Steve Cole
Bassist for the popular Missouri band, Smooth Down Under, makes for an FBPO salute to those hard-working Indie bands!
Read MoreWelcome to this collection of first-hand stories from some of the most influential bass players in the world.
Since waaay back in 2009, I’ve had the privilege of sitting down with bass players from every corner of the music world — legends, innovators, sidemen, bandleaders, and players whose work you’ve heard far more than you realize. Now at over 900 interviews (934, to be precise), this has grown into a deep archive of bass history — not just about gear or technique, but about musical choices, instincts, and real-world careers.
What I’ve heard consistently over the years is how motivating these conversations are. Hearing how great players think, adapt, and grow often sparks the desire to pick up the bass and take learning seriously. That idea — turning inspiration into action — is exactly what led to the creation of the Bottom Line Club, my membership for learning bass, right here inside For Bass Players Only. Want to learn bass? Check out the Bottom Line Club here.
Bassist for the popular Missouri band, Smooth Down Under, makes for an FBPO salute to those hard-working Indie bands!
Read MoreLong-time anchor for Dave Weckl recounts his career highlights, from Freddie Hubbard and Dizzy Gillespie to Steps Ahead, Mike Stern and more
Read MoreIconic bassist tells FBPO how he went from the top of the jazz world to losing everything, then back to the top!
Read MoreFrom Ella Fitzgerald and Mel Tormé to Gladys Knight and Stevie Wonder, Larry Steen has done it all! Here’s our conversation with this master doubler!
Read MoreMega-funky hip-hopper tells FBPO about the gigs with Snoop Dogg, Lupe Fiasco and much more!
Read MorePremiere gospel bassist recounts his journey from the Reverend James Cleveland and Michael Jackson to being musical director for Chaka Khan
Read MoreLegendary Tower of Power bassist tells FBPO all about his musical upbringing, history of TOP and his signature “machine gun” bass technique!
Read MoreOne of the funkiest bass players ever to hit LA, “Sweetbass” talks about touring with Patrice Rushen, breaking into the LA music scene and the…
Read MoreOnce again, we reached out to Janek, this time to talk about his new release, “It Only Happens Once.” Special video interview!
Read MoreSeasoned bass vet tells FBPO all about his long tenure with Elvis Costello, as well as his signature model bass and a few things that…
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