Off Script with Jarvis 'Jeb' Barnes

Jarvis 'Jeb' Barnes

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. 6d ago

    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

  2. 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

  3. Jul 20

    DeAndre Hemby: What Actually Keeps You Working in Music | Ep. 12

    Talent may get you into the room, but what makes people trust you enough to call you back? In Episode 12 of Off Script with Jarvis, DeAndre Hemby shares what it truly takes to build a lasting career as a professional musician. From performing at Coachella and preparing for major tours to navigating ego, social media, endorsements, and industry relationships, this conversation reveals the work that happens long before anyone steps onstage. DeAndre explains why preparation is about more than memorizing songs. A professional musician must understand the artist’s vision, learn the musical language of the show, remain flexible, and be ready to adjust without losing the intention of the music. Jarvis and DeAndre also unpack the meaning of “pocket,” musical vocabulary, dynamics, and the power of space. They discuss how great musicians balance creative freedom with discipline, knowing when to express themselves and when to pull back. Sometimes the most musical decision is choosing not to play. Beyond musicianship, DeAndre breaks down the qualities that create real career longevity: dependability, trust, humility, self-awareness, respect, and a strong work ethic. Talent can open a door, but your character and ability to serve the team often determine whether that door stays open. The conversation also explores the realities of touring that social media rarely shows. Behind every exciting performance are long days, difficult decisions, personal sacrifices, detailed preparation, and an entire team working toward one shared vision. DeAndre offers valuable insight into building relationships, starting with smaller opportunities, advocating for your team, navigating endorsements, and recognizing the different career paths available throughout the music industry. He also explains why musicians must set aside ego and personal pride to support the artist and deliver the best possible show. This episode is essential for touring musicians, drummers, music directors, producers, artists, and anyone who wants to understand the professional mindset required to succeed in the live music industry. Key Takeaways: • Preparation gives musicians the freedom to perform confidently • Pocket is about feel, context, and serving the song • Musical maturity includes knowing when to leave space • Flexibility and vocabulary are essential in live performance • Dependability and trust can matter as much as talent • Serving the artist’s vision requires humility and discipline • Social media rarely reflects the full reality of touring • Strong relationships are built through respect and consistency • Self-awareness helps musicians make better career decisions • Character and work ethic are essential for longevity Chapters: 00:00 Coachella and Life on the Big Stage 03:01 Preparing for Festivals and Tours 11:00 Musical Freedom, Discipline, and Space 23:20 Vocabulary, Flexibility, and Finding the Pocket 30:03 Social Media’s Impact on Musicians 50:10 Dependability, Trust, and Serving the Artist 54:06 Ego, Teamwork, and Professional Relationships 01:16:09 The Truth About Touring 01:36:30 Building a Sustainable Music Career 02:01:37 Upcoming Projects and Community Outreach

  4. Jul 13

    Chaun Horton: The Truth About Talent, Trust & Surviving the Music Industry | Ep. 11

    In this episode of Off Script with Jarvis, professional drummer Chaun Horton shares the experiences, relationships, musical influences, and personal lessons that shaped his career. Chaun opens up about moving to Sweden with his family, adjusting to different cultures, relocating to Nashville, and eventually finding his way to Los Angeles. He explains how rejection, persistence, and an unexpected full scholarship to the Los Angeles Music Academy changed the direction of his life. The conversation explores the importance of mentorship, jam sessions, networking, preparation, and being ready when opportunity arrives. Chaun also reflects on his early professional experiences, including working with Macy Gray, and the musical moments that challenged him to develop greater feel, restraint, depth, and confidence. Jarvis and Chaun break down what it truly means to learn a song, understand your role as a drummer, and serve the music without overplaying. They discuss gospel, jazz, fusion, James Taylor, influential drummers, groove, musical maturity, and the difference between simply playing the notes and understanding the full emotional purpose of a song. Beyond musicianship, this episode takes an honest look at the realities of the music business. Chaun shares his perspective on trust, integrity, gossip, insecurity, preparation, health, hard work, authenticity, and the character required to build a sustainable career. This conversation is for drummers, musicians, artists, producers, and creatives who want to grow professionally without losing who they are personally. Topics include: • Chaun Horton’s journey from Sweden to Los Angeles • Rejection, scholarships, mentorship, and career-changing opportunities • Working with Macy Gray and entering the professional music industry • Networking, jam sessions, and building authentic relationships • Groove, feel, restraint, and serving the song • Gospel, jazz, fusion, and musical influences • Preparation, trust, integrity, and professional reputation • Navigating gossip, insecurity, and deception in the music business • Health, authenticity, personal growth, and career longevity Chapters00:00 Moving to Sweden and adjusting to a new culture 06:07 Los Angeles, musical influences, and finding direction 13:53 Rejection, scholarships, and the LA Music Academy 26:03 Meeting Mike Shapiro and navigating new opportunities 41:35 Working with Macy Gray and entering the industry 46:22 Networking, jam sessions, and unforgettable musicians 59:20 Learning songs, serving the music, and developing feel 01:03:03 Jazz, fusion, gospel, and influential musicians 01:12:43 James Taylor, musical depth, and personal growth 01:27:20 Dissecting music, the 75% rule, and musical personality 01:36:07 Trust, integrity, gossip, and the music business 01:53:26 Preparation, hard work, health, and authenticity Subscribe to Off Script with Jarvis for honest conversations with the musicians, creatives, and professionals behind the performance.

  5. Jun 15

    Terry King: Touring, Musical Direction & The Truth About the Music Industry | Ep. 10

    In this episode of Off Script with Jarvis, Jarvis sits down with Terry King for a powerful conversation on building a career in the music industry, becoming a trusted musician, understanding the role of a musical director, and navigating the realities of professional touring. Terry King shares insight from his journey through the music business, covering industry seasonality, international touring, getting in the room, self-awareness, musical growth, and the importance of intentionality. This episode also breaks down what musical directors and artists look for in drummers, bass players, guitarists, and keyboard players — giving aspiring musicians a clear look at what it takes to be prepared, professional, and valuable on a gig. Jarvis and Terry also discuss how musicians can handle criticism, build rapport in professional rooms, use social media as a modern audition platform, and understand the deeper purpose behind a music career. The conversation closes with an honest discussion about financial literacy, long-term sustainability, and the realities of navigating the music industry. Whether you’re a drummer, bassist, guitarist, keyboardist, musical director, touring musician, or someone trying to break into the live music industry, this episode is packed with real insight, practical advice, and career-shaping perspective. Key Topics Covered: Terry King’s background, career journey, and lessons from the roadHow industry seasonality affects musicians and touring opportunitiesWhy getting in the room matters in the music industryThe importance of intentionality, humility, and self-awarenessWhat a musical director actually doesWhat MDs and artists expect from professional musiciansQualities needed from drummers, bass players, guitarists, and keyboardistsBuilding rapport and breaking the ice in professional settingsHow to handle criticism, correction, and feedbackWhy social media has become a major audition platformHow your online presence can affect your career opportunitiesUnderstanding your purpose as a musicianFinancial literacy and long-term sustainability in the music business Takeaways: Talent matters, but intentionality, preparation, and awareness help musicians stay in the room.The role of a musical director requires leadership, communication, trust, and the ability to serve both the artist and the band.Every musician has a responsibility to understand their role, their sound, and how they contribute to the bigger picture.Social media is no longer just content — it can be an audition, a resume, and a reflection of your professionalism.Long-term success in music requires more than playing well; it requires purpose, humility, relationships, and financial awareness. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Industry Seasonality 04:56 Getting in the Room 24:07 Self-Awareness and Musical Ability 48:40 Qualities of Professional Musicians 54:39 Expectations from Guitarists 01:10:37 Building Rapport and Breaking the Ice 01:23:04 Social Media as an Audition Platform 01:33:48 Finding Your Why in Music 01:38:53 Financial Literacy for Musicians 01:46:03 Navigating the Music Industry

  6. May 18

    Tim Hibbert: Behind The Sound Of The World’s Biggest Artists I Ep. 9

    Tim Hibbert is a world renowned audio engineer who has worked with artists such as Janet Jackson, Earth, Wind & Fire, Reneé Rapp, Lizzo, and many more. In this episode of Off Script with Jarvis, Tim Hibbert breaks down the balance between old school methodology and modern technology in audio engineering. The conversation explores how new tools can expand the creative process when used with purpose, discipline, and strong fundamentals. Tim and Jarvis discuss the role of technology in live sound, the importance of efficiency, working with music directors, protecting the artist’s vision, and understanding your value in the industry. They also dive into boundaries, communication, social media pressure, budget challenges, mentorship, and the importance of proper training for the next generation of audio engineers. Follow Tim on Instagram: Tim Hibbert's Bio: Timothy A. Hibbert is the founder and owner of Audio Buddy Productions, a live concert production company specializing in audio engineering, production management, and tour support. With over a decade of experience, Tim has worked as a front of house engineer, monitor engineer, and production lead across tours, residencies, festivals, and broadcast environments. His work is rooted in translating the emotion of the record into a powerful live experience while delivering consistency, precision, and leadership at the highest level. Takeaways Adaptation matters, but fundamentals still lead the way.New technology should be treated as a tool, not a shortcut.Efficiency is key in professional audio environments.Strong communication and relationships are essential.Setting boundaries is part of knowing your worth.Audio engineers play a major role in shaping the artist’s live experience.Training, mentorship, and real world experience are critical for long term success. Chapters 00:00 Adapting to New Technology 19:24 The Role of Technology in Audio Engineering 26:35 Balancing Artistic Vision 37:14 Teaching and Learning 45:00 Setting Boundaries and Knowing Your Worth 54:04 Navigating Social Media and Budget Constraints 01:02:20 Training and Mentorship in Audio Engineering

  7. May 11

    Quinton “Q” Robinson: Music, Mindset, Money, and Maturity | Ep.8

    In this episode of Off Script, Jarvis sits down with Quinton “Q” Robinson for a grounded and honest conversation about the real work behind building a life and career in music. Q shares pieces of his journey from Miami to Atlanta, the challenges that shaped him, and the lessons that came through pressure, transition, community, and purpose. The conversation moves beyond performance and into the deeper areas that often determine longevity in the music industry. Jarvis and Q talk through resilience, insecurity, jealousy, ego, self talk, therapy, boundaries, spiritual maturity, and the importance of building intentional relationships. They also unpack the business side of being a musician, including financial discipline, wise counsel, personal responsibility, and the decisions that create freedom over time. This episode is for musicians, creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone learning how to grow with patience, maturity, and purpose. Follow and book Quinton "Q" Robinson Here Key TopicsQuinton “Q” Robinson’s journey in the music industryMoving from Miami to AtlantaResilience through challenges and career pressureTechnical difficulties and staying preparedInsecurity versus jealousyThe impact of self talkEgo, identity, and self worthTherapy, boundaries, and emotional maturityNetworking without social pressureBuilding intentional relationshipsPractice, communication, and consistencyPersonal responsibility as a musicianFinancial discipline in the music businessSeeking wise counselCreating freedom through better decisionsTakeawaysResilience is built through pressure, patience, and personal responsibility.Insecurity and jealousy are different, and knowing the difference helps you move with more clarity.The way you speak to yourself shapes your confidence, your decisions, and your growth.Therapy and boundaries are tools for maturity, not signs of weakness.Real networking is not about forcing connections. It is about being genuine, prepared, and intentional.Practice is not just repetition. It requires focus, awareness, and purpose.Musicians have to understand the business side of their careers.Financial discipline creates options, peace, and long term freedom.Wise counsel can protect you from making emotional decisions.Personal responsibility is one of the clearest signs of growth.ChaptersChapters00:00 New Beginnings and Technical Difficulties 05:09 Success, Competition, and Broadway Shows 10:20 Atlanta Snowstorms and Unexpected Challenges 19:25 Struggles, Growth, and Success in the Music Industry 25:38 Navigating Music, Pressure, and Personal Battles 32:35 The Icarus Movement and Spiritual Maturity 41:04 Therapy, Boundaries, and Self Worth 53:21 Practice, Communication, and Intentionality 01:18:22 Knowing When Relationships Have Reached Their End 01:24:00 Making Decisions as a Small Business Owner 01:29:27 Wise Counsel and the Power of Seeking Advice 01:37:07 Financial Discipline, Responsibility, and Freedom

  8. Apr 13

    Off Script Live: Drummer Edition Pt. 1 | Ep. 7

    In Off Script Live: Drummer Edition Pt. 1, host Jarvis “Jeb” Barnes is joined by Al Cleveland III, Tony Taylor Jr, Clemons Poindexter IV, Jermaine Poindexter, and Quinton Robinson for an in depth conversation about the realities of building a career in music. The panel discusses professionalism, endorsements, relationships, relocation, self worth, negotiation, criticism, preparation, and the mindset needed to create longevity in the industry. This episode offers honest perspective on sacrifice, resilience, humility, and what it truly means to serve the music at a high level. A must listen for drummers, musicians, creatives, and anyone committed to excellence. Episode OverviewIn this live drummer panel, Jarvis “Jeb” Barnes leads a candid and insightful conversation with Al Cleveland III, Tony Taylor Jr, Clemons Poindexter IV, Jermaine Poindexter, and Quinton Robinson about the realities of life in the music industry. The discussion explores professionalism, authenticity, endorsements, relationships, career transitions, relocation, supplemental work, struggle, preparation, education, negotiation, handling notes, and maintaining humility. Throughout the conversation, the panelists share hard earned lessons on what it takes to build a sustainable career and remain respected in a highly competitive field. TakeawaysProfessionalism, discipline, and consistency are foundational to lasting successClout chasing can distract from real growth and meaningful career buildingEndorsements should come from authentic alignment, not ego or free gearGenuine relationships are one of the most valuable assets in the music industryRelocating for opportunity requires strategy, sacrifice, and self awarenessMany musicians work other jobs before music becomes sustainable full timePreparation begins with listening, understanding, and serving the musicBoth formal education and real world experience offer value when applied wiselyKnowing your worth matters, but so does the ability to communicate it professionallyHumility, respect, and the ability to receive notes are essential for longevityChapters 00:00 Clout Chasing and Artificial Validation 16:09 Navigating Endorsements and Structuring Deals 21:46 Professionalism and Authenticity in the Industry 36:18 The Power of Relationships 41:32 Moving to a Major City for Opportunity 52:47 Prior Jobs and Supplemental Income 59:24 Overcoming Struggles and Homelessness 1:11:33 Approach to Music and the Preparation Process 1:18:20 The Importance of Listening and Understanding 1:30:14 Setting Rates and Negotiating Your Worth 1:46:33 Handling Criticism and Receiving Notes 1:51:31 Maintaining Professionalism and Respect

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About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Jarvis 'Jeb' Barnes
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Jarvis 'Jeb' Barnes