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The Guitar Hang Podcast welcomes the extraordinary John Jorgenson — one of the most versatile and accomplished guitarists and multi-instrumentalists of his generation.

From the groundbreaking country-rock of The Desert Rose Band to touring the world as a member of Elton John’s band, John Jorgenson has built a career that refuses to fit neatly into any single musical category.

A master guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger, and lifelong student of music, John has moved effortlessly through rock, country, bluegrass, jazz, and the music of Django Reinhardt — always bringing his unmistakable musicianship and personality to everything he plays.

In Season 11, Episode 4 of The Guitar Hang Podcast, host Jon Stankorb sits down with John for a wide-ranging conversation about the experiences, musicians, guitars, and musical discoveries that have shaped his remarkable career.

In this episode:

• The formation and success of The Desert Rose Band with Chris Hillman and Herb Pedersen
• John’s years touring and recording with Elton John
• What it takes to become a truly versatile musician
• His lifelong fascination with Django Reinhardt and gypsy jazz
• Moving between country, rock, bluegrass, jazz, and other musical worlds
• The importance of listening, musical vocabulary, and serving the song
• Guitars, tone, technique, and the tools John uses to express himself
• Stories and lessons gathered from decades of performing alongside world-class musicians
• Why curiosity may be one of the most important qualities a musician can possess
• John’s continuing musical journey and what keeps him inspired

John Jorgenson is the kind of musician The Guitar Hang Podcast was created to celebrate — a player with incredible chops who understands that technique is only valuable when it serves the music.

Whether you’re a guitarist, songwriter, working musician, gear fanatic, or simply someone who loves hearing the stories behind great music, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

🎸 The Guitar Hang Podcast — Season 11, Episode 4
🎙️ Guest: John Jorgenson
🎧 Hosted by Jon Stankorb

If you enjoy the show, please follow and subscribe to The Guitar Hang Podcast, leave us a rating or review, and share this episode with another guitarist or music lover.

The Guitar Hang Podcast brings you conversations with some of the world's most respected guitarists and musicians — exploring the players, records, gear, stories, and experiences that make us love the guitar.

Grab a guitar. Pour yourself something good. And let’s hang.

#JohnJorgenson #GuitarHangPodcast #JonStankorb #GuitarPodcast #GuitarPlayer #DesertRoseBand #EltonJohn #DjangoReinhardt #GypsyJazz #CountryGuitar #Bluegrass #Guitarist #GuitarTone #GuitarLife #GuitarMusic

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Chris Gill & Brad Tolinski — Blow by Blow: The Definitive Jeff Beck Biography

Few guitarists have inspired as much admiration, mystery, and innovation as the legendary Jeff Beck.

In this very special episode of The Guitar Hang Podcast, host Jon Stankorb welcomes acclaimed music journalists, authors, and longtime guitar historians Chris Gill and Brad Tolinski to discuss their remarkable new biography, Blow by Blow.

Together, they take listeners deep inside the life, artistry, and legacy of one of the most influential guitarists in rock history. From Jeff Beck's groundbreaking work with The Yardbirds to his revolutionary solo career, Chris and Brad share incredible stories, years of research, personal interviews, and behind-the-scenes insights that reveal the genius, personality, and relentless pursuit of musical excellence that defined Beck's career.

In This Episode

🎸 The inspiration behind writing Blow by Blow

🎸 Untold stories from Jeff Beck's extraordinary life

🎸 Beck's relentless pursuit of tone and innovation

🎸 His influence on generations of guitarists

🎸 Favorite recordings and career-defining performances

🎸 The writing and research process behind the book

🎸 Why Jeff Beck remains one of the most respected guitarists of all time

Whether you're a lifelong Jeff Beck fan, a guitarist chasing better tone, or simply fascinated by musical greatness, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

Pick Up Blow by Blow

Learn more about Chris Gill & Brad Tolinski's new Jeff Beck biography:

📖 https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/brad-tolinski/blow-by-blow/

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Spend several unforgettable days learning from world-class instructors through masterclasses, performances, jam sessions, workshops, and one-on-one interaction with an incredible community of passionate players.

🌐 https://www.woodshedguitarexperience.com

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Connect with Jon Stankorb

🎸 Jon's Guitar Lounge

https://www.jonsguitarlounge.com

🎓 Join the Jon's Guitar Lounge Community

https://www.skool.com/jonsguitarlounge

📺 YouTube

https://youtube.com/@thejonstankorb

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Kenny Wayne Shepherd: 30 Years of Ledbetter Heights, Tone, and the Road Ahead

In this episode of The Guitar Hang Podcast, host Jon Stankorb sits down with blues-rock powerhouse Kenny Wayne Shepherd for a deep and honest conversation about longevity, tone, and the journey from teenage prodigy to seasoned road warrior.

Kenny reflects on the 30th anniversary of his breakthrough debut album Ledbetter Heights and the newly re-recorded celebration project Ledbetter Heights: The 30th Anniversary Sessions, a fresh take on the record that launched his career and helped define modern blues-rock for a new generation.

We also dive into his current touring cycle, revisiting the music live on stage in full album performances, and how his approach to guitar, songwriting, and tone has evolved over three decades on the road.

In This Episode

🎸 Revisiting Ledbetter Heights 30 years later
🎸 Recording The 30th Anniversary Sessions
🎸 Touring the album in its entirety for the first time
🎸 Tone, gear, and the pursuit of feel over flash
🎸 Influences from Stevie Ray Vaughan and classic blues
🎸 Staying inspired after decades of touring and recording
🎸 The state of blues-rock in 2026 and beyond

Kenny also shares insights into what keeps him motivated, how he approaches live performance today, and why the blues continues to resonate with audiences around the world.

Special Thanks to Our Sponsor

🎸 Woodshed Guitar Experience

If you’re serious about leveling up your playing, Woodshed Guitar Experience is one of the most inspiring guitar immersion events available today.

World-class instructors, hands-on workshops, performances, and a community built entirely around growth as a guitarist.

👉 Visit: https://www.woodshedguitarexperience.com
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🎙️ The Guitar Hang Podcast
 Hosted by Jon Stankorb
 New episodes weekly featuring world-class guitarists, bassists, producers, and songwriters.

📺 YouTube: Jon’s Guitar Lounge
 🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio

Kenny Wayne Shepherd

Learn more about music, tour dates, and updates:

🌐 https://www.kennywayneshepherd.net

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow guitarist or music lover. It helps keep The Guitar Hang community growing.

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Billy Sherwood: YES, Aurora, Legacy, and the Future of Progressive Rock

Season 11 of The Guitar Hang Podcast launches with a very special guest—bass virtuoso, producer, songwriter, vocalist, and progressive rock icon Billy Sherwood.

For decades, Billy has been one of the most respected musicians in progressive rock, contributing his talents to countless recordings and productions while helping carry forward the legacy of one of the most influential bands in rock history: Yes. As the band's bassist, vocalist, songwriter, and longtime collaborator of the late Chris Squire, Billy occupies one of the most important roles in progressive music today.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Billy joins host Jon Stankorb to discuss YES' brand-new 24th studio album, Aurora, released June 12, 2026. The album features the current lineup of Steve Howe, Geoff Downes, Jon Davison, Billy Sherwood, and Jay Schellen, continuing the band's remarkable creative resurgence and marking yet another chapter in a career that now spans nearly six decades. 

In This Episode

🎸 The making of YES' new album Aurora

🎸 How the current YES lineup developed into one of the band's longest-running and most stable incarnations in decades

🎸 Honoring the legacy of Chris Squire while forging a new path forward

🎸 Recording, producing, and collaborating in today's music industry

🎸 The creative chemistry between Steve Howe, Geoff Downes, Jon Davison, Jay Schellen, and Billy Sherwood

🎸 The evolution of progressive rock and its enduring global fanbase

🎸 Stories from World Trade, Conspiracy, Circa, Arc of Life, and The Prog Collective

🎸 Bass tone, songwriting, studio production, and musical inspiration

🎸 The future of YES and what lies ahead after Aurora

Billy also reflects on what it means to steward one of rock's most celebrated catalogs while continuing to create new music that pushes the boundaries of progressive rock. Critics and fans alike have praised Aurora for continuing the creative momentum established by The Quest and Mirror to the Sky, proving that YES remains a vital artistic force in 2026. 

The conversation also explores the band's current touring plans, the importance of preserving the YES legacy for future generations, and why creativity remains the driving force behind everything the band does. 

Whether you're a lifelong YES fan, a progressive rock enthusiast, a bassist searching for inspiration, or simply someone fascinated by the creative process, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

About Billy Sherwood

Billy Sherwood is a multi-instrumentalist, producer, songwriter, and vocalist best known for his work with YES. Over the course of his career he has collaborated with some of progressive rock's most celebrated musicians and has become one of the genre's most prolific creative forces. Today, he continues to help lead YES into a new era while honoring the band's extraordinary musical legacy. 

Connect with YES

🌐 YES Official Website

🌐 Aurora Album Information

Special Thanks to Our Sponsor

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🎸 Join guitar players from around the world for one of the most inspiring guitar events of the year.

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If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating and review—it helps us continue bringing world-class musicians, guitarists, bassists, producers, and industry professionals to The Guitar Hang community.

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The Guitar Hang Podcast – Alex Kilroy | From Transylvania to Berklee | Break My Chains

In this episode of The Guitar Hang Podcast, Jon Stankorb sits down with guitarist and singer-songwriter Alex Kilroy for an inspiring conversation about music, discipline, and the long road from childhood dream to international career.

Born in Transylvania, Romania, Alex’s musical journey began with classical piano—but everything changed when he discovered the blues and Stevie Ray Vaughan. That moment set him on a new path, leading to early success as a teenage guitar prodigy, including opening for American blues legends at just fourteen years old.

Driven by a deep passion for music and artistic freedom, Alex eventually made his way to the United States, earning a scholarship to Berklee College of Music before settling in Florida. Now, he’s releasing his debut album Break My Chains—a powerful blend of blues tradition and modern melodic songwriting that reflects both his personal journey and his father’s lasting influence.

In this conversation, we cover:

•  Growing up in Romania and discovering Stevie Ray Vaughan 
•  Becoming a teenage touring musician 
•  The Berklee experience and moving to the U.S. 
•  Songwriting, tone, and blues influence in Break My Chains
•  Building a life and career around musical discipline and freedom 

🎧 Listen now and follow Alex Kilroy for new music and updates on Break My Chains.

Sponsored by The Woodshed Guitar Experience

This episode is proudly sponsored by Woodshed Guitar Experience.

The Woodshed Guitar Experience brings together world-class guitarists and passionate players for an immersive multi-day event featuring masterclasses, performances, jam sessions, and hands-on learning with some of the best players in the world.

As a listener of The Guitar Hang Podcast, you can save $300 off registration with promo code: GUITARHANG300.

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Season 10, Episode 9 of The Guitar Hang Podcast features an extraordinary musical conversation with five-time GRAMMY Award-winning guitarist, composer, and producer Mark Lettieri and internationally acclaimed sitar virtuoso Purbayan Chatterjee.

Together, they discuss their groundbreaking collaborative debut album, Feathered Creatures, arriving June 5th — a bold and adventurous musical project blending progressive Indian classical sitar with modern electric guitar textures, improvisation, cinematic composition, and fearless creativity.

In this episode, Jon Stankorb sits down with Mark and Purbayan to explore:

• The creative process behind Feathered Creatures
• Cross-cultural collaboration and musical communication
• Improvisation, phrasing, rhythm, and composition
• Guitar tone and the sonic possibilities of sitar
• Artistic risk-taking and pushing beyond genre boundaries
• The connection between jazz fusion, progressive music, and Indian classical traditions
• Finding inspiration through collaboration and deep listening

This is an inspiring and insightful conversation for guitar players, musicians, composers, fusion fans, and anyone passionate about creativity and musical exploration.

Purbayan Chatterjee is widely recognized as one of the leading sitar maestros of his generation, blending traditional Indian classical music with contemporary influences and global collaboration. 

Mark Lettieri continues to push the boundaries of modern guitar through his solo work, collaborations, and performances with Snarky Puppy and The Fearless Flyers. 

🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
 • The Guitar Hang Podcast
• Jon’s Guitar Lounge Official Website
• Jon’s Guitar Lounge Community
• Mark Lettieri Official Website
• Purbayan Chatterjee Official Website

Special thanks to The Woodshed Guitar Experience for sponsoring this episode. The Woodshed Guitar Experience is an immersive musical retreat featuring world-class instructors, clinics, performances, mentorship, and an inspiring community of passionate musicians.

Listeners of The Guitar Hang Podcast can use promo code GUITARHANG300 to receive $300 off admission.

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"Conversations with Noteworthy Guitarists from around the World"

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The Guitar Hang Podcast – Season 10, Episode 8
Special Guest: Joe Bonamassa

In this electrifying episode of The Guitar Hang Podcast, Jon Stankorb sits down with blues-rock virtuoso Joe Bonamassa to discuss his latest project, the B.B. King: Summit 100 album, and the stories behind his career-defining moments. From guitar tones to touring tales, Joe shares insights that every guitarist will want to hear. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just love great music, this conversation is packed with inspiration, technique, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes.

What’s Inside This Episode:

• Deep dive into the making of B.B. King: Summit 100
• Joe’s thoughts on tone, gear, and performance philosophy
• Stories from the road and legendary collaborations
• Jon’s signature blend of music, gear talk, and guitar love

Join Jon’s Guitar Community
If you're a guitarist looking to improve your playing, tone, and musical knowledge, join Jon’s guitar community:
https://www.skool.com/jonsguitarlounge
Follow Jon Stankorb
Facebook
  / jonstankorb 
Instagram
  / jonstankorb_jonsguitarlounge 

If you enjoy this episode:
Like • Comment • Subscribe • Share with a fellow guitar player

It really helps the channel grow and bring more amazing guests to the show.

Special Offers & Sponsors:
This episode is sponsored in part by The Woodshed Guitar Experience. Listeners can use promo code GUITARHANG300 to receive $300 off your camp registration!

Follow & Connect:

• Joe Bonamassa:
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joebonamassa/
  
  
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoeBonamassa/
• X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/JBONAMASSA
  
  
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JoeBonamassaTV
  Official Website: https://jbonamassa.com/

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In this episode of The Guitar Hang Podcast, host Jon Stankorb sits down with legendary guitarist Frank Hannon from the iconic rock band Tesla.

Frank joins the show to talk about his brand-new instrumental album Reflections, a country-western infused project that explores a cinematic and atmospheric side of his guitar playing.

We also dive into the inspiration behind his latest single “San Francisco,” which features a visually stunning video with original hand-played oil-light visuals created by Brotherhood of Light Show artist Chris Samardizch, connecting the music to the legendary Fillmore-era psychedelic tradition that helped shape the Bay Area jam scene.

Frank also shares stories from his incredible career with Tesla, insights into his tone and influences, and reflections on decades of touring and recording.

If you're a fan of great guitar playing, classic rock history, and inspiring musical conversations, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

🎧 In This Episode We Discuss

• The making of Frank’s new instrumental album Reflections
• The creative vision behind the single “San Francisco”
• The psychedelic visual collaboration with Chris Samardizch
• Frank’s guitar influences and tone philosophy
• Stories from the road with Tesla

Sponsored By

This episode is sponsored in part by the Woodshed Guitar Experience.

If you've ever wanted to spend a few days completely immersed in guitars, music, and learning from world-class players, The Woodshed is an incredible event.

https://www.woodshedguitarexperience.com/

Listeners of The Guitar Hang Podcast can use the promo code:

GUITARHANG300 to receive $300 off the admission price.

Instagram
 https://www.instagram.com/frankhannonofficial
Facebook
 https://www.facebook.com/frankhannonmusic
Website
 https://www.frankhannon.com
Follow TeslaInstagram
 https://www.instagram.com/teslaband
Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/teslaband
Website
https://teslatheband.com

Join Jon’s Guitar Community

If you want guitar lessons, tone breakdowns, backing tracks, and a community of passionate players, check out Jon’s guitar community here:

👉 https://www.skool.com/jonsguitarlounge

 If you enjoy the show, please subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with a fellow guitar player. It helps more listeners discover the show.

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Season 10, Episode 6 of The Guitar Hang features one of the most original and fearless guitarists on the planet — Mattias IA Eklundh.

Best known for his groundbreaking work with Freak Kitchen, Mattias has built a global reputation for combining jaw-dropping technical ability with humor, melody, and total creative freedom. His playing blends metal, fusion, funk, and progressive rock into something unmistakably his own — elastic phrasing, wild intervallic ideas, percussive technique, and absolute command of touch.

In this episode we dive into:

• The philosophy behind the “Freak Guitar” approach
• Breaking technical limitations without losing musicality
• Right-hand control and articulation secrets
• Practicing creativity (not just speed)
• The mental game of originality
• Touring stories and studio insights
• Why tone, feel, and humor matter just as much as chops

Mattias also shares insights from decades of teaching and performing around the world, including his legendary Freak Guitar Camps.

If you’re serious about expanding your guitar vocabulary — this episode will stretch you in the best way possible.

🎟 Sponsored by The Woodshed Guitar Experience

This episode is brought to you in part by the Woodshed Guitar Experience — an immersive guitar workshop designed for passionate players who want real growth, community, and inspiration.

Enter PromoCode GUITARHANG for a $300 discount.

The Woodshed brings together world-class players and dedicated students for deep dives into technique, tone, phrasing, songwriting, and live performance — all in a supportive, creative environment.

Learn more here:
 👉 https://www.woodshedguitarexperience.com

(Be sure to check the episode description and show notes for any current promo codes.)

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 https://www.signsofloyd.com

🎶 Follow Mattias IA Eklundh

Official Website:
 https://www.freakguitar.com

Freak Kitchen:
 https://www.freakkitchen.com

Instagram:
 https://www.instagram.com/mattiasiaeklundh

https://www.skool.com/jonsguitarlounge

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The Guitar Hang Podcast – Season 10, Episode 5
Special Guest: Ian Thornley (Big Wreck)

On this episode of The Guitar Hang Podcast, host Jon Stankorb sits down with Ian Thornley — guitarist, singer, songwriter, and the creative force behind Big Wreck — for an in-depth conversation about guitar, tone, songwriting, and the band’s powerful new album, The Rest of the Story.

Ian Thornley is widely regarded as one of the most respected and underrated guitarists in modern rock. Known for his massive tone, technical precision, deep musicality, and fearless approach to songwriting, Ian has built a career rooted in authenticity and musical integrity.

In this episode, we dive into:

• Ian’s approach to guitar, tone, and feel
• Writing and recording music with Big Wreck
• A deep discussion of the new album, The Rest of the Story
• How the band continues to evolve creatively while honoring its roots
• Gear, guitars, amps, and the role of technology in modern recording
• Lessons learned from decades of touring and making records
• Why serving the song always comes before technique

This is not a surface-level interview. It’s an honest, thoughtful, and musical conversation with an artist who continues to raise the bar for rock guitar and songwriting.

Whether you’re a guitarist, songwriter, producer, or simply a fan of great rock music, this episode offers real insight into the mind and craft of Ian Thornley.

🎸 Listen in and enjoy the hang.

Follow Ian Thornley & Big Wreck:

🌐 Big Wreck Official Website:
 https://www.bigwreckmusic.com

📸 Big Wreck on Instagram:
 https://www.instagram.com/bigwreckmusic

▶️ Big Wreck on YouTube:
 https://www.youtube.com/@BigWreckOfficial

🎵 Stream Big Wreck:
 Spotify / Apple Music / Amazon Music

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