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Insights are generated by CastFox AI using publicly available data, episode content, and proprietary models.
Est. Listeners
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- Per-Episode Audience
Est. listeners per new episode within ~30 days
25,001 - 50,000 - Monthly Reach
Unique listeners across all episodes (30 days)
25,001 - 75,000 - Active Followers
Loyal subscribers who consistently listen
15,001 - 40,000
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* Data sourced directly from platform APIs and aggregated hourly across all major podcast directories.
On the show
Recent episodes
Ep186 Lessons from the Studio with Ryan Jones
Apr 17, 2026
Unknown duration
Ep185 Q&A 6 Chords – PRS Myles Kennedy Signature Model Guitar
Apr 3, 2026
Unknown duration
Ep184 Pentatonic Pattern 1 – The Foundation of All Great Guitar Solos
Mar 5, 2026
Unknown duration
Ep183 What Is the Pentatonic Scale and Why Every Guitarist Should Master It
Feb 12, 2026
Unknown duration
Ep182 From Boston to Belmont – Mike Valeras on Guitar Education and Finding Your Lane
Jan 23, 2026
Unknown duration
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| Date | Episode | Description | Length | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/17/26 |  Ep186 Lessons from the Studio with Ryan Jones | In this episode, I sit down with my friend and professional guitarist Ryan Jones. Ryan shares his journey from Fort Wayne, Indiana to studying music in California, connecting with Christian artist Tommy Walker, and eventually touring and recording at a professional level. We talk about what it's really like to work as a guitarist on the road and in the studio, including Ryan's move to Nashville in 2014, where he built a career doing session work and collaborating with producer and drummer Scott Williamson. Then everything changed. When COVID hit, the music industry ground to a halt overnight. Ryan shares how that disruption forced him to rethink his path, leading him to develop new skills as a software developer and eventually land a role at Sweetwater—bringing him full circle back to his hometown. Along the way, we also dig into: • What the recording process is really like for working guitarists • Amp tones and how pros think about sound • Real amps vs. modelers—what actually matters • How to adapt when your music career takes an unexpected turn This is an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the life of a working guitarist—and what it takes to keep moving forward when things don't go as planned. Summer Jams Zoom Class (2026)https://desiserna.as.me/schedule.php Free Video Course What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level. | — | ||||||
| 4/3/26 | Ep185 Q&A 6 Chords – PRS Myles Kennedy Signature Model Guitar | In episode 185 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, Desi Serna answers listener questions and breaks down how 6 chords are built, why the 5th is sometimes omitted, and examples of their use in familiar songs. Desi also plays and discusses the PRS Myles Kennedy Signature model guitar, highlighting its features and tonal range. If you want to expand your chord vocabulary and better understand how chords function in real songs, this episode will help you connect the dots. 🎸 Get your FREE guitar video course https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com 📕 Get your copy of Lead Guitar Unlocked: Master Expressive Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP | — | ||||||
| 3/5/26 | Ep184 Pentatonic Pattern 1 – The Foundation of All Great Guitar Solos | In episode 184 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, Desi Serna breaks down the most important scale shape on the guitar: Pentatonic Pattern 1. This versatile pattern forms the foundation of countless riffs, licks, and solos across blues, rock, and country. Desi explains how the pattern is constructed, why it's commonly labeled "Pattern 1," how it connects to the CAGED system, and how guitarists actually use it in real music. Along the way, you'll hear familiar song examples that demonstrate how this simple shape becomes the backbone of expressive lead guitar playing. LEAD GUITAR UNLOCKED This lesson is based on Chapter 2 of Desi's book Lead Guitar Unlocked: Master Expressive Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale. Get your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP FREE VIDEO COURSE If you're not sure what you should practice next, visit Desi's website and receive free custom video instruction tailored to your current skill level: https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com BEST GUITAR TAB WEBSITE https://www.ultimate-guitar.com/ | — | ||||||
| 2/12/26 | Ep183 What Is the Pentatonic Scale and Why Every Guitarist Should Master It | The pentatonic scale is one of the most essential tools in a guitarist's toolkit. In this episode, we break down what the pentatonic scale is, why it shows up in so many styles of music, and why it sounds so natural on the guitar. From Asian music to African drumming and Native American flute traditions, and then from blues and rock to country, pop, funk, and even metal, this simple five-note scale forms the foundation of countless riffs, solos, melodies, and hooks. If you want to improvise with confidence and move freely across the fretboard, mastering the pentatonic scale is a must. Lead Guitar Unlocked Book https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP Free Video Course https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com | — | ||||||
| 1/23/26 | Ep182 From Boston to Belmont – Mike Valeras on Guitar Education and Finding Your Lane | In episode 182 of the Guitar Music Theory Podcast, I sit down with Mike Valeras, an adjunct guitar instructor at Belmont University here in Nashville, where he teaches commercial music and improvisation. Mike shares his guitar learning journey, early band experiences, and his formal music education, including earning both a music education degree and a master's degree. We talk about how he made the move from Boston to Nashville and ultimately landed his teaching position at Belmont. Growing up, Huey Lewis and the News was his favorite band, and today Mike is one of the guitarists in The Heart of Rock and Roll, the Huey Lewis and the News tribute band that I occasionally play with as well. It's a great conversation about musicianship, education, and carving out a career in music. Free Video CourseAnswer the question on my website to get a free video course calibrated to your current level. https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com New Book: Lead Guitar Unlocked Master Expressive Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale. From basic patterns to pro-level phrasing—learn to play licks that speak and solos that sing. https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP "Migus fa Dingus" by Mike Valeras Listen to Mike's music on Spotify. https://open.spotify.com/track/0EPzrL1s8Fc1V3OFr6nqYn?si=e1598c276fe54b38 | — | ||||||
| 1/3/26 | Ep181 Top Hits of 2025 with Lila | In this episode of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, Desi is joined by his daughter Lila to look back at some of the biggest pop hits of 2025. Together, they explore why these songs connect so strongly with listeners and what guitarists can learn from them. From chord progressions and melodies to groove, phrasing, and feel, this conversation pulls musical ideas out of modern pop songs and translates them into concepts you can apply to guitar. Even if pop is not your main genre, these songs offer valuable lessons in simplicity, songwriting, and musical impact. Plus, this episode features a fun and honest father-daughter discussion that gives a fresh perspective on today's music. Whether you are curious about current pop trends or looking for new inspiration for your guitar playing, this episode offers insight, analysis, and plenty of takeaways. Email Desi https://www.guitarmusictheory.com/contact/ Free Video Course https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com New Book: Lead Guitar Unlocked: Master Expressive Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP Backing Tracks https://www.karaoke-version.com/ | — | ||||||
| 11/28/25 | Ep180 Q&A Song Tempos - Warm-Ups - Ear Training - Modes - Chord Extensions & More | In this Q&A episode, Desi answers listener questions on a wide range of guitar topics—including how to choose the right song tempo, whether you need warm-ups, practical ear-training methods, when to use modes, and how chord extensions actually work. You'll also hear tips on improvisation, fretboard navigation, and developing better musical instincts. If you're looking to deepen your understanding of both the technical and musical sides of guitar, this episode is packed with clear explanations and real-world examples to help you grow as a player. FREE VIDEO COURSE https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com NEW BOOK: Lead Guitar Unlocked: Master Expressive Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP | — | ||||||
| 11/12/25 | Ep179 Fixing the Worst Guitar Solo – Heat of the Moment by Asia (feat. Matt Reviere & Jon "HW" Sullivan) | In this episode, Desi Serna is joined by friends and fellow guitarists Matt Reviere and Jon "HW" Sullivan for a lively discussion about one of the most debated solos of the 1980s — Steve Howe's guitar solo in "Heat of the Moment" by Asia. The trio breaks down why the solo doesn't quite hit the mark, exploring its phrasing, tone, and fit within the song. Along the way, they take a deep dive into Steve Howe's legendary work with Yes, examining how such a brilliant player could deliver something that feels so out of place. Then things get creative — each guitarist reveals and plays a replacement solo they composed themselves, reimagining what the song could sound like with a stronger melodic statement. It's equal parts music theory, guitar nerdery, and good humor between three friends who love to analyze and play great guitar music. 🎧 Listen to Our Solos Desi: Heat of the Moment Solo – Desi Jon "HW": Heat of the Moment Solo – HW Matt: Heat of the Moment Solo – Matt 🎵 Get the Backing Track: Asia – "Heat of the Moment" Guitar Backing Track (Karaoke-Version.com) 🎚️ Tone Used: Inspired by the 80s – Kemper Pack by Tone Junkie 🎸 Free Custom Video Course: https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com 📘 Lead Guitar Unlocked: Master Expressive Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale: https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP | — | ||||||
| 10/24/25 | Ep178 Tribute to Ace Frehley – Favorite Guitar Solos | In episode 178 of the Guitar Music Theory Podcast, I pay tribute to Kiss lead guitarist Ace Frehley with some of my favorite guitar solos he recorded. Free Video Course https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com Huey Tribute Come see me play live on 11/21/2025 https://cainarts.org/event/heart-of-rock-roll-the-authentic-tribute-to-huey-lewis-the-news/cain-center-for-the-arts/north-carolina/ Ace Frehley Guitar Solos ⚡️ Spotify Playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1ZfV8unmk7W4Y5F4mKbw78?si=48235bd7b3244c51 Backing track courtesy of Karaoke Version https://www.karaoke-version.com/ | — | ||||||
| 9/23/25 | Ep177 Man on the Silver Mountain – How Does This Song Work? | In this episode, I break down the 1975 Rainbow classic featuring Ritchie Blackmore and Ronnie James Dio. I take you through the signature opening riff, the shifting minor key changes, the alternate-picked arpeggios, and the fiery solo that defines the track. I also talk about Blackmore's Strat/Marshall setup and show you how studying this song can improve your technique, deepen your understanding of music theory, and boost your confidence as a guitarist. Free Custom Video Course Be sure to visit https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and answer the question about your playing. I'll send you a free custom video course with a clear, step-by-step plan to help you reach your guitar goals and start sounding like the player you've always wanted to be. | — | ||||||
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| 7/15/25 | Ep176 How to Build a Pro Tribute Band- Inside The Heart of Rock and Roll with Roger and Tony Langdon | In episode 176 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I talk with Roger and Tony Langdon, founders of The Heart of Rock and Roll—America's #1 Huey Lewis tribute band. We dive into what it takes to run a high-level tribute act, including building a band, nailing the sound, preparing for gigs, and delivering a polished live show. The Heart of Rock and Roll Learn more about the band at https://hueytribute.com/ Free Guitar Video Course Enroll in a free video course at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get custom instruction based on your current playing level. | — | ||||||
| 6/17/25 | Ep175 Q&A Thumb Chords - Song Memory - Rhythm Tips - and Foo Fighters Fretboard Tricks | In episode 175 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I answer listener emails about: Using your thumb to fret the 6th string in barre chords and possible workarounds How to improve your rhythm and memorize songs more effectively The G form barre chord and how it's used in modern playing A theory-based analysis of Foo Fighters' use of pedal tones in chord progressions Why sus4 and minor 6 chords don't naturally occur in certain scale degrees Why guitarists sometimes play notes like F# over A minor—mixing scales in blues-based rock Plus, I mention the JamZone app and how it can help you practice and play along with real songs. Zoom Classes https://www.guitarmusictheory.com/zoom/ Quiz and Free Video Course https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com | — | ||||||
| 5/15/25 | Ep174 Recreating Iconic 80s Tones For Kemper and Helix with Matt Reviere | In episode 174 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I chat with Carrie Underwood guitarist Matt Reviere about recreating classic 80s guitar tones for the Kemper Profiling Amplifier and Line 6 Helix using the new Inspired by the 80s pack from Tone Junkie. We discuss his workflow for analyzing songs, dialing in tones, and jamming on iconic riffs from artists like Dire Straits, The Police, Bon Jovi, and more. 🎛️ Check out the Tone Junkie pack here: tonejunkiestore.com/inspiredby/p/inspired-by-the-80s-kemper 🎸 Get started with a free video course tailored to your current level at GuitarMusicTheory.com | — | ||||||
| 5/2/25 | Ep173 From Demo to Radio - Inside Music Production with Jason Wyatt Kuhn | In episode 173 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I sit down with Nashville music producer Jason Wyatt Kuhn to talk about the art of recording and producing music. Jason shares his journey from singer and songwriter to becoming a sought-after producer helping both aspiring artists and hobbyist songwriters bring their music to life. We discuss what it's like working in the studio, how the production process unfolds, and the critical role a producer plays in shaping a song's final sound. You'll even hear before-and-after audio examples that reveal the dramatic transformation from raw work tape to polished master. Jason Wyatt Kuhn - We the People Music https://wethepeople.music/ Lexi Lew https://linktr.ee/lexilewmusic Brooks Herring https://brooksherringmusic.com/ FREE GUITAR VIDEO COURSE 🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level. 00:00 "Recording Insights with Jason Kuhn" 05:30 "Jason Wyatt's Musical Journey" 12:51 "We the People" Music Company 16:49 Finding Success in Music Industry 22:28 Musician's Dilemma: Confidence and Choices 28:35 From Rough Tapes to Studio Pros 35:37 80s Fan Reflects on Nirvana Shift 39:12 "Creating Musical Hooks" 43:51 Creative Process in Songmaking 54:34 Pre-Production Essentials Explained 58:54 Musical Collaboration Process 01:04:15 First Nashville Recording Session Experience 01:05:49 Impressive On-the-Spot Musicianship 01:16:13 Post-Production Sound Editing 01:19:32 Episode 173 Wrap-Up | — | ||||||
| 3/28/25 | Ep172 Q&A playing style - physical limitations - key changes - bar chord techniques - music theory exercises - slowing down music | In episode 172 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I answer listener questions about playing styles, overcoming physical limitations, key changes in songs, barre chord techniques, music theory exercises, slowing down music, and more. Riff Rockers Zoom class details: https://www.guitarmusictheory.com/riff-rockers-zoom-class/ Enroll in a free video course and join the email list: https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com | — | ||||||
| 2/26/25 | Ep171 Q&A Practice Plan-Joe-Bonamassa Rhythm-Take On Me Chords-Numbering Modes-G Chord Fingerings-Best Practice Amp | In episode 171 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I answer listener questions on a variety of guitar topics, including: 🎸 Assessing your guitar practice plan🎸 Joe Bonamassa's rhythm guitar playing 🎸 Breaking down the key to "Take on Me" by A-ha 🎸 Understanding mode numbering 🎸 Different ways to finger a G chord and which one is best for you 🎸 Choosing the best guitar practice amp for your needs Tune in to get practical guitar advice, improve your playing, and gain new insights into music theory and technique! 🔗 Enroll in a FREE video course at GuitarMusicTheory.com 🎧 Listen now and don't forget to subscribe! | — | ||||||
| 1/12/25 | Ep170 Top Hits of 2024 with Lila | In episode 170 of the Guitar Music Theory audio podcast, I look back at some of the top songs from 2024 with a very special guest, my 12-year-old daughter, Lila! 🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level. | — | ||||||
| 12/12/24 | Ep169 Good Christmas Songs to Learn | In episode 169 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I review some Christmas song guitar lessons I've previously posted on YouTube. These lessons feature great Christmas songs to learn, and I'll break down the nuggets of music theory wisdom each one provides. Topics include passing chords, chord melody, playing in sixths, and more. Join the email list by subscribing at the https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com website. | — | ||||||
| 10/30/24 | Ep168 Q&A - New Coaching Program - Bass Playing - Playing with Confidence - Running with the Devil - 3/4 vs 6/8 - Cover Band Setlist | In episode 168 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I announce my new coaching program and answer listener questions about bass playing, playing with confidence, the difference between 3/4 and 6/8 time signatures, my old cover band setlist, and the song "Runnin' with the Devil" by Van Halen. Are you ready to invest in a structured coaching program to take your guitar playing to the next level? Fill out the contact form on my website and share your music goals with me: https://www.guitarmusictheory.com/contact/ | — | ||||||
| 7/23/24 | Ep167 Learning "It Hit Me Like a Hammer" - PRS SE NF3 | In episode 167 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I guide you through my process of learning songs, using "It Hit Me Like a Hammer" by Huey Lewis and The News as an example. This track showcases chunky '80s rock power chords and a bluesy minor pentatonic guitar solo. I play it on my new PRS SE NF3 guitar, using a profile of a Mesa Boogie Mark 3 amp. 🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level. | — | ||||||
| 7/10/24 | Ep166 Q&A Rhythm and Timing - Horizontal Pentatonic Patterns - Bass Note Selection - Violin Etude 2 | In episode 166 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I answer listener questions about rhythm and timing, playing horizontal pentatonic patterns, selecting good bass notes, and more. I also recap my recent gigs and discuss how I prepare for performances. | — | ||||||
| 6/14/24 | Ep165 Preparing For Huey Lewis Tribute Band Gig | In episode 165 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I prepare to play upcoming gigs with the Huey Lewis and The News tribute band, The Heart of Rock and Roll. I walk you through the process I go through when I'm reviewing for a show and discuss the songs I'll be performing. 🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level. The Heart of Rock and Roll info and schedule: hueytribute.com | — | ||||||
| 6/8/24 | Ep164 Nashville Studio Drummer and Music Producer Scott Williamson | In episode 164 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I interview Scott Williamson, a top-tier studio drummer in the Nashville area for decades. In addition to his drumming career, Scott is a mixing engineer and music producer. He'll provide insights into life as a studio musician, answer listener questions, and reveal his favorite guitar parts. 🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level. | — | ||||||
| 5/30/24 | Ep163 Jack and Diane - How Does This Song Work? | How does the song "Jack and Diane" work? Listen to episode 163 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast to hear how this John Mellencamp classic features memorable acoustic guitar riffs that make great use of different chord shapes and chord voicings. 🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level. | — | ||||||
| 5/21/24 | Ep162 Knights of Cydonia - How Does This Song Work? | "Knights of Cydonia" by Muse is an epic rock anthem that blends various musical influences to create a unique and powerful listening experience. The song stands out for its grandiose and cinematic feel, drawing inspiration from progressive rock, space rock, and spaghetti westerns. In Episode 162 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I break the music down and explain how its puzzling chord changes follow a logical pattern. 🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level. Music Theory 101 Group Zoom Class https://www.guitarmusictheory.com/zoom-class-music-theory-101/ | — | ||||||
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Chart Positions
4 placements across 4 markets.
Chart Positions
4 placements across 4 markets.