NASHVILLE, Tennessee — Some guitars are made. Others are created with a story. For more than 26 years, master luthier Donnie McKiddy has built handcrafted custom guitars that are as unique as the musicians who play them. Working from his shop in Old Hickory, Tennessee, McKiddy has earned a reputation for creating one of a kind instruments with exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail and a personal approach that allows every artist to help design a guitar tailored to their own sound and style. From carefully selecting tone woods and shaping each neck by hand to choosing pickups, hardware, inlays and custom finishes, every McKiddy guitar tells its own story.

That passion for craftsmanship recently brought Nashville singer-songwriter Clay Aery into the McKiddy Guitars family. Born and raised in Oklahoma, Aery found his calling in music after a college baseball injury redirected his path. Today, he is known for his heartfelt songwriting, traditional country influences and energetic live performances, making him a natural fit for McKiddy’s philosophy of authenticity, hard work and individuality.

Rather than simply receiving a custom instrument, Aery became part of the creative process, working alongside McKiddy to design a guitar built specifically for his music and stage presence. Every detail, from the wood and neck profile to the hardware, pickups and personalized logo, was carefully selected to create an instrument that is uniquely his.

“Being able to choose every piece and watch the guitar come together has been an incredible experience,” Aery said. “Every detail makes it personal, and I can’t wait to share it with everyone when I take it on stage.”

Fans will soon be able to follow the entire journey through the upcoming video series, Building the Clay Aery McKiddy Guitar. The series will take viewers inside McKiddy’s workshop, documenting each step of the build from selecting materials and shaping the instrument to the finishing touches and its debut on stage, offering a rare look at the artistry and craftsmanship behind a truly custom guitar. For more information on McKiddy Guitars, visit HERE.

To keep up with all things Clay Aery, visit his website and social media.
 

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About Clay Aery:
Oklahoma native Clay Aery traded the baseball diamond for the stage after a college injury redirected his path to music. Inspired by traditional country artists including George Strait, Alan Jackson, Keith Whitley and Travis Tritt, Aery has built a reputation for authentic storytelling and energetic performances. He collaborated with Craig Wayne Boyd on the 2024 single “Beer in the Boat,” while his singles “Only One” and “Time For That” both reached the Top 30 on the Texas Regional Radio Report. Produced by Bart Busch, Aery’s debut EP, Fractions, showcases his modern yet traditional country sound. Having shared the stage with artists including Craig Campbell, Daryl Worley, Mark Wills, David Adam Byrnes and Buddy Jewel, Aery continues to build a loyal fan base as one of country music’s rising talents. 
 

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