The groovemaster himself opens up about his just-released autobiography, Make It Happen!
Exclusive video interview with FBPO’s Jon Liebman
August 7, 2023
Double Grammy winner Jerry Jemmott is one of the pivotal session bassists to emerge during the late 1960s and early 1970s. He’s known for working with some of the premier jazz, blues, and soul artists of that era, including Aretha Franklin, B.B. King, Ray Charles, Freddie Hubbard, and Wilson Pickett. The Bronx native began playing acoustic bass at 11, having been inspired by jazz legend Paul Chambers. He later switched to electric and became a popular player with the Atlantic Records/Muscle Shoals scene. Some of the more famous tunes Jemmott has contributed to include Nina Simone’s “Ain’t Got No/I Got Life,” Gill Scott Heron’s “The Revolution Will Not Be Televised,” and B.B. King’s “The Thrill Is Gone.” Jemmott is also a co-creator of the ColorSound music learning system and author of his just-released memoir, MAKE IT HAPPEN!: The Life and Times of “The Groovemaster,” Bassist Jerry Jemmott.
Watch our interview with Jerry!
See Jon’s blog, with key takeaways from this interview here.
Ron Carter is the bassist on Gil Scott-Heron’s The Revolution Will Not Be Televised, not Jerry Jemmont. As erroneously stated here.
Actually, both Ron and Jerry played bass on that recording. Thanks for bringing that up, DE.
Thank you Mr Jemmott for sharing your amazing story and your insights on life and music with us. Your wonderful bass playing has been a joy that has enriched, informed and inspired me for many years sir. Namaste.
Glad you enjoyed the interview, Mike. Thanks for your comment!