RealTracks Artist Bio: Rob McNelley

Nashville session guitarist Rob McNelley was a member of Delbert McClinton's band for eight years while also compiling a long list of credits with artists like Wynona, Montgomery Gentry, Jo Dee Messina, Hank Williams, Jr., Lady Antebellum, Dierks Bentley, Dolly Parton and countless others. He won rave reviews while touring as lead guitarist with Bob Seger and his Silver Bullet Band, and has been nominated as the Academy of Country Music's Guitarist of the Year.

Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Rob picked up the guitar as a youngster hanging out with the players in his dad's Southern Rock band. The band toured with acts such as the Allman Brothers, Charlie Daniels, and the Marshall Tucker Band, so there were always hot guitar players around who had time to show a few licks to a keen nine-year old. This invaluable practical education was rounded out by an introduction to theory and jazz in his high school music class. Rob started his first band in the 8th grade, and by the time he graduated from high school he was sitting in with his dad's band and getting regular gigs in local clubs.

For the next step in his career, McNelley decided make the move to Nashville. He got his start in Music City recording and touring with blues rocker Tinsley Ellis, and was on tour with Lee Ann Womack when the offer came to join Delbert McClinton. Eight-year years later, as McClinton was cutting back on his touring dates, Rob was getting busier with session work. Studio sessions now take up most of his time, and you can see his discography at http://www.allmusic.com/artist/rob-mcnelley-mn0000841754