Guitar Hang Podcast

Jon Stankorb

Welcome to The Guitar Hang Podcast. Where we sit down with guitar players of global renown. From iconic rock legends to jazz virtuosos, we delve into their musical journeys, uncovering the secrets behind their distinctive style. Our episodes offer an intimate backstage pass to the creative minds and nimble fingers behind the strings, complete with intriguing anecdotes, gear insights, and unforgettable performances. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just embarking on your musical odyssey, The Guitar Hang is your destination for all things six-stringed and beyond. Tune in for exclusive interviews and a refined celebration of the world of guitar." Presented by Jon Stankorb and www.jonsguitarlounge.com. 

  1. 5d ago

    Kenny Wayne Shepherd S11 | E2

    The Guitar Hang Podcast – Season 11, Episode 2Kenny 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 💥 Use promo code: GUITARHANG300 💰 Save $300 on registration Connect & Listen 🎙️ 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. Support the show "Conversations with Noteworthy Guitarists from around the World"

    29 min
  2. 5d ago

    Billy Sherwood S11 | E1

    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 Woodshed Guitar Experience Ready to take your playing to the next level? The Woodshed Guitar Experience brings together world-class instructors, incredible performances, hands-on workshops, and an unforgettable guitar community experience. 🎸 Use Promo Code: GUITARHANG300 🎸 Save $300 on your registration. 🎸 Join guitar players from around the world for one of the most inspiring guitar events of the year. Follow The Guitar Hang 🎙️ The Guitar Hang Podcast 📺 Jon's Guitar Lounge 🎸 Hosted by Jon Stankorb 📱 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and YouTube 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. Support the show "Conversations with Noteworthy Guitarists from around the World"

    39 min
  3. Jun 13

    Alex Kilroy S10 | E10

    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.  You're using a less powerful model until your limit resets after 4:38 PM. Upgrade to get more access. Claim free offer Support the show "Conversations with Noteworthy Guitarists from around the World"

    30 min
  4. May 23

    Mark Lettieri & Purbayan Chaterjee S10 | E9

    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. Support the show "Conversations with Noteworthy Guitarists from around the World"

    41 min
  5. Mar 13

    Joe Bonamassa S10 | E8

    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 100Joe’s thoughts on tone, gear, and performance philosophyStories from the road and legendary collaborationsJon’s signature blend of music, gear talk, and guitar loveJoin 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/  Support the show "Conversations with Noteworthy Guitarists from around the World"

    29 min
  6. Mar 7

    Frank Hannon S10 | E7

    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. Follow Frank HannonInstagram  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. Support the show "Conversations with Noteworthy Guitarists from around the World"

    1h 2m
  7. Feb 27

    Mattias IA Eklundh S10 | E6

    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” approachBreaking technical limitations without losing musicalityRight-hand control and articulation secretsPracticing creativity (not just speed)The mental game of originalityTouring stories and studio insightsWhy tone, feel, and humor matter just as much as chopsMattias 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.) 🎧 Listen & Follow The Guitar Hang Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thejonstankorb Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonstankorb_jonsguitarlounge/ 🎸 Jon Stankorb / Signs of Life:  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 Support the show "Conversations with Noteworthy Guitarists from around the World"

    48 min
  8. Feb 6

    Ian Thornley S10 | E5

    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 feelWriting and recording music with Big WreckA deep discussion of the new album, The Rest of the StoryHow the band continues to evolve creatively while honoring its rootsGear, guitars, amps, and the role of technology in modern recordingLessons learned from decades of touring and making recordsWhy serving the song always comes before techniqueThis 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 Support the show "Conversations with Noteworthy Guitarists from around the World"

    1h 10m
5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Guitar Hang Podcast. Where we sit down with guitar players of global renown. From iconic rock legends to jazz virtuosos, we delve into their musical journeys, uncovering the secrets behind their distinctive style. Our episodes offer an intimate backstage pass to the creative minds and nimble fingers behind the strings, complete with intriguing anecdotes, gear insights, and unforgettable performances. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just embarking on your musical odyssey, The Guitar Hang is your destination for all things six-stringed and beyond. Tune in for exclusive interviews and a refined celebration of the world of guitar." Presented by Jon Stankorb and www.jonsguitarlounge.com. 

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