Joel Hoekstra has played with everyone from Whitesnake and Night Ranger to Cher and Trans-Siberian Orchestra—and he’s here to tell the stories behind it all. In this episode of The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols, Joel breaks down his incredible career path, from Broadway pits in New York to arena stages across the globe. Joel also shares his secrets for longevity, versatility, and surviving the hustle of a professional guitar life. Expect inspiring lessons, guitar nerdery, and some unforgettable stories from one of rock’s most versatile players.

Pre-save Joel's new single, "The Fall"

His new album, 'Into the Fade' drops February 2026.

TIMESTAMPS

0:00 – Why Joel is the ultimate guitar chameleon

1:17 – Playing with Whitesnake, TSO, and Night Ranger

2:56 – Early guitar influences and discovering Angus Young

4:18 – Learning guitar in a pre-tab world

6:03 – Growing up blue-collar and developing work ethic

8:09 – Building a career as a sideman

10:02 – Breaking into the New York scene

11:18 – How Joel joined Night Ranger

13:05 – Broadway gigs and Rock of Ages

15:44 – Joining Trans-Siberian Orchestra

17:10 – The genius of Paul O’Neill

19:05 – Balancing gigs and finding your lane

20:00 – Inspiring kids through live performance

21:01 – Fear, stress, and motivation

22:03 – Playing with Cher & embracing new styles

24:16 – Lessons from playing with Foreigner

27:10 – The Night Ranger guitar team

29:57 – From Broadway to arenas

33:00 – Landing the Whitesnake gig

36:00 – Finding purpose and artistic balance

37:01 – Advice for young players

38:05 – Full-circle moments and staying open-minded

40:24 – Handling pressure and last-minute gigs

45:04 – Managing anxiety and performance stress

47:08 – Collaborating with legends like Satriani and Schenker

49:19 – Thoughts on online trolls and staying positive

51:01 – Joel’s tapping and legato fundamentals

57:24 – The art of phrasing and “money notes”

1:01:34 – Joel’s new album From the Fade

1:03:06 – Closing thoughts & gratitude

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The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.