Now That’s Bass

Pete Roythorne

Now That’s Bass is a podcast about the real world of professional bass playing.

Hosted by bassist Pete Roythorne, the show features frank conversations with working bass players — touring musicians, session players, educators and gospel players — about what it actually takes to sustain a career in music.

No fantasy. No gear flexing. Just the reality of the job.

The podcast is also part of a personal mission.

Just before Christmas Pete was made redundant. Approaching his 60th birthday, he decided it was time to stop talking about doing something serious with his bass playing and actually do it.

So he’s getting back out into the bass world.

Each episode features honest conversations with bass players who’ve built real careers — touring internationally, working in sessions, teaching thousands of students, and sustaining a life in music for decades.

Along the way Pete asks the questions many musicians want answered:
What does it actually take to make a living playing bass?
How do you build a reputation?
And how do you stay in the game long term?

If you’re serious about bass — not just the instrument but the long game of being a musician — this podcast is for you.

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20 episodes
Updated July 27

Episodes20

Newest first

July 27 · 1 hr 8 min
The Secret Isn't Talent, It's Consistency | Jimmy Sims on building a lasting bass career
Everyone talks about getting "the big break." Jimmy Sims doesn't believe it exists. Having toured and recorded with artists including George Ezra, Brian Ferry, Amy Macdonald, Mika and Dido, Jimmy has built one of the UK's most respected freelance bass careers—not through luck alone, but through years of quietly building relationships, saying yes to opportunities and constantly improving his craft. In this episode Jimmy shares what touring is really like, why community matters more than networking, how the legendary Bass Centre helped launch his career, and why being a professional musician is often about handling the uncomfortable moments rather than the glamorous ones. If you're trying to build a sustainable career as a bass player—or as any musician—this conversation is packed with practical wisdom. In this episode we discuss: Building a career without a single "big break" How the Bass Centre became Jimmy's music college Touring with Mika, Brian Ferry and Amy Macdonald Why community beats networking The realities of life on tour Mental health and looking after yourself on the road Why versatility creates opportunities How to become the musician people recommend Learning theory without losing your creativity Why every rejection is simply another brick in the wall 🎸 Subscribe for weekly conversations with the world's best bass players. #NowThatsBass #BassGuitar #BassPlayer #MusicianLife #SessionMusician #TouringMusician #MusicCareer #BassCommunity #JimmySims #GeorgeEzra #BrianFerry #AmyMacdonald #Mika #Dido
July 20 · 1 hr 13 min
Nobody Owes You a Gig | Chris Horrocks on Building a Modern Bass Career
What does it actually mean to be a professional bass player in 2026? Chris Horrocks (That Guy On Bass) joins Pete to talk honestly about building a sustainable music career that combines session work, weddings, content creation, YouTube and podcasting. From getting made redundant and deciding to go all-in on music, to balancing gigs with running a successful business, Chris shares a refreshingly realistic look at life as a modern working bassist. Along the way they discuss networking, soft skills, learning songs without charts, social media, tone chasing, content creation and why simply being someone people enjoy working with is often more valuable than being the flashiest player in the room. Whether you're an aspiring session musician, weekend gigger or full-time pro, this episode is packed with practical advice that every bassist can use. In this episode: Chris's journey from guitarist to professional bassist Why redundancy became the best thing that ever happened The realities of today's wedding and function scene Why soft skills matter more than technical ability Building multiple income streams as a musician Content creation vs live performance Learning songs without charts Why audiences don't care about perfect note-for-note covers Tone chasing—and why Chris is trying to stop Advice for younger musicians The one song every bassist should learn If you enjoy these conversations, don't forget to Like, Subscribe and Share. #bass #bassplayer #bassguitar #sessionmusician #thatguyonbass #inthepocketpodcast #musician #musiccareer #basspodcast #nowthatsbass
July 8 · 57 min
From Postman to Paul Weller | Andy Lewis on saying yes to everything
Most musicians spend years trying to plan the perfect career. Andy Lewis did something different. From discovering bass through Mod music, soul and funk... to becoming Paul Weller's bassist almost by accident... to building a hugely varied career as a producer, DJ and songwriter, Andy's story is a masterclass in following opportunities rather than chasing status. In this episode of Now That's Bass, Andy talks about learning by ear, why groove matters more than technique, the emotional side of music, life inside Paul Weller's band, and why saying "yes" has opened more doors than any long-term career plan ever could. This is a fascinating conversation about musicianship, creativity and building a life in music that lasts. In this episode we discuss: How Andy first discovered bass guitar Why listening is more important than reading TAB Learning music by ear The relationship between bass and drums How DJing shaped his understanding of groove The unexpected journey into Paul Weller's band Life touring at the highest level Producing records after Weller Why emotion always beats technical perfection Advice for young bass players The importance of staying curious The bass players everyone should study If you enjoy conversations about bass, musicianship and building a career in music, don't forget to Like, Subscribe and Share. #BassGuitar #BassPlayer #PaulWeller #AndyLewis #NowThatsBass #MusicPodcast #BassPlayers #Groove #MusicCareer #Producer #SoulMusic #FunkMusic #Mod #NorthernSoul
June 26 · 57 min
How Bass Players ACTUALLY Build Careers in 2026 | Jenn McCarron (Savage Fridays)
In this episode of Now That's Bass, Pete Roythorne sits down with bassist, producer, creator and Savage Fridays founder Jenn McCarron to explore what it really means to build a music career in 2026. After years touring with bands, Jenn stepped into the corporate world before making the bold decision to return to music full-time. Today she's built one of the fastest-growing bass channels on YouTube while producing music, creating content and proving that modern musicians don't have to wait for opportunities—they can create them. This isn't just a conversation about bass playing. It's about creativity, resilience, entrepreneurship and finding your own voice in an industry that's changing faster than ever. Whether you're an aspiring professional bassist, a content creator, or simply trying to build a career doing what you love, Jenn shares honest advice, practical lessons and plenty of inspiration from her own journey. In this episode we discuss: Jenn's unconventional journey into bass guitar Why she left touring for corporate life—and why she came back Building a career through YouTube and the creator economy Why consistency beats perfection The importance of finding your own musical voice Touring versus creating content Learning from criticism instead of fearing it Why community matters more than follower counts Balancing creativity with earning a living Multiple income streams for today's musicians Why every musician should stop waiting for opportunities and start creating them If you're serious about building a career in music, this is an episode you won't want to miss. 👍 If you enjoy the conversation, please like the video, subscribe to the channel and let us know your biggest takeaway in the comments. About Jenn McCarron Jenn McCarron is a bassist, producer, songwriter and content creator best known for her growing Savage Fridays YouTube channel, where she shares bass demos, music production insights, gear reviews and honest conversations about life as a modern musician. Subscribe for more interviews with great bass players. #bass #bassguitar #bassplayer #musiccareer #musician #creator #youtubecreator #musicindustry #basscommunity #savagefridays
June 20 · 43 min
I Almost Didn't Get the Amy Winehouse Gig: Dale Davis on Persistence, Bass & Finding Your Own Sound
Dale Davis is one of the UK's most respected bass players, best known as the bassist and musical director behind the Amy Winehouse Band. Over a career spanning more than four decades, Dale has worked with artists including Paul Young, Tina Turner, Norman Cook (Fatboy Slim), Freak Power and many more. Chapters 02:23 Where did your bass journey start? 05:37 Northern soul influence 10:08 Working with Paul Young 13:27 The Amy Wnehouse Gig 17:35 Beats International 19:29 Where the opportunities came from 20:34 The Hofner relationship 27:14 Finding your own sound 30:39 Did you ever have a plan B? 31:54 Where should people focus their attention to get more gigs? 34:16 Advice to the young Dale? 39:11 One bass line to rule them all? In this episode of Now That's Bass, Dale shares the remarkable story of how a love of Northern Soul, relentless gigging, and trusting his own musical instincts helped shape a career that has taken him from local pubs in Reading to stages around the world. We discuss finding your own voice as a bass player, why playing with people matters more than practising alone, the importance of perseverance, how he landed the Amy Winehouse gig, and why he believes making mistakes is one of the most valuable parts of becoming a musician. Whether you're a beginner, aspiring professional, or simply love hearing how great musicians built their careers, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration. In this episode: • How Dale discovered bass after seeing Danny Thompson live • Growing up on Mod, Northern Soul and classic rock • The importance of saying yes to gigs early on • Why playing with people accelerates your development • Building a unique sound instead of copying others • Working with Norman Cook, Freak Power and Paul Young • Getting the Amy Winehouse gig (after initially not getting it!) • The role of perseverance in a music career • Why mistakes can be your greatest teacher • Advice Dale would give to his younger self • Learning by ear versus formal music education • The bass lines and players that shaped his approach If you enjoyed this conversation, don't forget to Like, Subscribe and share it with another bass player. #NowThatsBass #BassPlayer #BassGuitar #AmyWinehouse #DaleDavis #SessionMusician #BassLessons #MusicCareer #BassCommunity #MusiciansLife
June 13 · 44 min
Play the Gig, Learn the Lesson: James Eager on Bass, Growth & Opportunity
James Eager has built a career that spans West End shows, function bands, jazz clubs, teaching, entrepreneurship and creating one of the world's largest online bass education communities through E Bass Guitar. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to like, subscribe and share with another bass player. Chapter timings 01:07 Where did your bass journey start? 04:10 When did you realise you could make this work as a living? 09:41 Did you ever get out of your depth on gigs? 12:44 Are you only as good as your last gig? 16:59 How has the industry changed for today's bass players? 21:26 How important is it for musicians to have business skills? 28:02 Are the opportunities still there for younger bass players? 33:49 The importance of authenticty 38:54 What advice would you give your younger self? 43:35 One bass line everyone should learn In this episode of Now That's Bass, James shares the reality of building a sustainable career in music. From saying yes to every gig in his twenties, to overcoming imposter syndrome, developing resilience, embracing entrepreneurship and finding his authentic voice, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom for any bass player trying to make their way in today's music industry. Whether you're an aspiring professional musician, a working bassist, or someone navigating the challenges of a creative career, James offers honest insights into what it really takes to build a long-term life in music. What we talked about: • How James transitioned from guitar to bass • Studying jazz at Trinity College of Music • Building a career through teaching and gigging • Why saying yes to opportunities matters • Imposter syndrome and surviving difficult gigs • Lessons learned from the West End • The changing music industry in 2026 • Why musicians need entrepreneurial skills • Social media, authenticity and finding your voice • Building E Bass Guitar from the ground up • Mental resilience and self-development • Why employability matters more than virtuosity • The importance of entertaining an audience • Advice James would give his younger self • The one bass line every player should learn
June 6 · 48 min
Dream Big, Prepare Hard: Vicky Warwick on Building a Global Bass Career
Vicky Warwick has built the kind of bass career many musicians dream about. From London to New York and now Los Angeles, she's toured the world with artists including Charli XCX, Big Time Rush and Maisie Peters, performed on Saturday Night Live, Jimmy Kimmel and The Graham Norton Show, and built a reputation as someone people genuinely want to hire. But this conversation isn't about fame. It's about what actually happens behind the scenes. Chapters 00:00 Start 00:44 Handling the travelling 03:26 Starting her bass journey 06:33 Realising this is a career 08:22 First big break 12:22 First taste of serious touring 15:16 How do you keep getting hired? 20:11 Does it help to play multiple instruments? 22:06 Are BVs essential these days? 25:08 Re-establish a career in different cities 30:11 Biggest lessons you've learned 3 3:50 Coping with the realities of touring 39:05 Most honest piece of advice about music career 40:12 What advice would you give your younger self? 46:38 Bass line everyone should learn and why? We discuss networking, auditions, mentorship, touring, moving countries, building a reputation, and why being a great bass player is only part of the equation. If you're serious about building a career in music, this episode is packed with practical advice from someone who has done exactly that. In this episode: • How Vicky accidentally discovered the bass • Why a careers advisor told her not to pursue music • The audition that changed everything • Landing the Charli XCX gig • Why networking isn't a dirty word • The real secret to successful auditions • How to build a music career in London, New York and Los Angeles • Why versatility matters more than ever • Learning bass and backing vocals simultaneously • The truth about life on the road • The importance of mentors • Why most music careers are never just one thing • The one bass line every player should learn If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with another bass player. #BassGuitar #BassPlayer #MusicCareer #CharliXCX #SessionMusician #TouringMusician #BassLessons #NowThatsBass #MusicIndustry #BassCommunity
May 30 · 1 hr 39 min
Make The Music The Thing: Steve Lawson on Art, Audience & Authenticity
Steve Lawson: Building a Music Career Without Chasing Fame What if the goal wasn't more followers, more views, or a bigger platform? What if the real goal was building meaningful music, genuine community, and a sustainable creative life? In this episode of Now That's Bass, Pete Roythorne sits down with bassist, educator, writer, technologist and PhD holder Steve Lawson for one of the most thought-provoking conversations on the channel so far. Chapters for easy listening! 00:16 Introduction 02:48 How did you come to playing the bass? 09:11 What was the turning point for you in your bass career? 16:10 What was the catalyst for your evolution into solo bass? 25:31 How did you start to embrace technology to develop your career? 50:02 Is it easy today to push the boundaries of bass? 01:03:36 Why we need to more than chase clicks and algorithms 01:11:56 What's you advice for bass players coming into the industry today? 01:28:33 What bass line should everyone go away and listen to? 01:34:18 How did your PHD influence your attitude to music? Steve shares the lessons he's learned from four decades of bass playing, pioneering solo bass performance, embracing technology before most musicians had even heard of it, and building a career entirely on his own terms. The conversation explores everything from creativity and community to social media, attention spans, music education and what it really means to build a life in music in 2026. Whether you're a bass player, musician, creator or simply interested in how artists navigate the modern world, this episode is packed with insight. In this episode: Steve's journey from beginner bassist to solo artist How a broken arm changed his approach to music Why John Peel was one of his biggest influences Playing bass in duos and expanding the role of the instrument The origins of Steve's solo bass career Lessons learned from Michael Manring, Victor Wooten and Tony Levin Building an audience before social media existed How Steve used forums, blogs and online communities to create a sustainable career Why Bandcamp became the foundation of his business model The difference between community and audience The dangers of chasing algorithms and viral success Why social media rewards performance rather than artistry Practical career advice for aspiring bass players Trust, professionalism and reputation in the music industry The relationship between creativity, audience and meaning How Steve's PhD changed the way he thinks about music Key Takeaway "Make the music the thing." A powerful conversation about building a career around purpose, community and creativity rather than chasing validation. #SteveLawson #BassGuitar #BassPlayer #NowThatsBass #MusicCareer #Bandcamp #SoloBass #BassLessons #MusicianLife #IndependentMusician #BassCommunity #BassEducation #VictorWooten #MichaelManring #TonyLevin
May 26 · 1 hr 3 min
Network Like a Demon: Mike Brooks on Bass, Survival & Staying Hireable
Bass player, journalist, reviewer, YouTuber and working musician Mike Brooks joins Now That’s Bass for a brutally honest conversation about what it really takes to survive as a professional bass player over three decades in the music industry. From discovering bass through Duran Duran and landing his first professional gigs in the ‘90s, to building a long-term career through covers bands, networking, journalism and YouTube, Mike shares the realities most musicians never hear about. This episode dives deep into how the music industry has changed, why communication matters more than chops, the collapse of traditional gig circuits, and the mindset required to build a sustainable life in music in 2026. No fantasy. No gear flexing. Just the reality of the job. In this episode: How Duran Duran inspired Mike to pick up bass Turning professional in 1995 The truth about surviving on covers gigs How one dep gig changed his entire career The collapse of traditional live circuits Why networking matters more than ever Lessons from Bass Guitar Magazine and The Basist Why communication gets musicians fired The importance of versatility and backing vocals Bernard Edwards and the genius of Good Times Follow Mike Brooks / Brooksy’s Bass Corner YouTube: Brooksy’s Bass Corner Instagram #bassplayer #bassguitar #brooksysbasscorner #musicindustry #sessionmusician #basscareer #bernardedwards #chic #basspodcast #nowthatsbass
May 16 · 45 min
Right Thing, Right Time: Andrew McKinney on Pulp, JTQ & the Art of Being Hireable
In this episode of Now That’s Bass, Pete talks to Andrew McKinney, current bassist with Pulp and The James Taylor Quartet, course leader for performance at BIMM London, and a player whose career has taken him through TV, theatre, funk, soul, session work, education and major international stages. Quick Links to Chapters 00:31 Introduction 04:15 How did your bass journey start? From Cello to BassTech 07:17 How did your first bits of session work come in? 14:03 How did your first break come about? 15:58 At what point did you think I can make this work? 17:18 How have you managed to sustain your career? 20:23 How do you stand out as a bass player? 23:19 Who's the most important person in a band to connect with? 25:46 How is it playing in bands as diverse as Pulp and JTQ 27:43 Imposter syndrome and the route into Pulp 36:14 Three things people should focus on to get more gigs 42:45 What advice would you give your younger self? 44:28 The bass line everyone should know and why? Andrew talks honestly about how a cello-playing school kid became a professional bass player, why depping has been central to his career, what it really takes to be a “safe pair of hands”, and how he dealt with stepping into very different musical worlds — from the groove-heavy James Taylor Quartet to the textural, creative demands of working with Jarvis Cocker and Pulp. This is a conversation about preparation, taste, confidence, imposter syndrome, musical relationships, and why being hireable is about far more than chops. In this episode: Andrew’s early journey from cello to bass Studying at BassTech and choosing music over science How early gigs turned into long-term career opportunities The importance of depping and supporting other bass players Why preparation and attitude matter as much as ability Getting the call for The Richard Blackwood Show Playing with James Taylor Quartet Working creatively with Jarvis Cocker Joining Pulp and touring Australia and New Zealand Imposter syndrome and learning to adapt What makes a bass player hireable Why “the right thing at the right time” matters The bass album Andrew thinks every player should study Subscribe for more honest conversations with working bass players about building a real career in music. #BassPlayer #AndrewMcKinney #Pulp #JamesTaylorQuartet #BassGuitar #NowThatsBass #SessionMusician #BassCareer #JarvisCocker #Bassist
May 9 · 48 min
Gearing Up: Jonny Dibble on P Basses, Pedals & Becoming a Bass Content Creator
Jonny Dibble has built a loyal following in the bass world by doing something surprisingly rare: making bass gear feel honest, relatable and genuinely useful. In this episode of Now That’s Bass, Pete sits down with the bassist, YouTuber and co-host of the In The Pocket podcast to talk about affordable basses, social media, gear obsession, bass culture and what it really takes to build an audience online as a musician. Jonny shares how a Harley Benton review during lockdown accidentally launched his content career, why he believes flashy playing can actually make gear demos less useful, and why most bass players misunderstand what social media is actually good for. There’s also plenty of bass nerdery along the way — including P Basses, StingRays, SansAmps, preamp pedals, tribute bands, favourite bass lines, and why The Lion King contains one of the most underrated bass performances around. Whether you’re trying to grow a music channel, build a bass career, improve your tone, or just love talking gear, this is a refreshingly honest conversation about modern bass playing and online music culture. In this episode: How Jonny Dibble got started on bass Why affordable bass gear matters Building a bass YouTube channel during lockdown The truth about Instagram for musicians Why relatable playing matters in gear demos P Bass vs StingRay philosophy The importance of musical and gear reference points Why every bassist should consider a preamp pedal Bass gear as creative inspiration Jamiroquai, Disney bass lines and underrated musical influences If you enjoy the show, please follow, rate and share Now That’s Bass wherever you listen to podcasts.
May 2 · 38 min
Why Feel Beats Flash: Matt Round on Getting Gigs... AND Keeping Them!
In this episode of Now That’s Bass, Pete talks to professional bassist Matt Round, known for his long-running work with James Morrison, as well as playing with Archive, Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook, and currently holding down bass duties on the spectacular ABBA Voyage show. Matt brings a refreshingly honest, funny and grounded perspective on what it really takes to build a long-term career as a working bass player. From the pressure of auditions and the realities of rejection, to why “always be good” matters on every gig, this is a conversation packed with practical advice for bassists who want to work, improve and stay employable. There’s also plenty for bass nerds: ABBA bass lines, Carol Kaye, The Chain, the beauty of whole notes, and why playing less can often make you more valuable. In this episode Playing bass on ABBA Voyage Why ABBA bass parts are “bonkers and brilliant” How Matt landed the ABBA gig Why auditions are such a strange way to choose musicians Handling rejection without bitterness Why every young musician needs thick skin Finding your lane as a player Building a career by saying yes early on The importance of networks and real relationships Why social media is now a musician’s calling card Matt’s long relationship with Ashdown Why being reliable matters as much as playing ability The two biggest rules for getting more gigs What bass players should learn from good drummers Why bass is a supportive instrument The art of playing for the song Why whole notes can be harder than flashy runs Bass lines everyone should study, from Carol Kaye to Fleetwood Mac YouTube hashtags #NowThatsBass #MattRound #BassPlayer #BassGuitar #ABBA Voyage #JamesMorrison #BassPodcast #WorkingMusician #SessionMusician #BassLessons #BassCareer #MusicCareer #BassGuitarist #BassPlayersOfYouTube #CarolKaye #TheChain #AshdownEngineering
April 25 · 50 min
From Yorkshire Pubs to Bassist of the Year: Danny Sapko on Punk, Playing & Finding His Lane
Danny Sapko joins Now That’s Bass for a frank, funny and insightful chat about punk bass, originality, YouTube, AI, and the reality of building a career in music. From his early love of McCartney and the Stranglers to becoming one of the most distinctive voices in the online bass world, Danny talks about finding success by finally being himself — Yorkshire accent, humour, opinions and all. We also dig into the harder side of modern musician life: session work, side hustles, wedding gigs, copyright blocks, AI-generated music and why more players need to protect the human side of art. Topics covered: Finding your voice as a creator Punk bass and lead-line playing Influences: McCartney, Bruce Thomas, Graham Maby, Norman Watt-Roy and more Why Danny never had a bass lesson The pressure of being known as “the comedy guy” Bass playing vs content creation YouTube, gear demos and copyright strikes AI in music and visual art The real economics of being a working musician Advice for younger players #behs #DannySapko #NowThatsBass #BassGuitar #BassInterview #PunkBass #BassistOfTheYear #BassPlayerLife #MusicianLife #BassYouTube #WorkingMusician
April 18 · 55 min
The Bass Player’s Superpower: Yolanda Charles on Feel, Leadership & Career Longevity
What does a 35+ year career as a working bass player really look like? In this episode, I sit down with Yolanda Charles MBE — one of the UK’s most respected session bassists, whose credits include Paul Weller, Robbie Williams, Eric Clapton, Van Morrison, Jimmy Somerville, and work alongside legends like Brian May and Hans Zimmer. We get into the real story behind that career — from random phone calls that led to major gigs, to the relationships and reputation that kept the work coming for decades. Along the way, Yolanda shares hard-won insights on musical feel, why bass players are often the true bandleaders, and the skills that actually separate working musicians from everyone else. This is an honest, grounded conversation about longevity, musicianship, and what it really takes to build a life in music. No fantasy. No gear flexing. Just the reality of the job. Key topics: How Yolanda got her first big break (and why it was random) Why networking still matters more than talent alone The 4 real ways musicians get work Why bass players make the best bandleaders The hidden “superpower” of bass players Why feel and dynamics matter more than theory The truth about imposter syndrome in pro music Why session work isn’t always the dream path How to build a long-term career in music Why younger players might actually have it harder today #BassPlayer #YolandaCharles #BassGuitar #SessionMusician #MusicPodcast #BassPlayers #MusiciansLife #Groove #MusicCareer #NowThatsBass
April 11 · 59 min
Plant Your Flag, Be Yourself: ian Martin Allison on Bass,. Creative Freedom & Finding Your Voice
Ian Martin Allison joins Now That’s Bass for a brilliant conversation about bass, teaching, social media, creativity and building a career on your own terms. From the story of how he first picked up the bass, to the bad teacher who shaped his approach to education, to the way he built a loyal audience online by leading with value, Ian shares honest, funny and thoughtful insights throughout. This episode also digs into sideman life, creative fulfilment, income streams, collaborations and the importance of being unapologetically yourself. In this episode: Ian’s origin story on bass The teacher experience that changed everything Building a genuine online presence The truth about sideman work Creativity vs financial stability Collaborations, gear and product design Advice for bass players coming up now The one bassline everyone should learn #NowThatsBass #IanMartinAllison #BassGuitar #BassPlayer #BassCommunity #MusicIndustry #MusicianCareer #BassEducation #CreativeCareer #Podcast #walbass #tool #justinchancellor #mxr #labellastrings #mikelull
April 4 · 40 min
Play It Simple, Play It Right: Russell Carr on Groove, Gigs & Staying in the Game
Session bassist Russell Carr joins Pete on Now That’s Bass for a refreshingly honest conversation about what it really takes to build a long-term career as a working bass player. From playing with Skin and The Blockheads to teaching, function gigs, gear choices and the power of word of mouth, Russell breaks down the real-world side of life as a musician: groove over flash, professionalism over ego, and why being a safe pair of hands matters. If you want a realistic, encouraging look at bass careers beyond the fantasy, this episode is packed with insight. Topics covered: The magic of simple bass playing Filling in on iconic material How session work actually comes your way Why drummers often recommend bass players The value of function gigs Gear, tone and why Fenders still dominate Soft skills, networking and getting hired again Enjoying the journey instead of chasing the endpoint #NowThatsBass #RussellCarr #BassGuitar #SessionBass #BassCareers #WorkingMusician #BassPodcast #GiggingLife #MusicIndustry #BassPlayers
March 28 · 46 min
Stay Hungry, Say It Straight: Reggie Parker on Bass, Legacy & Hard Truths
Pete Roythorne sits down with acclaimed bassist Reggie Parker for a powerful conversation on gospel bass, creativity, confidence and the realities of a life in music. Reggie shares how he got started, the players who inspired him, how he found his sound, and what it really took to rise through the gospel world in the 1990s. Along the way, he opens up about creative risk, paying dues, iconic sessions, social media, ageing, regret and the challenges musicians face trying to build a sustainable career today. Honest, sharp and full of insight, this episode is packed with lessons for bass players and working musicians at every level. Key topics include: Reggie Parker’s origin story on bass The overlooked brilliance of gospel bass players How iconic bass intros get created Why memorable playing matters more than empty speed Paying dues and being ready for opportunity Music careers, money and family reality Social media, validation and modern musician culture How criticism helps players grow Personal regret, perspective and staying hungry
March 21 · 40 min
Hold the Groove, Lose the Ego: Jonathan Noyce on Bass, Tone & Career Longevity
Jonathan Noyce has built a remarkable career as a bassist, working with artists including Jethro Tull, Gary Moore, Take That, Archive and The Divine Comedy, as well as on major film soundtracks. In this episode, he shares the lessons that shaped that journey — from studying music seriously and landing early breakthrough sessions, to learning the discipline, taste and integrity needed to sustain a long-term career. It’s a thoughtful conversation about serving the song, finding your sound, dealing with nerves, adapting over time and staying grounded in the music. Key topics: How Jonathan first got into bass The influence of Level 42 and Mark King Why taste matters more than flash The path from music college to professional session work Joining Jethro Tull and growing as a player Confidence, imposter syndrome and musical identity Rebuilding a career after a major chapter ends Gear, tone and reliability What makes a truly great bass part
March 13 · 40 min
Play Everywhere, Regret Nothing: Becky Baldwin on Bass, Bands & Breaking Through
What does a real career in music actually look like? In this episode, Pete sits down with Becky Baldwin, one of the UK’s busiest rock and metal bass players. Becky performs with King Diamond, Merciful Fate, Fury and Delilah Bonn, and has built a career that many musicians dream of. But unlike the myth of the “big break”, Becky’s journey has been built on years of small steps, networking, relentless work and adapting to the modern music industry. From growing up in a small village with no music scene, to building an international career, Becky shares honest insights about what it really takes to survive as a professional bass player. This episode covers everything from imposter syndrome and networking to building a personal brand online and creating multiple income streams as a musician. If you're serious about building a career in music — this conversation is packed with real-world advice. Key Topics • Becky Baldwin’s early bass influences (Cliff Burton, Lemmy and more) • Growing up without a music scene and moving to Bristol • Why most gigs come from networking — not auditions • The reality of building a music career without a “big break” • Dealing with imposter syndrome as a professional musician • Using social media as a modern musician’s showreel • Why authenticity matters more than chasing trends • Balancing teaching, performing and multiple income streams • Building trust and reputation in the music scene • Practical advice for bass players trying to break into the industry
March 7 · 40 min
From Building Sites to Bootsy Collins: Greg Hofmann on Gear, Gigs & Finding Your Thing
Greg Hofmann has toured the world for over 15 years, played with artists including Bootsy Collins, Candace Springs, Rick Astley and Jess Glynne, and built a parallel creative path through teaching and pedal building. In this episode, Greg talks openly about his journey from South Africa to London, the grind of trying to survive as a musician, and the moment he realised that chasing every gig wasn’t the same as loving music. We talk about building a sustainable creative life, finding your own voice on bass, resisting the pressure to sound like everyone else, and using social media in a way that helps you stand out rather than disappear into the crowd. This is a thoughtful, honest conversation about musicianship, identity, gear, creativity and what it takes to keep going.