About this episode
Joel Hoekstra has played with everyone from Whitesnake and Night Ranger to Cher and Trans-Siberian Orchestra—and he’s here to tell the stories behind it all. In this episode of The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson and Jared James Nichols, Joel breaks down his incredible career path, from Broadway pits in New York to arena stages across the globe. Joel also shares his secrets for longevity, versatility, and surviving the hustle of a professional guitar life. Expect inspiring lessons, guitar nerdery, and some unforgettable stories from one of rock’s most versatile players. Pre-save Joel's new single, "The Fall" His new album, 'Into the Fade' drops February 2026. TIMESTAMPS 0:00 – Why Joel is the ultimate guitar chameleon 1:17 – Playing with Whitesnake, TSO, and Night Ranger 2:56 – Early guitar influences and discovering Angus Young 4:18 – Learning guitar in a pre-tab world 6:03 – Growing up blue-collar and developing work ethic 8:09 – Building a career as a sideman 10:02 – Breaking into the New York scene 11:18 – How Joel joined Night Ranger 13:05 – Broadway gigs and Rock of Ages 15:44 – Joining Trans-Siberian Orchestra 17:10 – The genius of Paul O’Neill 19:05 – Balancing gigs and finding your lane 20:00 – Inspiring kids through live performance 21:01 – Fear, stress, and motivation 22:03 – Playing with Cher & embracing new styles 24:16 – Lessons from playing with Foreigner 27:10 – The Night Ranger guitar team 29:57 – From Broadway to arenas 33:00 – Landing the Whitesnake gig 36:00 – Finding purpose and artistic balance 37:01 – Advice for young players 38:05 – Full-circle moments and staying open-minded 40:24 – Handling pressure and last-minute gigs 45:04 – Managing anxiety and performance stress 47:08 – Collaborating with legends like Satriani and Schenker 49:19 – Thoughts on online trolls and staying positive 51:01 – Joel’s tapping and legato fundamentals 57:24 – The art of phrasing and “money notes” 1:01:34 – Joel’s new album From the Fade 1:03:06 – Closing thoughts & gratitude Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/no-cover-charge-podcast/id1837018751 The No Cover Charge Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1etwgleKExKzncMWSeSqe6?si=a22394d8374542a1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nocoverchargepodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nocoverchargepodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579811813164 The No Cover Charge Podcast with Tyler Larson & Jared James Nichols is your all-access backstage pass to the world of guitar—and there's never a cover at the proverbial door. Hosted by two of the most passionate guitarists you'll find, Tyler and Jared deliver a mix of electrifying interviews with legendary guitarists, laugh-out-loud tales from the road, deep dives into guitar culture, and no-holds-barred gear talk.Whether you're a lifelong shredder or just love music, you'll find something unexpected in every episode—a hidden gem, a new perspective, an epic jam, or a story that'll stick with you. It’s always a good time, and best of all? No cover charge.Plug in and hang out.