517 - J Rod Sullivan: Playing with Janet Jackson, Adjusting to the Bigger Gig
May 08, 2025•1 hr 4 min
Episode description
In 2006, J-rod uploaded his first Youtube video, receiving positive feedback that reinforced his belief in using his musical talent to educate and inspire others. Committed to honing his craft, J-rod enrolled in the Atlanta Institute of Music, graduating in 2012, and later joined The 4 Korners band in 2013. With a growing online community of over 700K+ followers, J-rod’s brand transcends his talent, drawing in aspiring and talented musicians with his style, methods, and dedication.Currently serving as the drummer for Janet Jackson, Jeffrey Osborne, and The 4 Korners, J-rod continues to make waves in the music industry through his passion and dedication.
Adapting to his first big pop gig coming from the jazz fusion world
Being told to go for it “in show mode” for his audition video
Adjusting to the smaller box of a pop gig and still finding ways to be himself
How this live gig is improving his session playing
Learning to navigate the infrastructure of a big tour
Ways to have the compensation conversation
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