From Dreamer to Rockstar: Justin Lyons' Journey to Becoming a Musician and Guitarist

As a musician and guitarist, Justin Lyons has had a remarkable journey that has taken him from dreamer to rockstar. He has played with Machine Gun Kelly, Black Pink, Lil Wayne and other notable musicians. In this episode of 'It Was All A Dream', we'll explore his early life, influences, passion for guitar, and the proudest moment in his career. We'll also take a look at his guitar-playing style and advice for aspiring musicians.

Justin Lyons was born and raised in Dallas, TX. He started playing music actually from being born into a musical family and grew up in church. He mentions how he watched his dad play guitar as a young child and that's where my love began. Just tells how his mom bought him his first guitar And because of his family’s prayers, God taught and blessed him to play.

Lyons cites Jimi Hendrix, BB King, and Stevie Ray Vaughan as some of his earliest influences. He was drawn to their mastery of the instrument and their ability to convey emotion through their playing. He also admired their willingness to push boundaries and experiment with different sounds. These influences would shape Lyons' own playing style and approach to music. Lyons started playing in his band in 2008 named K'nnect 4, where his stage name Guitar Slayer was born. He shares his experience of the time he entered Guitar Centre’s Guitar battle and the impact that had on him. 

Justin opens up about working in the postal service and losing his job and getting a call in 2010 asking him to go on the road. Lyons continued to make a name for himself in the music industry. He played with K-POP stars Black Pink, Lil Wayne, Blink 182 and more!

Over the years Lyons began making connections in the music industry. He met rapper Machine Gun Kelly through a mutual friend Travis Barker and was asked to join his band as a guitarist. Lyons jumped at the opportunity and quickly became an integral part of the group. He toured extensively with the band, playing to sold-out crowds across the globe with the Mainstream Sellout tour.

Lyons' guitar playing was a key part of Machine Gun Kelly's sound. His solos were often the highlight of the band's live shows, and his ability to blend different styles and genres added depth and complexity to their music.

Lyons' ability to adapt to different styles and collaborate with a wide range of artists is a testament to his versatility as a musician. He is equally comfortable playing blues, rock, hip-hop, and pop, and his playing always adds something unique and distinctive to the music.

For Lyons, the proudest moment in his career came when he was playing with Machine Gun Kelly. The band was performing at a SOLD OUT Cleveland stadium (MGKs Hometown) which was later released around the world for one night only in theatres ‘MACHINE GUN KELLY: MAINSTREAM SELLOUT LIVE FROM CLEVELAND’

Lyons' journey from playing small venues in Dallas to performing on some of the biggest stages in the world is a testament to his talent and persistence. He has worked tirelessly to hone his craft and has overcome numerous obstacles along the way.

Lyons' playing is often compared to that of Prince and other guitar legends. He has a deep understanding of the instrument and is able to coax a wide range of sounds and tones from it. His playing is also marked by a sense of emotion and feeling, which comes through in his phrasing and the way he bends notes.

Lyons has some simple but powerful advice: "Practice, practice, practice." He emphasizes the importance of putting in the time and effort to develop your skills and hone your craft. Lyons also encourages aspiring musicians to be open-minded and willing to collaborate with others. "You never know where a connection or a collaboration might lead," he says. "Be open to new ideas and new experiences."

Justin Lyons' journey from dreamer to rockstar is an inspiration to musicians everywhere.

follow Justin Lyons @GUITARSLAYER24