Edition Nov 17, 2020

Today, we catch up with the mighty Redd Volkaert and see how he has been doing since he moved from Texas to Virginia, and what he has been doing while he has been isolating at home.

Reggie Young - Part One Nov 17, 2020

In part 1 of our Truetone Lounge interview, we cover Reggie Young's early years in Memphis playing with the Bill Black Combo and sessions at Royal Studios, all the way up to his early work with Chips Moman at American Sound Studios.

Reggie Young - Part Three Nov 17, 2020

Part 3 covers Reggie's work in the 90's, all the way up to his just-released solo album, Forever Young. We then dive headlong into his gear.

Reggie Young - Part Two Nov 17, 2020

In part 2 with Reggie Young, we discuss his work with Elvis, and what lead to the end of American Studios in Memphis. We continue with his move to Nashville in 1972, and how a session...

Rob McNelley - Part One Nov 17, 2020

Rob McNelley is one of the very few "first call" session guitarists in Nashville, TN. In part 1 of 2, we discuss his musical upbringing in Ohio, his move to Nashville, working as a touring guitarist, and how he began to get called for studio work . McNelley recalls how his playing on Lady Antebellum's chart topping hit, "Need You Now," single-handedly launched his recording career. Rob also shares how performing with his own band locally, and touring with Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Bob Seger, helps to keep his musical ideas fresh and vital. https://truetonelounge.com https://truetone.com

Rob McNelley - Part Two Nov 17, 2020

In part 2 of our Truetone Lounge interview with guitarist Rob McNelley, we talk about the gear he uses both on the road, and in the studio. Rob talks about, and then demonstrates 3 of his most used instruments; his 1953 gold top Les Paul, his P90 equipped Senn Pomona, and his prized 1965 Stratocaster that was formerly owned and played by his father. He also goes in-depth with his pedal board, and talks about his vintage Princeton Reverb, his favorite grab and go amp.

Ryan Wariner - Part One Nov 17, 2020

Ryan Wariner is a touring and session guitarist in Nashville, TN, who has blazed his own trail by focusing on harder-edged playing and tones in a town mainly known for twang.

Ryan Wariner - Part Two Nov 17, 2020

In part 2 of our Truetone Lounge episode with Ryan Wariner, we look at some of his favorite pieces of gear.

Scott Bernard Nov 17, 2020

Scott Bernard is a respected touring and recording guitarist who has spent the last 8-years touring with pop icon Kenny Loggins. In our Truetone Lounge interview, we cover his early years, his move to Tennessee, and how he established himself as a working guitarist in Music City. Bernard also demonstrates his Melancon guitar, his touring pedal board, and the proper way to play the guitar parts for "Footloose."

Jeff Senn - Guitar Extended Footage Nov 17, 2020

Truetone Lounge Episode #2 included some great guitar work that had to be chopped down for running time reasons. here are the guitar demo clips from Episode 2 as well as footage that never made the final cut. Enjoy!

Shawn Tubbs - Part One Nov 17, 2020

In Part 1 of our Truetone Lounge interview with Shawn Tubbs, we cover his early years, how he established himself as a session guitarist in Los Angeles, and his appearances with the Stone Temple Pilots on MTV's Unplugged and NBC's Saturday Night Live. Tubbs also discusses how a red-eye flight to Nashville led him to touring with Country Music Superstar Carrie Underwood.

Shawn Tubbs - Part Two Nov 17, 2020

In Part 2 of our Truetone Lounge interview with Shawn Tubbs, we discuss his touring with Carrie Underwood, and how his gear has changed over the past 10-years to meet the tonal and logistical demands of the gig. Shawn also talks about his gear demos, and his thoughts as he contemplates making a guitar-focused solo record. Tubbs also goes through his grab-and-go pedal board and demonstrates his Suhr Classic Antique guitar.

JD Simo - Part One Nov 17, 2020

J.D. Simo has been recognized by Rolling Stone, Guitar Player, Premier Guitar, and Vintage Guitar Magazine as one of the finest young rock guitarists of his generation. In Part 1 of our Truetone Lounge interview with J.D. Simo, we cover his musically eclectic journey from Chicago to Nashville, and how he came to form his trio, Simo.

JD Simo - Part Three Nov 17, 2020

In Part 3, J.D. talks about his long love of the Fender Telecaster and demonstrates the 1955 Telecaster that he currently tours with. We finish out part 3 with his prized 1960 Les Paul nicknamed "Candy."

JD Simo - Part Two Nov 17, 2020

In Part 2 with J.D. Simo, we delve into his trio, and his thoughts as they begin working on their next album. We also dive headfirst into his gear, beginning with his recent switch from Plexi Marshalls to mid 60's blackface Fender amps, and touch on his love for lesser-known combos such as the Epiphone Futura, and the Traynor YGM. We end the episode spotlighting Simo's 1962 ES-335, affectionately known as "Red," and the basis for two recent signature models from Gibson Custom.

JD SIMO Rewind Nov 17, 2020

JD Simo returns to the Truetone Lounge to talk about his forthcoming blues album and his work with Phil Lesh and Friends. Along the way, Simo discusses some of his favorite blues players demonstrating many of their playing styles for good measure.

Steve Gibson Nov 17, 2020

Steve Gibson is one of the most recorded guitarists in the world, having played on over 200 # 1 singles across a variety of musical genres.

Steve Wariner Nov 17, 2020

Steve Wariner’s crazy musical odyssey is filled with characters with names like Chet Atkins, Jerry Reed, Reggie Young, Vince Gill, Ricky Skaggs, Mark O'Connor, and many others that are either titans or demigods of the music world. In our Truetone Lounge interview, Steve discusses all of the musical giants above, while also taking us from his early years in Indiana, all the way to commercial and artistic success all over the world.

Stu G Nov 17, 2020

Stu G is one of the most influential guitarists in the history of modern Christian/Worship music. His band, Delirious?, completely changed the sound and direction of Christian music in the mid-1990s, and their indelible stamp is still felt to this day. In our Truetone Lounge interview, Stu takes us through his early years, to Delirious?, and how they toured with rock and pop bands, even sharing many bills with Bon Jovi. Mr. Garrard explains the end of his band, and his rebirth as a solo artist, and sideman/collaborator with Michael W. Smith. We also get a walk through his impressive collection of favorite guitars, amps, and his pedalboard with a massive array of tonal choices.

Tim Lerch - Quarantine Edition Nov 17, 2020

In today's Truetone Lounge Quarantine Edition, we sit down with the great jazz/solo guitarist and educator, Tim Lerch. A key member of the modern Tele-Jazz cats, Tim talks tone, and how he gets a jazz sound from solid-body guitars. Along the way, we discuss his time at GIT, and the private lessons he had with two legendary players, Lenny Breau, and Ted Greene. We also spotlight his new Truefire series on both chord melody work, "Solo Jazz Pathways," and his comping/soloing lessons entitled "Jazz/Blues Pathways."

Todd Sharp - Part One Nov 17, 2020

In this Truetone Lounge episode, we speak with Todd Sharp, veteran guitarist and more recently, acclaimed amp builder. In part one, we speak with Sharp about his working musician family and teenage gigs in the 60's, to working up to being a high-profile sideman with Hall & Oats, Mick Fleetwood, and Bob Welch in the 1970's. He also shares the enviable experience of writing with Fleetwood Mac's Christine McVie for her self-titled 1984 release, and the thrill of recording with Eric Clapton. This is part 1 of a 3 part video series with Todd Sharp. Be sure to look for future episodes! http://truetone.com http://truetonelounge.com

Todd Sharp - Part Three Nov 17, 2020

Part 3 with Todd Sharp delves into why he started Todd Sharp Amplifiers, and what sets his JOAT 20RT amp apart from other designs. Todd also walks us through the features and tones of the JOAT 20RT using his 1959 Stratocaster, '56 Les Paul, and his funky "tuned down" El Dorado.

Todd Sharp - Part Two Nov 17, 2020

In Part 2 of our Truetone Lounge interview with Todd Sharp, we take a look at his 1986 solo album for MCA, Who Am I, and his days playing stadium gigs with Rod Stewart using a pair of 150-watt custom Dumble amp heads. We also cover Todd's move to Nashville, roadwork with Carlene Carter, Delbert McClinton, and Richard Marx, and how he transitioned into Nashville's amplifier guru to the stars.

Tom Hemby Nov 17, 2020

Tom Hemby is a highly respected touring and studio guitarist based in Nashville, TN. His hard work, talent, and versatility equipped him to work with Amy Grant, Vince Gill and Wynonna on the road, and musical icons Michael McDonald, Cliff Richard, Glen Campbell, Kenny Loggins, Peter Cetera, and many others in the studio. In our Truetone Lounge interview, we tell his story from rural Missouri to stages and studios across the globe. Additionally, Tom graciously shares some golden advice for the aspiring musician and talks about his jazz/fusion band that includes drumming legend Keith Carlock. Hemby also talks gear and demonstrates his pedalboard and his two favorite guitars, a 90's Custom Shop Fender Stratocaster, and a vintage 1959 Gibson ES-355.

Tyler Chiarelli Nov 17, 2020

Tyler Chiarelli is one of the finest young guitarists in Nashville today, who has quickly assimilated the chops, gear, and attitude that are necessary to make it here in Music City. In Our Truetone Lounge interview, Tyler takes us from his beginnings as a drummer, how he shifted to guitar, the tale of Tom Bukovac convincing him to move to Nashville, the lessons learned from getting fired from gigs, and all the many takeaways from touring with a major act, and appearing on television. We also cover Chiarelli's gear that includes a 1959 ES-335 and 1959 Fender Deluxe, Senn Pomona, Les Paul, Ebo Verb, and an XTS built pedalboard.

Will McFarlane Nov 17, 2020

Will McFarlane is one of the creators and torch bearers of the Muscle Shoals sound. He was recognized for this by his induction into the Musicians Hall of Fame as one of the Swampers in 2008. In our Truetone Lounge interview, we cover the impact his family had on his musicianship, his rise to fame as a sideman with Bonnie Raitt in the ’70s, his time spent in L.A. doing session work, and his move to Muscle Shoals in 1980. McFarlane continues to perform and record in Northern Alabama and is the defacto musical ambassador for Muscle Shoals.

XAct Tone Solutions Nov 17, 2020

Xact Tone Solutions is at the forefront of the musician service industry offering flexible pedalboard and rack builds, highly sophisticated system integrations for the biggest touring acts, and a full-line of tonally rich pedals. In our Truetone Lounge interview, we sit down with owner/founder Greg Walton, to discuss the beginnings of XTS and some of their guiding philosophies. We then add chief engineer Barry O’Neal to get a bit more technical and have him walk us through the process of a rig build.

Audley Freed Nov 16, 2020

Audley Freed’s musicality and easy-going attitude have garnered him gigs with Cry of Love, The Black Crows, Peter Frampton, Dixie Chicks, Joe Perry, Sheryl Crow, and, many many others. In our Truetone Lounge interview, Audley shares everything from riding to gigs in vans with his early band, Cry of Love, to playing with Jimmy Page at the Greek Theatre, to his current position as one of the most in-demand sidemen in the world. Freed also talks gear, with his Senn Pomona, 1965 SG Special, B-Bender equipped Pomona, Lazy J amp, and his minimalistic pedalboard.

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