Eddie Perez from The Mavericks joins Chris Keaton for a captivating conversation that feels less like an interview and more like eavesdropping on two friends catching up. Their natural rapport, established through annual Grammy event encounters, creates an intimate atmosphere where Eddie reveals the soul behind his distinctive guitar style.

Growing up in a musical Mexican-American household in Southern California, Eddie recalls how his grandfather would distribute instruments to everyone during family gatherings, regardless of their musical ability. This communal approach to music, combined with his father's diverse musical tastes – ”there are only two types of music: good and bad” – laid the foundation for Eddie's remarkable versatility as a guitarist. By age eight, he was already teaching himself Beatles chord progressions, unknowingly training his ear for a future in music.

The conversation follows Eddie's journey from local gigs at swap meets and birthday parties to his pivotal 1995 meeting with rockabilly artist James Zinfeld, who connected him to Nashville's music scene. Since 1996, Eddie has been almost constantly touring, developing the extraordinary stage presence and musical vocabulary that makes his performances with The Mavericks so captivating.

What truly separates Eddie and The Mavericks from other acts is their approach to performance. ”The show starts an hour before we even step on stage,” Eddie explains, describing how the band's pre-show ritual of music, cocktails, and camaraderie creates the energy they bring to their audiences. This creates what Eddie calls a ”communion” between performers and audience – a joyful circle where everyone contributes to the experience.

Beyond his musical prowess, Eddie shares insights about his distinctive fashion sense (he almost attended Fashion Institute in LA as a graphic illustrator), his pride in fatherhood as his son begins college, and his philosophy on staying creative and inspired throughout a decades-long career. His approach to life mirrors his approach to music – authentic, joyful, and always focused on connection.

Want more of Chris Keaton's unique conversations with fascinating people? Follow him on Instagram @ChrisJKeaton, Facebook at Chris Keaton Music, and YouTube at Chris Keaton Random Acts. Also check out his books ”Dapper” and ”Confidence on the Fly,” available now on bookbaby.com and amazon.com.