The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People (A Podcast About Acoustic Instruments, Music, & Artists)

Jeff Daniels: From 'Dumb & Dumber' to Fingerstyle Master | The Acoustic Shoppe Interview

The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People (A Podcast About Acoustic Instruments, Music, & Artists)

Show Notes

In this episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, the guys sit down for an in-depth conversation with acclaimed actor and musician Jeff Daniels. Jeff shares fascinating stories from his 50-year career, the parallels between acting and songwriting, and his deep connection to acoustic music. He also gives us a look at his impressive guitar collection, including his custom Martin signature model and a very special Gibson J-45 signed by George Harrison. Join us for a legendary sit-down with Jeff Daniels! Known for his iconic roles on screen and stage, Jeff is also an accomplished songwriter and fingerstyle guitarist. We dive into his musical journey, from learning Travis picking as a young actor in New York to opening his own music and theater venue, JD’s, in Chelsea, Michigan. Jeff explains why playing live solo is "terrifying" compared to acting and why he believes live, acoustic performance is something AI can never truly replace. Plus, don't miss the story behind his 1934 Martin C-2 archtop that Martin eventually turned into a signature model!

More from The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People (A Podcast About Acoustic Instruments, Music, & Artists)

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We are live from the 2026 Starvy Creek Bluegrass Festival sitting down with one of the most iconic high tenor voices in the history of bluegrass!In this special on-location episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, the Chapmans set up shop backstage to chat with bluegrass legend and multi-time IBMA Vocalist of the Year, Larry Stephenson!With over 30 years leading The Larry Stephenson Band and decades of performing at the highest level, Larry shares incredible stories from his career, his deep roots in traditional bluegrass, and his take on how the genre has evolved over the years. We also talk mandolins, life on the festival circuit, and what makes performing at a historic venue like Starvy Creek so special to touring artists.

Sep 20, 2026

Two absolute legends, one incredible conversation! You do not want to miss this rare look into acoustic history.In this very special episode of The Acoustic Shoppe Knows People, the Chapmans are joined by two titans of the acoustic instrument world: Bob Taylor (founder of Taylor Guitars) and Greg Deering (founder of Deering Banjos)!Beyond building two of the most iconic, industry-leading brands in acoustic music, Bob and Greg share a deep, decades-long friendship that goes all the way back to their early days starting out in San Diego. In this interview, we dive into their shared history, how their early bond shaped their respective approaches to instrument manufacturing, and the mutual respect that has kept them close over a lifetime of innovation.Thank you so much to Bob and Greg for taking the time to sit down with us at the Fretboard Summit this year. It was a joy to hear their history. 🔗Shoppe Taylor Guitars - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/taylor-guitars 🔗Shoppe Deering Banjos - https://theacousticshoppe.com/collections/deering 🔗Join the Dread-Not Underground! A global acoustic community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/dreadnotunderground

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