The cool, crafty title of Nils’ latest BAJA/TSR album says it all about his studio and onstage state of mind. A decade and a half after riding his #1 hit “Pacific Coast Highway” into contemporary jazz history as Billboard’s Song of the Decade 2001-2010, the relentlessly prolific composer, guitarist and producer remains joyfully Caught in the Groove, creating instantly infectious, sonically adventurous tracks for himself and numerous artists eager to vibe with the energy of his Midas touch.

As smooth jazz radio – where he’s scored over 15 Top 20 hits, including “Let’s Bounce,” “Georgy Porgy,” “Ready to Play,” “Catnap” and 2011 Song of the Year “Jumpstart” – gears up for the impact of Caught in the Groove’s funky, high octane lead single “Good Times Are Better,” Nils is enjoying ongoing success on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Songs chart as producer and co-writer of pianist Lisa Addeo’s “Listen to This,” the first new title to reach the pole position in 2020.

Another collaboration, “It’s A Party” with fellow guitarist Keith Andrew, is currently rising on the independent jazz charts. He recently played at L.A.’s famed Troubadour with Ayline Artin, an emerging indie rock singer he is producing, and has had his hand in successful releases in recent years by independent instrumental artists Reza Khan, Alvin Pope, Reggie Codrington, Catch the Groove, Brian Simpson, Nate Harasim, and Tony Saunders. Nils is also very active on social media, with over 7,000 followers on his Facebook artists page and some 2,000 subscribers to his YouTube channel; his clips for “Pacific Coast Highway” has more than half a million views to date. This spring and summer, he will be on the road performing assorted festival dates with Steve Oliver and Tim Bowman as part of the all-star collective Guitar G-Force.

The secrets of Nils’ unparalleled success? It starts with a keen ear for hooks, a colorful spirit of experimentation with sounds and grooves, and a trademark vibe rooted in his mastery of the Custom Valley Arts guitar, the trusty musical companion he bought shortly after moving to Los Angeles from his native Munich in the mid-80’s. Beyond that, it’s all about the incredible team of mostly L.A. based musicians he calls in each time to help him not only realize his musical vision, but take it over the top. Continue reading →