Episode 2 with John Scofield (solo artist, Miles Davis, Jaco Pastorius, George Duke, Billy Cobham, Herbie Hancock etc...)

John Scofield or “Sco” as he is also known really needs no introduction. He’s one of the most recognizable voices in modern jazz guitar, and he’s played with everyone from Chet Baker, George Duke, Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock and the list goes on and on…..His solo records (of which there are many) showcase his diversity and willingness to take chances with different groups all while continuing to push new boundaries in jazz guitar. 

I had first met John in Europe backstage a few years back, but we didn’t really get to be friends until I moved to NY last year and we found out we were neighbors. I can honestly say John is one of the greats so when I told him about this interview and he was really into doing it I was really excited. So thanks John. We get together and play every so often and he even gave me a Ibanez Scofield model as a birthday gift last year.….anyway, enough talking…..let’s get into this interview. I ask him some things that I always wished other guitarists would have asked in interviews like “what are you thinking about when you play?” or "where did that crazy over the neck thing you do come from"? We also talk about Jaco Pastorius, Miles Davis, his use of the "Rat" distortion pedal, what he thinks about while phrasing and soloing over “Protocol”, and much more- (and oh yeah- we jam a little too..) This interview took place in Jan 2016 at my home in NY. (Special thanks to Jack Miele at Music Shed Studios for massive help on editing on this one and Ali and Brad at True Fire for creative opinions)

Om Podcasten

The Riff Raff started as an idea I had a few years ago just to sit and chat with my friends whom I consider to be inspirational to me in some way- whether it be as a musician, artist or whatever the case may be. Over the years, as a working musician, I’ve been lucky to work with many amazing people and musicians and would like to share some of their stories with you. I’m a professional musician. I like stories. I mean... I REALLY like stories. Oh, and I love jokes too. Luckily, I work with some of the best in the business, and they happen to have great stories (and usually great jokes as well). Anyway, i want to put these stories down for people to enjoy - it’s fun. Some people like to garden, or take photos, or collect magnets for the fridge… but me? I like to get these stories down for all to enjoy! So this is a podcast about the creative process and, yes, being a guitar player, we do occasionally talk shop, gear, etc., but I’m not going to limit it to that as I get this thing going. Oh yeah, we jam a bit too!