lindsay-ell

What Lindsay Ell, Joshua Crumbly, Jennifer Batten, Earl Slick, and other traveling artists ask for on the road, and the lessons they’ve learned.

Over the last few decades, technology has been a driving force in the creation, production, and dissemination of recorded music. The shift from big budgets, world-class studios, and gold and platinum album sales certifications to no-budgets, home studios, and streams/followers has transformed the entire industry. Touring is no exception to this metamorphosis. Tour buses, tractor trailers, and large-scale stage productions are mostly vestiges of the past, available only to today’s biggest acts like Taylor Swift or Iron Maiden. The rest have to eke out a living by taking advantage of technology and adapting to a more conservative approach to touring that often requires the promoter, venue, or festival to provide at least some portion of the backline.

Read MoreShow less

Nancy Wilson’s rhythm-guitar playing is under-sung hero of Heart’s sound. After auditioning for her sister Ann’s band with a performance of Yes’ “The Clap,” she transformed their sound—just check out the intro to “Crazy On You” to instantly hear the influence of her acoustic playing. And together, they transformed classic rock. On this episode, we talk about how Wilson’s acoustic and electric playing is the element that delivers the band’s signature sound. Lindsay Ell calls in to drop a line, and our hosts go shopping for Gibson Nighthawks and vintage Ovations.

Read MoreShow less

On this episode, the country guitarist walks Shifty through her blazing solo on "Hits Me," after sharing all about what makes her guitar-mind tick.

"I've always looked at guitar solos as additional lyrics to the song," says Lindsay Ell. She approaches guitar solos by balancing their voice with that of the actual vocal, and on this episode of Shred With Shifty, the country guitarist and songwriter—who really draws from a host of genres, including rock, jazz, and blues—breaks down her epic solo on "Hits Me" for host Chris Shiflett, walking him through each phrase and figure.
Read MoreShow less