On Tuesday, June 3rd, students in IAR’s Recording Workshop (RW) laid down tracks with a special guest artist, Gary U.S. Bonds. The renowned performer and songwriter has a long list of accomplishments in rhythm and blues and rock and roll. He was one of the most influential artists in the 1960’s with hits such as New Orleans, Quarter to Three, School Is Out, Dear Lady Twist, School Is In, and Twist, Twist, Señora. His later work includes collaborations with Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band and Steven Van Zandt who were fans of Bonds when they were developing their musical grooves. The RW instructor, Dan Grigsby, has brought other renowned artists to record at IAR, including Latin bassist John Benitez and George Clinton’s pianist Axel Tosca. Grigsby notes about Bonds’ recent appearance that “The students were so psyched. Here’s a guy who’s been in the industry forever. He’s a survivor and a celebrity but down to earth and fun, and still does his craft at a high level.”

IAR students recorded Gary, who was accompanied by his wife and daughter, as they tracked background vocals to the song “Rudy”, written by George Thiess. Beyond learning the best techniques for mic placement, using the board and Pro Tools, students witnessed how a major artist with decades of recording experience creates music in the studio and collaborates with a producer and engineer. “The students start thinking ‘I can do this. I can really do this’,” said Grigsby. IAR student Bryan Wilson remarked, “I loved being in the studio and seeing Gary and Dan work and interacting with them. When we got to mix it down, it really came together. It was an awesome experience.” For more information on Gary U.S. Bonds, visit garyusbonds.com.