Elton John bassist talks groove, gear & supporting the band
Exclusive interview with FBPO’s Jon Liebman
October 22, 2026
Detroit-born bassist, vocalist, songwriter, and producer Matt Bissonette has built a career spanning jazz, rock, pop, and studio recording. After studying at North Texas State University, he toured and recorded with Maynard Ferguson before succeeding Billy Sheehan in David Lee Roth’s band, where he performed alongside his brother, drummer Gregg Bissonette. His credits also include Joe Satriani, Rick Springfield, Ringo Starr, Jeff Lynne, Brian Wilson, Don Henley, Boz Scaggs, and Sheena Easton. Matt joined Elton John’s band on bass and backing vocals in 2012 and continues to perform with him following the Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour.
Alongside his work with other artists, Matt has developed projects including the Mustard Seeds, the Squirts, and the Reddcoats. His recent solo releases include Common Road, Straight to the Truth, and Is It Though.
In this conversation, Matt shares lessons from the road and the studio about knowing your role, choosing the right bass sound, and putting the music first. He also discusses his work on Friends, his approach to singing and playing, and the enjoyment he’s rediscovering in making music with friends.
