2026 NAMM Show Roundup

Singer-songwriter-guitarist Ron Artis II performing at the 2026 NAMM
Show in Anaheim, California on Jan. 22.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

From left, Sheléa Melody McDonald, Stevie Wonder and Alana Springsteen performing on Jan. 23, 2026. Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Here is my roundup of the action I caught at the 2026 NAMM Show in Anaheim, California last week. A special "thank you" to Bob Steshetz for allowing me to use so many of his amazing photographs. 

You can also read music writer George A. Paul's excellent coverage of the 2026 NAMM Show via Rock Cellar Magazine HERE.

Robert Kinsler

The NAMM Show, the largest music industry trade show in the world, returned to the Anaheim Convention Center and adjacent hotels last week for several days of education sessions, performances, award ceremonies, new product demos and much more. 

NAMM SHOW 2026 BY THE NUMBERS 

• 60,000+ show attendees, including 8,760+ international attendees from 122 countries, regions and territories  
• 1,650+ exhibitors representing 5,400+ brands, which is 25 percent more than 2025  
• Nearly 15,000 artists demonstrating and endorsing products and brands 
• 200+ education sessions with 550+ speakers 
• 1,600+ media, influencers and content creators reaching over 200+ million followers, which is 50 percent more than 2025.  

Below are some highlights of my visit to NAMM's 125th anniversary show.

From left, Molly Tuttle and Martin President/CEO Thomas Ripsam at NAMM's Global Media Day on Jan. 21, 2026. Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

On Jan. 21, music journalists and social media influencers were given a preview of what select music manufacturers offered as part of NAMM's Global Media Day. Grammy Award-winning bluegrass artist Molly Tuttle and singer-songwriter Margaret Glaspy, as well as rising young band The Runarounds performed as part of the event; Tuttle was excited to showcase two new signature Martin guitars (the D-18 and D-X2E).

The Runarounds performing at NAMM's Global Media Day.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Singer-songwriter Margaret Glaspy performing at NAMM's Global Media Day.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

NAMM President/CEO John Mlynczak kicked off the Media Preview Day, held in the Hilton Pacific Ballroom. A number of other high-profile guests also participated during the event.

"We love to create new products," C.F. Martin & Co. President/CEO Thomas Ripsam said. 

Ripsam was joined by Tuttle at several media-related events on Jan. 21. "All my favorite guitar players played Martin (guitars)," Tuttle noted. 

Molly Tuttle performing at the Martin Guitars Booth on Jan. 21, 2026. Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Tuttle was truly one of the great musicians I caught performing at NAMM this year; the Santa Clara, California native — who celebrated her 33rd birthday earlier this month — began playing guitar at age 8. She released her fifth studio album So Long Little Miss Sunshine in August 2025. Her performance of the original song "San Joaquin" from her 2023 album City of Gold was a highlight for me (you can see that performance HERE).

At the media event Mlynczak noted that "5,400 brands are collaborating" with NAMM this year and the industry show saw double the product releases in 2026 compared with 2025. "This is where new products flourish," he noted.

Guitarist Chris Buck demonstrating his technique and the sound of Yamaha's Chris Buck Signature Rev-star RS02CB at the NAMM Show.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Among the wide range of new guitars showcased that day were PRS Guitars' Silver Sky Wild Blue Limited Edition and Ed Sheehan Cosmic Splash Limited Edition guitar models, Yamaha's Chris Buck Signature Rev-star RS02CB and C.F. Martin & Co.'s Super D-14 Acoustic Guitar line (the latter whose larger body provides for 20 percent more air volume and projection). 

John Mlynczak at NAMM. Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Jan. 22 saw Mlynczak welcome attendees at the NAMM U Breakfast Session - Industry Insights. During his keynote address before thousands of NAMMgoers, he explained because "Music-making is a core function of society, we are consistently guided by the best minds win the industry and we adapt, evolve and learn from the past."

That day also saw several memorable performances.

During a powerful 40-minute daytime set on the Yamaha Grand Plaza Stage, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Ron Artis II was backed by a great two-man rhythm section. He delivered strong originals blending rock, blues, soul, and more. Among my favorite originals he performed was the propulsive funk-fueled "The Truth." 

Laurence Juber performing on the Martin Guitar
Acoustic Stage. 
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Another fantastic live performance that Thursday came courtesy of Grammy Award-winning fingerstyle guitarist Laurence Juber, who appeared on the Martin Guitar Acoustic Stage. His signature instrumentals were unleashed before a big, enthusiastic crowd. Standouts included his dazzling takes on the Jimi Hendrix classic "Little Wing," The Beatles' "Strawberry Fields Forever" and The Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again." 

Italian guitarist Matteo Mancuso performing on the Yamaha Grand
Plaza Stage on Jan. 23, 2026.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

On Jan. 23, I caught a number of other performances. The most high-profile of the concerts was led by instrumental guitar virtuoso Matteo Mancuso. The Italian guitar master's set on the Yamaha Grand Plaza Stage blended progressive rock, jazz and flamenco elements into a signature sound across a 40-minute crowd pleasing appearance.

Cannibal & the Headhunters at the end of the troupe's Jan. 23, 2026 set at NAMM.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

John Wayne Townsend performing at NAMM.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Later that afternoon on the DAS Audio Arena Plaza Stage, a "Legends Concert" featuring Cannibal & the Headhunters celebrating the classic rock era had attendees dancing, cheering and enjoying a number of rock radio staples; the highlight was seeing John Wayne Townsend play keys and sing his enduring 1977 hit "Smoke From a Distant Fire."

The 2027 NAMM Show will take place from Jan. 26-30, 2027 in Anaheim, CA. 

PRODUCTS AND PERFORMANCES APLENTY

Below is a photo gallery of more images captured at the 2026 NAMM Show.

Chinese-made Caraya banjos on display.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Singer-songwriter-guitarist Ron Artis II  in action on Jan. 22.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Traveler Guitars make quite an impression.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

A close-up look at the Ed Sheehan Cosmic Splash Limited Edition
instrument showcased by Stevensville, MD-based PRS Guitars.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

The Retablo Art Guitar crafted by John Page. Learn 
More via johnpageguitars.com.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

An attention-grabbing Guitar Capo.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

A casual get-together on the floor - an impromptu jam at NAMM.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Cannibal & the Headhunters performing on Jan. 23, 2026.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

From left, Matt Starr, Phil X and Billy Sheehan tearing it up at the 
NAMM Show on Jan. 23.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Legendary bassist Billy Sheehan.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Phil X shredding at NAMM.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

No ordinary picks. United Kingdom-based Timber Tones offers the
"largest selection of luxury Guitar Picks in the world." 
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

A look at the Boutique Guitar Showcase.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

NAMM stickers.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Famed harmonica virtuoso Lee Oskar (famed for his stint with
WAR), left, with yours truly at the NAMM Show. The Lee Oskar
Harmonicas booth was a must-see at the 2026 NAMM Show.

A closer look at road-ready Traveler Guitars.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Performances have become a key part of the NAMM experience. Here is
Tom Griesgraber playing the Chapman Stick.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

VIDEOS FROM THE 2026 NAMM SHOW

MusicUCanSee was also at the NAMM Show and has posted a number of great videos available now:

An interview with the John Lennon Bus Educational Tour Bus co-founder Brian Rothschild HERE. 

If you play guitar, check out this video on Casio's new Dimension Shifter HERE.

Watch Molly Tuttle's full-length performance of her song "San Joaquin" HERE.

Watch Molly Tuttle's performance of her song "Rosalee" HERE.

Watch a bit of Hannibal & The Headhunters' performance of "Land of 1,000 Dances" HERE.

Finally, here is an interview of me by MusicUCanSee host Tino Anglade on Jan. 21.

New Music: 'California Music,' Dirty Honey, Cole Quest and the City Pickers, West of Texas

Veteran and rising artists revisit the classic sounds of the past with their own masterful modern-day touch.

Artists: Mike Love, Al Jardine, Bruce Johnston, David Marks, Jeffrey Foskett, more

Title: California Music Presents Add Some Music (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: The Beach Boys, Jan and Dean, Mike Love

Tell me more: The enduring sounds of The Beach Boys and dreams of better times are celebrated across a special collection titled California Music Presents Add Some Music. A multi-focused effort spearheaded by album co-producer David Beard (editor and publisher of Endless Summer Quarterly, The Beach Boys publication of record), the 10-track collection teams up members of The Beach Boys and their children along with other family members to revisit classic songs while simultaneously  raising money for the non-profit Feeding America. The first jewel on the collection is the lead-off "Add Some Music to Your Day," a oft-overlooked Beach Boys track (the original version was featured on 1970's Sunflower) revisited by Beach Boy members Mike Love, Al Jardine, Bruce Johnston and David Marks, as well as Carnie and Wendy Wilson (Brian Wilson's daughters), Christian, Hayleigh and Ambha Love (Mike Love's children), Justyn Wilson (son of the late Carl Wilson), and Matt Jardine (son of Al Jardine); the new reading of the song was arranged and produced by Rob Bonfiglio (husband of Carnie Wilson). Love leads an exploration of world music stylings on "Ram Raj," the intoxicating cut bolstered by the lead guitar work of Laurence Juber (of Paul McCartney's Wings fame) and keyboards of Jim Cox. Jardine's distinctive tenor takes flight on his new chamber pop original "Jenny Clover." Johnston sings and adds his own vocal harmonies while handling all instrumentation on the tender ballad "She Believes in Love Again." Bonfiglio adds a welcome shot of tuneful ear candy via his "Golden State." California Music Presents Add Some Music is a wonderful celebration to the 60th anniversary of The Beach Boys to be sure. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Dirty Honey

Title: Dirty Honey (Dirt Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Aerosmith, Greta Van Fleet, AC/DC, Humble Pie

Tell me more: Los Angeles-based Dirty Honey have arrived with their full-length, self-titled debut and the album fully delivers on the promise of the quartet's March 2019 EP (which spawned the single "When I'm Gone," the first unsigned band to ever earn a number 1 track on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Songs chart). The eight-track album recalls the style and sound of "Rocks"-era Aerosmith, but there is a modern edge that separates Dirty Honey from its musical ancestors. There is a myriad of catchy riff rock on the disc, all of it wrapped up with forceful songcraft and rock musicianship courtesy of the collective talents of singer Marc Labelle, guitarist John Notto, bassist Justin Smolian and drummer Corey Coverstone. The nimble "California Dreamin'," Zepplinesque "Take My Hand," heavy "No Warning" and zippy "The Morning" are among the irresistible rock cuts on the album. The group delivers a poignant bluesy rock ballad, "Another Last Time," with emotional heft courtesy of Labelle's sweet rasp and some sublime backing gospel-styled vocals in the choruses. Information: DirtyHoney.com.

Artist: Cole Quest and the City Pickers

Title: Cole Quest and the City Pickers (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: The Steel Wheels, Old Crow Medicine Show, Sons and Brothers

Tell me more: Great lead and harmony vocals, stellar musicianship and excellent songs add up to a whole lot of magic on the eponymous release from New York City-based troupe Cole Quest and the City Pickers. Quest, the grandson of Woody Guthrie, leads the collective on a fast-paced journey sure to please fans of bluegrass music. A gorgeous take on the lovely Woody Guthrie/Billy Bragg song "Way Over Yonder in the Minor Key" features Quest's strong vocals amidst an artful backdrop of acoustic guitar, dancing harmonica, banjo, bass and Hammond B3 organ. Quest's original acoustic ballad "My Sweet Little Girl" showcases his own talents as a songwriter along with the nuanced musical skills of the ensemble. The quick "7-11/ Foggy Mountain Rock" allows the ensemble of players to really cut loose. The exhilarating "If I Still Had You" closes out the outstanding EP. The City Pickers' excellent lineup includes guitarist-vocalist Christian Apuzzo, harmonica great Matheus Verardino, banjo player Mike Mulhollan, bassist Larry Cook, keyboardist Sam Reider and drummer Sean Trischka. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: West of Texas

Title: Heartache, Hangovers & Honky Tonks (Pleasant Valley Ranch)

You might like if you enjoy: James Intveld, Merle Haggard, Dwight Yoakam

Tell me more: The release of the debut from West of Texas is truly a saga worthy of the expansive sound heard across the 16 super songs that make up Heartache, Hangovers & Honky Tonks. Singer-songwriter Jerry Zinn formed West of Texas back in 2003, with the group's 3-song EP titled The Heartache Single issued in 2010. Before a full-length LP could be completed, health issues hit Zinn and he was unable to sing. Fast forward to 2019 and Zinn was able to sing again ; the arrival of COVID-19 sadly put an end to planned live dates as part of a March-May 2020 tour. Zinn then used the uncertain time to return to the studio to finish the album he had started more than a decade earlier. And what an album it is! Produced by Rich McCulley, Heartache, Hangovers & Honky Tonks bristles with an authentic spirit recalling the groundbreaking likes of Buck Owens, Merle Haggard and Dwight Yoakam — it doesn't hurt that Zinn has a rich baritone that recalls the best country singers of the '60s and '70s. The honky tonk rollick "Foolin'," touching ballad "The Cost of Lovin' You," Cajun-styled "Bayou Boy," bluesy "Cheatin', Drinkin', Hurtin' Song," Western swing frolic "Fixin' to Love You" and beautiful "Sign of A Broken Heart" are among the mega cool songs on the outstanding LP.  Information: https://westoftexas.bandcamp.com/album/heartache-hangovers-honky-tonks.

Robert Kinsler

Laurence Juber to release ‘The Fab 4th’, his fourth Beatles-inspired Solo Album, on March 27, 2020

Exciting news to be sure! Fingerstyle guitar master Laurence Juber is set to release another album of Beatles selections performed in his signature style next month. I was honored to catch Juber again last month when he performed at The NAMM Show in Anaheim. His memorable set included dazzling versions of The Beatles' "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" and "Daytripper"...Robert Kinsler


Guitar wizard Laurence Juber to release ‘The Fab 4^th’ on March 27, 2020; upcoming album marks his fourth Beatles-inspired Solo Album

Los Angeles, February 26, 2020: The Fab 4^th, out March 27, 2020 on Hologram Recordings, is an album of songs by The Beatles, arranged and performed on solo guitar by Laurence Juber. Known to his fans as LJ, his playing fuses folk, jazz, blues, pop and classical styles, creating a multi-faceted performance that belies the use of only one instrument.

First internationally recognized as lead guitarist in Paul McCartney's Wings, with whom he won a Grammy®, Juber has since established himself as world-renowned guitar virtuoso and entertainer.

This is his fourth Beatles-inspired solo guitar recording. The first of the series, LJ Plays The Beatles, was voted one of Acoustic Guitar Magazine's all-time Top Ten albums.

Says LJ, “When I started playing guitar in November 1963, the radio airwaves were humming with twangy guitars and (as the critics were fond of saying) ‘adenoidal’ vocals. The Beatles’ second UK album, With The Beatles, was a week away from release and Abbey Road was six years in the future.

That period frames my musical adolescence. The Fabs weren’t alone in my playlist. The Stones, Beach Boys, Cream, Hendrix, Dylan………….

Laurence Juber performing at the NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA,
in January 2020. Photo: Robert Kinsler

The pace of musical change in the 60’s was rapid. 1965, the year I turned 13, was remarkable for its nexus of musical styles, when folk, rock, blues, pop, R&B and classical began to merge.

That was the musical milieu that fueled my own obsession with six strings: the siren song of wailing electric lead guitar, intricate fingerpicking acoustic, Bach, Dowland, Django and much more. That was when I set my goal to be a session musician in London.

A little more than a decade later, that studio springboard would land me the gig as Paul McCartney’s lead guitarist in Wings.

Subsequently, recording with Ringo Starr and George Harrison help to cement my status as ’Beatles-adjacent.’ I relaunched my studio career in Los Angeles as a guitarist, composer and producer, while raising a family, and releasing a series of well-received solo fingerstyle guitar recordings.

My wife Hope first suggested the idea of an album of solo arrangements of Beatles tunes more than twenty years ago. I was reluctant at first, considering myself primarily a composer, not an arranger. But, then I figured that as she listens to me play for so many hours a day, it was only fair to devote a portion of that time to these tunes.

In return, she took on the role of producer.

As the arranging unfolded, I found myself ever-more deeply drawn, both as a guitarist and a musician, to the depth and dimension of their creativity. Stripping the songs down to their musical essentials exposes their uniquely nuanced musicality, while seeking the complementary guitaristic space, is an exercise in my own creativity.

Little did I realize at the time, that LJ Plays The Beatles, would become the first of an evolving series, with a volume two, a volume 3 (LJ Can’t Stop Playing The Beatles) and, at Paul McCartney’s instigation, One Wing.

Hope’s idea for a title, The Fab 4th, was the call to action once more.

There are almost 200 original Beatles compositions. Not all translate well to the fingerboard, although there have been some serendipitous moments, when an unlikely candidate revealed itself as a cool arrangement.

This collection includes favorites that I missed on the previous albums, along with some under-appreciated songs, and a few guitaristic challenges. There are many that haven’t yet made the cut, and I’m not sure that I’ll tackle any more, but that’s what I’ve said before……”

MORE ABOUT LJ

LJ’s solo arrangement and recording of The Pink Panther Theme earned him a second Grammy®, while his arrangement of Stand By Me was heard nationally in a Diamonds Are Forever commercial. Juber’s DVD-Audio project Guitar Noir (AIX Records) won a CES Demmy award for best surround-sound audio.

His 'photo memoir' Guitar With Wings is published by Dalton Watson Fine Books.

His folios of guitar music and history are available from Hal Leonard.

As a studio musician, he can be heard on recordings from artists as diverse as Harry Styles, Dan Hicks & The Hot Licks, Seal and the French chanteuse Sylvie Vartin, plus he has been featured on the soundtracks to hundreds of TV shows such as Home Improvement and movies, including the academy award-winning Dirty Dancing, Good Will Hunting and Pocahontas.

Juber co-composed the soundtrack of the award-winning video game Diablo III and scored the NBC Dateline documentary Children Of The Harvest. His music is also featured in the Ken Burns’ documentary The Tenth Inning. 

www.laurencejuber.com

“A stunning sense of space and fluidity…a truly wondrous sound” - Guitar World

"Uniformly exquisite and dazzingly executed” - L.A.Times

“Juber scores high marks for the clarion precision of his playing and

for his tasteful arrangements” - Downbeat

“A Master!“- Pete Townshend, The Who

2020 NAMM Show Recap

Slash unleashing a fiery lead solo during the
'Gibson: Live at the Grove' event on Jan. 16, 2020.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

From the debut of the latest high-tech music-minded gear to stunning performances on stages large and small, the 2020 NAMM Show delivered a long weekend of bona fide excitement in Anaheim (Jan. 16-19, 2020). NAMM, or National Association of Music Merchants, is a music products, professional audio and technology trade show that fills every conceivable square foot of the Anaheim Convention Center as well as several nearby hotels and concert venues.

Earth, Wind & Fire in concert on Jan. 17, 2020.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

I have been attending the annual Winter NAMM Show since the early 1990s and I can't recall an event as packed with enthusiastic attendees as I experienced this year. Along with some really cool new gear and musical instruments, the range of powerful performances unleashed from a diverse field of artists also helped make this a standout year.

According to NAMM, the 2020 Show welcomed more than 2,000 exhibiting member companies representing 7,000 brands. Of the 115,888 NAMM Member and invited registrants, international members accounted for nearly 20 percent growth over two years.

Every NAMM-goer has a different experience at the annual event. Here are highlights of my journey through this year's show.

Cheap Trick lead guitarist Rick Nielsen performing
at City National Grove of Anaheim on Jan. 16, 2020.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Media Preview Day (Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2020)
A mix of outstanding products and new lines of instruments were displayed in the lobby of the Convention Center. Among the products that caught my eye were:

Yamaha Technical Services Specialist Tony Escueta playing
the Yamaha YC61 Stage Keyboard.
Photo: Robert Kinsler

• Yamaha's YC61 Stage Keyboard, an organ-focused instrument that combines the organ sounds of the Hammond B-3 popularized by rock bands in the 1960s and '70s with the versatility and real-time control available today. The YC61 utilizes a recently-developed virtual circuitry modeling organ tone generator, which models the character and behavior of vintage electronics at the component level. The state-of-the-art keyboard – which ships to retailers in late May 2020 – offers another cool feature; it weighs a mere 16 pounds compared to the 400 pound combination of a Hammond B-3 and Leslie speaker traditionally used. Information: usa.yamaha.com.
• Another impressive sighting was Lekholm Instruments' DM48 Digital Chromatic

  

  Erik Lekholm shows off his new DM48 Digital
  Chromatic Harmonica at the NAMM Show.
  Photo: Robert Kinsler

  Harmonica. The unique instrument definitely takes harmonica playing into the 21st century by allowing musicians to play in any and all keys in one instrument, and to use countless expressive capabilities by tapping into a world of software instruments and effects. There are some pretty impressive videos showcasing the instrument and its great sound on Lekholm Instruments' website. The DM48 is available now and can be ordered via the link below. Information: lekholminstruments.com.
• Paoletti Guitars are handmade in Tuscany, Italy, using reclaimed chestnut wood from 130 to 150-year-old wine barrels. Visually, the guitars blend both old and new, and they sound fantastic too! Information: www.paolettiguitars.com.
• Media Preview Day ended with an invite up to the Gibson booth for a private concert featuring Los Lobos with special guest, superstar Juanes. The eight-song set allowed Los Lobos to showcase their brilliant blend of roots rock, Latin rock and blues-tinged Americana, including sharp versions of the rockabilly-flavored "Don't Worry Baby" and "Evangeline" along with a cover of Santana's "One Como Va." 

Opening Day (Thursday, Jan. 16, 2020)
My 15-hour day began by attending the NAMM Breakfast of Champions, which included singer-songwriter Jason Mraz being honored with the Music for Life Award by NAMM President and CEO Joe Lamond. Mraz was honored, in part, for his efforts on behalf of supporting music education in schools. Many more highlights would follow:

A pack of Pistol Picks retails for $12.
Photo: Robert Kinsler

Laurence Juber performing at Seymour Duncan.
Photo: Robert Kinsler

• Concrete, Washington-based inventor and guitar player John Cunradi brought one of the most simple, but revolutionary ideas to the NAMM Show. "I had a brand new and vague idea in July 2019. I was frustrated as a guitarist; I would start to play and the pick would twist around in my fingers. I thought if I put a handle on it, it wouldn't twist."  Fast forward six months later and here was Cunradi in Anaheim marketing his colorful cutting-edge Pistol Picks, guitar picks that come in several types. They are make of polycarbonate, bend, are durable and easy to use. And they will definitely assist players who can't hold on to their guitar pick. "I'm still a frustrated guitarist, but at least I like my pick!"
• Seymour Duncan hosted an afternoon set from famed fingerstyle guitar master Laurence Juber, a two-time Grammy winner who rose to fame as lead guitarist of Paul McCartney and Wings but has gone on to carve out a career as studio and session musician, composer and solo artist who attracts enthusiastic audiences whenever he performs. His 30-minute appearance at NAMM found Juber offering up brilliant instrumental versions of works ranging from George Harrison's "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" and The Beatles classic "Daytripper" to Jimi Hendrix's "Little Wing" to Pete Townshend's "Won't Get Fooled Again."
• My day ended with courtesy of Gibson at the City National Grove of Anaheim. Over the course of three fast-moving hours, a parade of rising artists joined icons such as Slash (Guns N' Roses), Don Felder (The Eagles), Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top), Elliot Easton (The Cars) and Cheap Trick's Robin Zander and Rick Nielsen for a fantastic concert. Highlights abounded, including a take on Robert Johnson's "Crossroads" featuring emerging singer-guitarist Emily Wolfe, rising artist Celisse performing her soulful original "Get There," Halestorm singer-guitarist Lzzy Hale crushing "I Miss the Misery," and a nice version of Tito Puente's "Oye Como Va" featuring Santana lead vocalist Andy Vargas and Cars lead guitarist Elliot Easton. Other highlights of the night included Slash and Felder joining forces for "Hotel California," Slash, Zander and Nielsen tearing up on the power pop rocker "Big Eyes" and a one-two finale take on ZZ Top's "Tush" and Led Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love," the latter featuring an army of talents on stage together. Information: Gibson.com.

Billy F Gibbons, left, with Slash at City National Grove of Anaheim.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Robin Zander, left, with Slash.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Elliot Easton, lead guitarist of the Cars,
performing at 'Gibson: Live at the Grove' in
Anaheim on Jan. 16, 2020.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Day 2 (Friday, Jan. 17, 2020)
My Friday at the NAMM Show included getting the opportunity to meet and chat with several of my musical heroes including Elliot Easton (The Cars), Graham Coxon (Blur) and Geoff Downes (ASIA, Yes, The Buggles) – and that's not even including several great performances:

Sweet Lizzy Project delivering a fantastic set at the NAMM Show.
Photo: Robert Kinsler

Lisset Diaz of Sweet Lizzy Project.
Photo: Robert Kinsler

Graham Coxon at Softube.
Photo: Robert Kinsler

• Sweet Lizzy Project is a quintet from Havana, Cuba who absolutely impressed this writer with a standout set on the Pioneer Pro Audio Stage. The band's infectious style of rock is bolstered by the talents of all five members of the group, including lead vocalist and lyricist Lisset Diaz, co-writer and lead guitarist Miguel Comas, keyboardist Wilfredo Gatell, bassist Alejandro Gonzalez and drummer Ángel Luis Millet. Make sure to read writer George A. Paul's review of Sweet Lizzy Project's set via his post on Music Minded linked here.
• Graham Coxon gave a product demonstration at Softube and answered questions about his recent work scoring episodes for Netflix and possible future projects with Blur. Writer George A. Paul covered Coxon's session and you can get more details here. Information: softube.com.
• Geoff Downes demonstrated the power and ease of using his Studiologic Sledge keyboard, and played selections from Yes and The Buggles on the instrument. Information: studiologic-music.com.
• 
  

  

  Geoff Downes at the Studiologic booth.
  Photo: Robert Kinsler

• The Yamaha All-Star Concert on the Grand was hosted by Sinbad and featured a cast of great players including Verbalase, Kenny Loggins and headliners Earth, Wind & Fire. 

Kenny Loggins rocking at the Yamaha All-Star Concert on the Grand.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Day 3 (Saturday, Jan. 18, 2020)
I didn't waste my final day at the 2020 NAMM Show:

Guitar great Robby Krieger, left, with Doors sound engineer
Bruce Botnick at the Harman booth on Jan. 18, 2020.
Photo: Robert Kinsler

Harman hosted an intimate session featuring Doors guitarist/songwriter Robby Krieger and sound engineer Bruce Botnick sharing insights into the legendary Los Angeles band's career as part of "Stories Behind the Sessions." I was riveted listening to Krieger discuss and share his guitar work for "L.A. Woman," with Botnick then playing the isolated Jim Morrison vocal tracks too. Incredible stuff. Information: HarmanAudio.com.

Brandon "Taz" Niederauer continues to deliver some of the most incredible and arresting performances at NAMM. Only 16, the New York-based electric guitar and his talented band thrilled at D'Angelico Guitars on Saturday. I can't wait for Taz to release an album featuring his stellar guitar playing and solid songs. Information: dangelicoguitars.com.

Brandon "Taz" Niederauer at the NAMM Show.
Photo: Robert Kinsler

Marcus D Scott leading R&B icons Tower of Power through an
energetic set on the NAMM Grand Plaza Stage on Jan. 18, 2020.
Photo: Bob Steshetz

Tower of Power performed a concert in celebration of the Oakland-spawned troupe's 50th anniversary on the NAMM Grand Plaza Stage. Sponsored by Yamaha, I thought the horn section-anchored R&B band killed it across a two-hour concert that included rousing versions of new tracks as well as classic material (notably "You're Still a Young Man" and "What Is Hip?").  Information: towerofpower.com.


Robert Kinsler


A special "Thank You" to Bob Steshetz for the use of his amazing photos too!