Recently, we had the distinct pleasure of welcoming Gerey Johnson to Columbia College Chicago as a guest lecturer in the music business program. A celebrated guitarist, producer, and music director with decades of experience in both live and studio settings, Gerey brought a powerful blend of industry insight, technical know-how, and career wisdom to the classroom.
Throughout his session, Gerey shared stories from his work with legendary artists across genres — and gave students a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build a sustainable, collaborative career in music.
He offered candid advice on:
- The realities of working as a hired gun in the industry
- How to maintain creative integrity while meeting commercial demands
- What professionalism really means on tour and in the studio
- The importance of adaptability, preparation, and ongoing learning
Students were especially engaged during a live demo where Gerey broke down the anatomy of a session guitarist’s role — showing how small decisions can make or break a song’s groove and feel.
His presence not only reinforced the technical and business principles, reminding students that relationships, reputation, and versatility remain essential tools for success in today’s music economy.
Gerey’s visit offered more than just a masterclass in musicianship — it was a masterclass in professionalism, longevity, and real-world artistry.
0 Comments