Chris PaytonChris was captured by music when he first picked up the guitar at age four. By applying himself and absorbing as much as possible from his influencers, he soon had a reputation for processing talent beyond his years. He began playing professionally in his early teens. Now, at the age of 24, he has established himself as one of America’s youngest, most prominent guitarists.Chris’ professional experience spans several genres, including R&B, gospel, soul, hip hop, pop, alternative, jazz and blues. He is currently on tour with Katy Perry, and has supported major acts including Robin Thicke, Nick Jonas, Lalah Hathaway, Toni Braxton, Brandy, PJ Morton, and T.I. He’s made multiple on-air musical appearances on shows such as Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Grammy Awards, Billboard Music Awards, The Today Show, Good Morning America, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and more, and he is a highly sought-after session musician and composer. Currently Chris is touring with Pop sensation Katy Perry.   [ Live On The Today Show >> VIEW ]

Anthony DeCarloAnthony DeCarlo is a musician from Trenton, NJ. He began playing the guitar at the age of 6 under the instruction of Ernie White. He was exposed to the great roots of blues and rock in Trenton. He played seriously throughout his childhood and wanted to take it a step further. He crossed the bridge to the city of Philadelphia to attend the University of the Arts for Guitar Performance.While at University of the Arts, he absorbed the magic of the city with the many styles of music that it offers. After graduation (Class of 2013), he began recording and performing for artists such as Kenny Lattimore, Dwele, Laurin Talese, Tweet, Jason Nelson, Chris Turner, Matt McAndrew, Aaron Camper, DJ Jazzy, Jeff Bradshaw, Chris Turner, Carol Riddick, Gerald Veasley, Jazmine Sullivan, Guordan Banks, Mara Hruby, Jesse Boykins, Freeway, Kenneth Whalum, Jo Jo, Son Little, Anthony David, Bilal, Corey Latif Williams, Algebra Blessett, and more.

Leon TimboSinger/songwriter Leon Timbo has a unique, rootsy sound that incorporates equal measures of vintage soul, gospel, folk, R&B, funk, dance music, and even modern blues in a style referred to by his producer as "transparent soul." A seasoned, well-traveled musician, he is widely regarded as a protege of Tyrese Gibson and Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds. Timbo counts Bill Withers, James Taylor, Andre Crouch, and Donny Hathaway among his influences.Timbo was raised in Jacksonville, Florida to church parents -- his father and mother are pastors. He began singing at 16 and playing guitar at 20, playing live locally and pursuing a career as a full-time musician. In 2005, after cutting the independently released album Soul Sessions, he supported it on an almost non-stop small venue circuit; Timbo built a fan base by playing wherever and whenever he could, coast to coast, using the internet to post new songs and video clips. He made some serious connections. During one trip, he performed at Bishop T.D. Jakes' Potter's House Church in Dallas.Tyrese was in the audience. Impressed by what he'd heard, he went backstage and asked Timbo to open a show for him that night at the House of Blues. It was so successful they began working together in earnest. Tyrese taught Timbo how to use his voice as an instrument in both live and studio situations. He also produced an independently issued EP. Tyrese then introduced Timbo to Babyface, who signed him to his Soda Pop imprint through Island Def Jam.Timbo opened for Edmonds on the road and learned more about the craft of songwriting. He cut an album for Soda Pop, but it was shelved when Edmonds' deal with Def Jam went south. Encouraged by Tyrese, Timbo kept traveling and doing studio work, including sessions with Quincy Jones and R. Kelly. He also began working on another album when Tyrese enlisted veteran producer Luther "Mano" Hanes. Over a three-year period, they completed a 14-track album. The pre-release single, "What Love’s All About," did well digitally and at radio. The full-length, issued by Riverphlo/eOne, was released in August 2016   

Greg SykesGreg Sykes is a Covenant Award winning songwriter andIntegrity Music recording artist based in Franklin, Tennessee and St. Catharines, Ontario, where he has been leading worship at his local church for almost 15 years.In addition to his own ministry, Greg has toured/performed with a variety of artists and worship leaders includingMichael W. Smith, MercyMe, Paul Baloche, The City Harmonic, Martin Smith (Delirious?) and High Valley.He also has co-written songs with Jaci Velasquez, PaulBaloche, All Sons & Daughters,Meredith Andrews, Leeland Mooring, Brenton Brownand others.Greg’s voice and songs can be heard on his critically acclaimed solo debut, Reverse. He also appears on the albumsBlessed Assurance: The New Hymns of Fanny Crosby, Majesty In A Manger and I Am N. His work on I Am N earned him two Covenant Award nominations for Male Vocalist of the Year and Praise & Worship Song of the Year in addition to his Covenant Award win for “Faithful” as Inspirational Song of the Year in 2014.Greg’s voice, music, personality and sense of humor have a way of bringing people of all ages together through songs and stories. Vulnerable, worshipful and fun-loving, Greg is passionate about sharing the hope and life changing power of Jesus with everyone he meets.    

Kerry MarshallGuitarist/Producer/InstructorKerry "2 Smooth" Marshall is a talented and celebrated guitarist, instructor, session player, social influencer, producer, artist developer and voting member of the Recording Academy. His unique, innovative and signature sound is one that is sought after by many all over the country. This North Carolina native began learning guitar at an early age, and immediately began a quest to make a difference in the world of music. After relocating to Birmingham, Alabama at the age of 11, he rapidly became known as a phenomenon in the region. In 2012, his band Nurdy Tunes, won first place in the Strange Arrange competition where they were awarded $10,000 and an opportunity to remake a live version of one of Musiq Soulchild’s records with him in studio. A driven perfectionist at heart, Marshall has been fine-tuning his craft for over 20 years. His musical style is influenced by guitarists such as Erick Walls, Tim Stewart, Kevin Wilson, John Mayer and Eddie "Spanky" Alford, yet infused with his own individual touch.In November, 2013, Marshall made the cross-country move to Los Angeles where his career has really flourished. Marshall has had the fortuity to be a facet on the entertainment scene with many artists. Currently, he is Lead Guitarist for Melanie Fiona, Ledisi, Chrisette Michele, V Bozeman and Sebastian Kole. The roster of performers he has graced the stage with is extensive and continues to grow, performing with legendary and rising star power artists like superstar Jason Derulo, 2 Chainz, film actor and R&B singer Tyrese Gibson, Ledisi, Ty Dolla $ign, Sean Kingston, The Roots, Michelle Williams of Destiny’s Child, Raheem DeVaughn, Leela James, Chrisette Michele, Musiq Soulchild, Anthony Hamilton, Jill Scott, Fantasia Barrino, Jacob Latimore, Kevin Ross, Chante Moore and many others.2015 to 2017 have been his biggest years yet, having performed all over the US and internationally. Marshall went on tour with Ledisi, Raheem DeVaughn and Leela James in front of sold out crowds in 27 cities across the US. Following the tour, he traveled extensively through the US and abroad for shows with Jason Derulo and Ledisi. The international dates with Jason Derulo brought him to Morocco, Dubai, Malaysia, Malta, Hungary, Switzerland and Germany. Marshall has also toured with Melanie Fiona and done dates with several artists domestically and internationally. He has also played internationally in Beijing, Hong Kong, England, Canada and many other countries. Marshall has performed at countless world famous venues such as The Roxy, The Troubadour, Whiskey A Go Go, Hard Rock Cafe Los Angeles & Nashville, Club Nokia, The Mint, Hotel Cafe, The Hollywood Bowl and the Forum. Aside from touring, Marshall is also a session guitarist, having recorded in studio sessions for Chrisette Michele, Rita Ora, Emeli Sande, Mali Music, Ledisi, Michael Bolton and internet sensation James Wright Chanel.Marshall has been featured in Guitar Player magazine, Electronic Musician, Soundtrack Entertainment, local newspapers in Birmingham, Alabama, several online outlets and blogs and has made television appearances on Good Morning America, in the TV series R&B Divas LA, Perez Hilton’s PerezTV, and Talk of Alabama. He has a significant online presence with over 2,600,000 views on his YouTube channel, and over 60,000 followers and subscribers on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram combined. He has several guitar tutorials on YouTube and Facebook which have earned him his audience along with many students all over the world to whom he teaches guitar.2018 is a year full of promise for Marshall. Expanding his brand by launching an extensive R&B guitar workshop and appearing in advertisements, photoshoots, and receiving brand and endorsement deals with several companies has him excited for the next phase of his career. He is constantly cultivating his gift, and his humble demeanor paves a path for constant recognition.  

Amber RussellMy name is Amber Russell, I am 30 and I grew up in northern Indiana. I’ve been playing guitar for 16 years, I have been performing as a singer songwriter for 10 years with over 50 original songs and performing solo fingerstyle guitar for four years. I lived in LA for 4 years before residing in Portland to pursue music where I reside currently.- I participated in the 2017 Canadian guitar Festival, and I’m proud to be the first female alternate competitor.-I am in the Riffwars Hall of fame for best original female artist 2015 and best female Guitar tapper 2017-I was spotted by former MTV host and CNN anchor Brian McFayden while I was street performing and I had the pleasure to perform on the KGW8, 7pm news in Portland and had a 30min. interview with him.-I participated in the 2017 Thomas Leeb percussive Guitar boot camp-I performed at the Fretmonkey Records concert live to 60 countries (during NAMM 2017)  

Sam MitchemMy name is Sam Mitchem, a 23 year old guitarist/songwriter with a passion to create and present a moment to every song I make and every stage I play on.At 10 years of age I pick up the guitar and at the age of 17 I started performing professionally across the country with artist and producers who I call now friends.I always believe talent is second to friendship. With true friends, my music life has been a rollercoaster that made me a great player and moment maker today.I have played for and recorded for artist/producers such as Percy Bay, D. Jamel Kimbrough, Leon Timbo, Todd Dulaney, the pack drumline, Shana Wilson Williams, Byron cage, Bri Babineaux and so much more. My longterm goal is too make room for God through the guitar for people as well as create great music for the world to hear.   

Jabari JohnsonIt’s rare that you find a millennial artist with a passion for Christ that bleeds through every opportunity he stands among believers and friends. Jabari Johnson is an individual who puts his whole heart into every lyric and note.A native of Houston, Texas this singer/songwriter and musician started singing and playing at the tender age of three. He and his brother, Nicholas Johnson, formed a quartet group called “The Johnson Brothers” at eight years old. As a group, they were blessed to share the stage with quartet greats such as: Lee Williams, The Canton Spirituals and Tim RogersJabari Johnson is currently the lead guitarist at The Potter’s House under the leadership of Bishop T.D. Jakes in Dallas, TX. He’s had the awesome privilege of playing and singing for award winning artists such as: Kirk Franklin, Tori Kelly, Todd Dulaney, Kierra Sheard, Myron Williams, Kim Burrell, John P Kee, Myron Butler, Tye Tribbett, J.J. Hairston, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, The Hamiltones, J Drew Sheard, Tweet, Maranda Curtis, Ricky Dillard, Nestor Torres, Leela James, Tweet, Michael Dixon, Cuba Gooding Sr., Kirko Bangz and Leela James just to name a few.Television appearances include The 33rd Annual Stellar Awards, performances with Bishop T.D. Jakes & Megafest Faith, Family, Film Festival, Tye Tribbett, The Clark Sisters, and Fred Hammond.After years of playing and writing music, on March 20th, 2015, Jabari released his first single entitled, “You are Holy”. This song created a buzz throughout the gospel industry and so many opportunities presented themselves. In addition, he released "You Are Holy" “More of You” and “You’re Good” on March 25, 2016.Jabari is a vessel willing, ready and able to be used by God and gives God the glory for his growth and progression in life and endeavors.Jabari Released his first project May 4, 2018, Day of Redemption The album continues to gain momentum across with fans on and off shore! New single release scheduled for Fall 2018  

Stevon ArtisRaving reviews for my beautiful instrument, as it has become my Primary performing Guitar above my both High-end Guitar. I really love the sensitive yet bold tone, and The Sound Pillars are magnificent, My favorite set-up style to play with so far is first without the Sound Pillars Naturally it's just so sweet all by itself secondly is with the Ebony sound Pillar for jazz and R&B.   

Nathan SheridanNathan Sheridan is a passionate Christian artist on the verge of a burgeoning career in the music industry. His debut single, “My God,” showcases a unique vocal style and unrelenting commitment to his love of Christ. having recently produced the track with Jeremy Holderfield at Red Beard Studios, Nathan’s journey has proved to be a miraculous unfolding of God’s will for him to uplift and spread love through music. With unlikely beginnings, Nathan’s musical talent has developed with both a burning desire and God’s support.Nathan was only 15 when he simultaneously discovered his connection both to God and music. despite his lack of formal training, Nathan’s musical affinity has opened many doors for him. After being given his first guitar at the age of 15 by his sister, by the age of 17 Nathan already had aspirations to seriously pursue his artistic endeavors as a singer-songwriter. Born to drug-addicted parents, Nathan was raised by his Grandparents in the small town of Pearl River, LA. With encouragement from friends and family, he began to sing on stage, and slowly worked his way up to leading worship in the band run by his home church’s youth group. Nathan’s abilities as a wide-ranging vocalist, capable songwriter and lyricist soon became clear. His passion for worship and leading a crowd into the spirit became impossible to ignore.At the age of 17, Nathan signed up for a 6-year contract with the US Army National Guard and was deployed to Kuwait for 9 months to participate in Operation Enduring Freedom. Nathan soon began leading worship at the chapel on base for hundreds of soldiers every week. It was there that Nathan really honed his musical abilities, and discovered exactly what god had in store for him. He dedicated himself to using his gift to lead others and spread the message that God has a plan for every life, regardless of their past, just as he had for Nathan.Nathan has since married his wife, Harley Sheridan, and gone on to produce his first self-titled debut album with Jeremy Holderfield from Seventh Day Slumber. Nathan collaborated with other well-known artists on the album including Brandon Bagby from Audio Adrenaline (guitar), and Lester Estelle Jr. from Kelly Clarkson (drums). Nathan’s powerful vocals continue to win over audiences in what is set to be a career of great success ahead of him.  

Amante LaceyHis heart, mind, and soul seek to worship the true and living God who is the Prince of Peace, the Mighty God, from Everlasting to Everlasting who reigns in the midst of us forever...Amante has written songs for grammy and stellar award artist such as Israel Houghton, Byron Cage Tye Tribbett Darwin Hobbs R.A Varnon Casey J Christon Gray and many more. Both Israel Houghton and Byron Cage were nominate for Stellar Awards, Israel also for a Grammy. Amante has also played at some of America’s largest churches Potters House-Bishop TD Jakes: City of Refuge Church-Bishop Noel Jones CA; Christian Cultural Center-Dr. A.R. Bernard NY; Bishop Kenneth Ulmer; Bishop Floyd Flake, NY; Cornerstone Church- Pastor Michael Pitts, OH; Solid Rock Church-Pastor Darlene Bishop, OH.Amante is a music minister that has experienced God in a very unique way. Amante has had an amazing ride in ministry. Throughout the ups and downs of life, Amante’s testimony about his journey in music ministry, in the continuous witnessing of God’s healing power over his sons life and where God is taking him now will astonish you and leave you inspired to go higher in your encounter of the awesome power of our God!Amante serves as worship pastor at First Church of God in Columbus Ohio. First Church of God is one of Ohio’s largest church with 7,000 members and over 10,000 viewers online.   

Jason WhitehornSinger and songwriter Jason Whitehorn left his music career in country music nearly twenty years ago to pursue a calling to write songs for the collective church. Today, his songs are sung in churches, heard on the radio, and have become an anthem for trials, tribulations and triumphs in life.Jason Whitehorn has had a varied history in music – touring in both the secular, CCM, and worship realms. Jason has played as a solo artist and played or worked with the likes of Darryl Worley, Confederate Railroad, Kenny Chesney, Matt Maher, Casting Crowns, and more. As a result, Jason has enjoyed working with several companies over the years in providing quality gear for worship and performance. Below is a listing of companies that either support Jason in artist relations or Jason endorses.Jason is endorsed as an artist by Gopher Woods guitars and plays our G800RE and G820CE models.