Session Bass Player

Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?

A: Honestly? Norweigian Cruise lines. I've gotten to do a few different contracts over the years through various booking agencies and I gotta say, the best part is the exposure to different cultures that comes with living on a ship. The way we as "Westerners" tend to look at music so vastly different to the rest of the world.

Q: Is there anyone on SoundBetter you know and would recommend to your clients?

A: Sam Woods! You won't find a better guitar player and cooler dude on here!

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: I would answer this question with "What does your song sound like?" The answer is really what is best for your needs. When it comes to gear or production methods, I tend to look at it more of "what is best for you" or even what your prefer. The only wrong answer is the one you aren't open to.

Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?

A: I will always care. I don't like the guys who cut and run or their heart isn't in the project. Even though you are hiring me for a service, I will always care about your project and you. I support everyone who is trying to create something, even after our transaction is concluded. I usually follow and keep up with my clients. Even go to their shows if I can!

Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?

A: That its all glitz, glam and success. No one talks about the hours and hours of practice, financial struggles, and the fragility of relationships that make or break your ability to pay rent. Entertainment industry relationships are like thin panes of glass. One slip up, that you may never even know about, can cost you a job. Anything from wearing the wrong style shoe to voicing an opinion about food too loudly.

Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?

A: I started playing bass in jazz band in middle school, went to music school at FAU, played in various punk, jazz, country and cover bands in south Florida until my early twenties. I felt I outgrew the scene there and needed a change. Moved to Nashville in 2017 and havent slowed down since! Well, accept for that one year of COVID in 2020.

Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?

A: Hayley Williams (I know its a pipe dream) but man, what a true icon in the industry and locally in Nashville.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Don't be afraid to take parts from different takes!

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: Sight reading and Music Theory. I know that's two skills but i find them to be related. However, its important to be able to take all that theory knowledge and throw it away. Sometimes the best way to tackle a song is to stop thinking so much!

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: My studio setup is minimal, I have KRK Rokit 5 Monitors, a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 interface and prefer to use Logic Pro X but I do also have Albeton. However, since I am in Nashville, I have no shortage of resources if I need more gear!

Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?

A: Chris Wolstenholme is currently my favorite bass player but Victor Wooten is of course a classic. I find Chris's command of modern effects combined with in the pocket, in your face style bass lines intoxicating. I've had the chance to meet Victor a few times at NAMM, though I am sure he does not remember me, he was always very kind and gave everyone who talked to him his full attention. Plus, he SHREDS.

Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.

A: The majority of my work has been live performance. I am proficient in sight reading music and charts. This has lead to me being part of many high production shows that included a full cast of singers and dancers.