This is something a bit different—a behind-the-scenes look at one of my recent recording projects.

This is the isolated piano part I recorded for Thanks For The Ride, a Blues-Rock shuffle from Chris Missen’s upcoming 2025 album. My approach on this track was inspired by the playing of two of my piano heroes - Chuck Leavell (Rolling Stones, The Allman Brothers Band, Eric Clapton), and Leon Russell. I drew on their rhythmic energy, harmonic variety, and funky phrasing.

I incorporate a wide range of Blues and Southern Rock piano techniques, including crushed notes, walk-ups, hammers and drones, tremolos, and backcycles. Harmonically, you'll also hear double stops, parallel thirds, triad-over-root voicings, phat 4-note triad voicings, Mixolydian triads, filled-in octaves, and some chromatic passing chords for colour and contrast.

Other highlights include a two-handed harmonised diminished arpeggio, and a crunchy dominant 7♯9 chord for extra tension. I also create syncopation that uses all three triplet subdivisions and 16th-note triplet cascades to add momentum to the groove. It all adds up to a part that’s full of personality and movement.

I wanted to share this because I always find it fascinating to hear piano parts on their own— it gives you a deeper appreciation of the piano’s role in a song’s overall arrangement. It’s also a great way to highlight the detail that goes into recording that can often be obscured by other instruments in the final mix.

If you're an aspiring piano player, you might find it useful to listen to how certain choices—like voicings, rhythm, embellishments, licks, or dynamics—support and shape the song.

Studying isolated piano tracks by the pros was an invaluable part of my musical development. If you’re learning how to build expressive piano parts in Blues-based styles, or just want to hear how these techniques come together in a real session track, I hope this gives you some inspiration.

🎹 Interested in learning how to play or create piano parts like this? I offer customised lessons that focus on real-world musicianship—from playing in different popular styles and improvisation to songwriting and arranging. Contact me to find out more or book a free consultation.

🎧 More isolated piano tracks from this album coming soon—stay tuned!