Will Ackerman – Founder of Windham Hill Records, Guitarist, and Producer of a Movement - Episode 4

In this heartfelt and powerful episode of Shambhu Sessions, I sit down with musical pioneer Will Ackerman — Grammy-winning guitarist, renowned producer, and founder of Windham Hill Records — whose timeless artistry has touched millions and earned 27 gold and platinum records. Will's journey helped define an entire genre—New Age and instrumental acoustic music—through his pioneering solo recordings and the groundbreaking label he built from scratch. We explore his creative process, his visionary role as a producer, and the unique way he nurtured iconic artists like Michael Hedges, George Winston, Alex de Grassi, Liz Story and so many others. We also dive into: - What inspired Will to launch a career in acoustic music when no commercial path existed - The origin and evolution of Windham Hill Records - His philosophy on alternate tunings and what he listens for in an artist - Balancing the roles of artist and entrepreneur - His approach to composing and tracking in the studio - Reflections on The Gathering album series and its community impact - Will's involvement in the upcoming documentary A Quiet Revolution - The emotional and spiritual connection music creates with listeners - Timeless advice for new and emerging artists - Thoughts on AI and the future of creativity. Plus, I talk about my own albums Sacred Love and Dreaming of Now, which Will produced—and the behind-the-scenes video series I created during that time, The Making of Sacred Love, available on YouTube. This is a rich and wide-ranging conversation with a musical master whose influence continues to shape and inspire generations of artists and listeners alike. Learn more about Will Ackerman and buy his CDs at williamackerman.com. Learn more about Shambhu and Shambhu Sessions at shambhumusic.com Watch the Making of Sacred Love on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXhffem0gtamRCAHOE2KWfMVh7AEx_ay1 🎶 Tune in and be uplifted. Like and share this podcast.