I have played at a few of the open mics here in Nashville. Because I write mostly uptempo material I'm limited to what I can perform live with just an acoustic guitar.

I think both the internet and the mp3/wav formats have had a huge impact on artists and the industry. I could never have done this (recording/producing/marketing) in any sort of professional manner without the advances in digital technology. As it stands now, it isnt even necessary to live in or near a music hub to do it successfully. Of course, there is no substitute for being close to the action as far as studios, artists, get togethers, etc. And here in Nashville the relationships you build go farther than the best song you can write.

I play all of the instruments and sing on a few songs, but I usually hire a pro to do the singing. There are so many great singers here in Nashville. All the songs are recorded at the Hester Beasley Studio.

Melodies from the Beatles were probably my most influential. I like just about everything from SRV, Hendrix, CSN&Y, Robin Trower, Sting, Roy Orbison, Aretha Franklin, Zeppelin, George Strait, Patsy Cline, Willie Nelson etc...

I use an Alvarez Yairi acoustic guitar and a Fender Strat with a Hot Rod Deluxe amp. Recording mic is a Russian Oktava MK319.