Guitarist and composer Ryan Davidson joins Steve Wiest for a wide-ranging conversation about music, storytelling, and the creative process behind his album Country.

From early encounters with legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Lyle Mays to his work with Gord Bamford and Drew Jurecka, Ryan shares the experiences that shaped his musical voice.

The discussion explores his unique compositional approach, including “sound chords,” programmatic writing, and the blending of country, jazz, and cinematic influences.

Along the way, the conversation moves through mentorship, artistic courage, humor, and the realities of building a creative life in music.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Introduction

07:22 Journey with Gord Bamford

16:11 Album “Country”

18:04 Headache Country

23:13 Sound Chords

26:00 Old West Country

31:13 Courage & Mentorship

38:01 Bar Brawl

44:37 Pedal Board & Sound Design

47:29 Ice-Nine

53:43 Dig You Inquisition

01:03:05 Meaning of Life

01:06:32 Closing

________________

Links from Today"s show: Ryan Davidson's Website

https://www.ryandavidsonguitar.com/

Gord Bamford's Website/Store

https://gordbamford.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopTl47F-GMbW34J9OGRtpHTVGLbA9s7KPGnFqtTbG_l4OfyjT9T

Purchase the Album "Country" https://ryandavidsonguitar.bandcamp.com/album/country

"Country Behind the Scenes" on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/reels/C5E-lKkPa6v/

https://www.instagram.com/reels/Cz7iVEcv97v/

https://www.instagram.com/reels/C6e2Kacy8uM/

In this first installment of the Rising Stars series, Steve Wiest sits down with trumpeter, composer, and entrepreneur Eric Jacobson for an honest and inspiring conversation about building a life in jazz.

Eric shares how he has created a sustainable career performing hard bop, releasing original music, teaching, and promoting his work—all while staying true to the music and continuing to grow as an artist.

The conversation explores the real question many musicians ask: Is it possible to make a living playing jazz today?

Eric’s answer is clear—and backed by experience.

Along the way, they discuss mentorship, persistence, creative identity, and the importance of believing you have something unique to offer.

This is a conversation about music—but also about purpose, resilience, and the long road of developing a life in the arts.

_______________________

Links from this episode:

Eric's Website https://ericjacobsontrumpet.com/home

Origin Records: https://originarts.com/

Eric's Music: https://ericjacobsontrumpet.com/music

Eric's Jazz Method Books: https://ericjacobsontrumpet.com/jazz-...

In this episode of You Dig?, Steve Wiest sits down with legendary drummer Jeff Hamilton for a relaxed, front-porch conversation about music, swing, and a life spent at the highest level of jazz.

From performing with Ray Brown, Oscar Peterson, and Ella Fitzgerald, to insights on groove, big band drumming, and artistic discipline, Jeff shares stories, humor, and deep wisdom from decades on the bandstand.

This is a conversation about music — but also about purpose, dedication, and joy.

A good time is had by all. You dig?

Video Version: https://www.youtube.com/@YouDigPod

Links from today's episode:

Jeff's Artist Site: https://hamiltonjazz.com/

Jeff's Latest Projects:

Jeff Hamilton Trio "A New Chapter" https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/AS...

The Latest Clayton/Hamilton Jazz Orchestra Project:

"And So It Goes" https://hamiltonjazz.com/discography/...

Steve Wiest Artist Site: http://steve-wiest.com

The You Dig? Season 3 Theme Song:

"Shred or Shred Not (There is No Try)" composed by Steve Wiest

From the project Phröntrange: The High Road

WIESTWORLD Productions Cue: Rosana and Gary Eckert