southernfriedmagazine.com - Not Just Another Interview by Jody Willman

High school sweethearts, huh?

Well it interests me that Bryce chooses to play Southern rock on his own, not influenced by what he hears around the house or with family. I love to see young people liking Southern rock.

How long has Bryce been playing guitar?

Reply: Two years ago Feb. 14th we got him his first real guitar and it was just a “First Act” from Wal-Mart.

TWO YEARS? (I might have said that loud) Wow! Now that blows me away!

What was his first “Favorite” song if you can remember?

Reply: That one, what was it? Drift away?

When did you decide to invest the time and money into getting Bryce guitar lessons?

Reply: Two years ago, he seemed to have a knack.

I’ll say! How does it make you feel seeing him up there in front of a bunch of people, just freaking them out?

Reply: Well proud, of course, but kind of amazed too. He just handles it so well.

How far would you like to see him carry this?

Reply: As long as he’s happy we’ll support him all the way. We love to hear him play as much as he loves to play.

Now right about here I was going to ask the Shavers about the tales of what fame and money can do to some young actors, musicians and the like…but after meeting Steve and Paulette Shaver, in their home, one on one, I knew the answer already. His raisin’, the love for him, and the family support he gets, speaks for itself… He’s in great hands!

Now Bryce my friend, do you know you’re nine years old?

Reply: Yes sir.

I’m asking because you walked into this room like you were at home…Oh! Right, ok you are at home!

Reply: (Laugh)

Do you think you could walk out in front of oh say 5000 people with the same air of confidence you walked into this room with?

Reply: I think so, why not? Most people like me. (Laugh)

How do you feel when there are bunches of people watching you play?

Reply: I’m nervous before I get on stage but after I’m on stage I’m not. I like for people to watch me play.

I bet the girls like you huh?

Reply: Not yet it’s too hard to pick just one. (Laugh)

They will, trust me. What’s the coolest thing anybody ever said to you after watching you jam?

Reply: You’re going to be a rock star!

(Laugh) Yep, who’s your guitar teacher? He must be good.

Reply: Kenneth Sanders is my teacher now.

You’ve had another teacher?

Reply: Yes but after a year he said I needed another teacher because I could play everything he could.

Wow! What draws you to Southern Rock?

Reply: It’s harder to play and more fun than most music.

Who’s your favorite Southern Rock band?

Reply: Lynyrd Skynyrd.

A man after my own heart! What’s your favorite Skynyrd song right now?

Reply: "Freebird" -- but I like all of their music

And you can play and sing that?

Reply: Yes sir, it took me a month to learn.

Do you know how many grown veteran rockers would love to say that?

Reply: Yes sir.

What kind of guitar do you have?

Reply: A Taylor and a Gibson

Got em tuned?

Reply: Yes sir.

Well “Play me a little”

People, I’m going to tell you this much, I was absolutely blown away by the talent, and the absolute dedication this young southern brother has inside him…it’s a beautiful thing! And after you finish reading this issue of Southernfried, take my advice and go to www.myspace.com/bryceshaver and check this MAN out! And keep going back and check now and then, because I have a feeling you’ll be seeing a LOT of new stuff on his myspace and everywhere else. Just remember folks, you saw him here first from the inside out!

Oh yeah, a few more things about Bryce… He plays piano/keyboard, bass guitar, mandolin, some drums, lead and rhythm, so all you non-players like me well… what can I say?

Until next time remember to keep it SOUTHERNFRIED!

Jody