Why Bass? with Donivan Blair

Matt Freeman-Rancid-Operation Ivy

In the episode Donivan and Rancid's Matt Freeman delve into Matt's personal collection, the significance of signature basses, and the affordability of instruments for aspiring musicians. The discussion turns to why only badasses were born on April 23rd, they share humorous anecdotes about meeting musical icons and discuss the impact of Kathy Valentine and John Entwistle. Matt talks about the Bass Bunker, Rancid, playing a Rickenbacker in Charger and why you must watch what you say when meeting celebrities. Matt Freeman's Bass Bunker [https://www.youtube.com/@MattFreemansBassBunker] Rancid [https://rancidrancid.com/] Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of your guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks, and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop [https://www.jimdunlop.com/] For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars [https://www.schecterguitars.com/] Kingston Union [https://kingstonunionmfg.com/]- Your source for the original Wino Mentioned in this episode: Jim Dunlop Why Bass? is brought to you by Jim Dunlop/MXR. Head to https://www.jimdunlop.com/ Schecter Guitars Why Bass? is sponsored by Schecter Guitars. Head over to Schecter for all your guitar needs. https://www.schecterguitars.com/

Rob Felicetti-Bowling For Soup

In this episode Doni & Rob talk about getting booed, and why it is bad; why MusicMan basses aren't for everyone, (especially if you're short), Rob's beginnings as a drummer and how he joined Bowling For Soup. Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of your guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks, and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop [https://www.jimdunlop.com/] For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars [https://www.schecterguitars.com/] Mentioned in this episode: Schecter Guitars Why Bass? is sponsored by Schecter Guitars. Head over to Schecter for all your guitar needs. https://www.schecterguitars.com/ Jim Dunlop Why Bass? is brought to you by Jim Dunlop/MXR. Head to https://www.jimdunlop.com/

Dominic "Rocky" Laroche-Voivod

Today Donivan interviews Dominic "Rocky" La Roche, the bassist for his favorite band, the iconic Voivod. They discuss Rocky's life in music, his early influences, and the evolution of Voivod's sound. Rocky shares personal anecdotes about his first bass, his first show with Voivod, and the impact the band has had on his life and career. The conversation highlights the importance of perseverance, inspiration, and Rocky’s unique musical experience. Donivan and Rocky discuss the importance of connecting with the audience, the universal language of music, and the inspiration that musicians can provide to the next generation. They touche on the readiness for opportunities in the music industry, the significance of gear in live performance, and the emotional weight of tributes and covers in honoring musical legends. Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of your guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks, and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop [https://www.jimdunlop.com/] For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars [https://www.schecterguitars.com/] Mentioned in this episode: Jim Dunlop Why Bass? is brought to you by Jim Dunlop/MXR. Head to https://www.jimdunlop.com/ Schecter Guitars Why Bass? is sponsored by Schecter Guitars. Head over to Schecter for all your guitar needs. https://www.schecterguitars.com/

Eva Gardner-Pink-The Mars Volta

Donivan interviews Eva Gardner, exploring her musical journey influenced by her father's legacy as a bass player. They discuss the significance of instruments, early lessons, and personal preferences in bass guitars, while also delving into recording experiences and the nuances of tone in music. They explore the formation of Mars Volta, discuss various collaborations, and share insights on gear preferences, including amps and pedals. Eva recounts her audition experiences and the resilience required in the music industry, while also touching on the creative processes behind music production. The conversation wraps up with a look at upcoming tours and future plans, highlighting the excitement of her forthcoming solo album. Eva Gardner [https://www.evagardner.com/] Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of your guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks, and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop [https://www.jimdunlop.com/] For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars [https://www.schecterguitars.com/] Mentioned in this episode: Jim Dunlop Why Bass? is brought to you by Jim Dunlop/MXR. Head to https://www.jimdunlop.com/ Schecter Guitars Why Bass? is sponsored by Schecter Guitars. Head over to Schecter for all your guitar needs. https://www.schecterguitars.com/

Jay Bentley-Bad Religion

Jay Bentley is the bass player and a founding member of Bad Religion. Jay shares his journey from a young guitar player to a prominent bassist in the punk rock scene. He discusses his musical influences, the evolution of his playing style, and the dynamics of being in a band. Bentley reflects on the challenges of live performances, the impact of technology on music, and the creative process behind songwriting. He emphasizes the importance of individuality in music and the learning experiences that shaped his career. Donivan and Jay discuss the evolution of their musical gear, the pursuit of the perfect tone, and the dynamics of live performance. They talk bass technique, the fluidity of musical expression, and the impact of personnel changes within bands. Jay shares his challenges and the realities of touring, particularly focusing on equipment issues and the importance of sound management. He shares insights on his personal gear preferences, the dynamics of working within a band, and the critical role of sound engineers. #jaybentley #badreligion #mxr #jimdunlop #schecterguitars Bad Religion [https://badreligion.com/] Epitaph Records [https://www.epitaph.com/] Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of your guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks, and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop [https://www.jimdunlop.com/] For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars [https://www.schecterguitars.com/] * Bad Religion * Quiet Riot * The Clash * Circle Jerks * Wasted Youth * Randy Rhoads * Steve Soto * Minor Threat * Junkyard * Rick Ocasek Epitaph * Mesa Boogie * Ampeg * Orange * Crate * High Watt Mentioned in this episode: Jim Dunlop Why Bass? is brought to you by Jim Dunlop/MXR. Head to https://www.jimdunlop.com/ Schecter Guitars Why Bass? is sponsored by Schecter Guitars. Head over to Schecter for all your guitar needs. https://www.schecterguitars.com/