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Paul Jackson Jr. always keeps an intense, breakneck schedule. In addition to the demands of being a two-time Grammy nominated solo artist, Jackson is a highly in-demand sideman and session player. Of his numerous recording credits, Paul's playing can be heard on both the biggest album in history ("Thriller") and the biggest soundtrack in history ("The Bodyguard").

"Success as a studio musician comes from knowing that your number one priority is making the artist happy and developing a reputation for giving those who hire you what they want," he says. "I still practice and love all the late nights and early mornings in the studio, trying to get things just right on my own projects and those of the artists who hire me. I keep all that balanced with my faith journey, and every so often will turn off the mix of be-bop and oldies I keep in the car and just drive in silence...listening once again for that still small voice.

I'll always enjoy working as a sideman, but these days my solo career is my primary focus and I'm looking forward to getting on the road with my own band," he adds. "It's important that I try each time to make a meaningful musical statement about where I am in my life at the time. It's all about making music that speaks to people, makes them stop what they're doing and listen, enjoy and feel something positive." Whether he's in the studio, writing at home, or live onstage, Paul's acoustic guitars of choice are his Takamine TNV760S and Hirade TH90. Paul's choice of Takamine is a perfect example of how seasoned pros worldwide turn to Tak when it's show time.

Be sure to catch Paul on America's # 1 show (35 million weekly viewers), "American Idol", airing Tuesday nights on Fox.