No Guitar Is Safe

Simon McBride is one of the most exciting guitarists in the arena rock realm. As guitarist for Deep Purple (taking over after Steve Morse wrapped up his astounding 28-year tenure with the band in early 2022), Simon has given the British rock legends a fiery new guitar voice on everything from classic hits such as “Hush” and “Highway Star” to brand-new singles including “Arrogant Boy” and “Diablo.” In this episode I first relive the recent Canada/U.S. tour that I, as a member of Jefferson Starship, was lucky to be on with Deep Purple — my third in five years! — including playing for you a recent live recording I made of Simon’s astounding guitar cadenza in Calgary, Alberta on August 31. Then, I power up the time machine and take you back to a big backstage room at Rudolf Weber Arena in Oberhausen, Germany, to hear an encore of the great interview we did there on November 2, 2022. Catch Deep Purple on tour all over Europe starting late September! Huge thanks to GuitarPlayer.com for making this episode happen. To play better and sound better, follow Guitar Player! — JUDE GOLD, host and creator, No Guitar Is Safe

Can you play the secret "Tommy Alderson chord"? (This juicy power chord is MONEY!) Are you hip to the awesomeness that is a wet/dry rig? Want insight into one of the most badass classic rock bands still touring (Deep Purple) and their two great guitarists of recent decades (Simon McBride and Steve Morse)? Well, hit play! Tommy Alderson and I have been friends since my first tour (I play with Jefferson Starship) supporting Purple all over Europe, and now, as the bands unite for their third tour (Canada and the U.S.), it is the perfect time to release two interviews/guitar hangs I have done with Tommy, Purple's great guitar tech who also happens to be a great player — as you'll hear, from his work on D Corridori's album Feed the Right Wolf and other projects. The first interview you'll hear took place just before we left for this tour; the second takes us back in time to a great guitar hang/jam/interview that took place backstage at a huge arena we played in Oberhausen, Germany, in November 2022. Enjoy, and be sure to check out GuitarPlayer.com, who made this episode possible. —JUDE GOLD, host/creator, No Guitar Is Safe

Winning Nuno Bettencourt’s “Play With Me” challenge at the age of 14 — and catching my attention just two years later at a semi-secret guitar event in Los Angeles — RANGGA RINGROSE has a fiery brand of shred guitar that is turning heads. He even caught the ears of Mr. Paul Reed Smith, who has made the young Southern California guitar phenom an endorsing artist. Now, having reached the whopping age of 17, Rangga becomes the youngest player ever to be featured on No Guitar Is Safe podcast, where, as you’ll hear, he blazes on various PRS guitars for you, as I try to figure out how he became so good so fast. Huge thanks to GuitarPlayer.com for making this episode happen. To play better and sound better, follow Guitar Player ... and this podcast! — JUDE GOLD, host and creator, No Guitar Is Safe

Two weeks ago I opened for BILLY IDOL — who, of course, was joined on stage by his forever guitarist STEVE STEVENS. This was a fun outdoor concert at the Lakefront Music Festival in Minnesota. It was great to say hi to Steve backstage for a minute, and super inspiring to watch him dazzle the the crowd with his great guitar playing — so inspiring, in fact, that I figured we ought to revisit this epic guitar hang from the summer of 2016 at his then-Los Angeles studio, where he plugged in, played his ass off, and showed us how he and Billy Idol forged one of the greatest singer/guitar player partnerships in rock history. Enjoy! —Jude Gold, Host and Creator, No Guitar Is Safe PRESENTED BY GUITAR PLAYER. guitar player.com

KIRK FLETCHER ’s dedication to all things blues related is infectious. He’s so great at playing blues guitar, I swear, just LISTENING to him play can make you a better blues player yourself. And, luckily for you, he plays a ton of guitar for you on this new interview. (Bonus: As you’ll hear in the middle of the episode, we DO revisit the juicy blues shuffles he showed us during his first appearance on No Guitar Is Safe several years ago.) Huge thanks to GuitarPlayer.com for making this episode happen. To play better and sound better, follow Guitar Player. — JUDE GOLD, host and creator, No Guitar Is Safe

Let’s flashback to 2018, in the weeks after ELLIOT EASTON and THE CARS were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and we recorded this guitar deep dive and career retrospective with Easton in his home studio. On this episode Elliot plugs in and shows you exactly how he created iconic guitar parts that helped the Cars score many high-charting hit albums and singles. Elliot also shares music from his band, THE EMPTY HEARTS, and reflects on what he learned tracking Cars guitar parts with super-producers such as ROY THOMAS BAKER and ROBERT JOHN "MUTT" LANGE. Presented by Guitar Player magazine and guitarplayer.com. Hosted by JUDE GOLD — who, at the beginning of this episode, shows you how he recorded the guitar solo on Jefferson Starship’s forthcoming single.

Charlie Hunter’s love of all things groove-related is infectious — and after you take in this deep guitar hang and jam with the prolific 6-, 7-, and 8-stringer (Charlie’s custom bass/guitar hybrid instruments are always evolving) you’ll likely be inspired to take the art of “lockin’ it in the pocket” to a higher level in your own playing. Additionally, we dive deep into such musical topics as melodic phrasing, why Charlie keeps his iPhone in mono audio mode, his amazing new album with Ella Feingold (called Different Strokes for Different Folks), which single rock band he feels truly knows how to groove, and which guitar player knocked him out (literally!) when he was 12 years old. I was thrilled to record this episode at Earthtones Recording Studio in Greensboro, NC, with producer/engineer Benjy Johnson at the console. Thanks to GuitarPlayer.com for making this episode happen. To play better and sound better, follow Guitar Player! — JUDE GOLD, host and creator, No Guitar Is Safe

From Gov’t Mule to the Allman Brothers Band to his prolific solo career, Warren Haynes has long been one of the busiest, hardest working guitarists in rock and jam band circles. In the deep guitar hang that follows, the famed guitarist/singer/songwriter plugs in a Les Paul and shares everything from how to approach Allman Brothers-style twin leads to how he learned to survive playing onstage with the late, great (and apparently very loud!) guitar legend Dickey Betts, to how to release multiple albums in just two years. Thank you, Warren. And thanks to GuitarPlayer.com for making this episode happen. Enjoy! — JUDE GOLD, host and creator, No Guitar Is Safe

Today, I report on a behind-the-scenes tour of the GRAMMYS I was lucky to take on Day One of artist rehearsals at Crypto Arena, relive adventures from the three JEFF BECK tribute concerts I played earlier this month, and share with you one of the most inspiring guitar performances I saw at this year's NAMM convention — PHILIP SAYCE's soul-stirring, fret-melting set in the Anaheim Hilton's cavernous lobby. In fact, Sayce was so mind-bogglingly great that night, I decided to include in this episode an ENCORE of our May, 2022, interview/jam, recorded at his home in Los Angeles. ALSO: Hope you enjoyed the Eric Gales episode, which posted last week. Today's and last week's episodes are presented by Guitar Player and guitarplayer.com

Today we “fly the ‘copter” across the country to plug in with blues/rock powerhouse ERIC GALES at Earthtones Recording — the Greensboro, North Carolina studio where guitar phenom does most of his tracking. With his second Grammy-nominated album out (2025’s A Tribute to LJK — recorded in honor of his brother Manuel “Little Jimmy King” Gales) — plus a new signature model Kiesel guitar in the works (he plays one of the prototypes on this episode), tons of 2026 tour dates on the calendar, and an in-depth guitar course from TrueFire.com just released, Eric is as busy as ever. So, I appreciate him taking some time to talk guitar and music with me, jam with me, detail his guitar approaches and musical inspirations, and dive deep into the huge topics of gratitude, redemption, and helping others. Special thanks to Benjy Johnson at Earthtones Recording for capturing this episode, GuitarPlayer.com for sponsoring, and for TrueFire for setting the whole thing up. — JUDE GOLD, host and creator, No Guitar Is Safe

With both a U.S. tour and a new session of Sky Academy booked for April/May, Uli Jon Roth is headed for an exciting Spring of 2026. It’s all part of his passion to reach (and help his Sky Academy students reach) new musical heights. “A great musician is always growing,” says the German-born, U.K.-based guitar hero. Indeed, Uli could have rested on his laurels as the lava-hot lead player of ’70s-era Scorpions hard rock. But, taking inspiration from the music of heroes such as Keith Jarrett, Jimi Hendrix, and Antonio Vivaldi, he has always strived for a much deeper level of artistic expression. In this exclusive visit to Sky Academy, we plug in with Uli and embark on some epic improvisational odysseys, gain insights into his hugely influential rock masterpiece “The Sails of Charon,” learn about his unique extended-neck Sky Guitars, and, best of all, learn why, as he says, “the fingers are the least important part of your sound.” Hosted by Jude Gold, this episode is brought to you by your online guitar instruction friends at TrueFire. TrueFire offers thousands of hours of guitar instruction from A-list players. For a free 30-day all-access membership (no credit card required!), click to truefire.com/safe.

Back in October of 2018, I plugged in with Rock-and-Roll-Hall-of-Famer Ace Frehley at his hotel suite in Hollywood, California. Having just re-listened to my hour with the Kiss legend, I have to say: Wow, it's a cool episode — a great hang, and one that is all the more meaningful now that the Spaceman has passed. To honor Ace's life and music, I am re-posting the episode here for you to re-enjoy. I think you'll find it's a powerful portal through time that puts you in the room with the true rock star and the true New Yorker that was Ace Frehley — the true rock legend who inspired legions of young people to pick up the electric guitar, including many who have gone on to become famous rockers themselves. Here is the show exactly as it ran seven years ago. ORIGINAL 2018 SHOW NOTES: Founding Kiss lead guitarist ACE FREHLEY, aka "the Spaceman," has released a hard-rocking new solo album called just that — SPACEMAN. Plugging in one of his favorite ’59 reissue Les Pauls, Ace sits down with me to jam a little, as well as detail the writing and recording of Spaceman, reflect on reuniting (for two songs) with Gene Simmons, and, of course, look back on his legacy — a wild ride that spanned everything from a youth spent surviving the streets of the Bronx to adult years surviving adventures with the Hall-of-Fame rock band that made him famous. Hope you enjoy it! —JUDE GOLD, host and creator, No Guitar Is Safe

A sonic thrill ride for fans of guitar music, guitar hero/composer LYLE WORKMAN’s new album — called Rhythm and Leads Guitar — is a captivating instrumental odyssey no guitarist should miss. Step into Lyle’s studio with me, and we’ll plug in some guitars with him and dive deep into his new record and much more — including his blazing solos with Bourgeois Tagg back in the ’80s; his new, custom Stan Cotey-modded EVH head; and even some cool pedalboards. And yes: Lyle is a highly accomplished film composer, so if you want to immerse yourself in that realm (including learning how he created soundtracks to hit movies such as “SuperBad” and “The 40-Year-Old Virgin”), be sure to go back and listen to Lyle’s FIRST appearance on this show, which was on Ep. 110 of No Guitar Is Safe (back in 2020). This episode is presented by GUITAR PLAYER and GutiarPlayer.com. Thank you, Guitar Player! And thank YOU for listening. Please share! —JUDE GOLD, host and creator, No Guitar Is Safe podcast

It’s one of the most high-energy, foot-tapping, rump-shaking guitar styles you can name, and JONATHAN STOUT is the perfect player to funnel its magic straight into your ears and down to your fingertips — we’re talking swing guitar. It’s got an infectious groove nobody can ignore, and Jonathan is about to show you tons of licks and tricks, two sterling ‘30s-era Gibson L-5’S, and tell you all about Charlie Christian and other legends of big band guitar. AND GET THIS: This episode is brought to you by your friends at the amazing guitar lessons site Truefire, and if you want a 30-day all-access pass to lessons from Eric Johnson, Guthrie Trapp, Steve Vai, Robben Ford, and countless other A-list instructors, simply visit https://go.truefire.com/safe, enter the code SAFE30, and you’re IN! PLUS, you'll get a free download of TrueFire's 50 Licks Greatest Hits, Top 20 Guitar Lessons, 10 Guitar Licks You Must Know, and The Best of In The Jam! Enjoy! — JUDE GOLD, host and creator, No Guitar Is Safe

It’s one of the most exciting hired gun guitar stories in rock history: An up-and-coming guitarist from Alameda, CA, wakes up to a call from a person claiming to be Sharon Osbourne — a call that will launch him on the musical adventure of a lifetime. That guitarist, of course is BRAD GILLIS, and as we celebrate the tenth anniversary of No Guitar Is Safe podcast, it seems only fitting that we repost the first interview I ever did for this show — the July 2015 interview in which Brad relives his adventures with Ozzy Osbourne, Night Ranger, and other bands, and demonstrates his famous guitar parts for you on a Floyd Rose-sporting Gibson Les Paul. (Nerd fact: Though Joe Satriani ran as Episode 1 of this show, that was actually the SECOND interview I did for the podcast. It was conducted the day after THIS interview, which ran as Episode 2.) Don’t forget: All 188+ episodes are still up so you can (and should!) go back and dive into the archive …. And, in case you missed it, to celebrate ten years of No Guitar Is Safe I revisited Brad’s home studio and posted a entirely NEW interview/guitar hang with him last month (Ep. 187), as well as an informative followup episode with his guitar tech DARREN HURST a couple weeks later (Ep. 188). New content, old content — much to celebrate here! Thank you, listeners, for supporting No Guitar Is Safe! — JUDE GOLD, host and creator, No Guitar Is Safe podcast

From PETER FRAMPTON to JOE PERRY (Aerosmith) to last week's tenth-anniversary guest, Night Ranger's BRAD GILLIS, guitar tech par excellence DARREN HURST has worked for several world-class guitar heroes, so we had go deep with the veteran guitar tech to find out his philosophies on rig design, guitar tone, and real-time gig survival — and the results are fascinating. How does Darren help Joe Perry achieve his "Dinosaurs eating cars" stage tone? Why does Brad Gillis make only one patch change per show, yet Darren makes 128?! How is Frampton's sprawling "guitar city" of rig "simple"? And we all know Night Ranger, but who the heck is "Day Ranger"? For the answers to these questions and more, just hit play. Thanks to Guitar Player and guitar player.com for making this happen. Enjoy! —JUDE GOLD, Host and Creator, No Guitar Is Safe

From unforgettable Ozzy Osbourne and Night Ranger tour stories to super cool riff demonstrations to Ferrari sounds conjured out of his “Ferrari” guitar to detailing his inspiring wellness routines to deconstructing how he approached playing the National Anthem through a fire-breathing half-stack at a recent San Francisco Giants game, BRAD GILLIS shares a ton of deep guitar adventures and insights here on his return to No Guitar Is Safe — a great way to celebrate the show’s ten-year anniversary. (Note: If you missed Brad’s first appearance on this show — Ep. 2, from July 2015 — don’t worry: It and all other episodes of No Guitar Is Safe are still posted for you to listen to for free, on all podcast platforms. No paywalls here! Enjoy.) Thanks to GUITAR PLAYER and guitarplayer.com for bringing this episode to you. Guitar Player: Play better, sound better …. Here’s to the next ten years! — JUDE GOLD, host and creator, No Guitar Is Safe

Fretless guitar pioneer NED EVETT is taking his new album — and his new signature-model Aluminati aluminum-necked fretless guitar — to Europe to rock just about every big city you can name over there in support of JOE SATRIANI and STEVE VAI’s “SatchVai Band: Surfing with the Hydra” continent-spanning tour. And in this interview/jam, Ned shares exactly how he’ll approach his solo sets opening for the two superstar guitar heroes. He also details songs from “Strange Kind of Freedom” (the aforementioned new album) as well as dives into his many influences — from rock to Indian ragas to folk to life-changing tunes by the Who and Robert Johnson — and relives what it was like to have guitar magician ADRIAN BELEW produce one of his albums. This episode is presented by Guitar Player and GuitarPlayer.com, and hosted by JUDE GOLD

Whether it’s on the first two BOSTON albums or on releases by his latest group, BARRY GOUDREAU’S ENGINE ROOM, guitarist BARRY GOUDREAU brings the world a soaring, blues-inflected sound that has been part of our collective musical psyche ever since he threw down the monster lead on Boston’s 1977 rock radio smash, “Foreplay / Long Time.” I was thrilled to have Barry not only visit us backstage at a recent JEFFERSON STARSHIP gig I played in Beverly, Massachusetts — where Barry plugged in his beloved ’60s Gibson SG Junior and did this interview (during which, as you’ll hear, he discusses everything from working with Boston’s brilliant mastermind/chief composer and multi-instrumentalist/producer TOM SCHOLZ to collaborating with the late, great Boston singer BRAD DELP to creating music with his other bands, including RTZ, ORION THE HUNTER, and, of course, the Engine Room) — but also have Barry sit in with us on stage! That's right: During our encore later that night, Barry joins us for an extended jam where he starts off with a big solo, and then we trade licks back and forth, and you’ll hear it all go down at the end of the episode. Thanks to GUITAR PLAYER and guitarplayer.com for bringing this episode to you. “Guitar Player — Play better, sound better!” — JUDE GOLD, host/creator, NO GUITAR IS SAFE

Whether he’s channeling Duane Allman or Derek Trucks, playing blues bars or baseball stadiums (he’s done the National Anthem for both the A’s and the Giants), JULES LEYHE simply does not stop playing guitar, and his love for the instrument is infectious. Armed with an SG, a mutt Strat, and a custom Tweed amp, Leyhe plugs in with me for an inspiring, extended guitar hang in which we dive into everything from Jeff Beck (Leyhe’s first major influence) to Bonnie Raitt to Buddy Guy to Leyhe’s latest album, titled Your First Rodeo. And get this: Leyhe’s favorite slide has booze in it. (He’ll explain.) For more Jules Leyhe guitar insights, check out his free Ultimate Slide Guitar Master Class and Just Riffin’ interview series, both of which are streamable on his YouTube channel. Big thank you to GUITAR PLAYER and guitarplayer.com for making this episode happen. — JUDE GOLD, host, No Guitar Is Safe

Ain't no interview like a GRACE SLICK interview! That's right — the outspoken Rock-and-Roll-Hall-of-Fame singer of Jefferson Airplane, Jefferson Starship, and Starship, and the voice of the psychedelic rock generation and beyond is on the show. Whether she's talking about the playing of great guitar players she has known (everyone from her legendary Airplane/Starship bandmates to other heroes, including Jimi Hendrix and Jerry Garcia) or tackling any other subject under the sun — sex, drugs, and rock'n'roll; ’60s counterculture; DeLoreans; Miles Davis; ’80s pop culture; hilarious drummer antics (yes, your ears are burning, Donny Baldwin) — Grace is gloriously unfiltered and a true musical treasure. As guitarist of Jefferson Starship since 2012, I was thrilled to finally dive deep into these topics and more with Grace, who — along with her and Paul Kantner's daughter, China Kantner Isler — I've been lucky enough to call a friend for a decade now. Please help me thank GUITAR PLAYER and guitarplayer.com for making this episode happen. GUITAR PLAYER: Play better, sound better. — Jude Gold | Host/creator, NO GUITAR IS SAFE podcast.

Sixteen-time Grammy-winning resonator guitar legend JERRY DOUGLAS gives YOU a Dobro lesson on this very special episode. The renowned instrumentalist/composer/producer also deconstructs his amazing new album, THE SET — a collection of new recordings comprising the mesmerizing songs you are likely to hear at a Jerry Douglas concert — and dives deep into his work with everyone from Dolly Parton to Allison Kraus. And whether it’s burnin’ fast bluegrass or slow, resonatin’ blues you want to improve on, Jerry’s got some great tips for you. Enjoy! PRESENTED BY guitarplayer.com. Hosted by JUDE GOLD. BONUS: Inspired by the playing of Jerry Douglas, flatpicker BRYAN SUTTON and other great musicians on the amazing Dolly Parton track “Travelin’ Prayer,” host Jude, at the end of the episode, shares his unreleased instrumental version of the track.

From soaring overdriven lead guitar volleys to spanky baritone smackdowns, MARK LETTIERI can pull magical melodies and stanky grooves out of just about anything with strings. His new album, Can I Tell You Something?, is a case in point. On this episode, we “land the ‘copter” on the roof of Mark’s Texas home studio, play a bunch of his favorite guitars, stomp on a few of his favorite pedals, and do a deep dive on his work with everyone from SNARKY PUPPY and THE FEARLESS FLYERS to his prolific solo adventures in the studio and on the road. Speaking of the road, you can catch Mark Lettieri on tour in the U.S., the U.K., and Europe this winter/spring. This episode is presented by GuitarPlayer.com, and is hosted by JUDE GOLD.

Wielding a fully customized war-torn and home-built Telecaster, blues-rock phenom and guitar luthier SETH LEE JONES taps into a fierce musical mojo whenever he takes his amps off standby and starts to wail (which he does quite a bit on this episode). Enjoy, as Seth reveals how he incorporates slide guitar moves, “steel bends” (courtesy of push levers on his guitar’s bridge), heaps of overdrive and sustain, a fleet of cool guitar pedals, and a sprig of shred guitar into every solo he takes (including the ones on his new album, Tulsa Custom), making him one of the most exciting guitarists to emerge from Tulsa, Oklahoma — a great music town! — in recent years. This episode is presented by GuitarPlayer.com and hosted by JUDE GOLD. NOTE: Seth, as you'll hear him mention, often plays in Dropped-D tuning, and does so on this episode. If you need a refresher on Dropped D, the tuning is D, A, D, F#, A, D, low to high.

Plugging in a custom Dean solid-body, CHRIS POLAND jams with host JUDE GOLD and relives musical adventures spanning his days with jazz-rock daredevils the NEW YORKERS and thrash metal legends MEGADETH to his work leading prog-metal pioneers DAMN THE MACHINE and the hypnotic fusion trio, OHM. Chris also demonstrates sounds from his elaborate two-headed stereo guitar rig. This episode is presented by GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE and GuitarPlayer.com

29-year-old Guitarist/frontman MATTHEW CURRY plugs in a cherry Gibson SG, and within the first few notes of this episode, you'll hear why his star is on the rise: He's got fire in his fingers, and soul in his voice. I first saw Matthew on the Rock Legends cruise, where, in just the opening song of his commanding set on the big outdoor stage, I knew I had to have the up-and-coming rock/blues/Americana guitar hero on the podcast. BONUS: Matthew's rhythm guitarist/keyboardist MIKE NELLAS joins Matthew for a tune. Enjoy! —JUDE GOLD, host and creator, No Guitar Is Safe podcast. Presented by GUITAR PLAYER magazine.

GREG KIHN — the legendary rock radio hitmaker — died on August 13, 2024, so today we celebrate him with an encore of our epic 2017 guitar hang and interview/jam with him and his longtime lead guitar player RY (who also happens to be his son). ORIGINAL EPISODE NOTES: Today, the guitar 'copter descends upon Soundtek Studios in San Jose, California, to jam with platinum rocker GREG KIHN and his lead guitarist (and son) RY KIHN. Jude and the Kihns also talk about everything from Greg's classic hit songs (such as "Breakup Song" and "Jeopardy") and tunes on his brand new album, which is called REKIHNDLED; to great moments with the great guitarists the Greg Kihn Band has employed over the decades and what it's like being parodied by "Weird Al" Yankovic. (Special thanks to Robert Berry and Soundtek studios for hosting this interview.) HOSTED by JUDE GOLD. Presented by GUITAR PLAYER magazine.

From CHRISTINA AGUILERA and 2PAC to SISQÓ and FRANK OCEAN, guitarist/composer MICHAEL “FISH” HERRING can be heard with a wide range of superstars. On this episode, we “land the ‘copter” on Fish’s front lawn, head into his amazing home studio, plug in some Yamaha guitars (Fish into a Line 6 Helix running though studio monitors, yours truly into a BOSS Katana combo), and do a little jamming. And, of course, we dive deep into what it takes to become one of the most in-demand lead guitarists in the challenging Los Angeles music scene. Bonus: Fish reveals who is the better billiards player — him, or JONI MITCHELL. This episode is presented by GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE. Enjoy!

Albert King and B.B. King both loved CHRIS CAIN. And so will you. Previewing tracks from his new album, Good Intentions Gone Bad (out July 19th on Alligator Records), and playing a ton of guitar (as well as singing!) for you, blues legend Cain jams with host Jude Gold and shows you how he went from being a little kid going with his dad to attend concerts by the three kings (Albert, B.B. and Freddie) to becoming a world renowned blues artist in his own right. This episode is presented by Guitar Player magazine.

More than just an interview and jam with the great guitarist DAMON WOOD (currently of SEAL PARTY), this episode is also a portal back to the amazing "thrash funk" era of San Francisco Bay Area music, an exciting time in the late '80s/early '90s when live bands pushing an infectious new genre of music ruled the Bay Area clubs. Some of the acts coming up in this scene — Primus, Limbomaniacs, and Fungo Mungo come to mind — lived up to the genre description by alternating danceable funk grooves with heavy, head-bang-able rock riffs, typically within the same song. However, SMOKING SECTION — Damon Wood's immensely popular Bay Area dance band — truly delivered the "funk" half of the thrash/funk equation, and in spectacular fashion. And in this episode Damon relives those unforgettable days — and Smoking Section's unforgettable grooves — in all their glory, and celebrates the fact that Smoking Section's album "Smooth & Nasty" is finally (after over three decades!) available for you to hear on Spotify, Apple Music, and just about every other streaming service. Presented by GUITAR PLAYER magazine. Hosted by JUDE GOLD.

Vic Johnson returns! The longtime lead guitarist for Sammy Hagar, Vic invites you into Hagar’s Northern California studio, where he fires up his glorious “tri-stereo” wet/dry/wet rig and demonstrates some tones, plays some riffs, takes a few solos, and relives adventures with everyone from Total Eclipse — his badass ’90s metal band — to the the Bus Boys, Eddie Murphy, Michael Anthony, Dr. Dre, Suge Knight and, of course the Red Rocker, Sammy Hagar. (Note: Vic also appeared on Ep. 8 of this show, recorded back in September of 2015. All previous episodes are still posted, so go deep!) Presented by GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE and GUITARPLAYER.COM. Hosted by Jude Gold.

From hearing David Bowie strum a simple acoustic chord pattern while singing the words "let's dance" to transforming the sketch into the superstar singer's biggest hit, NILE RODGERS (in this flashback to Episode 125) relives step by step how he pulled off the feat. He also details meeting a new musician on the session — a future guitar hero that Bowie's "Let's Dance" album would soon introduce to the world: a young Texan named Stevie Ray Vaughan. (ABOUT THE "REWIND" SERIES: There is simply too much treasure in No Guitar Is Safe's ever-growing archive of back episodes not to revisit some great moments once in awhile! That is why now, between new episodes, you can expect to be hit with short, curated, "fun size," easily digestible REWIND posts in which we "roll back the tape" and listen back to a magical moment in this show's history.) This episode is presented by GUITAR PLAYER magazine and hosted by JUDE GOLD.

Chicago guitar ace DAN PETERS pushes his Gretsch 6120 to new limits by playing everything from rockabilly to blues slide to shred metal on the iconic hollowbody. Dan also deconstructs the energetic music of the West Side Winders and the Dan Peters Band — his two main original projects over the years — as well as shares his approaches to playing with star singers such as DEE SNIDER, and the art of almost falling down the stairs in a Broadway musical. This episode is presented by GUITAR PLAYER magazine and guitarplayer.com. Hosted by JUDE GOLD.

Folks, there is simply too much treasure in No Guitar Is Safe's ever-growing archive of back episodes not to revisit some great moments once in awhile! That is why now, between new episodes, you can expect me to hit you with short, curated, fun-size, easily digestible REWIND posts in which we "roll back the tape" and listen back to a magical moment in this show's history — like, for example, that time six years ago when KIRK FLETCHER blew our minds with several killer ways to play blues shuffles (which is what you'll hear on today's REWIND). And yes: If you want to hear the whole Kirk Fletcher show (it was Ep. 69), or any of the other 170 or so episodes of this show that are still up there in the feed, feel free to do so. Binge away! And don't worry: Tons of new episodes coming .... This episode is presented by GUITAR PLAYER magazine. — JUDE GOLD, Host, No Guitar Is Safe podcast.

Today we plug in with session king and bandleader MICHAEL THOMPSON — “MT” to his friends — who is one of the most recorded guitarists in history. Thompson has worked with everyone from Michael Jackson, Shania Twain, Phil Collins, Christina Aguilera, Ray Charles, Fleetwood Mac, and Beyoncé to Lionel Richie, Bob Seger, Neil Diamond, Michael Bublé, Whitney Houston, Madonna, Justin Bieber, Celine Dion, and Earth, Wind & Fire, to name just a small fraction of the staggering roster of superstars he’s tracked with. The L.A.-based guitarist has also released multiple Michael Thompson Band solo albums over the years, including 2023’s “The Love Goes On.” Hosted by JUDE GOLD and taking place at MT’s home studio, this episode offers a deep dive into Michael’s life, career, gear and signature sound — the shimmering, melodic, funky and fully rockin’ guitar approach that made Thompson an A-list session cat for such super-producers as David Foster, Babyface and John “Mutt” Lange during the peak of the session guitar era. Presented by GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE and GUITARPLAYER.COM.

Grammy-nominated funk-jazz virtuoso WILL BERNARD plugs in! Home for the holidays, the renowned New York-based ES-335 tamer invites me into the Berkeley, California, house he grew up in, where he cranks up a Carr combo, shares some funkalicious pedalboard recipes, and offers insights he's gained from releasing tons of his own solo records, working as a hired gun, learning jazz and more from the great Dave Creamer, studying slide guitar ragas with Debashish Battacharya, talking free jazz with Ornette Coleman, and, of course, playing with the popular, major-label funk fusion ensemble T.J. Kirk. PRESENTED BY GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE, this was a great rainy-night guitar hang! Enjoy. — Jude Gold, Host, No Guitar Is Safe podcast.

For this episode, we head out to Nashville, TN, where Smash Mouth founding guitarist GREG CAMP plugs in and shows you how he gets his magical, multi-platinum-selling "surfadelic" Jazzmaster sounds. He also details the art of writing hit songs (he wrote Smash Mouth's biggest hits, including "All-Star" and "Walkin' on the Sun"); introduces you to his new band, the Defiant; and celebrates the life and music of late, great Smash Mouth singer Steve Harwell. Special thanks to Daneil Adams, who lets us listen to an unreleased track produced by the great Eric Valentine — the master behind the mixing desk on hits by Smash Mouth and so many other bands. Hosted by Jude Gold. This episode is brought to you by Guitar Player magazine.

One of the greatest soloists in hard rock, metal, and beyond, George Lynch has a signature mojo that has earned him legions of devoted fans ever since the '80s, when he broke big as lead guitarist for the platinum selling rock band Dokken. Since then, with his own band, Lynch Mob (who have just released a new album, called Babylon), and his many other projects, Lynch has emerged as one of the most prolific guitarists in rock. On this episode, we catch up with George at his home studio, where he plugs in a vintage Stratocaster, plays guitar with us, and shares what motivates him, both on stage and in the studio. PRESENTED BY Guitar Player magazine and guitaplayer.com. HOSTED BY Jude Gold.

Mere hours after he rocked one the world's biggest arenas as part of Eric Clapton's Crossroads Guitar Festival, ARIEL POSEN plugs in with us at his Los Angeles hotel room and demonstrates his singular sound, including the way he gets soaring slide notes out of a hollow, steel-bodied, Strat-shaped baritone from Mule Resophonic Guitars, and how he "tortures circuits" to make fuzz pedals sing. The Canadian guitar hero also offers a deep dive into several songs off his new album, REASONS WHY. Hosted by JUDE GOLD. This episode is presented gy Guitar Player magazine and guitarplayer.com

Grammy-winning solo artist and first-call session ace ANDREW SYNOWIEC plugs in several guitars, jams with us, previews his new album, FUN, more than a week before its release (it comes out September 8), and takes us on a sonic tour of his amazing Los Angeles studio. Having recorded and/or performed with everyone from the Who, Bette Midler, and Elton John to Ariana Grande, Michael Bublé, and Nick Jonas — and having done film music sessions for blockbuster franchises such as Frozen, Batman, Mission Impossible, and Spider Man — Andrew has gained mountains of professional guitar experience in his 20 years in Los Angeles ... and he shares a bunch of that experience right here on this episode. Hosted by JUDE GOLD. Presented by GUITAR PLAYER magazine and GuitarPlayer.com. Additional thanks to G7th Capos for the custom, laser-engraved No Guitar Is Safe capo we gift Andrew at the end of this episode.

Blend the playing styles of Freddie King, Allan Holdsworth, and Duane Allman, and — as you’ll hear on this episode — you’d probably get something sounds like the great ALLEN HINDS. When it comes to improvising epic solos, grooving behind world-class singers (he’s worked with everyone from Bobby Caldwell and Randy Crawford to Gino Vannelli, Roberta Flack, and Natalie Cole), building “mutt guitars” out of vintage parts, dialing in pedalboards, and maintaining guitars, Allen is such a deep player that No Guitar Is Safe felt a return visit to his guitar lair in the Hollywood Hills was fully merited. Plus, we introduce Allen to an intriguing new delay pedal from Keeley and Andy Timmons called the Halo. (Does Allen fall in love with it after just a few notes? Does he steal it from us and refuse to give it back? Listen and find out.) And, last but not least, Allen explains why, if you haven’t already, you need to start recording and releasing your own music NOW. Hosted as always by Jude Gold. Presented by Guitar Player magazine and GuitarPlayer.com Thanks to G7th Capos for the laser-engraved “No Guitar Is Safe” capo we give each guest on the show.

WAYNE C. HENDERSON is a stunning steel-string player, and he's equally known for the amazing guitars he builds. Highly sought after instruments, Wayne's handmade guitars (and mandolins) have been ordered by everyone from Vince Gill and Eric Clapton to Brad Paisley, Peter Rowan and Doc Watson. To make a Henderson, Wayne says he just gets out his pocketknife and carves away "anything that doesn't look like a guitar." Last but not least, Wayne is known for the spectacular one-day music gathering he and his friends hold on a mountain in Virginia each year — the Wayne C. Henderson Music Festival and Guitar Competition, which raises scholarship money to help children learn to play instruments and love music. I attended the festival this year and had such a great time, two days later I brought some mics and stands over to Wayne's shop and convinced him to play some solo pieces, jam with me and do an interview, and you are about to hear it all here. This episode is presented by GUITAR PLAYER magazine and GUITARPLAYER.COM. Thanks for listening! ——Jude Gold, Host and creator, No Guitar Is Safe.

As if playing the famous “More Cowbell” episode of SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE wasn’t cool enough, rock/fusion (emphasis on the ROCK) virtuoso RAFAEL MOREIRA — who invites us into his home studio for this epic jam and guitar hang/interview — has also worked with superstar singers such as P!NK and CHRISTINA AGUILERA, his hero PAUL STANLEY, and played huge guitar moments in the house band of such hit television shows as THE VOICE, ROCKSTAR INXS, and AMERICAN IDOL. Plus, RAFA details some of his solo music, the music of his hard rock band (Magnetico), and even plays a little drums for us. Meanwhile, host JUDE GOLD hits the “50 out of 50” touring milestone. Presented by GUITAR PLAYER magazine, and guitarplayer.com. Special shout-out to G7th Capos for the custom “No Guitar Is Safe” capo we award RAFA at the end of the episode.

From his years touring, recording, and songwriting with MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD to his runs with BILLY PRESTON, SLY AND ROBBIE, OZOMATLI, BUSK!, P!NK, and other headliners, San Francisco guitar ace DAVE SHUL has been in demand for over three decades — especially by bandleaders who want some serious FUNK guitar in their ensemble. Inviting us into his San Francisco recording studio — which he shares with his good friend, the great drummer JAY LANE (DEAD & Co.) — Dave whips out a couple of Telecaster-style guitars for us to play and takes us on a deep exploration of what it means to throw down fat grooves on an electric guitar. Hosted and created by JUDE GOLD. THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED BY GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE and GUITARPLAYER.COM. As a thank you for having us over, we present Shul with a G7th Performance Capo (with the title of this podcast laser-engraved into to the top of it) and a pair of Straptight Strap Locks.

Guitar virtuoso PRASHANT ASWANI has worked with everyone from HERBIE HANCOCK to JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE, but it's on his solo material (you'll hear TWO brand-new singles from Prashant on this episode — BEFORE they're released!) that Prashant's guitar personality really comes through. For this episode, host JUDE GOLD "flies the 'copter" up to Prashant's badass guitar lair in the San Francisco Bay Area, where Prashant plugs in his new Charvel Pro-Mod So-Cal PA-28 signature-model solidbody and plays for you, jamming with Jude throughout the show. This episode is presented by GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE and GUITARPLAYER.COM. Guitar Player — "Play better, sound better." Special thanks to G7th Capos for the special Capo gift we give Prashant at the end of this episode. KEEP IT ALIVE 'TIL YOU'RE 95, y'all!

From high-profile tours with DAVID LEE ROTH and WINGER to studio dates with platinum pop acts such as SELENA GOMEZ and DNCE, U.K.-bred guitarist JAKE FAUN is already in high demand -- and he only arrived in Los Angeles about four years ago! On this episode, Jake plugs in various guitars, jams with host JUDE GOLD, and demonstrates the approaches that have helped him forge his style. He also dives deep into the chicken pickin’ techniques that power his popular “Fast Country Guitar” series of YouTube videos. This episode is presented by GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE. Speaking of GUITAR PLAYER magazine, on this episode, we also pay tribute to the great GP music writer JESSE GRESS, who died this week at age 67.

For fans of guitar, it’s hard to imagine a world without JEFF BECK. To help us process this unfathomable musical loss, we “land the ‘copter” in front of STEVE LUKATHER’s house, where we go inside and join the Toto/Ringo Starr guitar ace by a warm fire and get his take on his friend Jeff Beck’s life, legacy, and music, as well as his thoughts on the profound influence Beck has had on how most of us play electric guitar. And, yes: Luke has had plenty of exciting adventures with Jeff Beck, which he relives here. Tip: For a deep dive into Steve Lukather’s playing, music, and career, go back and listen to him plug in with us on Ep. 64 of this show: No Guitar Is Safe, “The guitar show where guitar heroes plug in.” Hosted by JUDE GOLD. Presented by GUITAR PLAYER magazine.

The lead guitarist of UFO since 2003, renowned guitar virtuoso VINNIE MOORE plugs in one of his new Kramers, runs it through a great sounding old Marshall, and shares the licks and approaches he employs on his new solo album, DOUBLE EXPOSURE, and also with UFO. Presented by Guitar Player magazine and guitarplayer.com. Hosted by JUDE GOLD.

Ready to “fly the ‘copter” all the way to Germany? Well, being that I was just on tour opening shows for Deep Purple all over Europe (so cool!), you know there was NO WAY I was not going to land an interview with their brilliant new guitarist, Simon McBride. This exciting episode takes us all the way to the KP Arena in Oberhausen, for an inspiring backstage guitar hang with the Irish 6-string virtuoso, who plugs in his custom Paul Reed Smith and demonstrates for you many of the captivating guitar approaches he employs each night on stage with his legendary bandmates — Ian Gillan, Ian Paice, Roger Glover, and Don Airey. (Bonus: Concert clips from the show later that night!) Simon also reflects on what it means to take over the guitar chair from longtime Deep Purple guitarist Steve Morse — who, after 28 years in the band, stepped down earlier this year — as well as what it’s like follow in the footsteps of Deep Purple’s founding guitarist, Ritchie Blackmore; trade licks each night with the band’s formidable keyboardist, his good friend Don Airey; and start off one of the world's most iconic rock songs each night by playing the mega famous riff that opens "Smoke on the Water." Thank you for listening! — Jude Gold, Host and Creator, No Guitar Is Safe, "The guitar show where guitar heroes plug in." This episode is brought to you by Guitar Player magazine and guitarpleyer.com. Guitar Player: Play better, sound better.

From his own solo tunes to his guitar and bass work for the English Beat, the Uptones, Sacrilege B.C., and other headliners, Musashi Lethridge -- "Moose" to his friends and fans -- is a soulful guitarist/bassist/singer/one-man band. In this epic guitar hang with his longtime friend — your host, Jude Gold — Musashi plugs a steel-string into his P.A. system (he even adds a wah pedal!) and chronicles his musical adventures by playing ska, blues, metal and other musical examples that have helped form his musical sound.

From what makes a metal concert transcendent to the shocking things people throw on stage to his gear of choice to his love for Jackson guitars — including the brand new Jackson American Series Soloist SL3 just released today — Anthrax founding member Scott Ian sits down with Jude Gold and a Slime Green (Jackson's color name) SL3 for a heavy discussion about heavy guitar. The talk even covers Ian's 14-fret Jackson (which, you'll find out, he used to channel the sound of a famous hip hop DJ). EXTRA: Jon Romanowski, a V.P. at Jackson/Charvel, goes over every detail of the new Soloist and shares how it's built and how it came to be. PRESENTED BY TASCAM and the new TASCAM MIXCAST 4 podcast/streaming workstation.

New guitar hero alert! Virtuoso steel-string fingerstylist and composer YASMIN WILLIAMS is a guitar star on the rise. In this exclusive interview, the young Washington D.C.-based guitarist performs her solo pieces and riffs for you, and demonstrates the techniques and inspirations that are the hallmarks of her captivating style — a shimmering sound that has landed her appearances everywhere from NPR’s Tiny Desk concert series to the Kennedy Center to features in the New York Times and other huge news outlets to a solo set at the Newport Folk Festival. She also busts out a dulcimer hammer (whaaat?) and shows you “Karate chop harmonics.” Love this episode? Thank TASCAM and the Tascam Mixcast 4 for bringing it to you. Thank you, Tascam! No Guitar Is Safe podcast, “The guitar show where guitar heroes plug in,” is created and hosted by JUDE GOLD.

Playing and deconstructing several of his hit songs for you, JIM PETERIK — who you might know from such radio smashes as Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger,” 38 Special’s “Hold On Loosely,” and Ides of March’s “Vehicle” (a number one song Peterik wrote when he was just 18) — is on the show! He’s one of rock’s most successful songwriters. Today, we’re “flyin’ the ‘copter” over to Peterik’s Chicago-area recording studio to play guitars with the legendary rocker and find out how he used his immense talents as a tunesmith to forge a spectacularly successful career. ALSO: On the show with Jim is Ides of March founding member LARRY MILLAS. This episode is presented by TASCAM and the new TASCAM MIXCAST 4 podcast workstation. No Guitar Is Safe is hosted and created by Jude Gold.

Demonstrating and deconstructing the riffs behind the Fixx’s greatest hits, JAMIE WEST-ORAM plugs in and lets your ears revel in his famous stereo sound. Deconstructing smash singles such as “One Thing Leads to Another” and “Red Skies,” Jamie also shares guitar parts from the Fixx’s new album, Every Five Seconds, as well as takes you on a tour of his pedalboard and reminisces on the famous “blizzard of cups” gig at Oakland Stadium — a concert your host, Jude Gold, attended in the ninth grade. Presented by TASCAM and their super-cool TASCAM MIXCAST 4 workstation — the perfect piece of gear for anyone who does podcasting and/or live streaming.

From Janet Jackson to Stevie Wonder, ERROL COONEY is one of the most in-demand guitarists working today. Presented by TASCAM and the cool TASCAM MIXCAST 4 podcast workstation this episode finds Errol plugging in and jamming on Stevie Wonder tunes and much, much more, as he regales an inspiring musical adventure that has found him playing with everyone from the two aforementioned superstars to Christina Aguilera, Lalah Hathaway, and Legally Blynd (led by one of Errol’s favorite guitarists, Jubu Smith); and everywhere from the Academy Awards, the Kennedy Center Honors, and the White House to just about every “enormo-dome” you can name. Presented by TASCAM and the new TASCAM MIXCAST 4 all-in-one podcasting workstation — a must-have if you like podcastting or streaming live. Hosted by JUDE GOLD.

PHILIP SAYCE plugs in! The soulful master of the Stratocaster invites us into his home where he cranks up one of his favorite Fender rigs and shares how he developed his fiery, fret-melting brand of blues rock, as well as how he created the songs on his latest album, SPIRIT RISING. Plus, the Welsh-born, Canadian-bred guitar hero shares what he learned being bandmates with such greats as MELISSA ETHERIDGE and the late JEFF HEALEY. Sayce also offers some deep gear talk, diving into everything from ’60s wah pedals and Fuzz Faces to his friendship with legendary amp tech César Díaz. Hosted by JUDE GOLD and PRESENTED BY GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE.

Inspired by everyone from Ritchie Blackmore, Joe Pass, and Mike Stern to his late, great guitar buddy, Allan Holdsworth, ALEX MACHACEK is a spectacular voice in the world of jazz fusion guitar. I had a blast “flying the ‘copter” over to his home studio, plugging in a couple of his signature-model Strandberg guitars, and having him demonstrate for us several inspiring soloing techniques and compositional approaches. In this interview, Alex also shares his life story — how, after years of musical study in Vienna (and a year at Berklee in Boston) he and his wife, Sumitra, ultimately ended up in the Los Angeles region. Catch Machacek on tour in Europe starting this week! This episode is presented by GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE. Enjoy! — JUDE GOLD, host and creator, No Guitar Is Safe podcast.

Today we plug in and jam with Chicago guitar hero DAVE UHRICH. A solo artist, super sideman, and stellar session cat, Dave stays busy playing, teaching, tracking, and composing. He has even worked out a solo arrangement of "Bohemian Rhapsody" (which he performs for you on this show). Dave also reflects on playing with legendary and none-too-serious WLUP "The Loop" deejay Kevin Matthews (and his alter ego, Ed Zeppelin), his Ibanez guitars (which we are playing in this interview), his Laney amps (which we are NOT playing in this interview — we're plugged into Yamaha combos), and what it means to be "Chicago famous." Thanks to TODD MILLS for arranging this interview and "flying the 'copter." Presented by GUITAR PLAYER magazine. — JUDE GOLD, host, No Guitar Is Safe.

In addition to winning Grammy Awards for his work on albums by Beyoncé and John Legend, guitarist/composer ERICK WALLS has recorded and/or performed with many other superstars, including Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Jennifer Hudson, Will Smith, Kanye West, Alicia Keys, Jay-Z, Black Eyed Peas, Whitney Houston, and Michael McDonald, to name a few. And from the moment Erick plugs in on this episode, you’ll hear that he also has deep church roots. (He’s played guitar at West Angeles Cathedral in Los Angeles for 19 years and counting, and has worked with great gospel singers all his life, starting with his father, George Walls, on up through Kirk Franklin and Miami Mass Choir.) When the interview opens, Walls is playing a solo guitar arrangement of The Caravans’ “Lord Keep Me Day By Day,” which was one of his father’s favorite songs. Erick also likes to rock out, too, as you’ll hear when the interview gets to the segment diving into the music of his rock/funk band Black Waat3r. This episode takes place at Erick Walls’ home studio. It is presented by GUITAR PLAYER magazine and hosted by JUDE GOLD. Thanks for supporting No Guitar Is Safe!

How cool would it be if Django Reinhardt jammed out on some Nirvana? Well, unless you get to heaven and find Kurt Cobain and the aforementioned Gypsy jazz legend jamming together, the closest you may come to hearing that all-star duo is listening to the amazing GUSTAV VIEHMEYER performing on today’s episode of this show. Gustav may be just 26 years old, but he swings like a veteran jazzer. And he has guitar chops that will thrill jazz fans and rock/metal/shred fans alike. And yes, you will hear Gustav stretch out on Nirvana’s biggest hit (that one about “Teen Spirit”). Based in Sarasota, FL, Gustav is a full-time musician who gigs all over the place — including, as you’ll find out, all by himself in St. Armand's Circle, busking with a hollowbody guitar, a looper, and a guitar amp. Presented by GUITAR PLAYER Magazine and guitarplayer.com. Hosted by JUDE GOLD.

Grammy-winning solo artist, session ace, and super sideman RICKY Z (aka Rick Zahariades) is one of the most versatile guitarists you'll meet. That's why he has played with everyone from Josh Groban, Steven Tyler, Harry Nilsson, JpegMafia, Jessica Simpson, John Fogerty, Steve Lukather, Nick Lachey, Don Grusin, the Sweet, Beto Cuevas, Vesta Williams, Lauryn Hill, and Sheila E., to Gary Wright, Paul Anka, Al Stewart, Rick Derringer, Ronnie Laws, All For One, Sophie B. Hawkins, Kristine W., Paulina Rubio, Alejandro Sanz, Michael Bublé, Joan Sebastian, Juan Gabriel, Gloria Estefan, Marc Anthony, Thalia, Jose Feliciano, Jenny Rivera, Los Trio, Manuel Quijano, Shaila Durcal, Pepe' Aguilar, Cristian Castro. On this episode, Ricky plugs in his favorite Fender Stratocaster and demonstrates his approaches to many musical styles. He's also thrilled to re-live adventures with everyone from Chuck Negron and Billy Gibbons to Brian May and Ellis Hall. Presented by Guitar Player magazine, and hosted by Jude Gold.

Plugging in no less than four amazing (and totally different!) guitars on this episode, Jim "Kimo" West, the Grammy-winning solo artist and longtime lead guitarist for "Weird Al" Yankovic, demonstrates everything from his own music and his take on the hypnotic Hawaiian II-V-I turnaround to "soprano" textures and rock guitar feedback (the latter via a rare Moog guitar). Hosted by Jude Gold. Presented by Guitar Player magazine

FERNANDO PERDOMO is equal parts lead guitarist, producer, and musicologist, which means you're in for an exciting ride through all things rock and roll as he invites you into his Los Angeles studio, plugs in his favorite Fender Mustang, and shows you the way he plays guitar — and the way he transplanted himself from Miami to California to become an established producer, sideman, and solo artist. His latest project, ENERGY OVERLOAD, features explosive guitar/drums interplay between himself and legend of the skins CARMINE APPICE. This episode is presented by GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE.

From Les Claypool (Primus) to Jerry Cantrell (Alice In Chains) to M.I.R.V to Duo De Twang (again featuring Claypool) to his own band, Kehoe Nation (AKA Kehoe International), nuclear-powered guitar hero BRYAN KEHOE — with his badass guitar kung fu, operatic singing voice, and anything-goes comedic spirit — is a treasured member of any band he is in. He’s also a full-time “brand evangelist” for Jim Dunlop and that company's lines of pedals, picks, capos, cables, strings, slides, and other guitar accessories. Today, we land the ‘copter at Jim Dunlop headquarters in Benicia, CA, where Bryan plugs into a 1x15 speaker and shares how how he uses pedals to get ferocious sounds out of a (relatively) clean guitar amp, as well as how he forged his style. Hosted by Jude Gold. Presented by Guitar Player Magazine.

It's hard not to describe the amazing SID JACOBS as a master of guitar, but he'll be the first to tell you he's an eternal student of the instrument. And it's true — the renowned jazz solo artist, teacher, and instructional book author is still on a mission to unlock more secrets of the fretboard. Luckily for us, in this episode, Sid shares a ton of playing approaches — everything from blues turnarounds to the "jazz/Bach overlap" to the cool lick taught to him by the late, great Lenny Breau — and teaches them here in detail. Hosted by JUDE GOLD, this episode is presented by GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE.

Soulful hard rock guitar ace DOUG RAPPOPORT plugs in and shares what it's like playing with rock legend Edgar Winter and also how he tracked what just might be the most blazing guitar moment in TV commercial history. Doug also reveals some the tracking approaches he employed on his solo song "Bionic Warz." This episode is brought to you FOCUSRITE and their great line of Focusrite audio interfaces. Learn more at https://focusrite.com/en/guitarists.

Whether he's sharing cool improvisation tactics, ways to use "illegal" tempo shifts, ways to heal from playing injuries by using the Alexander Technique, or his thoughts on playing learned riffs and phrases versus purely spontaneous ones, jazz guitar prodigy JULIAN LAGE explores much in this episode. And throughout the interview he's got his beautiful new signature model Collings guitar in his hands, which he uses to demonstrate songs from his new album SQUINT — which comes out on Blue Note Records June 11 — as well as the compositional tactics and playing approaches behind them. Hosted by Jude Gold. Presented by Guitar Player magazine.

Focusrite brings you a deep guitar hang with MISHA MANSOOR, who plugs two of his favorite signature-model Jackson guitars, deconstructs some of his great riffs for you, and shares how he created PERIPHERY, one of the most influential prog-metal bands in history. (Some would even say Mansoor is one of the chief architects of the genre known as “djent” — we’ll see if the ever-humble guitarist/producer agrees.) Misha also shares everything from his deep Allan Holdsworth influence to how he creates Hendrix-style echo-before-distortion psychedelic feedback loops. Additionally, Mansoor details how he and his other guitar hero friend, Tosin Abasi, like to go hot-doggin’ down canyon roads behind the wheels of exotic supercars. Thanks again to FOCUSRITE, makers of great audio interfaces and more, for making this episode happen.

It's not easy to establish yourself in Nashville well before you've turned 30, but guitarist/singer JOE ROBINSON — with a heap of musical talent, a ton of great songs, and a tireless work ethic — seems to have done just that. Today, the Aussie-turned-Tennesseean six-string wunderkind demonstrates many of his amazing riffs, songs, and approaches (including material from his new album, Borders). Joe also introduces you to his signature Maton guitar, teaches you how to Travis pick, and passes on great career lessons he received personally from Tommy Emmanuel and Robben Ford. Presented by GUITAR PLAYER magazine. HOSTED BY JUDE GOLD.

Grammy-winning rock/fusion guitarist JAMIE KIME has worked with everyone from Zappa Plays Zappa to Dr. John to Jewel, and back on episode 94 of this show — which was recorded in person, well before the world ever dreamed a pesky virus would put the world in lockdown — Jamie and I played a ton of guitar and he offered up many great soloing tips. In fact, there was so much musical insight from Jamie in that interview that I couldn't fit it all into one episode. So, as promised, I have now (finally!) created a second Jamie Kime episode for you so you wouldn't miss out. Jamie is a spectacular guitarist, and this extra content — modal soloing tips, Ted Greene chord chemistry, harp harmonics approaches, and more — is valuable. There's even a cool Hiram Bullock rabbit hole explored by Jamie and I. This episode is PRESENTED BY GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE. Thank you for listening. — JUDE GOLD, host. No Guitar Is Safe, "the guitar show where guitar heroes plug in."

From Allan Holdsworth (Bonus: This episode features a previously unreleased interview clip with Holdsworth that may save you from ever playing "mayonnaise" chords again) to Steve Howe/Yes to Eddie Van Halen, renowned bassist JEFF BERLIN has played with some truly great guitarists. On this episode, he plugs in and shows you what he loves to play, study, and teach, and write, with demonstrations spanning Bach to Jaco Pastorius to Eric Clapton. And this interview was extra special for me, because I used to tour with Jeff, as I was the guitarist for BX3, the bass extravaganza concert that featured Jeff doing a set along with sets from Stuart Hamm and Billy Sheehan. Presented by Guitar Player magazine. -- JUDE GOLD, host, No Guitar Is Safe

He's a founding member of the two biggest rock bands ever to have the word "Guns" in their names. He's an icon of California metal and hard rock. He's got a lethal looking new Kramer signature model guitar in his name. He's TRACII GUNS, and his main band since the early- to mid-'80s, L.A. Guns, is enjoying a resurgence — and also enjoying the return of lead singer Phil Lewis. Plugging in that new Kramer for you and sharing stories of how he built — and how he survived — his wild career, Tracii sits down for an epic interview. Hosted by Jude Gold. Presented by Guitar Player magazine.

From GUNS N’ ROSES to ASIA to SONS OF APOLLO to ART OF ANARCHY to his own BUMBLEFOOT albums, RON 'BUMBLEFOOT' THAL is not only one of the most in-demand rock guitarists of the new millennium, he’s also one of the most innovative, as you will discover when you hear him demonstrating everything from his Vigier double-neck electric (one neck is fretless) to his “portable fret” (a thimble!) to his favorite songs from Boston, Stevie Wonder, Judas Priest, and, of course, CHINESE DEMOCRACY — the epic Guns N’ Roses record that features him on every track. BONUS: You will be deeply moved by Ron’s incredible story of survival, triumph, newfound health after a random motorist in an SUV nearly took everything from him. Big thanks to Mr. Thal for taking the time to do this deep guitar hang with us ... and thanks as well to Guitar Player magazine and guitarplayer.com for making this episode possible. And thank YOU for listening to episode 132 of No Guitar Is Safe, “The Guitar Show Where Guitar Heroes Plug In.” — JUDE GOLD, host and creator

What do QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, A PERFECT CIRCLE, FAILURE, IGGY POP, and other great rock acts have in common? They've all at one time had (and, in the case of that first band, still DO have) guitarist/producer TROY VAN LEEUWEN as a member. On this episode TROY plugs in his signature-model Fender Jazzmaster and shares his guitar playing and recording approaches with host JUDE GOLD. Today's show is brought to you by NAMM's BELIEVE IN MUSIC WEEK, which starts January 18, 2021, and which you don't want to miss. Attend virtually by registering for free, right now, at attend.believeinmusic.tv

From demonstrating guitar parts off his new solo album, DREAMCATCHER, to reliving an incredible career that has found him collaborating with everyone from George Benson to Pink Floyd, Grammy-winning guitarist/composer LEE RITENOUR visits us for a deep guitar hang — and he's playing guitar during most of the interview! Today's show is brought to you by NAMM's BELIEVE IN MUSIC WEEK, which starts January 18, 2021, and which you don't want to miss. Attend virtually by registering at https://attend.believeinmusic.tv

Texas-based, internationally beloved guitar hero ANDY TIMMONS plugs in his go-to ’94 Ibanez AT100 prototype and demonstrates several songs (he even SINGS one for you!), shares many of his tasty guitar techniques, and takes you on an audio tour of the amps and pedals that make up his rig — the tools that contribute to his amazing sound. He also shares the musical inspirations that have motivated him over the decades to develop his signature voice on the guitar. This episode is presented by VIBES HI-FIDELITY EARPLUGS. Head to discovervibes.com, enter the the code GUITAR2020, and get 15% off plus free shipping when you order a pair.

British fingerstyle virtuoso MIKE DAWES demonstrates the techniques, tunings, technology, talent, and none-to-serious stage banter that have made him a rising star in the steel-string community and beyond. In addition to being a solo artist, Mike is also lead guitarist for Rock Hall-of-Famer JUSTIN HAYWARD (MOODY BLUES), who often lets Mike open his concerts with a solo set. One result of having done these solo slots is Mike's new live album, SHOWS AND DISTANCING: LIVE IN THE USA, which Mike details on this episode. BONUS: Mike and Jude attempt what may be the first transatlantic jam on Prince’s “Purple Rain.” This episode is presented by BLUE MICROPHONES.

With vivid remembrances by ROBBIE CRANE and JAY GORE, and detailed VAN HALEN playing tips from host JUDE GOLD, this special tribute episode dives deep into EDDIE VAN HALEN's legacy on and off the fretboard. Presented by BLUE MICROPHONES.

Keith Richards’ mystery tuning revealed? How to layer electric guitars and steel-string acoustics? How to remain a gainfully employed guitarist in this locked-down world? How not to be killed surfing? With guitars in hand, versatile session ace/solo artist/educator JON MACLENNAN and I dive into these topics and more, and also do some jammin’. This episode is presented by BLUE MICROPHONES www.bluemic.com For a free download of Jon MacLennan's instructional book, Melodic Expressions: The Art of the Line, head to: www.jonmaclennan.com/noguitarissafe No Guitar Is Safe is hosted and created by Jude Gold __________ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/jude_gold INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/jude_gold

Globally respected for his incredibly funky guitar playing AND for his immense success as a Grammy-winning record producer, NILE RODGERS has been making multi-platinum albums since the late ’70s, when his dance band CHIC ruled radio with hit after hit. (One of Chic’s famous grooves, powered by NILE's guitar and BERNARD EDWARDS’ bass, “Good Times,” even became the basis of what was arguably the first breakthrough rap song, SUGARHILL GANG’s “Rapper’s Delight.) After CHIC's early success, Nile went on to produce DIANA ROSS, INXS, DURAN DURAN, DAVID LEE ROTH, MADONNA, LADY GAGA and other superstar acts. On this episode, NILE details his funk guitar approaches from CHIC to the present, his new jazz/funk instrumental “Inside the Box,” and his hang with dearly departed EDDIE VAN HALEN. He also takes you inside some unforgettable session moments, including studio adventures with DAVID BOWIE, STEVIE RAY VAUGHAN, and DAFT PUNK, with whom he scored one of the biggest hit songs of recent years, “Get Lucky.” Hosted by JUDE GOLD, this episode is brought to you by BLUE MICROPHONES. Find your perfect mic at bluemic.com.

At age 11, ERIC STECKEL recorded a live album. A year later, a legendary British blues bandleader heard Steckel and was so impressed he took the young guitar hero on a tour of Europe with him. (Which British bandleader? Let’s just say Steckel is now an official, pedigreed Bluesbreaker.) In this episode, Steckel plugs in one of his favorite Knaggs guitars, demonstrates approaches and riffs from his wide catalog of “blues metal” (as he calls it) songs, and discusses his new line of Seymour Duncan signature pickups. Hosted by JUDE GOLD. This episode is presented by BLUE MICROPHONES. The perfect mic awaits you at bluemic.com.

He rocked a stadium playing Hendrix songs with Hendrix's former bandmates, Mitch Mitchell and Noel Redding. He has worked with Stevie Wonder, Steve Winwood, Whitney Houston, Busta Rhymes, Kenny Loggins, Booker T. Jones, Herbie Hancock, Jaco Pastorius, India Arie, Chaka Khan, and many other superstars. And he records his own solo music, which you're about to hear. We're talking about guitarist/singer VERNON ICE BLACK, who, on this episode, plugs in one of his favorite custom guitars, demonstrates his favorite funk licks and improvisation approaches, and also shares some of his solo music. Hosted by JUDE GOLD. This episode is presented by Guitar Player magazine, and guitarplayer.com.

Even though she's just 27, MOLLY TUTTLE has for years now been mesmerizing audiences with her fast-’grass flat-picking runs, great sense of groove, and soulful singing. But, as is the case with many great artists, it’s the way her talents combine in the form of great SONGS that is most astounding. The California-raised, Nashville-based steel-string virtuoso got started in music at age 8, learning from (and soon gigging and recording with) her father, Jack Tuttle. Now, Molly — not one to stagnate during pandemic-induced lockdown or any other time — has recorded and just released her third solo album, called ... BUT I'D RATHER BE WITH YOU. And on this episode of No Guitar Is Safe, Molly picks up one of her favorite Pre-War Guitars dreadnoughts, performs songs for you, and shows you many of the techniques and emotions that went into the new record. PRESENTED BY BLUE MICROPHONES. Find your dream microphone at BLUEMIC.COM. Hosted by JUDE GOLD.

Plugging in his brand new signature-model Fender Kenny Wayne Shepherd Stratocaster, demonstrating all its sounds, and showing us his “secret” Albert King lick, multi-platinum guitar hero KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD comes to us live from the Demon Cave (my nickname for the garage that houses some of his guitar gear AND his Dodge Demon), where he cranks up the smallest of his many Dumble amplifiers for us. NO GUITAR IS SAFE is hosted by yours truly, Jude Gold, and is presented by BLUE MICROPHONES. The mic of your dreams awaits you at bluemic.com.

Sharing chicken pickin' techniques, B-bender moves, thumb-pick approaches, pedal-steel steals, and more, Grammy-winning Nashville studio legend BRENT MASON -- one of the most recorded guitarists in history! -- plugs in his brand-new signature model Fender Telecaster (a faithful replica of his famous primer-coated ’67/’68 Tele that goes on sale September 15), plays a ton of guitar for you, and shares session stories and insights you won't forget. This episode is presented by BLUE MICROPHONES. The mic of your dreams awaits you at bluemic.com. No Guitar Is Safe is created and hosted by Jude Gold.

Plugging in one of his new Sawtooth guitars, MICHAEL ANGELO BATIO fires off tons of shred licks for you, teaches you a cool Don Mock-inspired arpeggio, shares ways to employ economy picking, details how to do "over/under" fret-hand theatrics, serves up album samples and playing approaches from his new record, MORE MACHINE THAN MAN, and relives wild adventures from the days of hair metal on the Sunset Strip. Hosted by JUDE GOLD. Presented by BLUE MICROPHONES. Blue has the perfect mic for you waiting at bluemic.com.

PAUL REED SMITH plugs in! Presented by BLUE MICROPHONES, the legendary guitar builder grabs one of his Experience 2020 PRS 6-strings, plays it through a PRS tube amp, shows you how he forged his style (he's a great player!), and traces the evolution of his great guitar company, PRS Guitars, back to a moment when he was five years old watching his father struggle to assemble a bicycle. Paul also details his upcoming Maryland Hall Live Virtual Music School, and reminds you that he'd love to connect with you at this cool online event. Happening August 10th through the 13th, it's a streaming four-day weekend of guitar master classes and coaching sessions from Smith, TYLER LARSON, and TIM PIERCE, plus rhythm section workshops from brilliant players such as DENNIS CHAMBERS and GARY and GREG GRAINGER. This episode is presented by BLUE MICROPHONES, which you can learn more about at bluemic.com.

GUS G (Firewind, Ozzy Osbourne) plugs in one of his signature-model Jackson guitars and details the recording and inspiration behind the new self-titled FIREWIND album, available on AFM records and wherever you stream music. Gus also shares unforgettable stories from the many years (starting in 2009) that he was OZZY OSBOURNE's lead guitarist, as well as relives other musical adventures. Hosted by JUDE GOLD. This episode is presented by NUCLEAR BLAST records. Check out Nuclear Blast's many bands and latest releases at nuclearblast.com.

MRS SMITH plugs in! Don’t let the bracelets, pearls, and beehive hair fool you — Mrs Smith shreds, as one heavy metal hero found out the hard way during an onstage wah-wah guitar death match. We get into that story and more on this 116th episode of No Guitar Is Safe, as Mrs Smith cranks up her pristine floral-pattern Ibanez JEM “with the purse handle” and plays guitar for you, offers thoughts on what it means to be an internet guitarist in 2020, and dispels any notions that she is in fact the alter ego of Steve Vai. Hosted by Jude Gold. This episode is presented by GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE.

Guitar virtuoso JUSTIN DERRICO plugs in and plays through his elaborate three-headed stage rig — the same setup he uses with superstar singer P!NK — sharing his favorite lead and rhythm techniques while recounting the story of how he made it from the farms of Virginia to becoming one of the music industry's most in-demand guitar wranglers. And yes, if you've seen THE VOICE on NBC, you might know Justin is the lead guitarist there, too, and he reflects on that gig as well. ALSO: A Black Lives Matter protest visits No Guitar Is Safe World Headquarters. Hosted by JUDE GOLD. This episode presented by Guitar Player magazine.

In the final three years of Eddie Money's career, the legendary singer had a stellar young guitarist playing lead for him — EDDIE HADDAD. Today we "fly the 'copter" over to Nashville to get great tips from Haddad on playing guitar, getting great tone, and staying inspired. Haddad also plays his favorite Eddie Money riffs, shares stories about playing with the famed rocker, reflects on his fulfilling job as a guitar instructor for Guitar Mastery Method, and challenges host JUDE GOLD to find a pop song with a great guitar solo and then play that solo. PRESENTED BY GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE. Guitar Player: Play Better, Sound Better.

With over 250,000 followers (and counting!) on Instagram, NATHANIEL MURPHY of Chicago, IL (by way of Ireland and England) has amassed a huge, rabid fanbase who insatiably stream his dazzling one-minute guitar videos, many of which he deconstructs and performs for you right here on this episode of No Guitar Is Safe. Nathaniel also dives into pieces from his solo album, WAR FOR THE MOMENT. Whether he is playing his original compositions or his brilliant re-imaginings of rock, pop, and soul classics, Nathaniel always dazzles .... THIS EPISODE is brought to you by ROYER LABS, makers of the famed R-121 ribbon mic and its new sibling, the more affordable, guitar-friendly R-10 ribbon mic. www.royerlabs.com

TESTAMENT lead guitarist ALEX SKOLNICK plugs in one of his signature ESP guitars and demonstrates solos and riffs from the pioneering thrash metal band’s new album TITANS OF CREATION, as well as guitar parts from the Testament back catalog. The guitarist also reflects on the band’s scary exposure to Covid-19, as well as many other aspects of his lifelong musical odyssey -- everything from studying with Joe Satriani at age 15 to touring with Trans-Siberian Orchestra. And yes, Alex “cleans up” for a bit, too, to demonstrate approaches and arrangements from his instrumental jazz records. This episode is brought to you by NUCLEAR BLAST records, who invite you to check out Testament’s TITANS OF CREATION wherever you stream or purchase music, or on the Nuclear Blast website, www.nuclearblast.com.

With one of his favorite Telecasters in hand, rock/fusion ace DAVE HILL shows host JUDE GOLD several cool lead guitar approaches, shares an Allan Holdsworth/Eddie Van Halen moment you won't forget, and spins both unreleased and released solo tracks of his own. Presented by GUITAR PLAYER magazine.

Sting, Beck, Todd Rundgren, Sarah McLachlan, Bourgeois Tagg, and Jellyfish are just a few of the many headliners who've hired LYLE WORKMAN to play lead guitar for them. But while being a six-string sharp shooter is one way Lyle got established in the industry, the next was when Hollywood heavies began noticing that he was an excellent composer and producer, too. Soon, Lyle would find himself scoring such hit films as The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Superbad, and Get Him to the Greek, as well as HBO's Crashing and other shows. Now, Lyle has tracked a stunning new instrumental album that has yet to be released, which means no one can hear it — no one, that is, except for YOU, when you play this podcast. This episode is hosted by Jude Gold, and is brought to you by ERNIE BALL and their brilliant new ERNIE BALL VPJR TUNER, a two-in-one volume and tuner pedal you can see at ernieball.com.

Brought to you by ERNIE BALL and their cool new VPJR Tuner volume/tuner pedal, SLASH hangs with host Jude Gold at the NAMM Show for an exclusive chat about his new line of Gibson guitars, Guns N' Roses

Guitarist JOE AUGELLO came home from teaching one day and was shocked to find his Long Island home was for sale. “I put our house on the market,” his wife revealed. “We’re moving to L.A. so you can pursue your dream.” Soon, the brave couple arrived in Hollywood, and Joe began chasing his vision of becoming an A-list guitarist working on big stages, in top studios, and on high-profile TV broadcasts all over the world. And the risk seems to have paid off, as Joe eventually landed gigs with Robin Thicke, Jennifer Hudson, Stevie Wonder, The Game, Backstreet Boys, Kendrick Lamar, and other superstars. On this episode, Joe plays guitar for you and regales many adventures, including being on stage with Miley Cyrus during the world’s most infamous “twerking” incident. Joe also discusses the huge church gigs he does, and what it’s like composing with gospel legend Israel Houghton. GUITARS: Joe mostly plays a Carvin hollowbody, while I — your host, JUDE GOLD — plug in Joe’s custom “parts-caster” Telecaster-style guitar, the only guitar of his to survive what likely was, as you’ll hear, the worst multi-guitar pile-up in history. This episode is brought to you by Guitar Player magazine and guitarplayer.com.

Guitarist/singer/actor/Broadway performer CELISSE (aka Celisse Henderson) has been gravitating to the stage since she was just — no joke — two years old. In addition to playing lead guitar for Lizzo on Saturday Night Live (where she wielded a three-pickup SG much like that of her hero, Sister Rosetta Tharpe), Celisse performed at Gibson’s recent Gibson at the Grove event at NAMM, gracing a bill that included Billy Gibbons, Lzzy Hale, Elliot Easton, Don Felder, Jimmy Vivino, and Slash. She has also worked with Melissa Etheridge, Trey Anastasio, and other stars. On this episode, host JUDE GOLD plugs in with Celisse at the Gibson Showroom in Los Angeles, CA. Presented by GUITAR PLAYER magazine and GUITARPLAYER.COM.

JIMMY VIVINO may be best known as Conan O’Brien’s Fedora-wearing musical director, but — speaking of hats — “late-night guitar hero” is just one of the “hats” Jimmy wears on a regular basis. An in-demand bandleader, Jimmy’s latest gig was last week at the NAMM convention in California, where Gibson hired Jimmy to lead a stellar ensemble backing Slash, Don Felder, Elliot Easton, Celisse, Lzzy Hale, Jared James Nichols, Richie Faulkner, Billy Gibbons, and others. On this episode, Jimmy plugs in with host JUDE GOLD, shares a revered Magic Sam guitar breakdown (as well as licks and approaches behind his concert album, 13 Live), and reflects on adventures spanning everything from the Gibson event and the Conan show to his stints with Hubert Sumlin, Chuck Berry, and other guitar legends. Brought to you by GUITAR PLAYER magazine and GUITARPLAYER.COM