First thing you want to do is make sure that your guitar is set up correctly, and there is no buzzing or dead notes.
Double check the frets are level, as uneven frets can cause poor intonation and tuning. I suggest asking a guitar luthier to inspect and level the frets if necessary. Additionally, consider a professional setup before recording to optimize playability and sound quality.
Itโs also worth restringing your acoustic guitar, as this will give you a much brighter sound which will be picked up on the microphone. Once your guitar is restrung, make sure that your strings are stretched in and tuned properly. Old strings tend to Intonate poorly, so itโs worth having new strings as it will make the recording process much smoother.
For the recording itself, Iโd recommend having a floor pedal tuner such as the boss TU-3 or the Peterson Strobo stomp. These are industry standard tuners which will help keep your Guitar in tune. When Iโm being recorded by a microphone, I plug my guitars DI output into my tuner so I can tune in between takes if needed. Make sure you tune with the capo on, as it can make the strings go slightly sharp. (Demo with capo)
Your acoustic guitars tuning is also highly sensitive to temperature changes. This can be caused by things such as air conditioning turning on and off, or extended playing over several hours.
To enhance your guitar’s tuning stability, consider upgrading to a graphite nut. This prevents strings from digging into the nut and slipping during recording or tuning.
If a graphite nut isn’t available, you can apply pencil lead (graphite) to the existing nut’s slots to reduce string friction, and prevent sudden string slipping.
Another option is a graphite bridge that can further stabilize tuning.
If using your own condenser microphone, the basic technique is to point the microphone at the 12th fret. As a general rule, I use thumb to pinky to measure the distance.
Make sure you can hear yourself clearly, as recording acoustic guitar with headphones on is completely different to recording electric guitar.
I recommend using closed back headphones, as this will help with sound isolation and help minimise spill during the recording.
To avoid issues with headphone bleed and spill, particularly from loud click tracks being picked up by the microphone. Ensure your headphones fit snugly, and keep your mix at a moderate volume to prevent sound leakage into the mic.
To help prepare for your recording session, practice at home to familiarize yourself with the recording environment. I tend to set the gain so that my input signal on Logic is between 9 and 12. You might have to boost the gain for a finger style part with a quieter signal.
Try not to breathe loudly during takes, as this will be picked up by the microphone.
For maintaining recording quality, use a noise-isolated room to prevent external sounds from being captured by the microphone. An acoustically treated room is even better, as it minimizes unwanted reverb or echo on your guitar track. This allows the producer or engineer to add these effects during mixing.
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 guitaristโs 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 90โs 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 whoโs 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 canโt 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 drummerโs hi-hats or kick to find the pocket. Some drummers play straight, others swing. Adapt to their feel and avoid rushingโa 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 youโre 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 Iโve learned from recording. If you dig in too much you will choke the notes and they will sound thin. Depending on style, you donโt play the notes you โfeel the notesโ 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 thatโs great and it has its place, however as a session player youโll 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 earโfast. Start by finding the songโs 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. Itโs 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 mandatoryโ90% of pros donโt 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. Itโs 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 everyoneโartists, producers, crewโwith 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: Itโs a marathon, not a sprint. And itโs 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! ๐๐ค
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
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โI 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!โ
Carlie
(Singer/Songwriter)
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“Joe recorded some tracks for a theatre show I am producingโhe 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)
Hi, Iโm Joe, a professional rock session guitarist based near London, specialising in recording high-energy rock music for studio projects, live gigs, and tours.
I started my journey in original bands when was 14, writing and recording songs whilst taking regular guitar lessons. My first original band recorded and released 5 E.PS as well as touring nationally.
For the last 20 years I have been working as a professional session guitarist performing and recording for 100’s of signed and unsigned acts in studios in London, as well as recording remotely from my home studio.
As well as lots of recording, I spent the early part of my 20’s performing in arena’s and have been playing guitar regularly with corporate covers band “Xcaliber” which I also manage and MD.
If you’re an artist, producer, band, musical director or sound designer, please feel free to get in touch about booking a live or remote guitar session – [email protected]
Joe
โ โ โ โ โ
โI 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!โ
Carlie
(Singer/Songwriter)
โ โ โ โ โ
“Joe recorded some tracks for a theatre show I am producingโhe 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)
From initial consultation to final mix-ready tracks, I collaborate closely with producers and artists to ensure every note fits your vision. Whether itโs laying down gritty riffs for a rock anthem or crafting melodic solos for a live show, I tailor my approach to your project. Remote clients receive high-quality WAV files within days, while live sessions in London studios offer hands-on precision.
With decades of experience, I offer reliability, versatility, and a deep understanding of rock music. My tracks have backed artists on national tours and studio albums, blending technical skill with creative flair. As a rock session guitarist in London, Iโve recorded for artists worldwide, offering both live and remote services.
“Check out my full session guitarist services for more details.”
Looking to hire an online session guitarist? Joe Badger brings over 20 years of experience from performing at thousands of gigs, ranging from grassroots venues to arenas. Specializing in both electric and acoustic guitar, Joe delivers professional-grade recordings remotely from his home studio to clients worldwide.
Starting in original bands during his teens, Joe honed his craft through songwriting and recording. His career evolved into session work and regular performances with professional cover bands across the UK and Europe. Today, he offers tailored guitar tracks for artists and producers globally, making him a go-to choice for remote guitar tracks.
Wherever you are in the world, Joe can bring your songs to life with professional guitar stems recorded in his state-of-the-art home studio. With a collaborative process, he ensures your vision is realized through rough takes, feedback, and final WAV files, providing a seamless experience for hiring a guitarist online.
Listen to audio samples of Joe Badger’s professional guitar recordings, including electric and acoustic tracks.
BOOK A PROFESSIONAL GUITAR SESSION
Includes Editing & Up to 2 Revisions
Amp Sounds + Dry Stems Available, WAV Bounced From 0
Includes Editing & Up to 2 Revisions
All Recorded via Neumann TLM 102, WAV Bounced From 0
Includes Editing & Up to 2 Revisions
Amp Sounds + Dry Stems Available, WAV Bounced From 0
โ โ โ โ โ
โI recently worked with Joe on a remote recording project, and it was an absolute pleasure! Joeโs professionalism, talent, and guidance made the process seamless. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking a skilled online session guitarist.โ
Carlie
(Singer/Songwriter)
โ โ โ โ โ
โJoe recorded tracks for my theatre show on a tight deadline. His collaborative approach and high-quality recordings were exactly what we needed. Iโd recommend Joe to anyone!โ
Gabriele
(Theatre Producer)
Simply click the “Book Now” button to contact Joe via the form. Share your song details, and heโll guide you through the process.
All guitar tracks are delivered as 24-bit WAV files, with dry stems available upon request.
Joe offers electric, acoustic, and lead guitar recordings, all tailored to your projectโs needs with up to two revisions included.
Hiring an online session guitarist like Joe Badger offers numerous advantages for musicians and producers:
Learn more about Joeโs session guitarist services or check out his video performances.
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 basicsโmarketing, invoicing, taxesโto sustain a long career.