Artist Spotlight :: Joe Ryan

Bio

Originally from the UK, I worked as a session musician there and also had a minor hit in Europe with the Glam Rock Band Angel. I moved to the USA and the Bay Area and played in Sage an 8 piece horn funk band, for a number of years. We recorded the Sage album Funksway with members of Tower of Power.

I moved to Boise, ID in 2018 and subsequently became a board member of the Boise Blues Society supporting Blues in the schools. Currently playing in two bands, the Billy Blues Band and Smooth Avenue. Lastly, I have taken on hosting a Blues show on Boise Radio once a month (third Monday at 8:00pm to 10:00 pm)

What/Who inspired you to pick up your instrument?

Hank Marvin from Cliff Richards and the Shadows in the UK

What piece of musical advice would you give yourself if you could go back in time to the beginning of your musical journey?

Get as much music education as you can early on - I had to learn piano at age 20 so I could read music and play sessions. My advice is to learn to read music early and also start using technology to help you transcribe your hero's (basically ear training).

What keeps you excited about playing?

Keep learning and studying - don't think because you can play basic chords and solo using a Pentatonic Blues scale that this is all you need.

Desert Island 3 pedal pedalboard (not including tuner)

Tumnus, Tube Screamer, and a Wampler Plexi. All the distortions covered with maybe the exception of Heavy Metal.

When you find yourself in a musical rut, what techniques do you do to break out of it?

when I sit down to play, I force myself to play the things I can't play well as opposed to the same old licks. Also, learn from another Genre - e.g. Pedal Steel Bends from Country.

Who is your favorite artist/band today? And who was your favorite artist/band 10 years ago?

Without a doubt, my fav artist at the moment is Josh Smith - he covers it all really well and is a great educator. Secondly, Guthrie Govan is - amazing player and educator. 10 years ago, it was Larry Carlton and Robben Ford.

When you find yourself in a music store - what is your go-to riff when test drive gear?

No, not Stairway to Heaven - anything that comes to mind at that moment.

What is your most prized/cherished piece of gear? And why?

A 1971 Gibson 1954 reissue Black Beauty with Micro Frets. I bought it in 1971.....

What is the next big musical purchase you're hoping to save for?

A PJD St John Limited guitar from the UK

Gear Breakdown

Currently on stage : Boogie Fillmore 25 Watt , Outlaw Effects battery-powered pedalboard using Rattlesnake Cables from Amp -> Pedalboard and guitar -> Pedalboard

I found Rattlesnake Cables at 12th Fret Music in Boise after my Fender Custom Shop cables (made in China) failed, and even though there is a warranty, good luck with that.

The Rattlers have been used for three years now and are still as good as new, with no issues at all.

Bands / Projects

Social Links

Want to be featured as an Artist Spotlight?

Do you have to be a famous musician to be featured? No. Do you have to be a professional musician to be featured? No. Do you have passion about playing and gear -- oh and a verified Rattlesnake Cable Company cable user. Yes!

All you need to do is contact us and we'll direct you to our submission form. If your submission is approved, it will be in the queue to be showcased!