Scott Bernard

We spoke with Scott, Singer-songwriter & guitarist for Kenny Loggins. He has traveled and played for other artists such as Michael McDonald, Michelle Wright, Mark Schultz and Natalie Grant.

"I can tell that Bill takes pride in each guitar that he builds. It is a stunning guitar. It truly sounds amazing."

What Charis models do you play?

SB: EIR/Engelmann SJ w/Curly Maple Binding (SN 69) & a Cocobolo/Cedar SJ w/African Blackwood Binding (SN 458).

How would you describe the tone & aesthetics of your Charis guitars in general?

SB: I am astounded at the comfort, feel, and overall playability of my Charis Guitars. Not to mention beautiful balanced tone that sounds great from the studio, small room to large stages. After almost 15 years of playing Charis Guitars, I'm still thrilled at how my creative juices start to flow when I pick one up.

I've had engineers email me back when mixing a track that I used it on and ask, "What brand acoustic was that again?" Sounds amazing!"

Extra Notes regarding your Charis's?

SB: Attention to detail! I can tell that Bill takes pride in each guitar that he builds. It really shows up in the little things.

When did you start playing guitar?

SB: I Started at 9 years old. I wanted to play in my brother Reed's band, so I asked my brother Kent to teach me some chords.

What were some of your earlier experiences playing?

SB: Family jams in the living room. We would play Beatles tunes, 70's AM radio hits. It was normal in our house to see the living room couch pushed aside to make room for gear on Friday nights. The whole neighborhood would come by and hang out to listen. Everybody in my family was musical. GREAT memories!

What was your development as a player like?

SB: Started on drums at age 5. Like I said before, guitar at age 9. Learned radio hits in my first band, "Rainbow" (not THAT Rainbow), which really helped develop my ear. We played everything: Disco, Country, Rock, Pop, covered Toto, Kansas, Kiss, Eagles, James Taylor, etc. We played at skating rinks, wedding receptions, you name it. We would make maybe $25.00 a weekend (not bad for a 9 year old in the late 70"s), and I'd spend it all on new records. There was a time when every new record I'd get, I would learn the whole thing from top to bottom. I felt like I had to.

What projects are you currently working on? (Updated 11/2017)

SB: Still very busy with Kenny Loggins on the road. Between that and being a family man, my plate is pretty full. Besides Kenny, I also work in a side project of sorts called "The Renaissance Men". It's Jazz-Rock Fusion instrumental music. The band is made up of myself on guitar, Adam Nitti on bass, Chris Carver on keyboards, & Jason Palmer on drums. It's quite fun to stretch out musically a little on this stuff.

Going into the studio next week to record a tune for Presonus Audio Electronics. It will be released as a demo session for their upcoming recording software release, should be fun. And as always, hitting the road with Kenny Loggins throughout the year.

What musicians have you worked with in the past?

SB: I've been blessed to work with Mark Schultz, Michael McDonald, Adam Nitti, Nicole C. Mullen, Michelle Wright, Shannon Brown, Katrina Elam, Avalon, Natalie Grant, among others.