Michael Bolton on SoundBetter

Multi-instrumentalist available for session work. Electric bass, trumpet and flugelhorn, ambient guitar, textural synthesizer, and handpan. I can also provide live drum tracks. I have written, recorded, mixed, mastered and released 9 full albums of my own material. Quick turn arounds with high quality results.

My goal as a remote session musician is to create and provide tracks that serve the song as a whole. I am not looking to take the spotlight away from the artists I work with, but will provide solid musicianship and tracks that enhance the project. I strive to be truly collaborative, and work with my clients to come up with a plan for how I can best contribute.

I have played trumpet for over 30 years, and bass for over 20. I have experience across many genres, but am most at home playing jazz on trumpet and rock based music on bass. Over the past five years I have built a high quality studio in my home, and due to my flexible schedule I can provide very quick turnaround times.

Would love to hear from you. Click the contact button above to get in touch.

Credits

6 Reviews

Endorse Michael Bolton

by CFEQ
Verified
Excellent quality, Very quick turn around. Such a nice person to work with. He took the time to listen, appreciate and deliver. I would love to work with him again on future productions. Great Work! 😍🤘
by Josh Bleke
Always willing. Always prepared. Always world class. I’ve played with a lot of musicians in my days and Michael is as good as it gets.
by Deanna
Yaaaas! I would highly recommend Michael! He’s always has such a great attitude and of course he’s highly talented! Thankful for the opportunity to create music with him. 🎉🎉🎉
by Jon McCord
Having served as music director with Michael in my band I have absolutely 0 hesitation in endorsing his talents and dedication to musical excellence. There wasn’t a time that I asked him to do something that he wasn’t able to pull the request off with the highest level of professionalism. His feel for his place in an ensemble is almost indescribable, whether playing bass or trumpet. He knows where he fits in the “musical sandwich.” I loved every minute that I had to work with him and would do so again without question.
by Dylan
Having played in a band setting with Michael many times, I can honestly say that he is a phenomenal musician and truly a class act. I couldn’t recommend him any higher. 5 stars and two thumbs up!
by Quinn
Great Bass player, horn player, and producer. He is incredibly professional and easy to work with. I would utilize him for any project!

Interview with Michael Bolton

Q: Can you share one music production tip?
A: Subtractive EQ is a great way to clean up harsh frequencies in individual tracks.
Q: What are you working on at the moment?
A: My fifth full album of original material.
Q: Analog or digital and why?
A: Both - it all depends on what will serve the production the best. Sometimes the warmth and grit of analog are needed, and sometime the clarity and precision of digital are more appropriate.
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: Getting to help other musicians bring their dreams to reality.
Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?
A: I've been working on music since an early age. I was highly involved in my high school band and choir. I studied at University of Missouri-Kansas City and Missouri State University. I was featured as a soloist in several ensembles. I have had the chance to travel the country and play gigs coast-to-coast. I began learning about studio work about a decade ago when I wanted to record and release my own material. Since that time I have trained with a number of great engineers.
Q: What's your strongest skill?
A: Creating bass parts.
Q: What do you bring to a song?
A: I bring a broad background of musical experience and creativity. I work across a lot of genres, so I can bring lots of exciting elements to a project.
Q: What's your typical work process?
A: I like to review the request and any existing material for the song(s). Then I like to have a quick conversation about want the client is looking for. After I understand what is needed, I work my magic recording my part(s). Then I share my work back with the client for their feedback.
Q: Tell us about your studio setup.
A: I have a highly upgraded iMac, with multiple backups. My DAW of choice is Studio One 4 Pro. I have a large library of plugins, and use a UA Satellite for additional processing power. I use a Focusrite Clarett 8Pre audio interface, and have an API Lunchbox that is filled with API and Meris preamps. I also have a standalone Universal Audio Solo610 preamp. I use Neuman KH120 studio monitors. I have an assortment of microphones including ribbons, large and small diaphragm condensers, and dynamics. I have a wide range of professional level instruments, including: Fender, Yamaha and custom basses; Fender, Harmony and Yamaha guitars; Moog, Moffenzeef, and Waldorf synthesizers; Ludwig drums and Sabian cymbals; and a Sela handpan.
Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.
A: Bass and trumpet tracks.