About Me
Welcome to my page - the good, the weird and the weirder....
THE MUSICIAN
I've been a student and player of music since the early childhood. It's something that I've always be inspired by in my life and life in general is moved and inspired by music. No matter what it is, you will find someone that is moved by what you do. But, with that said....
-- I am a student first: I have always found it important to know my craft - what I'm doing, how I'm doing it and why. I've studied music and studied. It's amazing how as much as you understand it, it teaches you. Again, it "moves you" in many ways. I try to always approach a new song, new idea with the eyes of a child. Treat it fresh and new.
-- I am a player second: Hone the craft, practice often, be diverse in approach and work at things that are seemingly too difficult today. As I've shared my studio and live experiences with musicians, fans and industry folks I've found that you have to keep things in perspective - Music, Show, Band, Personal. Without the music being right, you're done. Your product will never succeed. Without a good show, people will never want to see you play, let alone pay money to come out to the venue. Without the right band/members, the core of what/why/who you are as a product and a band is important but without knowing there's bigger things that individual players, you're done. It is and will always be a "band effort". And last is Personal, if this comes before ANY of the previously mentioned, you have set yourself up to fail, but if you're humble enough, studious enough, dedicated and driven enough - you can never be the weak link or unprepared. Ok, I'm done being philosophical.... :P
I've played in many many bands, opened for countless national and regional acts over my venue/circuit/touring career of 19 years. I'm not really, believe it or not, big on patting (or beating) myself on the back for things I've done. But, yes, there are bands (both musical brothers & sisters) that I've played and shared experiences with - on and off the stage. The stories that could be told.... hahahahahahahaha! If you come out to hang with me or check out one of shows, ask for some stories. Some are guarded and will never be told (right KK?).... LOL!! But, also be prepared (if you're a musician, manager, promoter, etc) to hear me talk to you about the equipment and companies I support, sponsor, suggest. Yes, it is to some degree market targeting, but so are some of you coming to the band I'm in, so HA! :P
WHO IS STERLING?
Everyone wants to know that. Even myself! I'm learning about myself and everyone around me every day. It's always an adventure.
But, I'm easy-going, sarcastic, fun.... I work hard and play hard. Other than that, I'm sleeping.
I have a great family and tons of support. My wife, wow, I couldn't even begin to tell you how just awesome she is.... But, she is! Words would only degrade her, so I'm not going to try. Just take my word for it.... :) My minions? hahahaha! My kids are great. It truly is amazing, frustrating and fulfilling all at the same time. I have been blessed and punished at the same time, but I like it.... LOL. As the mother's curse happened upon me with all boys. So shall the torture continue. Thanks, mom! :P
Other than this, you'll have to ask me yourself. Come check me out when I'm out in the club scene hanging with my musical brothers & sisters or at my shows.
INSTRUMENTS/GEAR I PROUDLY SUPPORT!
SCHECTER GUITARS
I fully support and endorse SCHECTER GUITARS !! They are absolutely awesome instruments!! I've been playing a long time, played tons of different guitars, but the Schecters I'm now playing are amazing!! Check them out!! You can hear me playing them - live and in the studio with TSF, Vox Humana, my solo project and on Scarz Within's new CD - Nothin' Sacred III:Flames of Custody!! My other guitars are now collecting dust, as I am a full supporter of their excellent instruments!! I now own 4 of them! Currently own - (3) Hellraisers: C-1 (Black Cherry) , C-1FR (Blk) and the C-7 (Blk) w/active EMGs and (1) C-1 Exotic Star - Snow Leopard . Next on my list is the C-1 E/A , Ultra F-117 and a C-1 Classic (Dark Vintage Sunburst) . As I recycle the other ones, I'm replacing them with Schecters! Check them out here -- SCHECTER GUITARS .... You won't be disappointed!!
MILLS ACOUSTICS GUITAR CABINETS
I had the pleasure of testing out and playing through one of these cabinets, and I have got to say --- WOW! I'm sold! Another situation where I've been around and played many factory and hand-crafted musical instruments and sound reinforcement / cabs, etc....This one is the clear winner of them all! Powerful, Sturdy enough - for longevity of road use & abuse, and CLEAN! These cabs were built to turn up to 11! I also had the opportunity to speak directly with them and they are GREAT people! Take everyone seriously and respectfully, as if you were family. I'm working on getting a revamped rig via Mills Acoustics ! Check Them Out NOW! You will be thankful you did!!!!! I know I am!
GHS STRINGS
No question whatsoever - GHS Strings . Best of breed, best of the best. I've been using GHS forever! Clearly the greatest tone I've ever gotten out of something so overlooked as a guitar player. The way I abuse strings, it's no wonder I use a string that can stay with me bend by bend, shred by shred. And if you've ever seen me play live (specifically at the end of the show), you know why I need a string that can take the harassment! :)
Tone, Longevity and pure Quality. I endorse and support the highest standard for not only myself, but my instruments - I use GHS, period!
INTUNE GUITAR PICKS
Need or Want Custom Guitar Picks? InTuneGP.com is the place to go! No doubt about it. I use them exclusively and they do great, fast and precise work. Tell them Sterling sent ya. They like it when customers send them customers! I get nothing for it. Just a smile, I'm sure. Everyone is treated the same....
Hope that was enough info!
As my wife says - "I'm full of useless information, but a lot of fun at parties!"
Drop in, say hello, feel free to contact me/add me as a friend.
Thanks for taking the time to read this profile. I hope it didn't suck! :Þ
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