Episode 8

Spreading Knowledge

This time around I would like to express my gratitude to the musicians I have had personal contact with that have influenced my approach to playing music. First of all I'd like to send a big shout out to J.C. and his old man. Without them none of this would be possible. But seriously folks, I'll try to keep my comments to the realm of planet earth. I'll start with an experience I had when I was 15 years old. I met a guitar player who was considered to be the best in town. In his case this was true but he was a very humble and gracious guy in spite of it. He took the time on several occasions to show me some of what he knew. This knowledge gave me a new look at the fingerboard of the bass and my playing was improved. He took great pleasure in teaching and did this free of charge. I have followed his example since then when possible and appropriate.

Playing music should not be treated as a competition. Sometimes it seems that "us vs. them" is the prevailing attitude amongst bands. "Battle of the Bands" indeed!! If we fight amongst our own only those folks that exploit musicians will benefit. Besides, the true fight is the inner struggle of self improvement. Anyway, back to the original idea - I really do want to thank all the musicians who have taken the time to share their knowledge and time with me. Most recently that would be my fellow bandmates in Shadow Box. Also, my bass teacher Roscoe, all the magnets (Kyle, Bill, Steve + Eric), the players in One Hand Clapping (Mark, Mike, Gigadbois), Rob Lockhart who showed me how to play Freedom Jazz Dance and many others. It is a really long list. Of course non of this would be possible without the creator of the great boring omnipresent - the void that makes the creative process a necessity for survival.

Till Next Time,

- Pat