What does it really look like to make a living as a guitarist and then suddenly have to pivot when the industry shuts down?

That's what Ryan Jones and I discuss in episode 186 of to the Guitar Theory podcast. I'm your host, Desi Cerna, and today we're diving into a great conversation with my friend Ryan Jones.

Ryan has real world experience as a working guitarist.

He's toured and recorded professionally, studied music out in California, and got connected

with Tommy Walker, which led to some great opportunities on the road and in the studio.

Later, he moved to Nashville to pursue session work and worked with producers like Scott Williamson,

who you may remember from episode 164.

But then COVID hit, and like a lot of musicians, Ryan had to rethink everything.

He ended up developing new skills and software and now works at Sweetwater, bringing him full circle back to his hometown.

We talk about all of that, plus the recording process, amp tones, and the whole real amps

versus modelers debate.

But before we get into it, I want to let you know about something I've got coming up called

Summer Jams.

This is a six-week group Zoom class that meets on Saturdays and focuses on one simple thing,

playing.

Each session, I'll bring a backing track and show you what to play, why it works, and how to make it sound musical.

Then we'll jam together so you can actually use it right away.

It's a relaxed, low-pressure way to learn something new, build

confidence, and just have more fun with your guitar. If that sounds like something you need,

you can get the details and sign up by clicking on the Zoom Lessons link at the top of my website

at Guitarmusic Theory.com. The class is scheduled to start May 9th, 2026, and is limited to just 15 spots.

But if I fill them all, I'll consider adding another in July.

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