Eyes Up Podcast with Joshua J Lutz

What separates a good player from a great musician?

In Episode 5 of Eyes Up with Joshua J Lutz, I sit down with Nashville musician Mike Hicks to explore what it really means to be a musician beyond simply playing the right notes.

Mike shares his perspective on intentionality, tone, timing, and the importance of listening and serving the song. We discuss common mistakes young musicians make, why simplicity can be more powerful than complexity, and how humility and self-awareness contribute to lasting growth.

From understanding when not to play to developing your own musical voice, this conversation is packed with insights for musicians at every level.

Whether you're playing on a professional stage, serving on a worship team, or developing your skills at home, this episode will challenge you to think differently about your musicianship.

In this episode:

• The difference between playing an instrument and true musicianship
• Why listening is just as important as playing
• Common mistakes young musicians make
• The power of simplicity, silence, and musical space
• Developing tone, timing, and dynamics
• Finding your strengths and musical identity
• Serving the song instead of showcasing your abilities
• Growing through patience, humility, and intentional practice

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction to Mike Hicks
02:02 – Why Intentionality Matters in Music
04:25 – Common Mistakes Young Musicians Make
07:23 – Experimentation, Patience, and Growth
10:11 – What Happens When Nobody Is Watching?
13:15 – Simplicity and Musical Storytelling
16:19 – Learning to Listen with Purpose
18:55 – The Details That Make Great Musicians
20:11 – The Power of Silence and Space
21:26 – Dynamics and Musical Space
22:14 – Respecting Every Instrument's Role
23:16 – Intentionality and Great Tone
24:18 – Self-Awareness and Musical Growth
26:28 – Serving the Music with Humility
28:26 – Tone, Gear, and Musical Expression

#EyesUpPodcast #MikeHicks #Musicianship #NashvilleMusicians #WorshipMusicians

What does it take to land a gig with one of country music's biggest artists?

In this episode of **Eyes Up with Joshua J Lutz**, I sit down with professional guitarist **Matt Reviere** to talk about his journey in the music industry, including touring with Carrie Underwood.

Matt shares what happens behind the scenes of a major tour, how relationships open doors in Nashville, and why preparation, humility, and professionalism matter just as much as musical ability.

We also dive into stage fright, guitar gear, handling mistakes during live performances, and balancing family life with a touring career.

Whether you're an aspiring professional musician, a weekend guitarist, or someone serving on a worship team, there's plenty to learn from Matt's experience.

**In this episode:**

- How Matt landed the Carrie Underwood gig

- Preparing for major tours and high-pressure performances

- Building genuine relationships in the music industry

- Dealing with stage fright and onstage mistakes

- Guitar gear, effects, and live performance setups

- Why humility and reputation matter

- Advice for young and aspiring musicians

#EyesUpPodcast #MattReviere #CarrieUnderwood #Guitarist #MusicIndustry

Legendary guitarist Tony Palacios of Guardian joins Joshua Lutz on the Eyes Up Podcast for an in-depth conversation about guitar, music, faith, and the lessons learned throughout his career.

Tony shares stories from his years touring and recording, including his work with Michael W. Smith, encounters with influential musicians, and the experiences that shaped his approach to playing.

From developing great guitar tone and choosing the right gear to understanding feel, restraint, and musical dynamics, Tony offers practical insights for guitarists at every level.

The conversation also explores mentorship, the evolution of the music industry, and why humility, relationships, and a willingness to serve others matter just as much as musical ability.

Whether you're a guitarist, worship musician, or simply someone who loves hearing the stories behind the music, this conversation offers a fascinating look into the life and perspective of a seasoned professional.

Topics include:

• Tony's early guitar influences and musical development
• Guardian, touring, and working with Michael W. Smith
• Guitar tone, pedals, rack gear, and modelers
• Lessons from influential musicians and mentors
• Studio work, live performances, and musical restraint
• Faith, humility, relationships, and longevity in music

Eyes Up Podcast — hosted by Joshua Lutz

The Eyes Up Podcast with Joshua J Lutz - Ep 2 - Steven L Dukes

Steven L. Dukes is a Chicago-based guitarist, producer, and creative whose career spans across gospel, hip-hop, and R&B.

He began playing professionally at 19 with rapper Twista and was featured on seven songs from Twista’s multi-platinum album Kamikaze. Over the years, he has recorded and performed with artists including Todd Dulaney, Keyshia Cole, Faith Evans, Syleena Johnson, and others.

Today, Steven tours internationally and shares his musical insights with a large online audience while continuing his work as a guitarist on tour with gospel artist Todd Dulaney.

"Set your minds on things above not on earthly things." Colossians 3:2

Mission Statement:

To awaken musicians, worship leaders, and creatives to their unique calling to bring glory to God through encouragement, skill building, biblical truth, and stories of the journey.

In this episode of Eyes Up with Joshua J. Lutz, I sit down with my friend Terrell Sass — a 4-time Grammy-nominated producer, composer, and drummer whose work spans Gospel, CCM, R&B, and beyond.

Terrell has built a successful career not only through musical excellence, but through a thoughtful approach to ownership, creativity, and building a lasting brand in the music industry.

Eyes Up Mission Statement:

To awaken musicians, worship leaders, and creatives to their unique calling to bring glory to God through encouragement, skill building, biblical truth, and stories of the journey.

The Eyes Up Podcast with Joshua J Lutz - Episode 1 - Maestro Lightford

Welcome everyone! This is the first episode of the Eyes Up Podcast. Colossians 3:2 says "Set your minds on things above not on earthly things."

Mission Statement:

To awaken musicians, worship leaders, and creatives to their unique calling to bring glory to God through encouragement, skill building, biblical truth, and stories of the journey.

It's always a treat to talk with my friend Maestro Lightford. We played with various Christian artists together over the years. Maestro really is a light to those around him. Enjoy!