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Player's Pick Podcast

Chrys Johnson

“Player’s Pick Podcast is a collection of conversations with interesting guitar and bass players across a spectrum of styles” -Chrys Johnson #players #picks #perspective

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  • 20 episodes
  • Avg 1 hr 40 min
  • English

Episodes 20

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  • S1 · E126
    Dec 20, 2025 · 1 hr 28 min

    #126 Player's Pick Podcast - Layne Meylain / Danza

    Layne and Chrys delve into the intricacies of guitar picks, personal preferences in music, and the philosophical perspectives on life and religion. They explore the importance of failure and growth in the music industry, emphasizing the need for heart and passion in artistic endeavors. The discussion also touches on the significance of appreciating moments and keeping an open mind towards different beliefs and experiences. Connect: Layne https://www.instagram.com/tonydanzatapdanceextravaganza/?hl=en Chrys https://www.instagram.com/c333j_/?hl=en PPP https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Chapters 02:50Collaborating Remotely on New Music 06:00The Energy of In-Person Jamming vs. Remote Collaboration 08:46Nostalgia for the Struggles of Early Music Days 11:55Maintaining Grit in Music as Artists Age 15:06Evolution of Anger and Themes in Music 18:00Unboxing a New Guitar: The Kyber 21:09The Design Process Behind New Guitars 24:05Side Projects and Collaborations in Music 34:05Musical Collaborations and Inspirations 35:59Life Changes and Musical Pursuits 37:15Influences of Legendary Bands 39:17The Essence of Pantera's Sound 40:41The Evolution of Musical Influences 45:13The Importance of Guitar Picks 56:27The Quest for the Perfect Pick 01:06:37Seattle Music Scene and Venues 01:10:03Current Music Influences and Discoveries 01:20:03Philosophical Perspectives on Life and Religion 01:35:30Advice for Aspiring Musicians keywordsmusic collaboration, remote jamming, nostalgia in music, guitar picks, Danza, Kiesel guitars, musical influences, songwriting, Pantera, music evolution, guitar picks, music influences, personal growth, philosophy, religion, failure, creativity, musicianship, music industry, guitarists, the tony danza tapdance extravaganza, ttdte, chrys johnson, layne meylain

  • Dec 12, 2025 · 1 hr 25 min

    #125 Player's Pick Podcast - Ando San

    In this conversation, Brandon Washington discusses his musical journey, personal milestones, and the evolution of his sound as Andosan. He reflects on his experiences in the music industry, the challenges he faced, and the influences that shaped his work. Brandon shares insights into his creative process, the significance of his recent marriage, and his aspirations for future projects, emphasizing the importance of growth and transformation in his music career. In this conversation, Brandon Washington and Chrys delve into the world of music, discussing recent album releases, the creative process behind songwriting, and the personal struggles that influence their art. They explore the importance of community, self-belief, and the role of therapy in personal growth. The dialogue highlights the challenges artists face, the significance of relationships, and the journey of navigating one's mental health through music. Chapters 04:29 Personal Milestones and Creative Process 09:56 Musical Evolution and Influences 17:01 Navigating the Music Industry 23:46 Viral Success and New Opportunities 33:30 The Evolution of Sound and Identity 39:04 Exploring New Musical Directions 44:05 Influences and Inspirations in Music 50:04 The Current Music Landscape and Discoveries 56:01 The Art of Songwriting and Creative Process 01:04:34 The Vulnerability of Artistic Expression 01:08:10 Navigating Mental Health and Music 01:12:58 The Role of Relationships in Personal Growth 01:18:29 The Journey of Self-Belief and Perseverance 01:36:20 Building a Supportive Community for Success Keywords music, creativity, personal growth, Andosan, hip hop, musical influences, album, journey, industry insights, evolution, music, creativity, personal growth, therapy, self-belief, songwriting, artist recommendations, mindfulness, relationships, hip-hop

  • S1 · E124
    Dec 6, 2025 · 1 hr 20 min

    #124 Player's Pick Podcast - BAXTY

    In this engaging conversation, Baxty, a rising star in the guitar world, shares his journey from a shy boy in Chile to a recognized musician. He discusses the importance of living in the moment, the influence of his family on his musical path, and the challenges he has faced along the way. Baxty emphasizes the significance of community, personal expression in music, and the balance between teaching and creating. He reflects on his creative process, the impact of social media, and the importance of patience and action in achieving musical goals. In this conversation, Baxty shares his journey as a guitarist, discussing his early experiences with guitar picks, the challenges he faced while learning, and the importance of finding one's musical identity. He emphasizes the significance of enjoying music, the influence of iconic musicians, and offers valuable advice for aspiring musicians about following their dreams and embracing the journey of music-making. Chapters 02:21 Life as a Rising Star 05:20 The Journey to Guitar Mastery 10:56 The Importance of Relationships 17:14 Creative Process and Songwriting 23:09 Navigating Challenges in the Music Industry 33:01 Navigating Criticism and Embracing Authenticity 35:04 The Importance of Being Prepared for Life's Interruptions 37:46 Teaching as a Journey of Self-Discovery 40:47 The Balance Between Teaching and Creating 43:38 Learning Through Curiosity and Mistakes 46:54 The Evolution of Technique and Personal Growth 49:47 The Role of Exploration in Musical Expression 51:33 The Journey of Finding the Right Gear 56:18 The Fluidity of Technique and Self-Expression 01:00:08 Creating Unique Sounds Through Personal Exploration 01:03:58 The Unique Sound of Animals as Leaders 01:05:39 Collaboration and Musical Aspirations 01:08:00 Influences and Inspirations in Music 01:10:20 The Importance of Authenticity in Music 01:16:38 Fitness and Mental Clarity for Musicians 01:20:02 Creating a Full Band Experience 01:24:57 Advice for Aspiring Musicians Connect BAXTY https://www.instagram.com/b_a_x_t_y/?hl=en Chrys https://www.instagram.com/c333j_/?hl=en PPP https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en ---------------------------------------- Special Thanks to: Jim Dunlop https://www.instagram.com/jimdunlopusa/?hl=en Kiesel Guitars https://www.instagram.com/kieselguitars/?hl=en Roswell Pro Audio https://www.instagram.com/roswellproaudio/?hl=en Sacred Sound Coffee https://www.instagram.com/sacredsoundcoffee/?hl=en Iron Grizzly Creations https://www.instagram.com/irongrizzlycreations/?hl=en Keywords: Baxty, guitar, music, songwriting, teaching, creativity, personal growth, social media, community, technique, guitar, musician journey, learning guitar, musical identity, guitar techniques, inspiration, advice for musicians, overcoming challenges, music collaboration

  • Nov 23, 2025 · 1 hr 29 min

    #123 Player's Pick Podcast - Alex Coats / Doppelgänger

    In this episode of the Player's Pick podcast, Alex and Chrys delve into various themes surrounding music, creativity, and personal growth. They discuss the significance of the Jazz 3 guitar pick, Alex's collaboration with Ludacris, daily routines that inspire creativity, and the importance of consistency and confidence in achieving personal goals. The conversation also touches on the value of relationships and communication in both personal and professional contexts, highlighting how these elements shape our experiences and perceptions. Chapters 02:29 Defining Doppelganger's Sound 05:20 Influences from Jazz and Modern Genres 07:41 The Impact of Music Education 10:23 Viral Success and Its Aftermath 13:07 Philosophical Reflections on Life and Music 22:46 Navigating Belief and Identity 25:12 The Challenge of Closed-Mindedness 26:11 Embracing Uncertainty and Complexity 28:07 The Art of Receiving Feedback 31:34 Songwriting Process and Collaboration 42:09 Gear Talk: Picks and Preferences 43:34 The Evolution of Guitar Picks 50:50 Collaboration with Ludacris 55:20 Finding Daily Inspiration 01:05:08 Advice to My Younger Self 01:07:22 Building Confidence and Consistency 01:09:55 The Importance of Social Skills 01:12:38 Relationships as Our Greatest Asset 01:15:11 The Impact of Time on Our Lives 01:17:04 Music and Community Connections 01:28:34 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations Alex Coats https://www.instagram.com/coats.alex/?hl=en Doppelgänger https://www.instagram.com/doppelgangerqc/?hl=en Chrys https://www.instagram.com/c333j_/?hl=en PPP https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Keywords Doppelganger, friendship, music evolution, jazz influence, viral success, songwriting process, gear talk, musical philosophy, instrumental metal, genre blending, Jazz 3, Ludacris, music inspiration, consistency, confidence, relationships, communication, guitar picks, daily routine, collaboration

  • S1 · E122
    Jan 12, 2024 · 1 hr 36 min

    #122 Player's Pick Podcast - Dean Lamb / Archspire

    First new episode in almost a dang year...sorry about that...I'll try and do better ...here's a chat with the amazing Dean Lamb...I'm a bit rusty and have a new puppy that's been frying my brain.. but Dean's a good dude and let me talk ...maybe too much ...anyway...enjoy :) Connect with Dean https://www.instagram.com/dean_lamb_ Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise/Forrest Ranch CA) take 15% off on ALL orders w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2 Player's Pick Podcast signature Happy Cable: https://happycablecompany.com/products/the-players-pick-podcast-happy-cable

  • S1 · E121
    Jan 2, 2024 · 1 hr 20 min

    #121 Player's Pick Podcast - Bakithi Kumalo / Paul Simon

    *This episode was recorded in May 2023. Thanks for your patience in waiting for new episodes...this being a passion project had to take a backseat in my life in 2023 while putting energy in to other areas of life...not sure how often I'll get around to it in 2024 but I would like to do a few a month if possible. We will see...for now please enjoy this conversation with an absolute legend...Bakithi Kumalo! Connect with Bakithi https://bakithikumalobass.com Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise/Forrest Ranch CA) take 15% off on ALL orders w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2 Player's Pick Podcast signature Happy Cable: https://happycablecompany.com/products/the-players-pick-podcast-happy-cable

  • S1 · E120
    May 27, 2023 · 1 hr 57 min

    #120 Player's Pick Podcast - Eyal Levi / Daath / Riff Hard / URM

    In this recent episode I chat with renowned guitarist Eyal Levi of the metal band Daath, we covered the latest singles, the forthcoming album, his rad metal guitarist podcast Riff Hard and his innovative Unstoppable Recording Machine project. Levi shared some valuable tips around guitar picks as well as a few ideas on how to enhance your recordings and mixes right away, making it a must-listen for metal fans and aspiring musicians alike, enjoy! Connect with Eyal https://www.instagram.com/eyalleviurmaudio/ Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise/Forrest Ranch CA) take 15% off on ALL orders w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2

  • S1 · E119
    Feb 24, 2023 · 1 hr 34 min

    #119 Player's Pick Podcast - Jake Bowen / Periphery

    Jake and I catch up around the new 'Periphery V: Djent is Not a Genre' album, our extensive love for Devin Townsend and finding balance within a democratic creative environment. We talk through Jake's early years and what it was like having John Petrucci as his uncle and first guitar teacher as well, enjoy! Connect with Jake https://www.instagram.com/jakeperiphery/?hl=en Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise/Forrest Ranch CA) take 15% off on ALL orders w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2

  • S1 · E118
    Feb 3, 2023 · 3 hr 9 min

    #118 Player's Pick Podcast - Jesse Zuretti / Binary Code / Marvel Composer

    A wild 3hr 'side mission' stream of consciousness chat with an amazing modern composer. Jesse and I talk through all sorts of topics around work, music and life...aaaand some UAP, Roswsell & tinfoil hat sheeeit too 🤘🏼😂 Enjoy! This episode brought you by @RoswellProAudio Microphones. Check out the Mini K series here: https://roswellproaudio.com/collections/all Connect with Jesse https://www.jessezuretti.com Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise/Forrest Ranch CA) take 15% off on ALL orders w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2

  • S1 · E117
    Dec 30, 2022 · 2 hr 33 min

    #117 Player's Pick Podcast - Kilian Duarte - Fallujah / Scale the Summit / Angel Vivaldi

    Kilian and I catch up and talk about our struggles through the pandemic, crazy tour sleeping situations and the importance of having at least one good friend to help set you straight when self-doubt creeps in, enjoy! Connect with Kilian https://www.instagram.com/kilianduartebass/?hl=en Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise/Forrest Ranch CA) take 15% off on ALL orders w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2

  • S1 · E116
    Dec 8, 2022 · 1 hr 39 min

    #116 Player's Pick Podcast - Sarah JoAnne / Anchor Thought

    Sarah and I chop it up around life, music, talk therapy & how dinosaurs most definitely built the pyramids, enjoy! This episode sponsored by Happy Cable https://happycablecompany.com/collections/the-signature-happy-cable Connect with Sarah https://www.instagram.com/joanne_music/?hl=en Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise/Forrest Ranch CA) take 15% off on ALL orders w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2

  • S1 · E115
    Dec 4, 2022 · 1 hr 42 min

    #115 Player's Pick Podcast - Nick Johnston

    Nick shares much about his outlook and approach to both his music and his life as of late...what a phenomenal player and all around human, enjoy! Connect with Nick https://www.instagram.com/nickjohnstonmusic/?hl=en Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise/Forrest Ranch CA) take 15% off on ALL orders w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2

  • S1 · E114
    Dec 2, 2022 · 51 min

    #114 Player's Pick Podcast - David Maxim Micic

    David takes some time away from being a new father to chat with me about life, music & his main Kiesel guitar used for the writing and recording of Bilo IV, enjoy! Connect with David https://www.instagram.com/davidmaximmicic/?hl=en Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise/Forrest Ranch CA) take 15% off on ALL orders w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2

  • S1 · E113
    Sep 15, 2022 · 1 hr 48 min

    #113 Player's Pick Podcast - Javier Reyes / Animals As Leaders / Mestis

    Javier asks THE question...'is there really anything heavier than Meshuggah?' Press play to hear our thoughts on the topic and many more, enjoy! Connect with Javier https://www.instagram.com/jjavierreyess/?hl=en Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise CA) take 20% off your first order w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2

  • S1 · E112
    Aug 28, 2022 · 1 hr 34 min

    #112 Player's Pick Podcast - Minni Jo / MJ Noble

    Minni Jo is an amazing creative human that weaves her love of EDM, Fantasy, Bowie, Bjork & Ella into her own unique electronic fairy soundscape, enjoy! Connect with Minni Jo https://www.instagram.com/mj.noble/?hl=en Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise CA) take 20% off your first order w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2

  • S1 · E111
    Aug 19, 2022 · 2 hr 2 min

    #111 Player's Pick Podcast - Jason Richardson / All That Remains

    Jason has a new signature Ultex Sharp Mini w/ Dunlop and it rips!!! New solo album, new tab book & writing for the new All That Remains album...awwww yeah Bb Player's Pick is back! Enjoy :) Connect with Jason https://www.instagram.com/jasonreevesrichardson/?hl=en Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise CA) take 20% off your first order w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2 #jasonrichardson #allthatremains #ernieballmusicman

  • S1 · E110
    Jul 5, 2022 · 45 min

    #110 Player's Pick Podcast - Chris Bishop / CROBOT

    Chris and I chat about guitars, octave pedals, those old Alien EB3 picks and the new CROBOT album 'Feel This' out now on all platforms, enjoy! Connect with Chris https://www.instagram.com/crobotband/?hl=en Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise CA) take 20% off your first order w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2

  • S1 · E109
    Jun 22, 2022 · 2 hr 14 min

    #109 Player's Pick Podcast - Ryan Meranda / IXION / ONLY HUMAN

    Ryan is my oldest guitar playing buddy. We met Pantera together when we were 16, we toured our old Seattle band ONLY HUMAN up and down the West Coast of the US multiple times and we have been guitar and music nerds the whole time. Ryan's solo project IXION has a new album out called ESCALATION OF ARROGANCE available now on all platforms, enjoy! Connect with Ryan https://www.instagram.com/ryanmeranda/?hl=en Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise CA) take 20% off your first order w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2

  • S1 · E108
    Jun 17, 2022 · 2 hr 1 min

    #108 Player's Pick Podcast - Paul Masvidal / CYNIC / DEATH / AEON SPOKE

    Paul and I catch up around his recent efforts to heal and process the loss of long time friends and band mates Sean Reinert & Sean Malone. Hallucinogenic journeys in Jamaica, yoga, meditation, the re-release of Aeon Spoke material and preparing for the 30th Anniversary of Focus, enjoy! Connect with Paul https://www.instagram.com/paulmasvidal/?hl=en Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise CA) take 20% off your first order w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2

  • S1 · E107
    Jun 8, 2022 · 59 min

    #107 Player's Pick Podcast - Kurt Neuman / BoDeans

    Kurt shares great stories and insights around his approach to life, music, guitar building & some sweet studio wisdom from his time with T-Bone Burnett to boot! Enjoy! Connect with Kurt https://bodeans.com/ Connect with Chrys https://www.chrysjohnson.com Follow Player's Pick https://www.instagram.com/playerspickpodcast/?hl=en Support the pod by buying some Player's Pick merch! https://chrys-johnson-designs.creator-spring.com/listing/official-player-s-pick-podcast Try our fav new coffee company Road Roaster Coffee (Chico/Paradise CA) take 20% off your first order w/ coupon code playerspick @ https://www.roadroastercoffee.com/shop-1?page=2

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