Wong Notes

We are absolutely thrilled to welcome back slide guitar legend Derek Trucks for his second appearance on the show. In this episode, we dive deep into the Tedeski Trucks Band's incredible new album, Future Soul, and discuss what it was like shaking things up with versatile producer Mike Elizondo. Derek also shares wild behind-the-scenes stories from their epic 10-night residency at the Beacon Theatre, including surprise sit-ins from icons like Cyndi Lauper and Jaimoe. Guitar nerds, you won't want to miss this part: Derek tells us what it was actually like to play Jerry Garcia's legendary "Tiger" guitar and Frank Zappa’s fast-playing "Baby Snakes" guitar live on stage. We also swap stories from the Sun, Sand and Soul Festival, explore the true meaning of musical mastery, and discuss the physical toll of his unique hand-playing style. Tune in for a masterclass on the guitar and an unforgettable hang!Get 30% off your first year of DistroKid by going here: http://distrokid.com/vip/corywongVisit Derek Trucks: https://tedeschitrucksband.com/Hit us up: [email protected] Cory: https://www.corywongmusic.comVisit Premier Guitar: http://premierguitar.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/wongnotespodProduced by Jason Shadrick and Cory WongPresented by DistroKid

Today, we’re hanging with an absolute legend, the incredible guitarist and producer, Dann Huff. This cat has played on and produced everything from Taylor Swift to Megadeth—talk about a wide spectrum of skill sets!We’re diving deep into his philosophy on session playing and what it really means to serve the composition. Dann drops serious wisdom on how to stop overplaying so your parts don't get muted, the very real danger of "demoitis," and what it takes to be a "casting director" when you're producing a record. We also talk about his brand new instrumental solo album, where he got back to his roots and wove incredible orchestral arrangements right into his guitar solos.If you want to elevate your session playing or understand the magic of arrangement and production, you need to hear this episode.Get 30% off your first year of DistroKid by going here: http://distrokid.com/vip/corywongVisit Dann Huff: https://www.instagram.com/dannhuffHit us up: [email protected] Cory: https://www.corywongmusic.comVisit Premier Guitar: http://premierguitar.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/wongnotespodIG: https://www.instagram.com/wongnotespodProduced by Jason Shadrick and Cory WongPresented by DistroKid

Fresh off winning two Grammys and being named artistic director of the Newport Jazz Festival, drum legend Nate Smith sits down with host and bandmate Cory Wong to chart his career journey on this new episode of Wong Notes.Smith details his rise from playing with jazz giants like Dave Holland and Chris Potter's Underground to the viral visibility of the Fearless Flyers. A particularly cool gem that he shares is the fax-era story of how a beat tape led to him receiving a songwriting credit on Michael Jackson's Invincible: “I made my Michael Jackson songwriter deal at Kinko’s, brother!” Smith says.The conversation turns to the essential, irreplaceable muscle of live performance, the importance of artistic concept over chops, and the need for new leaders to steward the future of jazz. Nate also teases his upcoming trio run with J3PO and Cartoons, and the long-demanded reunion with Cory and Victor Wooten. Tune in to the episode to get all the goods.Get 30% off your first year of DistroKid by going here: http://distrokid.com/vip/corywongVisit Nate Smith: https://www.natesmithdrums.com/Hit us up: [email protected] Cory: https://www.corywongmusic.comVisit Premier Guitar: http://premierguitar.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/wongnotespodIG: https://www.instagram.com/wongnotespodProduced by Jason Shadrick and Cory WongPresented by DistroKid

Cory Wong sits down with the legendary bassist Oteil Burbridge (Allman Brothers Band, Dead & Company, Tedeschi Trucks Band) for a deep dive into musical philosophy, Col. Bruce, and more.Burbridge has been driven by a simple, radical lesson he learned from Col. Bruce Hampton: Intention comes first, the instrument is last. He tells Cory how he learned to channel his entire life—including the “mirror of embarrassment”—into his playing to develop a singular voice—scat singing and all.Burbridge also breaks down how he maintains deep groove while adding melodic freedom, and the power a bassist has to drive a soloist to “40,000 feet.” Plus, you’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories from the Allman Brothers Band, advice on dealing with creative pushback, and details on his upcoming album recorded in Iceland.Get 30% off your first year of DistroKid by going here: http://distrokid.com/vip/corywongVisit Oteil: https://www.oteilburbridge.com/Hit us up: [email protected] Cory: https://www.corywongmusic.comVisit Premier Guitar: http://premierguitar.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/wongnotespodProduced by Jason Shadrick and Cory WongPresented by DistroKid

Matteo Mancuso, an Italian guitar virtuoso known for his electric fingerstyle technique, shares his journey from learning guitar at age ten to blending rock, jazz, and classical influences. He discusses the unique challenges and joys of playing with his father's finger-picking style while emphasizing a goal-oriented approach to practice. The duo dives into topics like band leadership, creative songwriting, and touring realities, while offering practical warm-up exercises and insights on navigating the fretboard effectively. It's a deep and inspiring conversation for aspiring musicians!

Trey Anastasio, the founder and frontman of Phish, discusses his recent creative journey, including a meaningful piano purchase for his 60th birthday. He dives into the challenges of translating piano compositions to guitar and reflects on the evolution of his songwriting. Trey shares his thoughts on how streaming affects music engagement and the excitement he feels about emerging young bands. Additionally, he plays unreleased demos, revealing his unique approach to music-making and the importance of authenticity in his sound.

Trey Anastasio, lead guitarist and founding member of Phish, shares his excitement about touring with his friends for over 40 years. He dives into his journey with Dumble amps, discussing their unique tonal qualities compared to Mesa Boogies. Trey also reflects on Broadway influences shaping his melodic style, and how composition plays a crucial role in Phish’s improvisation. With stories about hockey and a backstage gratitude ritual, his passion for music and life is infectious, highlighting the deep connection with his craft.

This go around, Cory Wong is joined by Pino Palladino and Blake Mills. Palladino, a Grammy-winning bassist, has collaborated with everyone from Erykah Badu and Keith Richards to John Mayer and the late, great D’Angelo. Mills’ resumé includes work with Bob Dylan, Fiona Apple, and Joni Mitchell. The duo has been around the block. Wong probes all corners of their creative processes, from the purpose of the music they make, to dealing with “unnatural” elements of the creative process, to layering parts on a record, to different approaches to melody. As you read, Palladino and Mills have worked with some of the greatest musicians and writers of the past century. They’ve got a lot of wisdom to share.Tune in to learn from some of the best in the biz.Get 30% off your first year of DistroKid by going here: http://distrokid.com/vip/corywongVisit Blake Mills: https://www.blakemillsonline.com/Visit Pino Palladino: https://pinopalladinoblakemills.komi.io/Hit us up: [email protected] Cory: https://www.corywongmusic.comVisit Premier Guitar: http://premierguitar.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/wongnotespodIG: https://www.instagram.com/wongnotespodProduced by Jason Shadrick and Cory WongPresented by DistroKid

Nate Smith, a Grammy-caliber drummer, shares insights on drum-part construction and the importance of dynamics in jamming. Joe Dart, a highly musical bassist, discusses how to build bass lines that enhance harmony and drive arrangements. They dive into the essence of listening during improvisation and explain their creative processes around arranging and complementing each other's parts. The conversation also touches on their band identity and the synergy of groove, melody, and texture that defines their sound.

Singer-songwriter James Bay shares his journey backstage at the 9:30 Club. He discusses his early struggles with iconic solos and how Jack White's philosophy influenced his relationship with guitar. Bay reveals how his recent album emphasizes guitar work and the gear shaping his sound. Plus, he dives into the nuances of hiring bandmates—looking for skill and camaraderie—as well as how to honor Prince when performing in his hometown. This chat is packed with musical insights and personal anecdotes!