Hailing from Blakley, Georgia, a town of only 5,000, Kyle Everson has turned his love for steel guitar into a successful career. Kyle graduated as Salutatorian in high school where he went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree in Finance from Auburn University. Shortly after college, Kyle moved to Nashville to pursue a career in finance. After a couple of months working for a large financial firm, Kyle traded in number crunching for his steel guitar and a tour bus. Since then, he has played pedal steel, lap steel, dobro, banjo, guitar, and mandolin with chart topping country artists including Martina McBride, Jon Pardi, Jake Owen, Billy Ray Cyrus, Lonestar and Chris Young.

When Kyle isn’t traveling, you can find him playing gigs at the Honky Tonks on Broadway, trying new craft beers (he’s tried over 350!), and rooting for the Nashville Predators.

Follow Kyle on Instagram. Find out when you can catch Kyle at a Martina McBride show near you.

 

Q & A | Kyle Everson

Country Clones [CC] |What is a typical day on the road like for you?
Kyle Everson [KE] |Typically, I start with coffee or lunch on the bus; or catering. After I eat, I try to get in a nice walk to check out the city we’re in. Soundcheck is in the afternoon, followed by a shower, then it’s showtime. We will usually chill out after the show by listening to Jazz music on the bus, before heading to the next town.

CC | What do you enjoy most about your job?
KE|  The schedule is demanding at times, but I enjoy the flexibility. When i’m home, I am able to get things done during the day, while everyone else is at work. I also enjoy traveling and seeing new places – it’s fun!

CC | What kind of gear do you have?
KE | I endorse Little Walter Tube Amps, Valvetrain Amps, Collings Guitars and Mandolins, and Franklin Steel Guitars. My rig changes frequently with my mood and requirements vary between artists.

CC | What has been your proudest moment of your career thus far?
KE | Playing on my first #1 song. Nothing compares to hearing your part in a song while driving down the road!

CC | If you could play with any artist, who would it be?
KE | I’ve had the opportunity to play and record with a lot of my favorites, but George Strait would have to be at the top of my list. If we’re really dreaming, I’d love to play with Eric Clapton.

CC | How did you get to tour with well known artists?
KE | It is all about networking, and doing a good job. Some would argue that it’s luck, but I see luck as the meeting of opportunity and preparation. Do your homework, meet people that like the same stuff, and you’ll be connected in no time! Artists often ask for references. Nashville is a very small town, if you know what I mean. Just do your best, and be cool.

CC | How do you pass the time on the tour bus?
KE | Most traveling is done at night, so we sleep. Daytime is spent listening to music and watching Family Feud.

CC | What’s your favorite festival to play?
KE | They’re all great. I really love playing shows in Chicago (Country Lake Shake, and Wrigley Field) because Chicago is a fun city to explore before the show.

CC | Do you enjoy bigger shows or smaller shows?
I love playing in arenas. Granted, the sound quality isn’t the best, but I’ve seen some of my favorite artists as a kid in arenas. Perhaps it’s nostalgia?

CC | Do you still go to concerts as a fan?
KE | Rarely. But I am very much looking forward to seeing Roger Waters (Pink Floyd) in August.

CC | Do you have any advice for anyone who wants a career on the road in the music industry?
KE | Learn as many skills as you possibly can. Ask questions to your fellow band and crew mates. Don’t take things too seriously, while remaining professional. Most importantly, have fun!