More Myths!

On this installment of @yamahamusicusa #silentbass and @laklandbasses Friday, we continue a multi-part discussion on "myths". Again, a caveat here. The "myths" I will present here are based on my experience as a performer and educator. Many of these can be up for debate. U disagree? GOOD! Any worthwhile topic can benefit from cordial discourse. Ok. Myth: "You need to be a "certain level" to play a 5 string bass". Yes, there are more notes..yes, they are bigger and heavier..and yes, I usually recommend beginners start with 4. But the bottom line is play the instrument u want and accept any additional challenges it may bring. Myth: "You need an arsenal of basses to get different sounds". This one is definitely up for debate. The issue for me is the word "need". Different players have different approaches, different priorities, different opinions...and they are all valid. Personally, I was taught and I have found 99.9999999% of ur sound comes from YOU! So, IMO except for broad strokes (i.e. fretless vs. fretted, multi strings, acoustic vs. electric) you can get all your sounds with one instrument....one you like and is maintained properly. I've rented basses on the road, borrowed instruments...used all sorts of back line gear. And, IMO, have always sounded appropriate to the situation while still sounding like "me". I have never owned a stable of instruments and have been paid to play many styles of music..using one bass. The bottom line is u do u here...there is no right answer...just the right answer for you.  Feel free to cordially debate this with me. Myth: "Joe Pepicoppola is my favorite bassist, if i play the same gear he does, I'll sound like him!" First of all, Joe P's sound and ability go WAY beyond his gear. Second, why would u want to be like him? There is already one of him...we need one of YOU!  And yes, I had a black Rick 4001 when I was young. Next week, more myths! #yamahamusicusa #makewaves #pirastro #glasserny #laklandbasses #sitstrings #tsunamicables #philjonesbass #uptonbassstringinstrumentcompany #basslessons #remotelessons