Artist Spotlight :: Tyler Earl

Bio

Tyler Earl, a seasoned bass guitarist from Southern Indiana, boasts an impressive 18-year career and a recent nomination for Musician of the Year in the bassist category at The Josie Music Awards.Tyler is the bass guitarist for Cody Ikerd and The Sidewinders, a renowned group that has garnered significant recognition within the new music industry, boasting awards and multiple nominations at the esteemed Josie Music Awards, which takes place at the legendary Grand Ole Opry, a venue synonymous with musical excellence.Tyler's music is a unique blend of styles, with a playing style that draws comparisons to clawhammer. His musical foundation is rooted in rock, Motown, country groups from the 60s, 70s and 80's to the Seattle grunge era and more, which has heavily influenced his distinctive sound.

What/Who inspired you to pick up your instrument?

As a child, I listened to many 8-tracks of Kiss, Skynyrd, and Foghat with my father. My mother introduced me to country and the sounds of Motown. Allen Collins of Skynyrd really made me want to start playing. But 6 months into owning my first instrument, I discovered SRV, Albert Collins. I played guitar for 5 years until my brother handed me a bass. BOOOM, it was something magical, and I was instantly hooked on bass.

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

My #1 piece of advice would be to practice, practice, practice, and don't trade or sell any instruments.

What keeps you excited about playing?

The group Cody Ikerd and The Sidewinders is where it is. No nonsense, we are true brothers united by a musical spirit. We are positive and remain positive no matter what gets in our way. There are no egos, absolutely zero egos. We can discuss concerns if something doesn't sound right without someone throwing a tantrum. We all share the same sense of humor. They are my family, and I always get excited when it comes to showtime.

Desert Island 3 pedal pedalboard (not including tuner)

The sonic stomp sonic maximizer makes the signal so much clearer and stronger.
Hall of fame because it is so versatile.
The Fender treadlight volume expression is the handiest tool.

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

Surround myself with the group I play with. Share laughs, relax, and share music videos, and those videos are what boost morale and inspiration.

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

Blackberry Smoke is 1000% my favorite today.
10 years ago, before and after Stevie Ray Vaughan.

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

I usually pull out the John Paul Jones or Carole Kaye riffs.

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

My 1966 Gibson EB2. It was owned by a musician, Eddie Carrol. He was in the musicians' union in the '60s and '80s and played with countless legends. But it just feels right. There is something spiritual about it.

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

I am content where I am at. I was for multiple years, too, until the 1966 Gibson EB-2 fell into my lap. I will wait and see what the musical gods bring my way.

Gear Breakdown

I use the standard Rattlesnake Cables straight to 90° plugs. I love the durability of these cables. They are tough and will obviously last years of touring. My main bass guitars I use are two 2006 Fender Jaguars in Hotrod Red and a 1966 Gibson EB-2. Both options have a unique sound of their own, paired with a good amp and pedal board. I use the Fender Rumble 800s I chose them for not only the weight but the sound is great from them. They have enough headroom to be very clear on the cleans. My pedal board is simple. My routing is first the Fender treadlight volume/expression pedal into a D'Addario chromatic tuner, then a Hall of Fame 2 into a mod tone delay, angular octamizer. From there, I have two David Eden pedals. First is the phaser, then the auto wah, followed by a Sonic Stomp Sonic Maximizer, and last but not least, I use a Big Shot ABY for larger venues if I choose to play stereo amps.

Bands / Projects

Listen on Spotify

Social Links

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