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.

The 2026 NAMM Show to Feature World-Renowned Lineup of Award-Winning Artists at Signature Events

I am very much looking forward to the 2026 NAMM Show arriving in Anaheim later this month. I hope to see many of you there! Check out the latest news as it relates to the music-focused event courtesy of the media release that arrived in my inbox today...Robert Kinsler

The 2026 NAMM Show to Feature World-Renowned Lineup of Award-Winning Artists at Signature Events 

 
Show Appearances Include The Smashing Pumpkins’ Billy Corgan, Green Day’s Mike Dirnt, Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Chad Smith, Primus’ Les Claypool, Molly Tuttle and Many More 

 

CARLSBAD, CALIF., January 12, 2026 – NAMM (The National Association of Music Merchants), the largest global not-for-profit music trade organization, will celebrate 125 years by spotlighting an extraordinary roster of globally recognized artists to appear and perform throughout the NAMM campus at The 2026 NAMM Show, held January 20-24, 2026, at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, Calif. 

 

Molly Tuttle will perform at Global Media
Day (Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026).
Photo courtesy of the artist

It will kick off Wednesday, Jan. 21 with Global Media Day, an exclusive media/creator-only event showcasing the industry’s latest in innovative product from brands around the world. The event will open with a full-throttle rock performance by The Runarounds, a five-piece alt-rock band that’s the center of the Prime Video series, The Runarounds. Global Media Day will also feature critically acclaimed artist Margaret Glaspy and two-time GRAMMY® winner and Best New Artist nominee Molly Tuttle. 

 

On Thursday, Jan. 22, Billy Corgan, founding member and frontman of GRAMMY® Award-winning band The Smashing Pumpkins, will be honored with the 2025 TEC Innovation Award at the 41st Annual NAMM TEC Awards. Renowned for his visionary approach to guitar-driven sound, experimental production and expansive creative output as a solo artist, producer, author, entrepreneur and advocate, Corgan has influenced generations of musicians and audio professionals. The TEC Awards will be hosted by globally recognized drummer Queen Cora Coleman. 

 

The biggest night of bass returns with the 2026 Bass Magazine Awards at The Observatory in Santa Ana, California on January 22nd, 2026. This year’s award recipients are packed full of legends who will be performing including Mike Dirnt of Green Day, Les Claypool of Primus, Marcus Miller (Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock), Laura Lee of Khraungbin, and Blu DeTiger. Presenters include Robert Trujillo of Metallica, Justin Chancellor of Tool, Mark Hoppus of Blink-182, Derrick Hodge, Victor Wooten, and more to be revealed. Additional performances will include Stu Hamm, Vincen Garcia, Scott Mulvahill, and Pops Magellan. 

 

Bass Magazine is excited to announce the first surprise performance reveal in welcoming Primus to the stage for an action-packed set in our intimate venue. Stay tuned in the next week for the rest of the performance reveals that you won’t want to miss. Get your tickets now while they’re still available. www.bassmagazineawards.com  

 

On Friday, Jan. 23, the Yamaha Grand Plaza Stage will once again light up with the Yamaha All-Star Concert on the Grand — a genre-spanning celebration of rising stars and critically acclaimed performers that has amazed and delighted the crowd for years. 

 

The current lineup for Friday features a dynamic mix of performers, with additional acts to be announced soon. It includes: 

 

• The War and Treaty, a critically acclaimed husband and wife duo and Grammy nominees known for their powerhouse vocals and genre-defying sound. 
• Alana Springsteen, a GOLD-certified, chart-topping artist-songwriter and one of Nashville’s breakout stars. 
• Sheléa, a vocal powerhouse, musician and songwriter and Quincy Jones protégé, celebrated for her soulful interpretations and global performances. 
• Ethan Bortnick, a piano prodigy turned viral alternative sensation who blends classical skill with Gen Z appeal. 

 

Also on Friday, the She Rocks Awards will present its annual awards event honoring Carnie Wilson. Wilson, an actress, talk show host, reality show personality and member of iconic pop trio Wilson Phillips, continues to impact popular music through her lifelong creative work, live performances, recording projects and advocacy. Singer-songwriter Margaret Glaspy will also be honored. The event supports the Women’s International Music Network’s mission to connect, amplify and celebrate women across all facets of the music industry. 

 

On Saturday, Jan. 24, NAMM kicks off its final day with a blowout celebration at the annual Grand Rally for Music Education. This NAMM U Breakfast Session event unites educators, students, advocates and industry leaders for the organization’s flagship celebration of the power and importance of music education. Joining NAMM President and CEO John Mlynczak will be Chad Smith, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame drummer of the Red Hot Chili Peppers and longtime advocate for music education, and Victor Wooten, the five-time GRAMMY® Award-winning bassist, educator and author, whose work has inspired generations of players and students. The Grand Rally reaffirms NAMM’s and The NAMM Foundation’s commitment to expanding access to music education and supporting the next generation of creators. 

 

For more information about The 2026 NAMM Show, event schedules and registration, please visit www.namm.org. 

2025 NAMM Show brings the full power of music to Anaheim

The 2025 NAMM Show

Where: The Anaheim Convention Center

When: Jan. 20-25, 2025

Next: The Summer NAMM Show will return to Nashville, TN, June 29-July 1, 2025

Information: NAMM.org

Rising violinist Mia Asano performing during Global Media Day at the NAMM Show
in Anaheim, CA on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Article by Robert Kinsler

Photography by Bob Steshetz and Robert Kinsler

Major concert events, intimate booth performances, new groundbreaking music making products unveiled for the first time and educational sessions are all a part of the annual NAMM Show.

The year's 2025 NAMM Show was held at the Anaheim Convention Center Jan. 20-25, 2025.

Peter Frampton at The NAMM
Show on Jan. 22, 2025.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Attending Global Media Day (held on Jan. 22) provided me a perfect chance to get an early, in-depth glimpse at several music-making products, watch a couple of cool performances and even catch recent Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Peter Frampton discuss his career.

Because he is suffering of inclusion body myositis (IBM) — a progressive muscle disorder characterized by muscle inflammation and weakness — Frampton announced his farewell tour in 2019. However, despite the impacts of the disease, Frampton has continued to record and perform.

"Well, I keep saying that's the last one," Frampton said of each tour; he noted he will perform a short series of shows in April and again in June of 2025. "I'm going to keep going as long as my fingers still work. It's getting more difficult now."

The legendary guitar great said he has to work harder to play guitar, and explore different ways so he can keep playing.

"I will keep doing music the rest of my life." 

Scott Mulvahill performing with his "DataBass" at
Global Media Day on Jan. 22, 2025.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Among the other highlights I caught at Global Media Day was upright bassist Scott Mulvahill, who performed on a one-of-a-kind instrument he invented dubbed the "DataBass." The instrument combines the benefits of an upright bass with the power of MIDI sampling, and the artist showcased its unique magic throughout a strong five-song set.

Singer-songwriter/guitarist Yvette Young playing a state-of-the-art
Yamaha TransAcoustic TAG3 C guitar at the NAMM Show.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Another instrument that wowed media was Yamaha's TransAcoustic TAG3 C acoustic guitar. I was able to spend some time playing the 2nd Generation TransAcoustic Guitar and it's a real wonder. It plays like a top-tier acoustic guitar, but comes equipped with Bluetooth allowing the user to connect their smart devices and play their favorite songs directly through the instrument. There is also an onboard looper, so you can record and play back your performances. There is built-in reverb, chorus and delay effects with simple controls. And there is a rechargeable battery and magnetic charging connection providing more than five hours of play time.

In terms of eye candy, Martin Guitars showcased its beautiful one-of-a-kind double-neck instrument, the Grand J-28E DN (see images above). The first double-neck guitar produced by Martin in more than a century, this all-new instrument combines Martin's renowned craftsmanship with modern cutting-edge innovation; it features an acoustic-electric with a 12- and six-string neck. The Grand J-28E DN features two compound dovetail neck joints and unique X bracing. The guitar also includes built-in custom Fishman electronics, making it ready for any stage or studio setting.

Alicia Witt performing at the NAMM Show on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Alicia Witt with Ernest, a rescue dog who accompanies her
onstage during performances. Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

In her two 30-minute appearances at the Casio booth, singer-songwriter/pianist Alicia Witt impressed with her winning and sumptuous original songs bolstered by her lovely soprano and virtuoso skills displayed using the "Harmonious Mustard" Privia PX-S7000 Privia digital piano. Among the terrific songs she performed at the NAMM Show was the introspective "Witness," emotional "Friend," the triumphant rocker "What About Me?" and the bewitching "Chasing Shadows" (watch the official "Chasing Shadows" music video HERE). 

Rachael Sage performing at the Casio booth on Friday, Jan. 24.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Also performing at Casio was famed singer-songwriter/pianist Rachael Sage, who I caught when she performed on Friday. Performing her singular blend of pop, rock and  folk, I was particularly thrilled with her dynamic genre-blending cut "Trouble" featuring some finger snap accents.

Harmonica great Lee Oskar blasting away on the Yamaha Grand Plaza Stage on
Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

A former member of the band War, Harmonica great Lee Oskar brought his latest project — the Lee Oskar Harmonicas Blues & Beyond Showcase — to the Yamaha Grand Plaza Stage on Jan. 23. The highlight of the troupe's set was a nine-minute version of War's 1975 hit "Low Rider."

Fingerstyle guitarist Laurence Juber performing on the Martin Stage at NAMM.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Virtuoso fingerstyle guitarist Laurence Juber performed at the Martin Stage on Thursday, wowing the crowd with signature instrumental versions of his own compositions and classic rock favorites artfully arranged to be performed solo on his OMC-21 Martin guitar. His wonderful "Cobalt Blue," artful take on Paul McCartney's "Maybe I'm Amazed," a first-ever live performance of his astonishing version of The Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again" and a tender "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" (the latter George Harrison-penned gem was dedicated to the Los Angeles community impacted by a number of wildfires over the past few weeks) all thrilled NAMMgoers.

Singer-songwriter/guitarist Mary Spender performing at The NAMM Show.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Also performing on the Martin Stage was British singer-songwriter-guitarist Mary Spender, who appeared on Friday afternoon. Armed with her talents as an amazing singer and acoustic guitar player, she treated the crowd to a 30-minute set of infectious originals including the introspective "Darling, You Need Therapy," Baroque folk-flavored "Primrose" and the catchy sing-along closer "Blues Duet."

Jon Batiste performing on the Yamaha Grand Plaza Stage at NAMM
on Friday night, Jan. 24, 2025.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Because I missed Jon Batiste's performance when I attended Coachella in April 2024, I was delighted to catch the Louisiana native's headlining set at the Yamaha Grand Plaza Stage at NAMM on Friday night, Jan. 24. Batiste and his excellent backing troupe performed a thrilling mix of soul, R&B, classical, funk, hip hop, New Orleans jazz and more during their full-length set. I was especially impressed with Batiste's virtuoso skills playing a number of keyboards and piano, as well as behind the drum kit. He is also a top-tier vocalist and band leader.

Jon Batiste performing at NAMM
on Friday night, Jan. 24, 2025.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Batiste is a generous performer and seemed to relish every second he was on stage, interacting with his band mates, backing singer and the enthusiastic audience. During one extended segment he led the band in walking through the crowd and performing a high-powered medley, including a sing-along of "When The Saints Go Marching In." 

The highlight for me was an absolutely gorgeous performance of "Butterfly" that he performed alone at a grand piano.

Learn more about Batiste via his official website HERE.

For more information on The NAMM Show, visit NAMM.org. 

And be sure to check out the colorful images taken by photographer Bob Steshetz below capturing so many sights and sounds on display during the NAMM Show!

Jon Batiste performing at the Grand Plaza Yamaha Stage on Friday night,
Jan. 24, 2025. Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Blues-rock singer-songwriter/guitarist Harris Sweetwater checking out a guitar during
the NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA. Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

From left, violinist Mia Asano performing on stage with saxophonist Grace Kelly
in the Yamaha booth on Jan. 23, 2025.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

The Lee Oskar Harmonica Blues & Beyond Showcase thrilled concertgoers on
Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Violinist Mia Asano performing during Global Media Day.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Jacob Collier performing during the NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Grace Kelly performing at the Yamaha booth during the NAMM Show in
Anaheim, CA. Photo credit: Bob Steshetz