Known as longtime musical partner and guitar ace with country singer Dwight Yoakam. But, his real claim to fame might be that as a bona fide roots-music mechanic – a guy who has been under the hood of more recordings than you can shake a Tele at.

Where many musicians have longed to be a lead vocalist or six-string hotshot, Anderson has traveled a different road, assuming the role of the guy who wants to improve things.
This book distills four-plus decades of insight, dispensing wisdom for musicians across the spectrum, from home-studio creator to major-label hotshot. But this isn’t a garden-variety tutorial, heavy on technology. Rather, Anderson’s accessible literary approach is best summarized by a key word found in the title: philosophy.

Anderson points out that a great recording is rooted in things like inspiration, tactfully managing fussy personalities, and strategically establishing arrangements before entering the studio. He also brings record-making into the 21st century, observing that while the recording industry undergoes dramatic turmoil, the changes simultaneously afford artists with desire, ambition, creativity, and chops a chance to have their music heard.

A breezy read, but packed with worthwhile insight.

This article originally appeared in VG’s July 2023 issue. All copyrights are by the author and Vintage Guitar magazine. Unauthorized replication or use is strictly prohibited.