A Musical Journey with John Bohlinger: A Tale of Gigs, Switched Instruments, and Valuable Lessons

Introduction:

In the world of music, chance encounters often lead to lasting friendships and valuable lessons. One such encounter that left an indelible mark on my musical journey was the night I met John Bohlinger on a gig. Little did I know, this meeting would introduce me to a talented musician who would go on to become a prominent figure in the music industry.

The Unforgettable Gig:

Travel back with me to the early 2000s – a time when music was the pulse of our lives. On that fateful night, John Bohlinger and I found ourselves on stage, him wielding the bass guitar and me strumming away on the guitar. The rhythm was alive, and the crowd was swaying to the beat. But what made this gig truly unforgettable was what happened halfway through the night – we decided to switch instruments.

Little did I know that the person sharing the stage with me would later become the band leader for some of the most prestigious country music award shows and a renowned guitarist with Premier Guitar. Our instrument swap was a testament to the camaraderie that exists among musicians, a shared language that transcends any single instrument.

A Glimpse into John Bohlinger's Journey:

Fast forward to today, and John Bohlinger has carved an impressive path in the music industry. His role as a guitarist to review music equipment, his engaging Rig Rundown videos, and his insightful blog with Premier Guitar have made him a respected name among musicians and enthusiasts alike. But back in 2003, he was already making waves as the leader of the Nashville Star crew.

Lessons Learned and Opportunities Gained:

My journey intertwined with John's in more ways than one. His generous spirit and musical prowess led to numerous opportunities for me. He extended his helping hand on various gigs, opening doors for me to collaborate with artists like Brad Cotter and Christy McDonald. His influence even secured me an audition for Buddy Jewell's band, an experience that left me with a valuable lesson.

The Audition That Taught Me:

During the Buddy Jewell audition, I faced the challenge of keeping up with a rapid "chicken picken'" song. Although I didn't secure the gig, the experience taught me a lesson that would resonate throughout my musical career: always practice songs faster than their studio versions. The audition became a pivotal point in my growth, a reminder of the importance of preparation and versatility.

Hopes of Reuniting:

Looking back on the journey, gratitude fills my heart for the musical moments shared with John Bohlinger. His talent, mentorship, and authentic camaraderie have left a lasting mark on my musical pursuits. As I gaze toward the future, I hold onto the hope that our paths will intertwine once more, leading us to collaborate once again.

Conclusion:

In the ever-evolving world of music, chance meetings and unexpected friendships can lead to a symphony of experiences and growth. My encounter with John Bohlinger, from that gig where instruments were switched to the present day, is a testament to the power of music to connect, inspire, and leave an indelible mark on our musical journeys.