Growing up with a father in the Marine Corps, A.J. Lang spent the majority of his childhood moving around the country every few years. It wasn’t until his family settled in South Carolina that he picked up his first guitar at age 13 and discovered his love of music.

After studying under two of Columbia’s most distinguished guitar instructors, Don Russo and Robert Newton, A.J. began booking shows around the Carolinas at the age of 18. By the time he graduated from the University of South Carolina, he was playing all across the Southeast and had adopted a full roster of students of his own.

Upon joining ROOTS, A.J. brings with him 10 years of professional teaching experience. Over the course of that tenure, he has worked with well over 100 students – he has proudly watched several of his students go on to attend Berklee College of Music as well as Belmont University.

Since moving to Nashville in 2020 to further pursue his career in music, A.J. has toured across the country as well as internationally. He has been fortunate enough to share the stage with and/or open up for a variety of artists including Shania Twain, Jason Aldean, Thomas Rhett, Lindsay Ell, Tyler Hubbard and The Swon Brothers.

A.J. is inspired by sharing the experience and knowledge he’s gained over the years with aspiring musicians – whether it be mastering a favorite song or pursuing music professionally, he finds fulfilment in helping others reach their goals.

A.J.’s Teaching Philosophy: “My teaching philosophy and approach is predicated on what each individual is looking to get out of the instrument – not everyone has the same goals, so I don’t approach every lesson the same. Ultimately, my desire is to help every student tune in with why they started taking lessons in the first place, whether be it learning their favorite song, writing their own solo, learning a few chords, starting their own band, or pursuing music professionally.”

What’s been the highlight of your professional career — like your biggest spotlight moment to date?
“The entire past year has been a highlight for me! I’ve played approximately 200 shows, not only across the country but internationally as well.”

What does being a “Mentor” mean to you and why are you excited to step into this role?
“I’ve been very fortunate to have had several incredible mentors in my life – I’d be nowhere near the musician I am today without them. It is important to me that I take what I’ve learned, and pass it on.”

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?
“I grew up listening to all kinds of music – but once I had a guitar in my hands, I, of course, became obsessed with the basics – Guns N’ Roses, AC/DC, Aerosmith, Van Halen, Tom Petty, and the like. While I still listen to all kinds of music, I think I’ve always gravitated towards rock n’ roll.”

Where is your favorite local spot? 
“Nissan Stadium. Titan up!”

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
“Solely based on Top Gun, I wanted to be a fighter pilot. Turn and burn baby!”

If you could meet one author/performer/creator who would it be and what wold you ask them?
“Hendrix. To whom I’d ask, “any chance I could play through your rig?””