Episode 472 - Music, Wine, and Community | The Brian Culbertson Story
Description
In today’s episode, host James Cox sits down with Chicago‑born jazz virtuoso Brian Culbertson – a multi‑instrumentalist, composer, producer, and the man behind the acclaimed album “Day Trip.”
From Brian’s early days tinkering on piano at eight, picking up trombone in the school band, and discovering the magic of a home studio at twelve, to his modern‑day workflow that blends live horns, synth‑laden beats, and the Output Arcade plug‑in that sparked the track “Sandcastles,” the conversation drifts through:
The instrument journey: why piano became his songwriting hub, how drums shaped his groove sense, and the challenge of playing piano passages that push his limits.
Music theory & learning: a down‑to‑earth take on why theory is “baby steps” and how a good teacher can make it approachable for anyone.
Creative influences: everything from Earth, Wind & Fire and Tower of Power to classical, EDM, Mongolian metal (The Hu) and dark hip‑hop—showing how eclectic listening fuels fresh ideas.
Production vs. performance: why the studio feels like home, the painstaking process of polishing a record, and the tricks he uses to translate studio vibes to a live stage.
The “Day Trip” story: how nine songs were written in just four days with co‑writer Nicholas Cole, and the emotional contrast between rapid bursts of inspiration and years‑long labors of love.
Beyond the music: Brian’s passion for wine, the creation of his signature blends, the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway he co‑hosts, and the balance of artistry with entrepreneurship.
Get ready for a deep dive into a musician’s mindset, a handful of quirky anecdotes (no secret studio rituals—just a shower and a good vibe), and plenty of tips for anyone who dreams of turning a musical spark into a polished record.
Press play, lean back, and let the conversation remind you why, when words fall short, music always finds a way to speak.
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