Best Upright Bass Podcasts (2024)

1
Why Do We Study the Masters? 9:58

32m ago9:58

9:58

"We have often heard that we should transcribe and study the Masters - we're talking about Ray Brown, Ron Carter, Paul Chambers, and many more - but the deeper question was brought up by our recent special guest Linda Oh: "WHY should we transcribe the Masters?" Well, that's what we're here to talk about...the WHY!" If you like Bass - you're in the …

1
Sax Trio Brilliance! (Part 2) 28:18

11d ago28:18

28:18

"We heard from so many of you after our last release that you dug the 'Sax Trio Brilliance' episode - so we are back with more of Bob and Reuben's favorite Sax Trios! As a bassist, the freedom and transparency that happens in a chord-less saxophone trio can lead to inspiring new territory. We'll dig in this time to cuts that feature some of our fav…

1
EP 122 - Darek Oles (Brad Mehldau, Pat Metheny, John Abercrombie, Solo Artist) 1:12:32

19d ago1:12:32

1:12:32

Darek Oles (Oleszkiewicz) was born on February 20, 1963 in Wroclaw, Poland. At the age of five Oles began his music education at the State Music School in Wroclaw. Piano was his first instrument, but later he played guitar, electric bass and finally at eighteen years old, he switched to accoustic bass. While in his teens he played with amateur grou…

1
Sax Trio Brilliance! (Part 1) 25:33

20d ago25:33

25:33

"Sax Trios have long been an engaging and explorative vehicle for bassists. Think the freedom of Wilbur Ware on "A Night at the Village Vanguard", Oscar Pettiford on "Freedom Suite", or Ray Brown on "Way Out West"...yeah, we love Sonny Rollins! In this episode Bob and Reuben share and rap about some of their favorite Sax Trios 'situations'. Larry G…

1
Ep. 38 - Kyle Crane - Drummer/Songwriter! 1:06:59

27d ago1:06:59

1:06:59

Kyle Crane - Drummer/Songwriter! Kyle is an incredible drummer based in Los Angeles. His impressive resume includes touring with Rufus Wainwright, Madison Cunningham, M. Ward, Neko Case, Daniel Lanois, and recording with Iron & Wine, Kurt Vile, First Aid Kit, Conor Oberst and many others! He also has a solo project called Crane Like The Bird featur…

1
EP 121 - Kathryn Schulmeister (ELISION Ensemble, Fonema Consort [NYC], and the Echoi Ensemble [LA]) 58:00

1M ago58:00

58:00

Kathryn is a member of several contemporary music ensembles including the renowned Australian ELISION Ensemble, Fonema Consort (NYC), and the Echoi Ensemble (LA). She has performed as a guest artist with various adventurous international ensembles such as Klangforum Wien, Ensemble MusikFabrik, Delirium Musicum, Ensemble Dal Niente, and Ensemble Ver…

1
Versatility: Virtue or Vice??? 18:17

1M ago18:17

18:17

"Versatility. That word gets used a lot when talking about being 'marketable' as a musician. While it is a positive attribute when balanced being too versatile can potentially hinder us as well. Bob and Reuben discuss their thoughts on finding that balance in this episode..." If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music an…

1
EP 120 - Dr. Matt Hare (Principal Bass of the Mozart Classical Orchestra and the Long Beach Ballet) 1:01:09

1M ago1:01:09

1:01:09

Matt Hare is well known as a performer and educator. He is on faculty at the University of California at Irvine, Concordia University, and Saddleback College. Dr. Hare also teaches several sections of Music Appreciation and History of Rock online and in the classroom at Saddleback College. He is a string coach at Irvine, Laguna Hills, Trabuco Hills…

1
The Rosin Revelation - Crafting the Perfect Grip with Gary Upton and Blake Hinson 17:08

2M ago17:08

17:08

Have you ever found yourself awash in a sea of bass rosin choices, feeling more like a hapless fly than a master of your craft? Blake Hinson joins me, Gary Upton, in a gripping discussion that might just stick with you. Together, we explore the world of bass rosin, sharing tales from the quest for that elusive perfect grip. Pops may be the househol…

1
Timber Tones and the Art of Bass Making Mastery 15:19

2M ago15:19

15:19

Dive deep into the resonant world of bass-making with us, where the choice of wood isn't just a detail—it's the soul of the instrument. You'll come away with a newfound appreciation for the meticulous craft that shapes the dark, rich tones of an orchestral bass and the bright, punchy sound of a soloist's pride. We'll walk you through the impact of …

1
Linda Oh Interview 46:30

2M ago46:30

46:30

"Linda May Han Oh is one of the premier bassists and composers in the world. In this episode the Upright Citizens discuss everything from advice for students, hearing and singing what you play, emotional aspects of her compositions, and so much more..." If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Chec…

1
String Theory Unstrung - Debating C Extensions, Five-String Basses, and Authentic Sound with Gary Upton and Blake Hinson 11:08

2M ago11:08

11:08

Get ready to dive into the intriguing world of double bass strings in this captivating episode! Join hosts Gary Upton and Blake Hinson as they unravel the debate surrounding the necessity of a C Extension or a five-string bass for orchestral players. Discover the emotional impact and authenticity lost when bassists opt for playing notes an octave h…

1
EP 119 Bryan Beller (The Aristocrats, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Solo Artist, Clinician) 44:02

2M ago44:02

44:02

Bryan Beller has maintained a multi-faceted career as a bassist, composer, solo artist and clinician for over 25 years, earning his reputation as a uniquely talented yet supremely tasteful team player for instrumentally-minded artists. He is a founding member of The Aristocrats which is one of the hottest acts in rock/fusion today; their 2019 relea…

1
Trial & Error 17:44

2M ago17:44

17:44

"Why is the 'Trial & Error' process so important for creative musicians? We need to be fearless and embrace our mistakes to grow, so that's where we'll start in this episode of Upright Citizens." If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much mor…

1
EP 118 - Russell Thompson (Principal Bassist Arkansas Symphony) 1:15:17

2M ago1:15:17

1:15:17

Russell was lucky to grow up in a musical family in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. His mother played the bassoon, his father played the french horn, and his step-father taught saxophone and played jazz. He began playing the bass in 4’th grade, but his interest in classical music began to spark when he began studying with Tracy Rowell and joined the Cleveland…

1
The Genius of Scott Colley 30:41

3M ago30:41

30:41

"Bassist Scott Colley has been in high demand for decades, and for good reason! Come hang with the Upright Citizens as we listen to and discuss his bass brilliance..." Upright Citizens 'Scott Colley' Playlist If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses…

1
EP 117 - Tony Grey (John McLaughlin, Hiromi, Mike Stern, Solo Artist) 1:08:58

3M ago1:08:58

1:08:58

Born March 25, 1975 in Newcastle, England. Tony is a multi-instrumentalist, master bassist, composer, producer, published author and award-winning music educator; he studied at the world-renowned Berklee College of Music and graduated in 2001, receiving the prestigious 'Outstanding Performer' award. Tony is known for his 6-string electric bass tech…

1
Ep. 37 - Ian Felchlin - Guitar! 1:26:20

3M ago1:26:20

1:26:20

Ian Felchlin - Guitar! Ian Felchlin is a guitarist born and raised in Burbank, CA. Some bands and artists Ian has played with over the years include Back Pocket Memory, Douglas Roegiers, Malynda Hale, Andrew Orbison, 5th and Birmingham, Sarah Winchester Band, as well as various theatre productions. @Ianfelchlin GSWMP is a podcast for musicians, mus…

1
6 Ways to Grow in 2024 25:15

3M ago25:15

25:15

"2024 is here and the Upright Citizens are putting their energies towards growth! What is on your list of ways to grow this year?" If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christi…

1
EP - 116 David Rodriguez (Isaac Hayes, Tito Puente, Rochester Philharmonic, NJPAC Vice President) 52:23

4M ago52:23

52:23

Bassist David Rodriguez has worked with groups ranging from Isaac Hayes to Tito Puente to the Rochester Philharmonic. He studied at Juilliard, the Eastman School of Music, and Mansfield University. David is currently the Executive Producer and Executive Vice President of The New Jersey Performing Arts Center where the Milt Hinton Institute for Stud…

1
Ep. 36 - Willow Stephens - Singer/Songwriter/Multi-Instrumentalist! 1:06:57

3M ago1:06:57

1:06:57

Willow Stephens - Singer/Songwriter/Multi-Instrumentalist! @willow_stephens Album - https://vibe.to/futureclassic Show - 1/24/24 at The Troubadour- https://wl.seetickets.us/wafform.aspx?_act=eventtickets&_pky=579015&afflky=TheTroubadour Willow Stephens is a singer-songwriter based in Los Angeles, CA. The Montana native started her career playing in…

1
EP 115 - John Pena (Session Player, Chaka Kahn, Michael Brecker, Jerry Garcia, Ricky Martin) 1:24:15

4M ago1:24:15

1:24:15

John Peña is an in demand touring and session bassist, writer, arranger, producer, and engineer. John has performed and/or recorded with a wide variety of artitists , including: Celia Cruz, Carlos Santana, Julio Iglesias, Tania Maria, Natalie Cole, The Crusaders, Herb Alpert, Chaka Khan, Jerry Garcia, Chick Corea, Steve Vai, Diana Ross, Aretha Fran…

1
Ep. 35 - Brian Duke Song - Electric & Upright Bass! 1:31:30

4M ago1:31:30

1:31:30

Brian Duke Song - Electric & Upright Bass! @briandukesong Brian Duke Song is a SoCal bassist who has a hard time saying no to almost any opportunity out there, which often leads to interesting stories, for better or worse. He plays electric and upright in all kinds of projects such as rapper Andre Nickatina, Kid Abstrakt, hip hop/jazz group Minted,…

1
Ep. 34 - Fernanda Alba - Singer/Songwriter/Piano! 2:48:33

4M ago2:48:33

2:48:33

Ep. 34 - Fernanda Alba - Singer/Songwriter/Piano Fernanda Alba is a Brazilian singer, songwriter and piano player based in Los Angeles. She is formally the leader singer of the hard rock band Obsidian Silence. Her current bands are Memberz Only where she performs as backing vocals and some leads and Exa Band where she acts as singer and keyboard pl…

1
2023 Retrospective 29:12

5M ago29:12

29:12

"Well here we are at the end of another great year of Upright Citizens. In this episode Reuben and Bob take a look back of some of the bright moments of 2023 and say "peace" until next year. Happy Holidays and a Joyous New Year from Bob and Reuben✌️" If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check o…

1
EP 114 - Jerry Jemmott (Aretha Franklin, Nina Simone, B.B. King, Session Musician) 1:19:30

5M ago1:19:30

1:19:30

Jerry Jemmott is a highly respected American bass guitarist and session musician, best known for his work in the realms of blues, jazz, and R&B. He was born on May 22, 1946, in New York City. Throughout his extensive career, Jemmott has played with numerous iconic artists, leaving a significant impact on the music industry. He is particularly known…

1
Xmas Party 2023! 42:33

5M ago42:33

42:33

"It's here, it's here! It's Christmas time again, and the Upright Citizens are back with more of their favorite Christmas recordings and memories. Let's get in the spirit with sounds from some of our favorite bassists including John Clayton, Charlie Haden, Milt Hinton, Gary Peacock, Larry Grenadier!" Upright Citizens Xmas Party 2023 Playlist Intere…

1
The Joy of John Clayton 49:33

5M ago49:33

49:33

"Maestro John Clayton has been a looming and positive presence on the scene for decades. Inspiring audiences and musicians all over the world with his playing, writing, and gracious personality is his forte...and in this interview we get to hear about what inspires him! You might be surprised to hear that YOU are an inspiration to him..." Here's th…

1
Having Grace with Your Process 19:50

6M ago19:50

19:50

If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at uprightcitizenspodcast@gmail.com ★ Support this podcas…

1
Make Better Music with Vulnerability 22:27

6M ago22:27

22:27

"Vulnerability. Easier said than done, right? What does it take to tear down those walls we build around our egos in search of being more creative in our improvisation? In this episode, Bob and Reuben discuss the power of vulnerability and how to use it to do just that and much much more." If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in…

1
Episode 5 - Examinations 34:33

6M ago34:33

34:33

The three suspected witches are now in custody in Salem Village and are publicly examined by colonial magistrates at the Meeting House. The first two suspects, local beggar woman Sarah Good and the scandalous but frail Sarah Osborn, deny being witches and blame others. The third suspect, Rev. Parris' Native American slave Tituba, begins like the ot…

1
Going Deep with Rufus Reid 34:12

7M ago34:12

34:12

"Maestro Rufus Reid has been on the frontlines of the bass world for decades. He is a most prolific performer, composer, arranger, and educator...and now he can add being a guest on the Upright Citizens Podcast to his incredible resume! Join Reuben and Bob as they get deep with Rufus Reid." If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested i…

1
The Art of the Duo (Part 2) 36:27

7M ago36:27

36:27

"We're back this time for part 2 of our focus on the art of the duo. Jimmy Blanton, Gary Peacock, Charlie Haden, and Red Mitchell get some much-deserved love this time!" If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists …

1
Bass Foundations - Your pickup, your bass and your Acoustic Sound with Gary Upton 5:40

8M ago5:40

5:40

Are you giving your bass the love and care it deserves? Are you paying enough attention to its acoustic sound and how it reflects on your amplified sound? Today's episode stems from a stimulating conversation with a client who questioned whether a plywood bass with a pickup could sound as good as a fully carved bass. We dive into the dynamic labyri…

1
Art of the Duo (Part 1) 26:54

8M ago26:54

26:54

"Playing in a duo is one of the most intimate musical experiences, and we've picked out some of our favorite duo situations involving some of our favorite bassists. Christian McBride, Ron Carter, NHOP, and Dave Holland open up the first part of our conversation on duos..." If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and p…

1
Always Be Learning 20:03

8M ago20:03

20:03

"Having a love of learning and a growth mindset is a great way to live, and as musicians we are always aiming to grow and learn more about our craft. Let's talk about some creative ways to grow as a person and musician..." If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'l…

1
Details Matter 25:31

9M ago25:31

25:31

"In modern society, where we are bombarded with information constantly, it can be challenging to slow down and absorb glorious details that surround us in depth. This relates directly to our music life as well, so we better pay attention! In this episode Reuben and Bob discuss their thoughts on why details matter, and what you can do to build your …

1
Bassists as Leaders: Matt Penman 24:51

9M ago24:51

24:51

"Bassist and Composer Matt Penman has long been a favorite of the Upright Citizens. In this episode we rap about his sound, writing, playing, wine-making prowess, and so much more..." If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-c…

1
Bassist and iRealPro Creator: Massimo Biolcati Interview 43:19

10M ago43:19

43:19

"Massimo Biolcati: bassist extraordinaire and creator of the widely-popular app, iRealPro, joins the Upright Citizens to talk bass, life, tech, AI, and much more..." If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like…

1
EP 113 - Marty Isenberg (NY Jazz Double Bassist, Composer, Recording Artist) 1:11:54

10M ago1:11:54

1:11:54

Playing bass was love at first pluck for Marty Isenberg. His career as a jazz musician began at the age of 12, after losing his father to cancer the year prior. A skilled amateur musician, Marty’s father kept many instruments around the house that he would play for the family. After his death, Marty would pull one of these instruments off the wall …

1
Bassist Spotlight: Bob Hurst 26:05

10M ago26:05

26:05

"Bob Hurst has been inspiring the music world for decades, and it's time for the Upright Citizens to do our part to shine some light on him for this 'Bassist Spotlight' episode. Come listen to a few of Bob and Reuben's favorite tracks featuring Mr. Hurst, and hear them share their thoughts..." If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Intereste…

1
David Gage Interview 29:50

11M ago29:50

29:50

"Master Luthier David Gage has been THE guy in the NYC scene for decades. He's worked with all of our bass heroes and has been an innovator in bass technology like his ubiquitous "Realist Pickup" and the famous flight cases. In this interview the Upright Citizens pick his brain about all things bass and talk about what's in store for the future..."…

1
EP 112 - Roberto Vally (George Benson, Christopher Cross, Bobby Caldwell, Boz Scaggs) 1:09:53

11M ago1:09:53

1:09:53

Roberto Vally’s accomplishments within music date back to his formidable years in New York where he was awarded his Junior High School’s Music Honor Award. It was clear that Roberto was destined to pursue an education in music. From 1974-1978 he attended New York City’s legendary High School of Music and Art-depicted in Fame (1980 film). Continuing…

1
Bass Monogamy??? 22:29

11M ago22:29

22:29

"Bob and Reuben discuss the pros and cons of playing one main instrument, versus playing many different basses. There are some perhaps unexpected benefits to both and the Upright Citizens share the down-low on both 'situations'..." Interested in more music advice? Check out the Open Studio courses and online practice community that is Open Studio P…

1
EP 111 - P.J. Cinque (San Diego Symphony / San Diego Bass Fest) 1:03:16

12M ago1:03:16

1:03:16

Double bassist P.J. Cinque joined the San Diego Symphony in 2015, having previously been a member of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition, P.J. serves as Assistant Principal Bass of the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra and has performed with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Utah Symphony, and the City of B…

1
Bassists as Leaders: Avishai Cohen 23:59

12M ago23:59

23:59

Bassist Avishai Cohen is truly beyond category. Known for playing the upright and electric bass at an extremely high levels, but equally celebrated for his writing and arranging. The epitome of a 'Bassist as Leader,' he has 22 solo albums out and runs his own record label - Radaz Recordz. Join the Upright Citizens as they scratch the surface of the…

1
EP 110 - Kenny Lee Lewis (Steve Miller Band, Session Player) 1:02:46

12M ago1:02:46

1:02:46

Kenny Lee Lewis has been a member of The Steve Miller Band for over 41 years and is now their current touring bass player. The Steve Miller Band was inducted into the Rock Hall of Fame in 2016. Kenny speaks about how he landed the gig with Miller and attributes of his artistry that have sustained him in the music industry. Kenny, also an amateur lu…

1
The Balance Between Art and Commerce 22:14

12M ago22:14

22:14

Bassists will often find themselves busy as soon as they are on a scene, the demand is always there...but that doesn't always put us in a highly creative or engaging situation. In this episode the Citizens discuss balancing being a creative artist, as well as being a "working bassist" that has bills to pay. Have feedback or a suggestion? Email the …

1
Bass Buying Advice 20:26

1y ago20:26

20:26

This episode is all about advice buying your first Upright Bass, or perhaps even your 2nd or 3rd! There's a lot of details that go into finding and buying an upright bass, but don't worry - Reuben and Bob are here to share their stories and thoughts on the process. Have feedback or a suggestion? Email the Upright Citizens: uprightcitizenspodcast@gm…

1
Electric Bass Love (Part 2) - Steve Swallow 22:08

1y ago22:08

22:08

Bassist and composer Steve Swallow is a true original. After gaining prominence on the upright in more traditional situations he had an 'epiphany' that led him to develop his unique voice on the electric bass. Sit back, get comfortable, and let's listen and learn a bit about the great Steve Swallow! Our Steve Swallow Playlist Interested in more mus…

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