Ernie Ball: Striking A Chord

Emily Wolfe discovered her passion for the guitar at just 6 years old. Then in college, she found the courage to step forward as a vocalist. Equipped with both a microphone and an electric guitar, Emily's creative potential was unleashed. In this episode we discuss her fantastic new album, Outlier, produced by Michael Shuman of Queens of the Stone Age. Additional topics include the city of Austin's reputation as the live music capital, NFTs and other potential future trends in the music biz, the joys of touring, and more. Intro Music by Eat the Wolf Outro Music by The Vacant Shapes

In this episode we chart Steve Vai's path from 12-year-old student under the tutelage of Joe Satriani to full-blown rock guitar god. Additional topics include the evolution of guitar playing, the development of Vai's showmanship (especially while playing with David Lee Roth), the difference between discipline and passion, the story behind his monumental song “For the Love of God,” and more.

On today’s episode we welcome Nick Hexum and Tim Mahoney of 311. Nick and Tim grew up playing in bands together in Omaha, Nebraska. They soon forged the 311 sound and today, over 3 decades later, they’ve released 13 studio albums—ten of which reached the top 10 on the Billboard 200. Topics discussed include being rap-rock pioneers in the early 90s, breaking through to the mainstream in the mid 90s, band chemistry, influences, songwriting, pandemic life, distortion guitar tones, and much more. Intro music by Eat the Wolf Outro music by The Vacant Shapes

In today’s episode we speak with Jesse Keeler of Death From Above 1979 about the secrets to his bass sound, the origins of the band, the “Freeze Me” video, and their new album, Is 4 Lovers. Additional topics include Jesse’s musical upbringing, his thoughts on the future of music creation, and of course his affinity for Regular Slinky bass strings. Freeze Me video: https://youtu.be/sdQqgVzex_w Intro music by Eat the Wolf Outro music by The Vacant Shapes

On today’s episode we welcome guitarist Jake Goldstein and bassist Kevin Grimmett of the band HUNNY. We discuss their history and the success of their local scene, which included bands such as the Neighbourhood and Bad Suns. We talk about their influences and pay homage to the Cure. Other topics include signing with Epitaph Records, predicting future trends in music, releasing a steady flow of singles, and more. Intro music by Eat the Wolf Outro music by The Vacant Shapes

At just 16 years old, Joe Robinson, equipped with his acoustic guitar, won Australia’s Got Talent. His career has since continued to flourish, releasing solo albums, doing session work, and performing with Rodney Crowell, Emmylou Harris, and many other artists. In this episode we speak with Joe about getting the most out of your guitar practice, embracing mentors, growing up in a tiny Australian town, winning Australia’s Got Talent, and moving to Nashville.

Today we welcome YouTuber, shredder, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist Jared Dines to the podcast. Through his intermingling of musical proficiency and comical skits, Jared has amassed millions of subscribers and hundreds of millions of views. In this episode we discuss social media as an outlet for musicians, the viral video experience, internet trash talkers, a day in the life of Jared Dines, Shred Wars, guitar practice, influences, new projects, finding fulfillment, and more. Intro music by Eat the Wolf Outro music by The Vacant Shapes

Joey Bradford, guitarist of the Used, knows touring — from all angles. Right out of high school he jumped on the opportunity to sell merch on the Warped Tour for Saosin. Never looking back, Bradford’s talent and tenacity continued to open doors (like the time he was approached at the merch table and asked to fill in on guitar for Thrice!). In this episode we speak with Bradford about making his way in the music biz, trying out for the Used, collaborating with artists such as Mark Hoppus, and creating music with turbocharged producer John Feldmann. Intro music by Eat the Wolf Outro music by The Vacant Shapes

Singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Kid Bloom joins us on the podcast for a wide ranging conversation. We discuss the idiosyncrasies of growing up in Los Angeles, playing strange gigs, writing songs on an instrument vs in a DAW, gaining traction without a label, and creating music that is unencumbered by social pressures. Intro music: Eat the Wolf Outro music: The Vacant Shapes

Cliff Williams of AC/DC joins us on the podcast to discuss his musical history prior to joining the band in 1977, his favorite memories of playing with AC/DC through the decades, his reflections on their new album, and his Music Man bass which has accompanied him through thick and thin since 1979. Ernie Ball Music Man has recently recreated Cliff’s bass and is making a very limited run available to the public. Following our interview with Cliff Williams, we speak with engineer Blair Ridings to get a behind-the-scenes look at the process of recreating Cliff’s iconic bass.

In this episode we speak with Knuckle Puck guitarists Nick Casasanto and Kevin Maida. The Chicago suburbanites tell the story behind their name, describe their first gig, and explain why they all get along so well. Kevin pitches The Sopranos as the greatest show ever created and Nick tells the story of a fan who turned out to be a long lost relative. Other topics include guitar strings, blink-182, and Knuckle Puck’s new album, 20/20. Intro Music by Eat the Wolf Outro Music by The Vacant Shapes

As the son of Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Jack Irons, Zach Irons grew up immersed in music. Zach, not surprisingly, played drums from an early age, but soon discovered an even deeper passion for the guitar. Today Zach is the lead guitarist for both IRONTOM and AWOLNATION. In this episode we speak with Irons about the current state of the guitar solo, left-handed guitar, the roots of Red Hot Chili Peppers, IRONTOM’s new album, skateboarding, backpacking, basketball, and more.

In this episode we speak with System Of A Down bassist Shavo Odadjian about moving to the US from Armenia as a kid, the formation and early days of System Of A Down, their unique situation of touring but not recording, and dealing with the public obsession with a new System record. We also discuss Shavo’s new band, North Kingsley, which has been prolifically writing and recording and is just beginning to release their songs to the public.

Growing up in Brazil Rafael Moreira dreamt of ripping guitar solos in front of adoring masses. These dreams turned to determination, leading Moreira to LA where he attended Musicians Institute. Rafael’s skills were soon discovered and put to good use as the guitarist for P!nk, Christina Aguilera, The Voice, and American Idol (to name a few). In this episode we speak with Moreira about his experiences playing in house bands of hit TV shows, performing with artists from P!nk to Paul Stanley, growing up in Brazil, and much more.

Indie-folk artist Matt Costa grew up skateboarding in Southern California. In the wake of a debilitating accident, Matt discovered a new passion and natural aptitude for songwriting. He soon crossed paths with No Doubt guitarist Tom Dumont, whose early mentorship helped put Matt on track for a successful and enduring music career. In this episode, we speak with Costa about songwriting, skateboarding, touring, John Steinbeck, and his brand new album Yellow Coat. Intro music by Eat the Wolf Outro music by The Vacant Shapes

In this episode we speak with Stefan Babcock, lead singer and guitarist of the band PUP. Stefan discusses the Canadian music scene and the extent to which the US/Canada border acts as a musical divide. He also discusses lyrical inspiration, band chemistry, the dedication required to make music one’s livelihood, and an experiment PUP ran: what happens when you provide the public with the chords and lyrics to a song they’ve never heard, and hundreds of fans record their own versions of what they think the song could sound like? Intro music by Eat the Wolf Outro music by The Vacant Shapes

Seether formed in 1999. Just one year later their demo was charting in their home country of South Africa. The year after that, US label Wind-up Records flew the band out to NYC for a showcase performance, promptly signed them to a deal, and the rest is history. In this episode we speak with singer/guitarist Shaun Morgan and bassist Dale Stewart about Seether’s grassroots rise in South Africa, their big move to the US, and their brand new album, Si Vis Pacem, Para Bellum.

In this episode we have a wide-ranging conversation with Dream Theater bassist John Myung. John discusses his experience attending Berklee College of Music with John Petrucci and Mike Portnoy, Dream Theater’s formation and early days, tips for practicing bass, and the story behind his new Ernie Ball Music Man Artist Series six-string bass. Intro music by Eat the Wolf Outro music by The Vacant Shapes

The members of hardcore outfit Code Orange have earned a reputation for their unrelenting drive. Whether writing heavier riffs, intensifying their live shows, or finding creative ways to engage fans during the pandemic, Code Orange is always pushing the envelope. In this episode we speak with guitarists Reba Meyers and Dominic Landolina about the power of bringing audio and visual together, the tricky balance of executing guitar parts while delivering a high energy performance, the importance of pushing boundaries, and more. Intro music by Eat the Wolf Outro music by Vacant Shapes

With their self-released debut album 40oz. to Freedom, Sublime quickly established a grassroots following on the California coast. With the release of their self-titled third studio album—two months after the passing of singer Bradley Nowell and the dissolution of the band—Sublime amassed worldwide fame, which persists to this day. In this episode we speak with bassist Eric Wilson about Sublime’s early days, their signature musical style, and their profound legacy. Additional topics include Eric’s bass playing, Sublime with Rome, and a new project called Spray Allen.

With the bonds of childhood friendship and the musical chemistry to match, The Story So Far caught fire in the pop punk world with their debut album Under Soil and Dirt. Never complacent, the Walnut Creek natives have continued to press the bounds of convention with each successive album. In this episode we speak with Kelen Capener, Kevin Geyer, and Will Levy about high school, songwriting, quarantine, Pure Noise Records, and more.

In this episode we speak with Halestorm guitarist Joe Hottinger about the group’s amazing journey from local bar band to Grammy award-winning artist. Joe discusses his development as a guitar player, his first meeting with Lzzy and Arejay Hale, his life in Nashville, his influences, and much more.

Forged in the Chicago punk scene of the late ‘90s, Rise Against seemed an unlikely candidate for mainstream success. After signing to a major label in 2003, Rise Against went on to release six albums that reached the Billboard 200 — five of which charted in the top ten. In this episode we speak with vocalist/guitarist Tim McIlrath and guitarist Zach Blair about sheltering in place, being political, following your passion, Zach’s tenure in the band Gwar, and much more.

Maddi Schieferstein first crossed paths with John Petrucci in 1998 when Deep Purple was touring with Dream Theater. At the time Maddi was the bass tech for Deep Purple, but as any true gearhead would, he took an interest in Petrucci’s extensive rig. Little did he know that in time he would come to know that rig better than anyone on the planet. In this episode Maddi Schieferstein, guitar tech to John Petrucci, answers questions solicited from fans online. Topics include changing strings and adjusting string height, as well as JP’s guitar collection and pre-show rituals. Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

Not many unsigned bands are asked to play Coachella or tour with Jack White, yet this is the story of Chicano Batman. Today, with the release of their highly anticipated fourth album, Invisible People, Chicano Batman’s ascent continues unabated. In this episode guitarist Carlos Arévalo and bassist Eduardo Arenas discuss the making of their new album, living in Los Angeles, and growing up in a time when Latinos in mainstream rock were few and far between. Referenced in the episode: Eduardo's new bass: https://www.music-man.com/instruments/basses/old-smoothie Carlos' new guitar: https://www.music-man.com/bfr/june-2019 Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

Hailing from Albany, New York, Drug Church has carved out a unique niche in the post-hardcore world. As articulated on their Spotify page, “They’re an unabashedly aggressive band that writes hooks you can’t stop humming — too poppy for the heavy crowd, too heavy for the poppy crowd.” And yet Drug Church’s proprietary sound continues to open new doors and attract new fans. In this episode we speak with vocalist Patrick Kindlon and guitarist Cory Galusha about their influences, their name, their thoughts on creating good music, and much more. Articles referenced in interview: https://www.revolvermag.com/music/drug-church-big-riffs-weezer-clones-mike-pattons-world-class-trolling https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/xwpwm3/drug-church-patrick-kindlon-cheer-interview Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf ernieb.al/2kCHJxf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

Goldfinger frontman John “Feldy” Feldmann has one of the most enviable résumés in the music business. With roots in the California punk scene, Feldmann has gone on to produce and co-write with a wide variety of music’s biggest names, including Good Charlotte, Panic! at the Disco, blink-182, and 5 Seconds of Summer. In this episode, we speak with Feldmann about the ups and downs of his early music career, what bands can do to get noticed, the roles and traits of a good producer, and much more. Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf ernieb.al/2kCHJxf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

In this episode we speak with Mad Caddies guitarist Sascha Lazor about getting signed by NOFX’s Fat Mike, his latest project working with rap artist Doja Cat and Yeti Beats, the unique rewards and challenges of touring the world as a musician, and how his passion for reggae music led him to Jamaica where he quickly found use for his talents making beats and playing guitar in a Kingston studio. Brought up during California’s Third Wave ska scene, the Mad Caddies’ sound is undeniably multifaceted — with hints of reggae, punk, pop, surf rock, and jazz all trickling onto their records. First emerging in the mid-90s, the Mad Caddies have been crafting and evolving their genre-bending style for more than 20 years.

If you trace back the history of Nirvana and Soundgarden, you'll inevitably run into the Melvins. Bridging heavy metal and punk rock in the midst of the ‘90s grunge scene, the Melvins have crafted a sound that has remained influential and prolific for more than three decades. In this episode, we speak with vocalist and guitarist Buzz Osborne and bass player Steven McDonald about their history in the music industry, their thoughts on the reign of streaming services, upcoming projects, and much more. Ernie Ball strings: https://ernieb.al/regularslinky Ernie Ball VPJR Tuner Pedal: https://ernieb.al/VPJRTuner Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf ernieb.al/2kCHJxf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

Dashboard Confessional singer-songwriter and guitarist Chris Carrabba became the poster child for early 2000s emo with his simple acoustic melodies and introspective songwriting. Having grown up in the skate community and punk scene of Southern Florida, Carrabba spent most of his early years playing in post-hardcore outfits, including the Vacant Andys and Further Seems Forever. But yearning to pursue something simpler, Dashboard Confessional was born. The side project eventually turned into a full-fledged band that would find itself sitting comfortably on the Billboard charts throughout the rest of the decade. In this episode, we speak to the Dashboard Confessional frontman about the process of writing impactful lyrics, how to win over tough crowds, the moment he realized his music was really gaining traction, and much more. Mentioned in this episode: Ernie Ball strings: https://ernieb.al/regularslinky Ernie Ball Flat Ribbon Patch Cables: https://ernieb.al/flatribbonpatch Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf ernieb.al/2kCHJxf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

In 2015, guitarist Ayla Tesler-Mabe posted her first cover to YouTube soulfully playing John Mayall & the Bluebreakers “Hideaway.” Fast forward four years, the now 18-year-old boasts a following of over 400k on Instagram, plays to sold-out crowds, and stands as one of the most promising young guitar players on the rise. In this episode, we speak to the Calgary native about how the video game Rock Band inspired her to learn to play the guitar, her thoughts on releasing singles versus albums in the age of streaming, her experience playing in the band Calpurnia and her current project, Ludic, and much more. Mentioned in this episode: Ernie Ball strings: https://ernieb.al/regularslinky Ernie Ball Music Man Valentine guitar: https://ernieb.al/2UmdR89 Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf ernieb.al/2kCHJxf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

While best known for his work on the drums for bands including Nine Inch Nails, Angels & Airwaves, and Paramore, multi-instrumentalist Ilan Rubin can do just about anything musically. Despite being only 31 years old, Rubin has been involved in the music industry for over 20 years. He’s been touring and recording music since he was 9, and by age 11, he landed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the youngest musician to ever play Woodstock. In this episode, we speak to the California native about fronting his band, The New Regime, why Trent Reznor paid him to learn to play the cello, his thoughts on the current music industry, and much more. Mentioned in this episode: https://ernieb.al/regularslinky Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf ernieb.al/2kCHJxf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

With her literate, emotionally intricate songwriting and inventive guitar playing, Annie Clark — known by her stage moniker St. Vincent — has become an unapologetic force in rock and pop. She introduced her genre-blending abilities on 2007’s ‘Marry Me,’ and has gone on to achieve a rare balance of critical and commercial success throughout the years. She became the first female artist to win the Grammy Award for Best Alternative Album in 20 years and cracked the Billboard Top 10 with 2017’s Grammy-winning MASSEDUCTION. In this episode, we speak to Clark about her experience tour managing as a teenager, her intense focus on making good art, her songwriting process, and much more. Mentioned in this episode: St. Vincent's Ernie Ball strings: Electric - https://ernieb.al/regularslinky Acoustic -https://ernieb.al/2ky6FlG Ernie Ball Music Man St. Vincent guitar: https://ernieb.al/2Ft8hYr Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf ernieb.al/2kCHJxf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

Joe Bonamassa began playing guitar when he was just four years old and hasn’t looked back since. He was featured across local news as the next “guitar prodigy,” and by the age of 12, he was opening for B.B King. Today, Bonamassa has accumulated 22 number one albums on the Billboard Blues chart and has been featured on the cover of every guitar magazine imaginable. In this episode, we speak to Bonamassa about his childhood, his world-class guitar collection, and much more. Mentioned in this episode: Joe's Ernie Ball strings: https://ernieb.al/2FZeNWM Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf ernieb.al/2kCHJxf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

Rapidly gaining praise in the world of instrumental rock and beyond, Gretchen Menn isn’t your average guitar hero on the rise. She once flew regional jets to support her six-string habit and has studied the music of Mozart, Beethoven, Jimmy Page, and more. Menn has been featured on Guitar Player Magazine’s list of ‘50 Sensational Female Guitarists‘ and was nominated by readers of Vintage Guitar Magazine as ‘Artist of the Year’ alongside Steve Vai, Dan Auerbach, Rik Emmet, and Alan Holdsworth. In this episode, we speak to Gretchen about her work with the all-female Led Zeppelin tribute band, Zepparella, hear her perform a couple songs live, and much more. Mentioned in this episode: Gretchen's Ernie Ball strings: https://ernieb.al/2ExjPJi Acoustic Guitar Mag lessons: https://ernieb.al/2RHnDA5 Zepparella learning channel: https://ernieb.al/2ruVilI "When The Levee Break" by Zepparella: https://ernieb.al/38nkECz Daniele Gottardo: https://ernieb.al/2PnnChC Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf ernieb.al/2kCHJxf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

Born and raised in Lincoln, Nebraska, guitarist James Valentine spent most of his early career teaching guitar lessons in his hometown. It wasn’t until a coworker entered him and his band, Square, into the Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands that his talent started to gain recognition. After winning the competition in 1999, James made the move to Los Angeles where he would eventually join the LA-based band Kara's Flowers, which would soon become Maroon 5. After a successful debut record and three Grammys later, Maroon 5 has gone on to become one of the most successful names in music today. In this episode, we speak to James about his early years with Maroon 5, how the hit show The Voice impacted his career, and much more. Mentioned in this episode: James' Ernie Ball strings: Electric - http://ernieb.al/2p7J27u Acoustic - https://ernieb.al/2PCJgfW , https://ernieb.al/2ky6FlG Ernie Ball Music Man Valentine: https://ernieb.al/2UmdR89 New Slinkys: https://ernieb.al/2l9fOkQ Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf ernieb.al/2kCHJxf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

After stepping away from her childhood acting career, vocalist Bethany Cosentino began writing and experimenting with music in her teens. She joined forces with multi-instrumentalist Bobb Bruno in early 2009, and by the end of the year, the two were preparing for their official debut as Best Coast. The Los Angeles based duo has since released four full-length records and has garnered a dedicated following within the indie and surf rock scene. In this episode, we speak to Cosentino and Bruno about their unique partnership and collaborative process, Best Coast’s forthcoming record, and much more. Mentioned in this episode: Strings used by Bobb and Bethany: http://ernieb.al/2p7J27u https://ernieb.al/2KmGKNG https://ernieb.al/2z4MDXA New Slinkys: https://ernieb.al/2l9fOkQ Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf ernieb.al/2kCHJxf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

Matt McJunkins picked up his first bass at 13 years old and hasn’t looked back since. After attending Musician’s Institute in Los Angeles, McJunkins has gone on to contribute to a diverse set of projects across the rock scene, including current supergroup A Perfect Circle, Ashes Divide, Eagles of Death Metal, Thirty Seconds to Mars, and Puscifer. In this episode, we speak to McJunkins about going to school for music, the backstory of his most recent band The Beta Machine, and much more. Mentioned in this episode: Ernie Ball Axis Capo: https://ernieb.al/2YurJf8 Ernie Ball Super Slinky Bass strings: http://ernieb.al/2phKwuL "Pictures" by The Beta Machine: https://ernieb.al/34hvFSX Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf ernieb.al/2kCHJxf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

Forming in their senior year of high school, Avenged Sevenfold went from teenage garage band to one of the most successful American heavy metal outfits at the turn of the century. Selling an estimated eight million copies across their seven studio albums, the Huntington Beach natives have challenged the traditional genre, fusing aggressive metal, hard rock, and pop punk. In this episode, we speak to guitarist Synyster Gates about the importance of being musically adventurous, which albums were crucial in Avenged Sevenfold’s trajectory, and much more. Mentioned in this episode: Paradigm Skinny Top Heavy Bottom strings: https://ernieb.al/2ExjPJi Synyster Gates School: https://ernieb.al/2MM1MmK Listen to the "Sunny Disposition" solo: https://ernieb.al/2oOctx4 Great Gear Giveaway: ernieb.al/2kQITFe Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf ernieb.al/2kCHJxf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

Known for his intricate compositions, innovative techniques, and versatility across musical genres, Steve Morse is widely known as the "guitarists' guitarist." Morse has provided his technical prowess to groups including Dixie Dregs and Deep Purple, while also appearing on over 200 albums to date. In this episode, Morse discusses blazing his own music trail, some of his worst experiences on stage, and the development of his signature guitar with Ernie Ball Music Man. Mentioned in this episode: Steve Morse: https://ernieb.al/2ngOKoL Ernie Ball Music Man Steve Morse guitar: https://ernieb.al/2LKMOy8 Great Gear Giveaway: ernieb.al/2kQITFe Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf ernieb.al/2kCHJxf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

Multi-instrumentalist and composer Jason Richardson is known for his near-supersonic, highly technical playing style. Richardson established his reputation with his tenure in bands All Shall Perish, Born of Osiris, and Chelsea Grin. He released his first album “I” in 2016 and is currently touring with All That Remains. After collaborating with Ernie Ball Music Man on a 7-string guitar, his dedicated online following can now play to his exact technical specifications. In this episode, Richardson discusses the first time he picked up the guitar, musical inspirations, life as a solo-artist, and much more. Mentioned in this episode: Jason playing at 12: https://ernieb.al/2lTQFyw Jason playing at 14: https://ernieb.al/2meGR22 Ernie Ball Music Man JR7 Cutlass: https://ernieb.al/2kIhh5p Great Gear Giveaway: https://ernieb.al/2kQITFe Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf https://ernieb.al/2kCHJxf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes

In this episode, bassist Justin Chancellor of Tool joins us to talk about the release of their brand new and long-awaited album, Fear Inoculum. Justin discusses the band’s unique songwriting process, his thoughts on finally releasing their music on streaming services, how he initially turned down the offer to join Tool, and much more. Referenced in the episode: Tool's music: https://ernieb.al/2lGQRRl Justin's bass strings: https://ernieb.al/2AQQ7hc Ernie Ball Axis Capo: https://ernieb.al/2YurJf8 Intro Music: Lightning from a Gun by Eat The Wolf Outro Music: The Vacant Shapes