Born in Bakersfield, CA, Doug Sikola grew up in a blue-collar town, one where the musical landscape has been largely shaped by country honky tonks and two-stepping dancehalls. Doug’s hometown is also home to notable guitar pickers like Buck Owens and Merle Haggard whose music embodies the “Bakersfield Sound.” These local celebrities and their sound sparked a curiosity in Doug that later evolved into a love for Country Western music. Moreover, it was Doug’s naturally attuned ear that led him to appreciate all types of music – everything from Jazz, Funk, and R&B, to Blues, Rock, and Pop.
In ’93 he decided to take up guitar and began studying his favorite artists, such as Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Doyle Bramhall II, The Black Crowes, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, James Brown, Stevie Wonder, and many others. He quickly developed an avid interest in learning the language of music, and all things guitar and bass. From the beginning, Doug dedicated himself to his craft by studying music theory at Cuesta College, taking private lessons with Wayland Peddy, and playing as much as his fingers would allow. This dedication led to learning many different genres and styles, and in particular a passion for Straight-Ahead, Be-Bop, and Gypsy Jazz.
Doug has formed several bands during his musical career, including the successful Jazz-Funk Fusion quintet, Mother Funk Conspiracy. Their music was well received in the Jazz community, and the band toured and recorded from ‘98 to ‘07. "There's a density and a depth to the expression of Mother Funk Conspiracy. Whether it's an unexpected shift, a searing vibrato, or the sheer intensity of an arrival into a groove, Mother Funk Conspiracy seems to always penetrate below the surface of its considerable virtuosity to discover and explore, to linger and caress, and always to dig a little deeper." - Dr. Doug Davis, Professor of Jazz Studies, CSUB.
Jazz, however, was not the only music that Doug wanted to write and perform. A true appreciation for his Bakersfield roots manifested when Doug got the opportunity to play guitar with Americana/Country Artist and Grammy Nominee, Monty Byrom and Bighouse, from ’99- ’05. “The soul and mastery of Doug’s playing is undeniable and as good as it gets. He’s the ‘real deal’ and one of the best musicians and songwriters I’ve had the privilege of working with.” - Monty Byrom.
Also eager to learn the art of guitar lutherie, Doug apprenticed under Master-Luthiers, Bill Gruggett in Bakersfield, CA and Gene Baker in Santa Maria, CA. He then worked as Supervisor for the Final Assembly Department at Baker Guitars Custom Shop from ‘98 -‘03. Thereafter, he studied under Master-Luthier, John Carruthers in Venice, CA from ’03-‘07. Doug’s interest in building and repairing custom stringed instruments long fueled his desire to construct “the perfect guitar”. His current endorsement with Tom Anderson Guitarworks is, “a dream come true for me, or any veritable guitar connoisseur,” says Doug. His long-standing vision was brought to life by Mr. Anderson, with whom he collaborated on the design of his prized Hollow Body Telecaster.
Doug’s passion for music has led him on some incredible journeys - from being out on the road touring, to inside the studio recording. At one time or another, all aspects of his musical career have intersected. Listening led to playing, playing led to learning, and of course, learning led to teaching. Of all his journeys, Doug has described giving back to his students as “the most rewarding of all.” Doug got his start teaching guitar and bass in ’98. Understanding that each student possesses a unique learning style, he makes it a priority to get to know his pupils and find what methods work best for each one. He has had the pleasure of seeing his students grow over the years, many who have gone on to pursue successful music careers of their own. Doug likes to think of himself as an interpreter of the language of music by simplifying the ways in which his students learn. His innovative approach to teaching theory and composition takes the intimidation out of the learning process, and encourages the student to have fun while mastering the art of their craft.
Doug currently divides his time between teaching out of his private studio in Bakersfield, CA, and teaching at Westwood Music Center in Westwood, CA. At Westwood, Doug has found a home away from home where he instructs private lessons, as well as workshops and clinics covering a wide range of topics. His plans for a full-time future in the Los Angeles area are quickly manifesting, as he looks forward to live performances, songwriting and collaborating, session work, teaching music, and building/repairing guitars. Above all, Doug is eager to share all that he has learned during his nearly 20-year career as a professional musician, and he brings his own brand of authenticity and sincerity to everything he does. As his friend and long-time collaborator, Monty Byrom, best put it, “Doug is a ‘magic boy’ and one in a million."
Doug currently heads the Westwood Music Academy at Westwood Music Center in Los Angeles. At Westwood Music, Doug has found a home away from home where he instructs private lessons, as well as workshops and clinics covering a wide range of topics. Above all, Doug is eager to share all that he has learned during his nearly 20-year career as a professional musician and he brings his own brand of authenticity and sincerity to everything he does. As his long-time collaborator, Monty Byrom, best put it, "Doug is a 'magic boy' and one in a million.”
Doug Sikola