Upright and electric bassist on singing and playing for his new solo bass EP — and the early influence of Gary Karr.
Exclusive video interview with FBPO’s Jon Liebman
July 14, 2025
Brad Russell is a versatile upright and electric bassist from Detroit, MI. He has played with many of the biggest names in music, including Joe Satriani, Gregg Bissonette, Mike Clark, Neal Schon, Pat Travers, Rick Derringer, Gary Hoey, Lonnie Smith, Jack DeJohnette, Gregg Allman, and Steve Smith. Brad initially studied with Detroit Symphony Orchestra bassist Max Janowsky and world-renowned bass virtuoso Gary Karr before attending the University of Miami School of Music, where he received a scholarship upon the recommendation of American Idol’s Randy Jackson. An active educator and clinician, Brad has served on the faculty at Sonoma State University and the University of Miami, and has led clinics and summer programs at the Interlochen Center for the Arts and Berklee College of Music. His latest EP, titled The Righteous Kid, was released on June 3, 2025.
Watch our interview with Brad!
