Bass Player Interviews
Welcome to this treasure trove of first-hand stories from some of the most influential bass players in the world!
Ever since waaay back in 2009, I've had the honor and pleasure of publishing a new bass player every week.
After 933 awesome interviews — yes, 933! — I’ve decided to shift gears. Over time, FBPO followers have made it clear that what you love most is learning to play bass, not just hearing others talk about it.
While the interviews are plenty inspiring — and don’t worry, they’re all still right here — I’m excited to focus that same energy on new ways to help you grow as a player.
So I’ve launched a new series called Tales From the Pit — built on the same curiosity and love of bass that fueled these interviews, but aimed squarely at helping you become a stronger, smarter, more confident player. It’s a collection of real-world stories from my life as a working bassist — stuff I couldn’t make up. Some are hilarious, some are hard-earned... but every one of them is true and packed with takeaways you can use.
While you’ll still see my weekly Essence of Groove lessons — digging into the feel and flow of great bass playing — now you’ve also got Tales From the Pit: a new series with a different kind of hands-on, practical, and personal vibe, all about learning bass — and playing bass.
Enjoy!
Jon
Archived interviews
José Valentino
Latin bass virtuoso shares details on latest album releases, philosophy on learning bass, and future projects
Read MoreBrittany Frompovich
Bassist and educator on playing bass after injury, technical adaptability, and Wonder Women column Exclusive video interview with FBPO’s Jon Liebman December 16, 2024 Brittany…
Read MoreTim Starace
YYNOT bassist on revving up for the 3rd annual Bubba Bash, honoring the life of Neil Peart
Read MoreDevon Smullen
Boutique electric bass luthier shares musical origin story, building world class instruments, and growing his business
Read MoreChuck Israels
Jazz bass legend shares details on new book, bass playing philosophy, untold stories
Read MoreTony Levin
Legendary bassist and Chapman Stick virtuoso shares details about new album and current King Crimson tour
Read MoreSteve Billman
LA bassist/educator shares his musical origin story, philosophy for teaching bass
Read MoreTony Puleo
Boston bassist talks post-pandemic projects, jingle writing, new Red Temple 9 band
Read More