On the Cover

Kristian Bush: Rediscovers His Voice Through Southern Gravity

Kristian Bush has been a successful professional union musician since the 1990s, but it’s only recently that the Local 257 (Nashville, TN) member launched his first solo album, Southern Gravity.

Jane Little Traces the Steps of Her 70-Year Career

Growing up in Atlanta, Jane Little was drawn to music from the time she was a small child, and did everything she could to seek out musical opportunities.

Jimmy Vivino: Working 9 to 5 for Conan, Anything but basic

With a steady day gig as music director and bandleader for the Basic Cable Band on Conan, and involvement in enough side bands to make your head spin, life for musician Jimmy Vivino, of Locals 47 (Los Angeles, CA) and 802 (New York City), is full. Being bandleader is what he’s worked toward for his entire life.

John Williams: Back Again to a Galaxy

Instantly, we know where we are: Tatooine, homeworld of Luke Skywalker. And, equally importantly, we know who wrote that unmistakable chord: John Williams, the legendary composer of the soundtracks for all six (soon to be seven) installments of the Star Wars saga.

Loretta Lynn: Music Keeps Her Young

Loretta Lynn’s career has inspired musicians for 50 years, and her personal story of persistence and success paved the way for many strong female country singers who followed in her footsteps, living out their country music dreams.

Allen Toussaint Reveals Why He’d Never Leave the Big Easy

Pianist, producer, and songwriter Allen Toussaint, longtime member of Local 174-496 is one such musician. “I love everything about New Orleans,” he says.

Life in Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Bubble

Gordon Goodwin is humbled when he looks back at where his career has taken him—he’s scored dozens of films and television shows from the late 1970s to today and toured the world with his wildly successful Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band

Keb’ Mo’: Modern Master of American Roots

Musician Kevin Moore of Local 47 (Los Angeles, CA) paid his dues as a session musician, struggling to find his voice, before finally discovering the blues infused roots music he is recognized for today. When he debuted as Keb’ Mo’ two decades ago, he embarked on music that he admits is “too happy for the […]

Steve Gadd: Secrets for a Successful Freelance Career

If there is one drummer you could say has literally kept the beat for “everyone,” that drummer would likely be Steve Gadd, a member of Local 802 (New York City).

Herbie Hancock: Endless Possibilities

Iconic keyboardist and composer Herbie Hancock of Local 802 (New York City) is a living legend. The list of artists he’s performed with, from Miles Davis to Quincy Jones to Joni Mitchell, almost seems endless. Throughout his career, he’s eagerly embraced new technology while steadily expanding his own musical focus. His recordings have won him […]