May 14, 2024 | News
Think being a session guitarist is just about raw talent? Think again. In 2025, succeeding as a session guitarist requires a blend of technical skills, professionalism, and adaptability. Based on my 20+ years as a professional guitarist, this guide covers the essential skills you need to thrive in the music industry.
Every guitarist’s journey is unique. Some are self-taught, while others hold degrees from top music schools. I started at 13 with a school tutor, formed a band at 14, and later studied at a music college near London.
At 17 I decided I wanted to make a career out of playing. I went to a local music college for a couple of years where I met a guitar tutor who had worked in London in the early 90’s as a professional guitarist. Not only did I learn so much about the instrument, he was also a great mentor which helped point me in the right direction for my future career.
At 19 I went to study at a well know music college near London where I met some great contacts. I also learnt from some of the top guitarists who taught there at that time, I also started putting in some hardcore hours practising on my instrument. When I was 20 years old I would get up at 7AM, practise guitar from 8AM – Midday, go into college for a 2 hour lecture (also playing guitar) then I would come home and practise from around 7 – 10pm. I kept this up for around 3/4 days a week until I left uni 3 years later. Hard work, not talent, made the difference.
Top Tip: Find a mentor who’s done what you want to do. Email them for advice or a coffee chat. Many pros are happy to share their knowledge.
Playing in time is everything, I mean literally everything. Your technique and tone means nothing if you can’t play in time with a metronome or play with other musicians. Practice with a metronome or drum machine to lock in your groove. Record yourself using a DAW like Logic Pro X and listen as hard as you can.
Listen to the drummer’s hi-hats or kick to find the pocket. Some drummers play straight, others swing. Adapt to their feel and avoid rushing—a common guitarist mistake.
Top Tip: Play with drummers from different genres to sharpen your timing. Record yourself against a metronome to spot weaknesses.
A great tone gets you rehired, even if you’re not the flashiest player. In 2025, you need four core sounds:
I use a Kemper with Michael Britt profiles for reliability and versatility. Start with quality delays and reverbs, and research iconic tones for specific gigs.
Stop hitting the strings so hard, seriously this is something I’ve learned from recording. If you dig in too much you will choke the notes and they will sound thin. Depending on style, you don’t play the notes you “feel the notes” and they should sound effortless.
For a working guitarist playing contemporary styles , 99% of the time you will be using strumming, alternate picking, hammer ons and pull offs, string bending and finger style guitar. If you can shred at 200bpm that’s great and it has its place, however as a session player you’ll find yourself primary playing rhythm guitar (more on that later).
Specialised techniques like hybrid and chicken picking are great for niche genres.
In 2025, tabs are easy to find, but session work demands learning songs by ear—fast. Start by finding the song’s key and working out the bassline (often the root or chord tones).
Try these ear training tools:
Top Tip: Ear training can land you last-minute gigs. Ditch tabs and start transcribing by ear today!
Rhythm guitar is everything. It’s 95% of session work. Master it to always have a gig. When adding lead lines, ensure they complement the vocal melody, not overpower it.
Struggling to lock in with a drummer? Focus on their feel and adjust your strumming. Practice with varied grooves to stay versatile.
Writing basic chord charts is essential. Use software like Sibelius or the Nashville Number System for flexibility with key changes.
Sight reading is a bonus, but not mandatory—90% of pros don’t do it. Clear, simple charts help you and others nail gigs with short prep time.
Gear fails. Be ready. Always carry spares: strings, cables, and a backup amp. Troubleshoot fast by bypassing pedals or checking cables.
My go-to guitars include:
Boost your hireability with these skills:
Top Tip: Play with musicians better than you. It’s tough but worth it.
Modern session work requires tech know-how:
These skills make you a one-stop shop for artists and producers.
Be on time, play in time, and be kind. Professionalism means delivering your best, even on tough days. Communicate clearly, respect the team, and avoid drama.
The music industry thrives on relationships. Treat everyone—artists, producers, crew—with respect. The song is the star, not your ego.
Session guitarists need excellent timing, tone, ear training, rhythm guitar skills, and people skills to succeed in 2025.
Begin with training, practice regularly, network with musicians, and build a social media presence.
To succeed as a session guitarist in 2025, master timing, tone, ear training, and professionalism. Every gig is a chance to grow. Ready to start? Contact me for mentoring or book a session.
Remember: It’s a marathon, not a sprint. And it’s supposed to be fun!
Quote to Remember: “Early to bed, early to rise, work like hell and advertise” – Arnold Schwarzenegger.
P.S. – Keep the joy in your music. Rock on! 😀🤘
Joe Badger is a Session guitarist based near London.
For the last 20 years Joe has been performing and recording with 100’s of signed and unsigned artists as well as Musical Directing Corporate Band Xcaliber
Joe is Available For Live & Remote Recording Sessions In the UK and Europe.
BOOK A GUITAR SESSION
★★★★★
“I recently had the pleasure of working with Joe on a remote recording project, and I cannot speak highly enough of the experience! Joe was incredibly helpful and kind, guiding me through the process every step of the way. His professionalism and skill made the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Joe to anyone in need of a talented and reliable guitarist. I look forward to working with him again in the future!”
Carlie
(Singer/Songwriter)
★★★★★
“Joe recorded some tracks for a theatre show I am producing—he provided us with exactly what we needed on a short turnaround, following a really helpful, multiple draft process with feedback from different team members. I’d definitely recommend working with Joe!”
Gabriele
(Theatre Producer)
Social Media and Networking
Your Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are your digital business card. Keep them updated with clips of your playing or studio work.
Say yes to opportunities early in your career. Ask yourself:
Learn business basics—marketing, invoicing, taxes—to sustain a long career.