The SBL Podcast Scott's Bass Lessons

Chris Chaney’s contributions to the bass world often go overlooked – but there’s genius in his bass playing if you know where to find it (take his game-changing bass lines with Jane’s Addiction for instance). Today’s interview is the perfect way to introduce yourself to some of his most mind-blowing rock riffs – and find out exactly what makes them true genius.

U2 has officially finished their residency in Las Vegas – the history-making shows saw over 700,000 fans descend on Sin City, from September 2023 through March 2024. In today’s episode, fresh from a weekend trip to Las Vegas, we take a trip inside The Sphere to uncover how Adam Clayton and U2 redefined live music at the city’s new high-tech venue.

In this episode
Was U2 at the Sphere worth it?
What makes Adam Clayton’s signature sound?
Which U2 track made Ian weep?
Who did Scott meet at the show?
What’s the SBL YouTube agreement?
And much, much more!

The year is 2006 and John Mayer has just recorded a landmark album that will put his new trio on the map. Drummer/producer Steve Jordan had the great idea of bringing Willie Weeks AND Pino Palladino in to play bass on one track, with Pino adding his own accompaniment to Week’s muted 8th note figure. 

When Sean Hurley landed the bass gig with John Mayer in 2008, he combined both bass lines! So in today's interview, Sean is going to break it down note-for-note for you – and show you how to make it sound like TWO bass players are playing at the same time. Along with demonstrating four more iconic John Mayer bass grooves.

In this episode, we’re sorting through our pick of boutique basses from F Bass, Ken Smith, Olinto, 
Overwater and more. We’re also going to delve into some of the questions that often come along, namely: why are they so expensive? How are they built? And are they really worth it? The answers are often a matter of opinion, but we shall ponder them nonetheless!
In this episode
What is a boutique bass?The pros and cons of owning one.What bass companies do you need on your radar?Why is Scott giving away his F Bass?How you can win one of Ian’s Mike Lull signature models.And much, much more!

There’s a TON you can learn from Gospel bass players – and one, in particular, you may have overlooked. 
Justin Raines could teach you everything you need to know about pocket, songwriting, and epic bass fills. In today’s interview, Scott and Ian sit down with Justin to breakdown his tone, his technique and some of his signature licks, including his astounding bass solo on Nobody by Ne-Yo.

So, what makes a particular bass guitar a classic? While some basses are undoubtedly born great (it’s a testament to Leo Fender that the P-Bass is still one of the most played instruments ever): some achieve greatness over time and some have greatness thrust upon them (Rickenbacker have long enjoyed the star power of Lemmy, Geddy Lee and Chris Squire, for example). And so, for your viewing pleasure, we’ve put a spotlight on 5 of the most iconic bass guitars of all time.
In this episode:
Why Scott’s never owned a Rickenbacker.What sucks about a Hofner Club Bass?If you’ve never played a P-Bass – you simply have to! What kept a Thunderbird at the top of Ian’s wish list? Will Scott pass our blindfold test?And much, much more!