An insight in to the world of the session musician. Nate Williams chats with some of the finest session players in the business to see how they got in to the freelance musician world, and what makes them tick.
Text the showDesri is a singer based in London.Her credits include artists like Rag n Bone Man, Paolo Nutini, Ellie Goulding and The 1975.Amongst many other things, we discussed being shy in the industry, Brit school, and choosing between sports and music.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!(Recorded May 14th 2025)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.com
Text the showClare is a keyboard player and singer based between London, Scotland and Japan.Her credits include artists like Harry Styles, Pet Shop Boys, Kae Tempest, and KT Tunstall. Amongst many other things, we discussed Clare's move from Japan to Scotland as a teenager, falling in and out of love with music, and figuring out how to operate as an introvert in the industry.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded April 22nd 2025)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.com
Text the showMatt is a guitar tech based in Manchester. He's toured with artists like Take That, Queen, Royal Blood and Mumford and Sons. I met Matt for the first time in 2024. We got to hang out a bit, and having him on the pod was a great way to learn more about his journey! Amongst many other things, we discussed having high standards for oneself, dealing with the various personalities that come with touring, and sobriety. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!(Recorded April 21st 2025)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.com
Text the showAvishai is a drummer based in New York. His credits include artists like Charlie Puth, Daniel Caesar and Maggie Rogers. Amongst many other things, we discussed his upbringing in Israel, how Jazz became a big part of his life, and the importance of therapy.One thing we DIDN'T talk about for whatever reason is the fact that Avi won a grammy for his participation on the Bob Marley film soundtrack. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded February 14th 2025)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.com
Text the showEric is a drummer based in LA. His credits include artists like Benson Boone, Hailee Steinfeld and Nicky Youre.Amongst many other things, we discussed being present as much as possible, diversifying as a freelance musician, and choosing between sports and music as a youngster.We had a minor wifi issue late on, but we got it resolved.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!(Recorded Feb 4th 2025)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.com
Text the showSlightly different episode today. As you know, I started this podcast as a way to shine a light on the wonderful session musicians that help make our favourite artists sounds good on a show day, or recording date and whatnot.On a show day, the musicians and artists might be the only people you see on stage, but obviously, they're not the only people putting the whole thing together. Moving forward, I'm hoping to speak to more people who work behind the scenes and make the show day or recording date run smoothly. That brings me to today's guest - Keely Myers.Keely wears a lot of hats in the music industry, but I first met her in 2024 in her capacity as tour manager, so for the sake of this episode of the pod, she'll mostly be Keely the tour manager.Her credits include artists like Take That, Kate Bush, Muse and Anastacia.Amongst many other things, we discussed - the importance of professional relationships, her love for show production from an early age, and Keely's great work to keep everyone feeling supported and happy on tour.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!(Recorded Jan 30th 2025)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.com
Text the showAlex is a drummer based between London and Milan. His credits include artists like Niall Horan, Isaac Gracie, James Morrison and JP Cooper.Amongst many other things, we discussed leaning towards drummers with amazing feel from a young age, learning to play for the song, and being decisive in the moment. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded 23rd Jan 2025)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.com
Text the showSterling is a drummer based in LA.His credits include artists like Olivia Rodrigo, Chappell Roan, Niki and Natasha Bedingfield.Amongst many other things, we discussed the importance of following your passion, the benefits of therapy, and improvements that come with recording your playing. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!(Recorded January 14th 2025)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.com
Text the showSophie is a multi instrumentalist based in London.Her credits include artists like Dua Lipa, Self Esteem, SOAK, and Tom Grennan.Amongst many other things, we discussed being present between tours, the joy of performing difficult music, and music being who you are as well as what you do.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.Recorded 19th December 2024Face Your EarsExplore home recording and music creation with Rich and Justin on 'Face Your Ears'!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.com
Text the showMichael is a guitarist based in London.His credits include artists like Louis Tomlinson, Take That, Lewis Capaldi and Amber Run.Amongst many other things, we discussed the importance of understanding sound creation, being a pro musician from a working class town, and learning from mistakes.Michael and I had met for the first time a few months before recording this episode, so having been on tour together for 6 weeks or so, it was nice to get to sit down and have a proper chat about his journey.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!Recorded 18th December 2024Face Your EarsExplore home recording and music creation with Rich and Justin on 'Face Your Ears'!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.com
Text the showFlo is a bass player based in London.Her credits include artists like Jordan Rakei, Alfa Mist and Benjamin Croft.Amongst many other things we discussed growing up in a musical family, learning about synths, and getting the Jordan Rakei gig out of the blue.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!Recorded 16th December 2024Face Your EarsExplore home recording and music creation with Rich and Justin on 'Face Your Ears'!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.com
Text the showTaking a break from the pod for a bit, so here's every Nate's Eight from series 2. THANK YOU for listening and rating/reviewing. Means a lot.Massive THANK YOU to all the wonderful guests too.See you for series 3 when it's time.XSupport the Show.Follow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.com
Text the showGabi is a drummer based in Worthing. Her credits include artists like Declan McKenna, Perrie, and The 1975.Amongst many other things we discussed discovering the drums, playing in an indie band, and thriving under pressure.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded June 10th 2024)Support the Show.Follow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Text the showToday's guest is LaDonna Young. Ladonna is a singer based in Birmingham. Her credits include artists like Sam Smith, Emeli Sandé, Cleo Sol and Little Sims.Amongst many other things we discussed playing double bass, singing at church, how to learn lots of music, and dealing with nerves. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did. Here we are, in session with LaDonna Young.(Recorded 20th may 2024)Support the Show.Follow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Text the showBryn is a keyboard player based in LA.Her credits include artists like Jacob Collier, Maggie Rogers, Olivia Rodrigo, and Yungblud.Amongst many other things, we discussed a neuro science degree, evoking emotions through music, being an MD, and Bryn's coffee preferences at home, and on the road.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!(Recorded May 14th 2024)Support the Show.Follow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Text the showJim is a sax player based in London.His credits include artists like Leona Lewis, Kylie Minogue, Gary Barlow, and Rick Astley.Amongst many other things, we discussed not fitting in, how being a producer changes one's perspective, and the emotional impact of music.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded May 13 2024)Support the Show.Follow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Text the showBefore we get to today's guest, I just want to apologise for my coughing during the chat. I was recovering from some crazy illness when we recorded, so I hope it doesn't take away from what was a wonderful conversation.Elliott is a drummer based in Cheshire.His credits include artists like Tony Hadley, Leo Sayer, The Syd Lawrence Big Band, and Mike Stern.Amongst many other things, we discussed music as an identity, the Buddy Rich memorial scholarship concert, the importance of sight reading, and therapy. As you know, you can now show your support to the podcast by subscribing from as little as $3 a month. At the time of recording, that's about £2.39 a month. Subscription info can be found in the show notes!I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!(Recorded May 6th 2024)Support the Show.Follow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Text the showDonavan is a drummer based near Birmingham. His credits include artists like Take That, Sam Smith, Annie Lennox, and Jessie J.Amongst many other things, we discussed growing up in a musical family, the importance of learning about electronics as a drummer, and taking a minute to exhale. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did. (Recorded April 26 2024)Roots Music RamblerHear great conversations with the artists behind the music you love, new music and more!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Realer Than Most PodcastHere at Realer Than Most Podcast, we believe that hip-hop/rap is more than just...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the Show.Follow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Charlie is a guitar player based in North Carolina. His credits include artists like D'Angelo, John Mayer, Frank Ocean and Norah Jones. Amongst many other things, we discussed growing up in California, the benefits of unusual guitar tunings, and belonging to the journey.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!(Recorded 15th April 2024)Support the Show.Follow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Matt is a drummer based in Birmingham. His credits include artists like Raye, Nicole Scherzinger, Meghan Trainor and Little Mix.Amongst many other things, we discussed falling in and out of love with the drums, the failures of the UK education system, and the importance of giving back to the musical community.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!(Recorded April 15th 2024)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Aaron is a guitar player based in London.His credits include artist like Aitch, Calum Scott, Becky Hill, and Ellie Goulding.Amongst many other things, we discussed great teachers, putting pressure on oneself, and the importance of representation.Please consider supporting the show by subscribing or leaving a rating or review. Subscription information can be found in the show notes.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded 4th March 2024)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Ella is a guitar played based in Western Massachusetts.Her credits include artists like Silk Sonic, Erykah Badu, Common, and Jill Scott.Amongst many other things, we discussed growing up through the grunge era, deciding to leave Berklee, and the value of a good mentor.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!(Recorded March 1st 2024)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Phil is a bass played based in London. His credits include artists like Barbara Thompson, Lewis Taylor, Steve Hackett, and Leo Sayer.Amongst many other things, we discussed the physical aspects of playing, worrying more with age, and accepting one's sound.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!(Recorded 5th February 2024)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Oli is a piano and keyboard player based in London. His credits include artists like Carly Simon, John Mayer, Gregory Porter, and Louis Cole.Amongst many other things, we discussed finding like minded people, the necessary developmental pain of being around amazing musicians, and finding one's voice.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded 2nd February 2024)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSubscribe to support the show - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2058148/supportAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Dale is a bass player based between London and Coventry. His credits include artists like Amy Winehouse, Emeli Sandé, Paul Young, and Macy Gray.Amongst many other things, we discussed Dale's relationship with singing, embracing technology, and the mental health side of being a session musician.I need to warn anyone of a squeamish nature, that Dale tells a story about a physical altercation that took place years ago. He doesn't go in to too much detail, but I wanted to give you a heads up ahead of time. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded January 26th 2024)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Milton is a guitar player based in Surrey. His credits include artists like Take That, Robert Palmer, Mick Jagger, and Bryan Adams.Amongst many other things, we discussed discovering Elvis and The Beatles, the benefits of not thinking too far ahead, and embracing technology as a guitarist. I should point out that I've had to remove the beginning of our chat as the wifi issues were pretty bad. Fortunately, we managed to get it sorted before getting in to Milton's story. Most of what I cut out was Milton and I complaining about our respective internet connections!As usual, please consider leaving a nice rating or review for the podcast! It goes a really long way, and only takes a second.Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Joel is a guitar player based in London. His credits include artists like The Shires, Louis Tomlinson and Maisie Peters. He was also part of a successful band called Lawson.Amongst many other things, we discussed the unknown benefits of entertaining friends at a young age, the realities of life on a major label, and the ins and outs of being a musical director. (Recorded 9th January 2024)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Hayley is a singer based in Lincoln.Her credits include artists like Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, Sting, and Rod Stewart. She's also one of the singers on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing.Amongst many other things, we discussed dealing with long filming days, finding like minded people at a young age, and learning to accept compliments.(Recorded 11th December 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Andrew is a bass player based in London.His credits include artists like James Taylor Quartet, Pulp, and West End shows like &Juliet and Waitress.Amongst many other things we discussed playing rock bass lines on cello, allowing oneself mistakes, and being in a house band on a tv show.(Recorded 8th December 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
James is a bass played based in London. His credits include artists like PREP, Lisa Stansfield, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and James Arthur.Amongst many other things we discussed finding the soul in music, dealing with quiet times, and gigging with Maceo Parker with three hours notice.We recorded this chat in early December 2023, and I just want to mention that I had a cold at the time. I apologise for any annoying coughing or spluttering that may have occurred. (Recorded 5th December 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Charlie is a bass player and MD from Bath. His credits include artists like Mahalia, Little Simz, AJ Tracey, and Anne Marie.Amongst many other things we discussed mental health, recovering from a huge setback, and what being an MD is all about. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded 21st November 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Emily is a drummer based in Herftordshire. Her credits include artists like The Darkness, Bryan Ferry, Kim Wilde, and the Thompson Twins.Amongst many other things we discussed discovering drum videos, validation and diversification as a self-employed musician. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did. Here we are, in session with Emily Dolan Davies.(Recorded 17th November 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Tina is a keyboard player and violinist based in London.Her credits include artists like Maisie Peters, Roger Taylor, and Clean Bandit.Amongst many other things, we discussed Tina's west end debut at 4 years old, feeling accepted, and what happens between tours.(Recorded 14th November 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Paul is a guitarist based in Australia. His credits include artists like Raye, Jess Glynne, Gabrielle and Jazmine Sullivan. Amongst many other things, we discussed growing up in church, making the move to London, and having high standards as a young musician. (Recorded November 10th 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Today's guest is Matt Ingram.Matt is a drummer and producer based in London. His credits include artists like Laura Marling, Jake Bugg, Tom Odell, and Lianne La Havas.Amongst many other things, we discussed growing up in a pub, encouraging young musicians, being present on stage, and music as an identity.(Recorded 3rd November 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Today's guest is Luke Higgins. Luke is a guitarist based in Surrey. His credits include artists like Robbie Williams, Kylie Minogue, Lulu and James Arthur.Amongst many other things, we discussed Oasis, rockstar dreams, and having talented friends.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did(Recorded October 31st 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Today's guest is Ryan Haberfield.Ryan is a guitarist based in Bridgend, south Wales. His credits include artists like Jessie J, Tinie Tempah, Mel C, and Liam Payne. Amongst many other things, we discussed the ups and downs of music college, adjusting one's dream, and the importance of diversification for musicians. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!(Recorded 24th October 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Today's guest is Luke Harris.Luke is a drummer based in Oxfordshire. His credits include artists like Tricky, Wretch 32, Ms Dynamite and The Brand New Heavies. Amongst many other things, we discussed not living in London any more, anxiety, and the difference between being a talented kid and a talented adult.I've known Luke for ages, but we haven't spoken in a while. This was a great way to hear more about his journey into the industry.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!Recorded 16th October 2023Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Today's guest is Adam Betts.Adam is a drummer based in Folkestone. His credits include artists like Goldie, Pulp, Jarvis, and Squarepusher He's also played on film and video game soundtracks like Loki and Suicide Squad. Amongst many other things, we discussed recording one's playing, the benefits of a varied musical upbringing, and the challenges of live drum 'n bass. Please consider leaving a nice rating or review!Recorded 10th October 2023I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did. Listeners are eligible for a 20% discount on all Safari Pedals plugins, so if you want some characterful, intuitive and affordable plugins in your DAW, visit safaripedals.com and enter code session20 at checkout.Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Yves is a bass player based in London. His credits include artists like Lianne La Havas, Sinead Harnett, Jose James, and Oh Wonder.Amongst many other things, we discussed not going to Berklee, playing in metal bands, checking out the influences of an artist, and finding the joy in playing.I've known Yves for years, but we've not spoken in a long time, so this was a great way to catch up and learn about his journey.As ever, thanks so much for listening. Please consider leaving a nice rating or review. It's really quick and helps people find the podcast.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did..(Recorded 6th October 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Today's guest is Karl Vanden Bossche.Karl is a percussionist based near London. His credits include Gorillaz, Mark Ronson, Steve Winwood and Maxwell.Amongst many other things we discussed growing up listening to reggae and soul, discovering the world of percussion, prioritising instruments, and supporting the artist and the song. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.As usual, please consider leaving a nice rating and review.(Recorded June 27th 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Today's guest is Jake Reed.Jake is a drummer based in LA. His credits include Katy Perry, Seth Macfarlane and Bob Mintzer. He's also recorded on several TV and film soundtracks including “The Old Man”, “Queer As Folk (reboot)” and Cobra Kai.Amongst many other things, we discussed growing up in Kansas City, studying with Peter Erskine, learning through teaching, and dealing with the pressure of the studio.We didn't discuss it, but Jake has a very successful YouTube channel, and sells drum sample packs. The industry is changing ever so quickly, and I think it's important for us as session musicians to consider trying to create multiple income streams so we're not 100% reliant on the gigs and studio dates. Jake has certainly found his place in the drum sample world.Jake's YouTube channelI hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded June 22nd 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
No guest today. Just a kind of experiment. About 6 weeks ago I did a gig on BVs for a singer called Will Young. I wanted to document the experience a little, so decided to record a bunch of voicenotes describing the process of learning the songs, rehearsals and some of the insecurities I felt going in to a new musical environment and doing something I'd never done before. I've done backing vocals plenty of times, but usually whilst sat at a piano, or with a bass hanging over my shoulder. This was a brand new experience. I hope this doesn't come across as self-indulgent. If it does, I've definitely got it wrong. As mentioned, this is an experiment, and if it makes someone else feel a little better about their own anxieties or insecurities or whatever, then I'm happy.Thanks so much for listening!Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Dishan is a bass player based in London. His credits include Westlife, Jess Glynne, Leona Lewis and Kylie Minogue.Amongst many other things, we discussed growing up in Sri Lanka and Australia, listening to rap music as a kid, music as an identity, and dealing with anxiety.Dish and I couldn't remember if we'd ever actually met, but we've certainly spoken here and there over the years. This was a great way to learn more about him and his journey.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded June 5th 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Today's guest is Diego Rodriguez.Diego is a bass player based in London. His credits include artists like Dionne Warwick, Lulu, James Arthur, Mahalia and Nik Kershaw. Amongst many other things, we discussed Diego's early life in Colombia, the importance of groove, moving to the UK for music college, and learning songs quickly.I've known Diego for a long time, but we haven't spoken in a while, so this was a great way to catch up and learn a bit more about his musical journey. As ever, please consider leaving a nice rating or review. The reviews on Apple Podcasts are particularly helpful, so thanks to those who have left some kind words already. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded May 30th 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Today's guest is James Wyatt.James is a keyboard player and MD based in London.His credits include Eliza, Lianne La Havas, Zara Larsson and George Ezra.Amongst other things, we discussed growing up as a multi-instrumentalist, saying yes, the role of MD, and choosing gigs to go and watch. I've known James for a decade or so, but haven't spoken to him in a while, so this was a nice way to catch up and learn a bit more about his journey.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did!(Recorded May 24th 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Today's guest is Liv Thompson.Liv is a bass played based in the UK. Her credits include Raye, Cat Burns, Becky Hill and Zara Larsson. Amongst other things, we spoke about her early musical memories, function gigs, mental health, and getting thrown in at the deep end on big gigs. I've never met Liv before, so this was a great way to get to know all about her and her musical journey. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded 18th May 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Naomi is a singer based in London. Her credits include Dua Lipa, Jessie Ware, Ella Eyre and Jorja Smith. Amongst other things, we discussed growing up with loud music in the house, the benefits of joining a musical ensemble at a young age, mental health, and learning about the business side of the industry.We had a wifi problem early on, but it gets resolved and the rest of the conversation is great. I left in a little clip of what I do while I wait for a guest to re-join the meeting… You might recognise the song!I met Naomi on a gig a few weeks ago, so it was nice to chat a bit and learn more about her and her journey. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded May 9th 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Today's guest is Tom Meadows.Tom is a drummer based in London. His credits include Duffy, Girls Aloud, Will Young and Kylie Minogue. Amongst many other things we discussed the joy of teaching, auditions, and the reasons for playing music in the first place. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded May 5th 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!
Ginger is a drummer originally from London, but now lives in Nashville. His credits include Sam Smith, Westlife, Lianne La Havas, Olly Murs and Jessie J.Amongst other things, we discussed Ginger's early introduction to playing drums at church, learning to strip back one's playing to serve the song, auditions, and the importance of the social side of the job.I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.(Recorded April 21st 2023)Support the showFollow me on Instagram - @nategrooveSupport the show hereAny questions or guest suggestions, please email nwinsessionwith@gmail.comGet 20% off all Safari Pedals plugins. Enter code Session20 at checkout!