Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at my isolated piano part for Trudi and Jackson—a country-rock tune with Honky-Tonk flair and a splash of New Orleans R&B. I recently recorded this with Chris Missen for his new album, Saudade Stories.

Note: The piano doesn't play through the entire song. It enters at Verse 2. To keep things concise, I’ve edited out the sections where the piano isn’t playing.

The lyrics immediately brought to mind a screwball comedy buddy road movie—something in the spirit of Peter Bogdanovich’s Paper Moon. I wanted the piano part to capture that whimsical, lighthearted feel.

I recorded two separate piano tracks for this one: the first plays melodic fills, and the second joins in later to lay down a rhythmic foundation.

That rhythm track brings a strong New Orleans flavour—more specifically, a nod to the laid-back groove and feel-good charm of Allen Toussaint’s playing. It’s a blend of rhythmic drive, barroom fun, and Southern charm—more energetic and mischievous than some of the other tracks I’ve shared.

As always, I find it fascinating to hear piano parts in isolation—there’s something revealing about hearing the role they play without the full band around them. Once the finished track is released, I’ll link it here so you can hear how it all fits together.

Listening to isolated piano parts from other players was invaluable in my own musical development, so I hope this offers something educational as well as interesting.

🎹 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.

Music & lyrics by Chris Missen

Piano part composed and performed by Lisha Kayrooz

🎧 More isolated piano tracks from this album coming soon—each one revealing a different character and influence.