Off Script with Jarvis 'Jeb' Barnes

Jarvis 'Jeb' Barnes
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Off Script is the leading podcast on what it really takes to build a career in live entertainment. Hosted by Jarvis “Jeb” Barnes, the show pulls back the curtain on how great performances are built, careers are shaped, and real success in touring and entertainment is earned. Each episode features honest conversations with the professionals who make the stage happen, including musicians, dancers, music directors, creative directors, choreographers, tour managers, playback techs, and other leaders in live performance. This is where the highlight reel ends and the real story begins. Off Script explores how opportunities are earned, how rehearsals really work, how leadership decisions get made, and what separates raw talent from lasting success. From preparation and pressure to relationships, excellence, and professionalism, the show gives listeners a rare inside look at what it truly takes to build a career in music, touring, and live entertainment. Whether you are trying to break into the industry, grow within it, or simply understand what happens behind the performance, Off Script delivers real stories, real lessons, and real insight from the people shaping live entertainment at the highest level.

  1. Oct 19

    Greg Clark Jr: You Can’t Learn This Online! Rates, Relationships & Getting the Call Ep. 20

    Drummer Greg Clark Jr. breaks down how to price yourself, earn trust, work with MDs and artists, and land endorsements, without a viral clip.SummaryDrummer Greg Clark Jr. joins Jarvis “Jeb” Barnes for a straight conversation about what it takes to get hired, and stay hired, in the music industry. Greg moved from Washington, DC to Los Angeles in January 2020 after about a decade of traveling out for shows. He explains why even an established player has to start from scratch in a new city. From there, he and Jeb trace how church music and the DC/Maryland/Virginia drum scene shaped him. They get into what social media drummers can miss, how to set a fair rate, and what a musical director actually carries. Greg also walks through how he learns a full show and how he built his endorsements. Key takeawaysMoving cities means rebuilding trust. Greg says it takes about two and a half to three years in LA for people to decide whether you’re reliable, so lead with humility.Relationships beat followers. Online views don’t tell an MD whether you show up on time, handle a rider, or stay easy to be around.Ask before you quote a rate. Call a trusted peer, don’t guess, and be wary if management says yes fast.Know your role. Greg’s rule is “we are of service”: the MD makes the musical calls, and the player brings concerns to them, not around them.Be direct and accountable. Greg calls people to say why a gig isn’t working out, so nobody is left guessing.Listen, don’t just mimic. Studying a song with your ears builds your own sound. Copying clips doesn’t.Show up knowing the music. Greg breaks down sounds, choices, patterns, and arrangement, then keeps color-coded notes he can read in real time.Find your sound before you chase endorsements. Try different gear, and be ready to explain why you want a partnership beyond free gear.CHAPTERS 00:00 Hook: “If management says yes fast, you messed up”00:13 From DC to LA: Starting Over in a New City07:20 Growing Up in Church and the DC Drum Scene20:45 Humility, Triggers, and the Drummers Who Reshaped Modern Drumming26:21 Social Media vs. Working Musicians: Why Relationships Get You the Call38:54 What a Musical Director Really Does (and Knowing Your Role)52:40 How to Set Your Rate (and Why a Fast Yes Is a Red Flag)01:07:39 Reputation, Direct Communication, and Self-Accountability01:14:39 Becoming a Go-To Drummer in Every Genre01:26:09 How Greg Learns a Full Show01:33:09 Greg’s Endorsement Journey01:41:15 How to Approach Brands and What Artist Relations Look For01:50:10 What’s Next: UK Drum Show, Running a Clinic, and Closing Thoughts

  2. Oct 5

    American Idol Drummer RJ Kelly: Every Gig Is an Audition | Ep. 19

    American Idol drummer RJ Kelly joins Jarvis to talk about what it really takes to become a first-call musician in LA. RJ shares how getting fired from two jobs pushed him out of Kansas City, why he skipped music school (and what he'd tell young players now), and the mindset that's kept him working at the highest level for 15+ years. We get into treating every gig like an audition, Andy Ward's potluck analogy for serving the song, how to network without being awkward, what happens when an MD changes the music five seconds before air, staying calm with 60+ songs on deck, why he's stayed loyal to Tama and Meinl, and the big one: how do you know what to charge when nobody posts the rates? Real talk for drummers, session players, and anyone building a career in the music business. CHAPTERS 0:00 Cold open 1:00 From Kansas City to LA 8:31 Skipping music school: does RJ regret it? 20:52 Treat every gig like an audition 32:59 Serve the song 36:34 How to network in the music industry 44:34 Audition and gig prep advice 54:03 Inside the American Idol band 1:15:31 Drum endorsements 1:26:45 What should musicians charge? CONNECT WITH RJ KELLY Instagram: @rjkellymusic CONNECT WITH JARVIS Website: drummingwithjarvis.com Instagram: @jarvisjeb TikTok: @offscriptwithjarvis

  3. Sep 22

    Payge Cooper: The Unwritten Rules Every Working Musician Needs | Ep. 18

    What does it really take to go from chasing opportunities to performing on some of the biggest stages in the world? In Episode 18 of Off Script, Jarvis “Jeb” Barnes sits down with Grammy-nominated producer, drummer, musical director, and creative Payge Cooper, better known as TurnThePAYGE. From leaving Atlanta and rebuilding his career in Los Angeles to touring with SZA and working alongside artists including Brandy, Eric Benét, Musiq Soulchild, Nipsey Hussle, and more, Payge’s journey is a lesson in preparation, patience, identity, and professional growth. But this conversation isn’t a highlight reel. Payge speaks honestly about adapting to the Los Angeles music scene, navigating pressure, preparing for rehearsals, finding the right mentors, and learning how to remain authentic while evolving into the musician each opportunity required. He and Jarvis also unpack the skills that rarely receive enough attention: restraint, repetition, character, self-awareness, healthy relationships, and knowing how to serve the music instead of your ego. Payge explains when endorsements actually become valuable, why musicians should develop an identity beyond one instrument, and how to balance social media visibility with genuine relationships in the real world. This episode is for every drummer, musician, and creative who wants more than a viral moment. It’s about building the preparation, reputation, and relationships required for a career that lasts. IN THIS EPISODE: • Starting over in a completely new music scene • Staying authentic while adapting professionally • Preparing for rehearsals and high-pressure opportunities • Why preparation matters more than appearing confident • Finding mentors who will tell you the truth • Building healthy professional relationships • When artist endorsements actually matter • Developing a brand beyond your instrument • Balancing social media with real-world networking • Why restraint and repetition make better drummers • The skills and ethics every working musician needs • Building relationships that create lasting opportunities What do you believe keeps musicians working: talent, preparation, character, or relationships? Join the conversation below. FOLLOW PAYGE COOPER: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/turnthepaygepro/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@turnthepayge Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/payge.cooper Website: https://www.turnthepaygepro.com/ CHAPTERS: 00:00 Starting Over and Breaking Into Los Angeles 07:26 Staying Authentic While Evolving 11:27 Navigating the Music Industry 26:25 Rehearsal Preparation and Performing Under Pressure 50:45 Mentorship and the Value of Wise Counsel 56:08 Healthy Relationships and Artist Endorsements 1:11:51 Diversifying Your Artistry and Building a Brand 1:25:06 Social Media vs. Real-World Networking 1:30:05 Restraint, Repetition, and Professional Musicianship 1:39:21 What Every Working Drummer Needs to Understand 1:53:51 Building Relationships That Create Opportunities Off Script goes beyond the performance to reveal what it really takes to build a career in live entertainment. Subscribe for honest conversations with the musicians, creatives, and professionals responsible for bringing the world’s biggest shows to life. #PaygeCooper #SZA #OffScriptPodcast

  4. Sep 7

    Brian Frasier-Moore: What It Takes to Become a First-Call Drummer | Ep. 17

    What does it take to become one of the most trusted and sought-after drummers in the music industry? In Episode 17 of Off Script, Jarvis sits down with legendary drummer, musical director, entrepreneur, and educator Brian Frasier-Moore for an honest conversation about longevity, preparation, relationships, money, endorsements, and the business behind a world-class music career. Brian’s unmistakable feel, versatility, and professionalism have placed him behind some of the biggest artists and productions in the world. His remarkable résumé includes Justin Timberlake, Madonna, P!NK, Janet Jackson, Usher, Christina Aguilera, Aaliyah, Babyface, Toni Braxton, Jill Scott, Patti LaBelle, the Backstreet Boys, Eros Ramazzotti, the BET Awards, the Grammy Awards, multiple Super Bowl halftime performances, and many more. Brian shares what it truly takes to become a vital asset, successfully cross musical genres, prepare for high-pressure performances, and sustain a career as the music industry continues to evolve. He and Jarvis also unpack the business of endorsements, negotiating your value, financial education, social media, and why talent alone is not enough to create longevity. Brian also opens up about balancing an extraordinary career with a healthy marriage and personal life, building the right support system, and expanding his impact through education, mentorship, entrepreneurship, and motivational speaking. This episode is essential viewing for musicians, creatives, touring professionals, and anyone determined to build a sustainable career in entertainment. CONNECT WITH BRIAN FRASIER-MOORE 🌎 BFM World: https://www.bfmworld.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bfm22 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCks_vXF48sdG6a7b9mqjzmg Visit BFM World to explore Brian’s private consultations, one-on-one lessons, session recordings, drum loops, clinics, masterclasses, signature gear, #BFMThoughts book, and additional resources for musicians and creatives. CHAPTERS 00:00 Life, Love and Managing a Busy Career 04:11 Becoming a Vital Asset 21:56 Crossing Musical Genres 27:45 The Business of Endorsements 37:36 Negotiating Your Value 53:31 Developing a Business Mindset 59:22 The Music Business Today 1:04:01 Adapting and Creating Longevity 1:15:27 Preparing for Performances 1:24:14 Motivational Speaking ABOUT OFF SCRIPT Off Script with Jarvis explores what it truly takes to build and sustain a career in live entertainment. Through honest conversations with the musicians, creatives, executives, and professionals behind the world’s biggest performances, Jarvis uncovers the preparation, decisions, relationships, and business lessons audiences rarely get to hear. Subscribe for a new episode every other Monday. CONNECT WITH OFF SCRIPT & JARVIS 🌎 Drumming With Jarvis: https://www.drummingwithjarvis.com 🛒 Resources and consultations: https://www.drummingwithjarvis.com/store Comment with your biggest takeaway, share the episode with another creative, and subscribe for more conversations from behind the world of live entertainment. #BrianFrasierMoore #OffScriptWithJarvis #BFMWorld #ProfessionalDrummer #MusicBusiness

  5. Aug 24

    Steve Muncaster: What It Takes to Be a World Touring Drum Tech | Ep. 16

    In Episode 16 of Off Script with Jarvis, touring drum tech, drummer and stage manager Steven “Steve” Muncaster reveals what it really takes to build a successful career behind the scenes in live music. Drawing from his experience working on major tours with artists including Tate McRae and Dermot Kennedy, Steve breaks down the responsibilities of a professional drum tech, from tuning drums and managing backline to understanding an artist’s preferences, communication style and performance needs. Jarvis and Steve discuss the transition from drummer to drum tech, the importance of building relationships before joining a tour, and why most touring opportunities still come through trust, reputation and word of mouth. They also explore how social media affects gig opportunities, what drum techs immediately notice about drummers, and why online talent does not always translate into professional readiness. Steve also shares valuable insight into drum tuning, drumhead resonance, substitute and dep drummers, making decisions under pressure, and navigating the personalities and challenges that come with life on the road. Whether you are an aspiring drum tech, touring drummer, backline technician, stage manager or musician trying to break into the live entertainment industry, this conversation provides an honest look at the professionalism, adaptability and attention to detail required to sustain a career on tour. Subscribe to Off Script with Jarvis for more honest conversations with the musicians, crew members and creative professionals responsible for bringing live entertainment to life. Follow Steve Muncaster: @stevemuncaster TAKEAWAYS Successful drum teching begins with clear communication before the tour starts.Understanding the artist and drummer is just as important as understanding the equipment.Attention to detail can determine whether a live performance runs smoothly.Touring opportunities are often built through relationships, trust and word of mouth.Social media can create opportunities, but professionalism determines whether you keep them.Drum techs notice preparation, consistency and habits that other people may overlook.Substitute and dep drummers must understand and protect the identity of the original gig.Great drum tuning requires knowledge, experience and a willingness to experiment.Adaptability and calm decision-making are essential when problems happen onstage.Career longevity requires self-awareness, healthy boundaries and work-life balance.CHAPTERS 00:00 Life on the Road as a Drum Tech 03:04 From Drummer to Professional Drum Tech 09:57 Why Attention to Detail Matters 18:59 Understanding the Artist and Their Preferences 20:43 Building Relationships Before Going on Tour 27:16 Breaking Into the Drum-Tech and Backline Industry 34:01 Social Media Versus Real-World Gig Applications 39:00 What Drum Techs Notice About Drummers 42:30 Making Decisions Under Pressure 43:45 Approaching the Job With Nuance 45:10 Professionalism and Touring Work Ethic 46:28 The Art of Tuning Drums for Live Performance 54:53 Understanding Drumhead Resonance 57:10 Relationships, Reputation and Professionalism 01:00:08 Navigating the Challenges of Touring 01:03:12 Personal and Professional Growth 01:05:06 Leading With Understanding and Compassion 01:06:34 The Realities of Life on Tour 01:07:36 Balancing Personality and Job Performance 01:08:53 Finding Your Lane in the Music Industry 01:11:24 Touring and Work-Life Balance 01:13:18 Self-Awareness, Boundaries and Well-Being 01:14:28 Staying Authentic in a Professional Environment 01:16:24 Commitment, Distance and Separation 01:18:28 The Touring Lifestyle 01:21:32 Steve’s Upcoming Projects

  6. Aug 10

    Dre DiMura: Went From Struggling Musician to 100M+ Views I Ep. 15

    What happens when a talented musician stops waiting for the entertainment industry to say yes and starts building an audience on his own terms? In Episode 15 of Off Script with Jarvis, professional guitarist, writer, and content creator Dre DiMura reveals how he transformed uncertainty, rejection, and creative frustration into a successful career reaching millions of people online. Dre breaks down his transition from working as a professional musician to becoming a full-time content creator. He shares how TikTok changed the direction of his career, what he learned from creating viral content, and why understanding market demand does not have to mean abandoning your identity as an artist. This conversation goes beyond algorithms and social media strategy. Dre speaks candidly about living with OCD, managing intrusive thoughts, and recognizing how perfectionism and the need for control can affect the creative process. He and Jarvis discuss embracing imperfection, learning to self-regulate, and developing the courage to move forward without knowing exactly how everything will work out. Dre also explains why so many talented people remain stuck waiting for permission from gatekeepers, companies, audiences, or the entertainment industry. His journey demonstrates how experimentation, adaptability, consistency, and community can help turn a creative hobby into a sustainable profession. The conversation also explores the personal side of success, including building a relationship around a shared vision, communicating through change, supporting one another’s individual growth, and establishing trust within creative collaborations. If you are a musician, artist, content creator, creative entrepreneur, or anyone trying to build a career without a traditional roadmap, this episode will challenge you to stop waiting for permission and start creating opportunities for yourself. Off Script is the leading podcast on what it really takes to build a career in live entertainment. TAKEAWAYS • Waiting for the industry to choose you can prevent you from creating your own opportunities. • Transitioning from musician to content creator requires experimentation, adaptability, and a willingness to take risks. • Dre’s experience with OCD reveals how intrusive thoughts, perfectionism, and uncertainty can influence creative work. • Successful content balances personal expression with an understanding of what the audience wants. • Community, consistency, and the ability to adapt played essential roles in Dre’s growth. • Shared vision, honest communication, and individual growth are critical in relationships and creative partnerships. • Professional collaboration depends on trust, respect, preparation, and attention to detail. CHAPTERS 00:00 Nashville, Zach Finski and Life Today 02:55 From Professional Musician to Content Creator 11:57 Uncertainty, Risk and Creative Reinvention 20:01 OCD, Intrusive Thoughts and the Creative Process 27:25 From Struggling Artist to Successful Creator 30:12 Stop Waiting for Industry Permission 36:45 How Social Media Content Has Changed 49:38 Market Demand, Adaptability and Community 51:08 Creating and Scripting Content That Connects 01:14:06 Relationships, Shared Vision and Support 01:39:29 Trust and Attention to Detail in Collaboration #OffScriptWithJarvis #DreDiMura #ContentCreator

  7. Aug 3

    Josh Foster: How to Become the Musician Everyone Wants to Hire I Ep. 14

    What does it really take to build a lasting career as a professional touring musician? In Episode 14 of Off Script with Jarvis, professional drummer, producer, and musical director Joshua “Josh” Foster shares the preparation, versatility, mentorship, and mindset required to succeed in the music industry. With experience performing alongside artists such as Mariah Carey, Snoop Dogg, Tyler Perry, Chantae Cann, and Reneé Rapp, Josh offers an honest look at what it takes to stay ready for major opportunities. This conversation goes far beyond drumming. Josh opens up about returning home after touring and learning to separate his identity and personal worth from his career. He explains why endorsements should be viewed as genuine partnerships, how musicians can become more valuable through versatility, and why talent without the right mentality can limit career growth. Jarvis and Josh also discuss the power of mentorship, learning from respected OGs, receiving constructive feedback, and actually applying the guidance you are given. Josh breaks down his approach to preparation, gear and workflow readiness, immersive listening, visualization, rehearsals, and understanding the full musical picture before stepping onstage. The episode also explores working with musical directors, adapting to different leadership styles, navigating industry gatekeepers, protecting your professional reputation, establishing fair pay standards, and creating opportunities beyond one instrument or job title. Whether you are an aspiring drummer, touring musician, musical director, producer, independent artist, or creative professional, this episode offers practical insight into building a respected and sustainable music career. KEY TAKEAWAYS • Your identity and personal worth cannot depend entirely on touring or career success. • Endorsements are professional relationships, not simply opportunities to receive free gear. • Preparation includes knowing the music, understanding your role, and having your gear and workflow ready. • Mentorship becomes valuable when you are willing to receive, process, and apply feedback. • Versatility, professionalism, teamwork, and intentionality create career longevity. • Understanding a musical director’s preferences can make you a more dependable musician. • Diversifying your artistry can create opportunities beyond drumming. Subscribe for more honest conversations about musicianship, touring, music direction, preparation, career development, and the people and processes behind live performance. CHAPTERS 00:00 Life at Home, Touring, and Identity 08:07 Endorsements, Value, and Industry Partnerships 16:23 Versatility, Mentality, and Career Longevity 23:07 Mentorship, OGs, and Applying Feedback 30:15 Preparation and Staying Ready 44:42 Gear, Workflow, and Rehearsal Readiness 49:26 Learning Music Through Listening and Visualization 01:03:33 Teamwork, Musical Integrity, and Professionalism 01:09:32 Working With Different Musical Directors 01:19:13 Gatekeepers, Industry Standards, and Pay 01:36:13 Mentorship, Opportunity, and Growth 01:46:49 Diversifying Your Artistry Beyond Drumming #OffScriptWithJarvis #JoshuaFoster #ProfessionalDrummer

  8. Jul 27

    Chris Payton: What it takes to work with the Best I Ep. 13

    What does it take to perform at the highest level while still protecting the relationships and responsibilities that matter most? In Episode 13 of Off Script with Jarvis, Jarvis sits down with session and touring guitarist Chris Payton for an honest conversation about family, preparation, musical adaptability, and stepping into the demanding role of playing guitar for Bruno Mars. Chris opens up about balancing life as a full-time musician with family, the support system that has helped him navigate the demands of the music industry, and how his upbringing influenced the musician and person he became. The conversation also explores the close-knit community of musicians Chris developed alongside and how genuine relationships can create trust, chemistry, and stronger musical collaboration. He explains why adaptability is essential when moving between artists, genres, and musical environments, especially when every opportunity requires a different approach. Chris and Jarvis break down what separates talented musicians from dependable working professionals. Beyond musical ability, success requires preparation, self-awareness, a positive attitude, and the ability to make the people around you feel comfortable. Chris also shares practical insight for guitarists learning how to serve the song, understand their role, and adjust their playing without losing their musical identity. Later, Chris takes listeners inside his transition into one of the most demanding live music opportunities in the industry: performing with Bruno Mars. He discusses the preparation, pressure, discipline, and mental and physical endurance required to execute a show at that level. This episode is essential for guitarists, touring musicians, session players, and anyone working toward a sustainable career in the music industry. In this episode: • Balancing a full-time music career with family life • How upbringing and family support shape career decisions • Building meaningful relationships within the music community • Why personal chemistry improves musical collaboration • Adapting your playing to different artists and environments • Why preparation and personality matter as much as talent • Strategies and challenges facing professional guitarists • The transition into playing guitar for Bruno Mars • Handling the pressure of a high-demand touring opportunity • Developing the endurance required for elite live performance Chapters 00:00 Balancing Music and Family 01:58 Life as a Full-Time Musician 05:06 How Upbringing Shapes Your Career 20:14 Building Lifelong Musical Relationships 33:37 Adapting to Different Musical Environments 45:00 Why Character and Preparation Matter 46:12 Challenges Every Working Guitarist Faces 59:46 Stepping Into the Bruno Mars Gig Subscribe to Off Script with Jarvis for honest conversations about the people, preparation, and unseen work behind the world’s biggest performances. Learn more at DrummingWithJarvis.com. #ChrisPayton #BrunoMars #BrunoMarsGuitarist #ProfessionalGuitarist #TouringMusician #SessionMusician #MusicIndustry #Guitarist #WorkingMusician #OffScriptWithJarvis

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Off Script is the leading podcast on what it really takes to build a career in live entertainment. Hosted by Jarvis “Jeb” Barnes, the show pulls back the curtain on how great performances are built, careers are shaped, and real success in touring and entertainment is earned. Each episode features honest conversations with the professionals who make the stage happen, including musicians, dancers, music directors, creative directors, choreographers, tour managers, playback techs, and other leaders in live performance. This is where the highlight reel ends and the real story begins. Off Script explores how opportunities are earned, how rehearsals really work, how leadership decisions get made, and what separates raw talent from lasting success. From preparation and pressure to relationships, excellence, and professionalism, the show gives listeners a rare inside look at what it truly takes to build a career in music, touring, and live entertainment. Whether you are trying to break into the industry, grow within it, or simply understand what happens behind the performance, Off Script delivers real stories, real lessons, and real insight from the people shaping live entertainment at the highest level.

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