King’s X bassist opens up about new projects and book
Exclusive video interview with FBPO’s Jon Liebman
July 8, 2019
By David Sands
A champion of the 12-string bass, the versatile dUg Pinnick is perhaps known best for his work as the bassist and frontman for the boundary-defying hard rock group King’s X. A native of Joliet, Illinois, his early musical career included forays into gospel, hard rock and prog-rock. In the early ‘80s he played with Christian rock guitarist Phil Keaggy for a short time, eventually breaking away to form the band that would become King’s X with guitarist Ty Tabor and ex-Keaggy drummer Jerry Gaskill.
Blending elements of metal, funk, prog-rock and soul and Pinnick’s gospel-influenced vocals and frequent use of the 12-string bass, the group released its debut album in 1988. And over the ensuing decade their unique musical vision would serve as a big influence on the emerging progressive metal and grunge scenes. In addition to his work with King’s X has also played a key role in projects like Poundhound, Supershine, Pinnick Gales Pridgen, 3rd Ear Experience, KXM, Grinder Blues and Tres Mts (with Pearl Jam’s Jeff Ament) and collaborated with artists like Living Colour, Carmine Appice and Dream Theater and participated in the MC5’s 50th Anniversary celebration.
FBPO’s Jon Liebman caught up with the inimitable Mr. Pinnick at this year’s Winter NAMM show in Anaheim, California for a conversation that covered his multitude of recent endeavors, signature gear from Schecter bass and Tech 21 and a new book about King’s X.
Watch our interview with dUg!
See Jon’s blog, with key takeaways from this interview, here.
