Lonnie Plaxico
Jazz heavyweight talks about the gigs with Art Blakey, Jack DeJohnette and Cassandra Wilson and more
Read MoreBass Player Interviews
Welcome 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.
Archived interviews
Larry Gray
Chicago’s seasoned bass veteran talks about performing with jazz superstars, commissions from major orchestra and his long-running gig with Ramsey Lewis
Read MoreNorm Stockton
Christian rocker talks to FBPO about the Lincoln Brewster gig, clinics, equipment and new CD
Read MoreLeland Sklar
Bass legend recounts four decades of studio bass superstardom, including the musicians, equipment, Toto and, of course, that beard!
Read MoreBarry Green
Symphony player, composer and educator shares insights on orchestral playing, programs for young bassists and his mega-popular “Inner Game” series
Read MoreVictor Bailey
Jazz/funk superstar shares his musical upbringing, establishing himself in the big city and (gasp!) stepping into Jaco’s shoes!
Read MoreFrank Russell
First-call Chicago bassman describes his musical upbringing, collaborations with Darryl Jones, and bass technique
Read MorePeter Dominguez
Oberlin’s bassmaster shares his worldly insights and offers advice for playing jazz, classical and more!
Read MoreTom Knific
Bassist/composer/educator talks to FBPO about his stellar career (Dave Brubeck, John Abercrombie, Art Farmer) plus advice for playing classical and jazz!
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