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MEET THE TEAM
Meet the folks who make it happen! Sales, customer service, and beyond—see and hear it from the people behind the scenes! Here at Chicago Music Exchange, we're all musicians or music fans so feel free to ask any of us your burning questions! Check out our Staff Picks while you are here, as well!
Well I ain't always right but I've never been wrong, and it seldom turns out the way it does in a song. Once in awhile you get shown the light, in the strangest of places if you look at it right!
Favorite Gear:
1959 Gibson ES 355 in FACTORY BLACK!!
Favorite Concert:
2017 Farm Aid
- Neil Young's set with Promise of
the Real as his band. INSANE.
Dallas raised, Chicago livin’ — Tanner’s a guitarist, audio engineer, and all-around music nerd. Actually, just a nerd in general… When he’s not playing guitar or mixing, you’ll probably find him hanging out with his wife and two dogs, playing Pokémon Go around the city, or hunting for Star Wars action figures for his collection. He’s on the lookout for the best Italian beef Chicago has to offer, so give him your recommendations!
Favorite Gear: Constantly changing… Currently, Gibson SG, Jext Telez White Pedal, and pretty much any chorus pedal ever.
Favorite Concert: Paul McCartney at Austin City Limits 2018
Jonathan is dedicated to making CME one of the coolest places to work and your best local music store no matter where you live. On the weekends you might catch Jonathan blowing out his eardrums through a series of old Marshalls with his local tribute band. He is an avid AC/DC, Gibson SG, and Mini Cooper fanatic, so be sure to not mention any of these things to him.
Favorite Gear: 1965 Gibson SG
Favorite Concert: AC/DC at Wrigley Field 2015
A native to Chicago Jason has been involved in the Chicago studio scene since 2010 after graduating from Full Sail's recording arts program and has spent the last 14 years playing guitar in several bands around the city.
Favorite Gear:
My Custom TSmith 7 string tele
Favorite Concert:
Whitechapel 10 year anniversary tour at the Rave
A hoarder of gear and records, Phil is often found riding motorcycles, baking pastries, and playing psych rock and ambient electronic music.
Favorite Gear:
Korg Monopoly, Vox Royal guardsman, 2002 MIM Strat, Jordan bosstone fuzz
Favorite Concert:
Damo Suzuki, Empty Bottle 2007
Favorite Gear:
1965 Gibson SG
Favorite Concert:
Smashing Pumpkins 1997
The more amps and pedals you have on stage at one time the better!
Favorite Gear:
Banker Guitars, Victoria and Matchless Amps
Favorite Concert:
Pearl Jam- Wrigley Field- Aug 24, 2016
After growing up in a tiny town in rural Illinois for most of his life, Kyle moved to Chicago in 2010 to pursue music. He’s a self-proclaimed lover of loud music and loud drums.
Favorite Gear:
Ludwig & Gretsch Drums
Favorite Concert:
Wu Tang Clan 2019
As a Minnesota native, Zach began playing in bars around the Twin Cities at age 13. He earned his chops playing Rock & Blues and eventually lead two bands to compete in Memphis’ International Blues Challenge. He now fronts the Zach Avery Band and plays all around the city of Chicago, while slinging some of the finest guitars and amplifiers at CME!
Favorite Gear: Heritage H-535 Custom & Fender Vibrolux Amp
Favorite Concert: Rolling Stones at TCF Bank Stadium (2015)
As a lifelong musician and all around appreciator of the arts, Wrenn received a Bachelors degree in Audio Design and Production from Columbia College Chicago in 2019 and has since worked in a few different studios in Chicago, working on studio recording and audio archival work. Outside of audio work, she also was a talent manager for a local band playing in the Chicago indie/DIY scene! When she's not working on music, she loves to cook, hangout with her cat, and do anything outdoors!
Favorite Gear - Martin D-15M
Favorite Concert - Unknown Mortal Orchestra at the Ogden Twilight Amphitheater
Born and raised in Louisville, KY Chris has been obsessed with guitars for most of his life. Having played in various alt-country and rock n’ roll bands for years, you can now find Chris passing the time drooling over the vintage Gibson and Martin guitars in the Acoustic Room at CME. In addition to his obsessions with guitars and music, Chris is a scuba instructor who you can find exploring Great Lakes shipwrecks during the warmer months.
Favorite Gear - 5e3 Tweed Deluxe Clone
Favorite Concert - Paul McCartney at Camping World Stadium (2022) - Prince at the Conseco Field House (2004)
A self-taught musician and songwriter born in the suburbs of Chicago. He produces his own synth-heavy music under the name Lowayve with the help of drum machines and synthesizers. When not geeking out about new gear or playing with his R&B band, The Clean Plate Club, you’ll probably find him playing video games.
Favorite Gear - Elektron Digitone, Sequential Prophet 10, Arturia Polybrute
Favorite Concert - Justice Lollapalooza 2012
A native of Pennsylvania, who traversed the cultural landscapes of Puerto Rico, Los Angeles, and Mexico City while touring and performing with his Psy Spy Instro Surf ensemble, SECRET AGENT, and Latin Pop and Rock acts, Rick has chosen to make Chicago his new home, lured by its frigid climate and the opportunity to ply his trade at the esteemed musical emporium Chicago Music Exchange.
Favorite Gear - Gretsch Duo Jet and Fender Strat matched with a Fender '60s blackface amp.
Favorite Concert - Ramones at Pista Atlética Ramey Base - Aguadilla Puerto Rico February 20, 1988
I am obsessed with guitar. I spent many years traveling the world playing music and even got a degree in jazz guitar to take my playing to the next level.
Favorite Gear - My 2015 Gibson Custom Shop Byrdland in Wine Red
Favorite Concert - Cory Wong in 2018 at Thalia Hall
When not searching for more gear she doesn't need, Sylvia self records and fronts her indie rock project, Lithia.
Favorite Gear - My Re-201 Space Echo, 66' Jag, Juno 106
Favorite Concert - Adrianne Lenker at the Cedar
Ocean traded the warmth of Southern California for the frigid temps of Chicago. When not trading solos with some of Chicago's finest Blues icons Sam is probably busy decoding the rhythm pattern to an obscure Radiohead track. Catch him eating Ramen at his favorite spot in Wicker Park or riding his Bianchi along the Lakeshore.
Favorite Gear - 1964 Gibson Country Western (SJN) Acoustic
Favorite Concert - Pearl Jam Live at Wrigley Field
As the manager and head buyer of the vintage and used inventory here at CME, Daniel tells people all the time that he has the best job on planet Earth. He enjoys working closely with his fantastic team as they acquire inventory and obsess over curating the best vintage collection possible, while sharing enjoyable experiences through transparent transactions with clients.
Favorite Gear:
Gibson L-00 from 1932 and Carstens Black Flag
Favorite Concert:
Gillian Welch and David Rawlings at the Vic in Chicago (2011)
Born & raised on Chicago's Northside, Mike is a lifelong bassist & vintage gear fanatic. Specializing in Fender & Gibson history, he's also a connoisseur of the rare & obscure. When he's not scouring the earth for the the coolest vintage gear, you can probably find him watching the Hawk's game, playing bass in local alt-rock band, LFN, or hanging out with his english bulldog.
Favorite Gear:
61 Stack Knob Jazz Bass
Favorite Concert:
Fearless Flyers at Concord Music Hall (2018)
Dog lover, Formula 1 fanatic, and verified nerd for all things vintage gear and BBQ. If you want to know about the many versions of the EHX Big Muff, the difference between pre-T and T-top pickups, or how to properly trim a brisket, I'm your guy.
Favorite Gear: 1960 Les Paul Standard "Scarface"
Favorite Concert: David Gilmour Chicago Auditorium (2016)
Favorite Gear: Fender Jazz Bass & that new pedal that does the thing.
Favorite Concert: Pat Metheny Unity Band, 2012
Meat and potatoes bassist, session player, and folk instrument enthusiast with a love of makin' records. Miles seems pretty smart until you get to know him.
Favorite Gear: When I finally have enough dough for a custom Serek Midwestern, I'll let you know what's all on it!
Favorite Concert: Weird Al Yankovic
Grown from spores that fell from space, Bob has lived in Chicago all his life and wouldn't want to live anywhere else. He received a bass from his Gram-Diddy (grandma) for his 20th birthday and it was all over from there. "I love all music!"
Favorite Gear:
Darkglass microtubes 900
Favorite Concert:
Summer Slaughter 2009 or The Black Crows and Tom Petty
Dodd is a lover of music- from Black Metal to R&B, and everything in between! He is a proud dog dad to his standard poodle, Boogeyman.
Favorite Gear: His 2003 graffiti yellow Tom Delonge Fender Stratocaster
Favorite Concert: Any of the many times seeing Rancid with his Dad
Anthony is a music lover, creator of stained glass pieces, lover of all things four legged and furry, and a traveler.
Favorite Gear: DW Collectors Series Snare, any of them.
Favorite Concert: Rancid - I’ve seen this band most than I can count and they’re never a let down.
Born into a family of musicians and producers, music and its creation has always been a part of Jim's life. Since 2011 he has been an intricate part of the growth of CME and he is 100% dedicated to getting you the right gear, faster than anyone else in the business.
Favorite Gear: Blue Hofner Shorty
Favorite Concert: 1st Concert - Evanescence
CT born and raised, Chris has been playing and recording music as long as he can remember. When technology meets music, that's when he gets excited!
Favorite Gear: Pioneer RT-707 Analog tape Machine with Auto Reverse
Chicago born and raised. Music maker and record collector. Support local music!
Favorite Gear: Dunable Gnarwhal
Favorite Concert: Within the past 5 years it has to be the REZN/Lume show at the Empty Bottle in 2019
Professional moron. Amateur life force
Favorite Gear: Spaceman Apollo VII
Favorite Concert: Kenny Hoopla at Schuba’s Tavern
Chicago native. Bass player first, pesky noise maker second.
Favorite Gear: All fuzz, all the time.
Favorite Concert: Toss up between Dillinger Four and Jawbreaker.
Born and raised on Chicago's South Side, Tom was snuck into bars and pubs by his parents on school nights to play covers since the age of 14. While his main instrument is guitar, he will try to play anything he can get his hands on. When he is not optimizing business processes, you can find him backpacking or fishing in the north woods or wherever he can get off the grid.
Favorite Gear:
Tom does not play favorites.
Favorite Concert:
Neil Young - Chicago Theatre 2008
Grew up on the South Side, now dwelling on the North side. Guitarist in Home Entertainment. My life has been about music and music making since I was a toddler, with no end in sight.
Favorite Gear: Fender Super Sonic 100
Favorite Concert: Recently? Green Day at the Metro and OSees at Thalia Hall, both in 2022.
"Disco made me do it."
Favorite Gear:
1963 Gibson SG Custom Polaris White
Favorite Concert:
Christian McBride's New Jawn (2018) or Rolling Stones, Soldier Field
"Hey Buddy!"
Favorite Gear: Gibson SG
Favorite Concert: Bon Jovi or Rolling Stones
"I fix broke stuff."
Favorite Gear:
Fender J Bass
Favorite Concert:
Radiohead, Lolla ‘08
Alec was raised on a small farm in Iowa. He studied anthropology in college, but followed his love of music and lutherie to Chicago. Now he spends his days finding the perfect combination of neck relief, string action, and intonation that makes a guitar feel and sound phenomenal.
Favorite Gear: His own one-of-a-kind creations
Favorite Concert: Daddy-O and the Demolition Band at the Yacht Club in Iowa City
From Minneapolis, Alec likes playing tasty tunes and hanging out with his dog.
Favorite Gear:
my 1974 Fender Twin Reverb Silverface amp
Favorite Concert:
Ty Segall and The Muggers at First Avenue in Minneapolis. 2016
Dustin started working on guitars the way most people do: by sucking at working on guitars. 10,000+ instruments later and he's gotten a lot better at it. When he's not fixing braces or steaming off necks, he plays with his two bands The Flips and Hi Ho. He's also the current reigning CME Mario Kart champion (and has the trophy to prove it).
Favorite Gear:
Weller Soldering Irons
Favorite Concert:
Tie between Glen Hansard at The Vic and Sunn O))) at Thalia Hall
Brody was born and raised in Naples, FL and loves to work on guitars.
Favorite Gear: My 2016 Gibson Flying V
Favorite Concert: Metallica, Orlando 2017
"Distort everything."
Favorite Gear:
Fuzz
Blake was raised in Florida and started playing guitar when he found his dad’s copy of the Back In Black record at 11. He followed music and guitar to Chicago at 20, then to Seattle, and found his way back. He loves old Marshalls, coffee, and working on amps and guitars. Blake plays guitar in his local AC/DC cover band on the weekends. He attended Galloup School and is incredibly proud to be part of the CME team.
Favorite Gear: 1962 Gretsch Duo Jet
Favorite Concert: AC/DC in Orlando 2009
Favorite Gear: A Telecaster
Dan is a songwriter who has been in music retail virtually uninterrupted since the ripe age of fifteen! He is an uncompromising fan of the Buffalo Bills and all of his favorite music is Canadian.
Favorite Gear:
Guild D-55 Antique Burst (mine is a New Hartford-era)
Favorite Concert:
Alexisonfire at S.C.E.N.E. Fest 2006 in St Catharines, ON
Raised in Portland, Oregon, Gavin moved to Chicago in 2018. Aside from the obvious love of guitars and music, he enjoys comedy, baseball, and family.
Favorite Gear:
1972 Fender Silverface Dual Showman Reverb
Favorite Concert:
July 27, 2013 Phish at the Gorge Amphitheater. Very tight that night. Super funky Sneakin' Sally and a 2001 jam that I believe eventually became the basis for Martian Monster. JJ Cale passed away that day and I was really sad about it, so the After Midnight cover was perfect.
Favorite Gear: Roland Juno-106
Favorite Concert: The Flaming Lips at the Aragon Ballroom
Cat enthusiast. Dog petting aficionado.
Favorite Gear:
1963 Jazzmaster
Favorite Concert:
Fleet Foxes at The Chicago Theater, 2017
Gloria ad ecclesiam. Filii raptus in nomine deorum
Favorite Gear: Jackson 7-String Dinky with Reverse Headstock, Peavy 6505/EVH 5150
Favorite Concert: From First to Last at Pops in Sauget, IL in 2005
Saul was a dog in at least one past life.
Favorite Gear:
Sony A6000
Favorite Concert:
Dimmu Borgir at the Vic or Infected Mushroom at the HOB
""Movies are 70% of my body." - Hideo Kojima" - Ian Szymankiewicz
Favorite Gear: Arriflex 765
Favorite Concert: The Slush Fund '05 - Ryan Cooper's Backyard (RIP Piotr)
"Growing up in a cornfield suburb, there wasn't a whole lot to do near me. I began getting involved in the local music scene after high school, and I immediately wanted to be more involved. I started taking photos at concerts in 2017 and eventually started getting hired for tours and venue stagehand work. Now, I regularly work with various artists nationwide and pursue my music endeavors.
Favorite Gear: Fender Artist Kurt Cobain Jag-Stang Sonic Blue
Favorite Concert: Knocked Loose & Code Orange pop-up show at The Metro - May 2019
"More Donuts..."
Favorite Gear: 1971 Martin D-12-20, '60s Teisco E-110, Gretsch Drums, Orange Amps, Fuzzrocious Pedals
Favorite Concert: Pigs, Pigs, Pigs, Pigs, Pigs, Pigs, Pigs at Sleeping Village, Chicago 2023 - The Felix Culpa, O'Brother, & The Dear Hunter at House Cafe, DeKalb, IL 2011
John was raised by wolves and the United States Navy in Kailua Hawaii, Virginia Beach Virginia, and Asheville, N.C. He can often be found chugging lukewarm coffee and playing with his Border Collie.
Favorite Gear: '55 Les Paul Jr.
Favorite Concert: Laura Jane Grace at 6th and I on Valentines Day 2016
A lifelong Illinois boy, David has been gear geek since even before he got his first guitar. After work, or on the weekends—if it's not a guitar or a book that he's got in his hands, it's probably a pool cue.
Favorite Gear: Heritage Golden Eagle
Favorite Concert: Against Me! / Mastodon / Cursive | The Riviera Theater, Chicago | May 12, 2007
Originally from Akron, Ohio, Drew moved to Chicago in 2014 to attend Columbia College Chicago and study film. He likes making ambient music, art and hanging out in the woods.
Favorite Gear: Moog One. Someday...
Favorite Concert: Aaron Carter's House Party Tour 2001
"Fuckin' El Cunt."
Favorite Gear:
An Old Tele
Favorite Concert: Oasis at Eithiad Stadium, Mid-2000s
From Recording Studio Manager to Record Company Executive to Director of Finance here at Chicago Music Exchange, Deb's been in the Music Biz her whole life. Toss in singer/songwriter, recording artist, producer and vocal coach and you get the whole picture.
Favorite Gear: Neuman U87 & Universal Audio LA-610 Tube Preamp
Chicago native and drummer, Dave has been part of the Chicago music scene for 20 years playing with various bands including Northern Magnolia, Fauvely, and Emily Jane Powers. After studying Live Sound Reinforcement at Columbia College Chicago and Music Industry Workshop, Dave worked as the house engineer for Superior St Rehearsal Studios before starting a decade plus career in project management for high end custom A/V companies, installing and programming residential whole house automation systems as well as audio video systems for many of the bars and restaurants around Chicago. The logical next step was to work in Accounting for CME where he is expected to be a lifer. When he's not enthusiastically managing finances and chasing down expense receipts, you can find Dave playing drums in CME Full Band Friday videos, biking all over the city, playing shows in either of his current bands (Emily Jane Powers & Fauvely), and spending time with his daughter Etta.
Favorite Gear: C&C Player Date I, C&C Maple Gum Snare, Ludwig Black Beauty Snare, any Gretsch Drums
Favorite Concert: Every Butch Walker show since 2002, Beach House @ The Pabst Theater 2022, George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic @ The Vic 1999, Tom Petty @ The World Music Theater 1999.
Ben, a guitar player of nearly 20 years, found his way to Chicago from Minneapolis in 2018. You can find him gigging throughout Chicago, self proclaimed as "your dad's favorite guitarist." When he's not playing music he's quoting The Simpsons, waiting for the Minnesota Vikings to win a Super Bowl, and asking new CME employees if they could see any band or artist, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Favorite Gear: 1959 Fender Stratocaster
Favorite Concert: Rage Against the Machine - Minneapolis, MN - September, 2008
"Beats for sale!"
Favorite Gear: Boss DS-1
Favorite Concert: Julien Baker at Pitchfork (2018)
With an interest in music starting at a young age, Felix fell in love with guitar early on. West coast born, East coast raised, Felix moved to Chicago to get a Bachelors of Music in Classical and Jazz Guitar Performance. Whether it's guitars, synthesizers, pedals, bass, or drums, he's always seeking out new avenues in music and ways to grow! Felix loves guitar, music production, traveling, and making new friends!
Favorite Gear: 1982 Gibson Les paul Gold Top 30th Anniversary w/ Tim Shaw Pickups
Favorite Concert: Jordan Rakei at the Bottom Lounge, 2019
Born in Portland, OR in 2001. Little did I know back then, as I was but a youngster, that my future step-father would end up being the second in command, and then in command, of Pro Guitar Shop. This event would kickstart my deep love of pedals and effects. Something that would extend beyond the life of PGS (2004-2017). A legacy that would carry into my brief stint in the fulfillment department at Reverb.com until I found a home at the Chicago Music Exchange. I joined the team in Fall of 2018 and in the brief time I've been here I can already tell how special this place is. If you want to buy from someone who has your back, buy from CME.
Favorite Gear: DOD FX25 Envelope Filter 1983