Bitesize - Jarrod Walker on playing with Billy Strings, plugging in and pedals

Bitesize - Jarrod Walker on playing with Billy Strings, plugging in and pedals

Author: Matt Hutchinson August 6, 2025 Duration: 19:44
Bluegrass Jam Along
MusicArtsInterviewsPerforming

My guest for this week's Bitesize episode is Jarrod Walker, best known to most of you as the mandolin player in Billy Strings' band.

This is a segment of a longer interview from 2022. In this section Jarrod talks about getting the gig with Billy, how it was both the most progressive and the most traditional gig he'd had, learning to play plugged in and experimenting with pedals.

The full interview (link below if you're interested) covers much more, including what Chris Thile taught him about learning fiddle tunes, how he almost ended up selling instruments for a living rather than playing them and going from landscaping one day during the pandemic to playing a live streamed gig at Red Rocks the next.

To connect with Jarrod and find out where you can catch a show, check out the links below:

Jarrod's Facebook

Jarrod's Instagram

Billy Strings' website


Here's the full interview with Jarrod.


Happy picking.

Matt

Support the show

===

Thanks to Bryan Sutton for his wonderful theme tune to Bluegrass Jam Along (and to Justin Moses for playing the fiddle!)


Bluegrass Jam Along is proud to be sponsored by Collings Guitars and Mandolins

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Hosted by Matt Hutchinson, Bluegrass Jam Along is an IBMA Award-winning conversation that feels like pulling up a chair in the middle of a lively, expert picking session. It’s built for anyone with an ear for the intricate stories and sounds of bluegrass and old-time music, going far beyond just the recordings. Each episode brings thoughtful interviews with the people who shape the scene, from legendary performers like Alison Krauss and David Grisman to the skilled instrument makers and writers whose work forms the foundation. You’ll hear from voices such as Sierra Hull, Tim O’Brien, Jerry Douglas, and Sarah Jarosz, discussing craft, history, and the personal journeys behind the music. Alongside these deep conversations, the podcast weaves in updates on new releases and notable news, keeping you connected to the evolving string band world. The result is a rich, weekly listen that offers both education and genuine camaraderie, mirroring the collaborative heart of a jam itself. Tune in to this podcast for an authentic and engaging exploration of the music, hosted by someone deeply embedded in its community.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 516

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