Bassists

J. Dran Lewis, founder of Warrior Instruments, has passed away. His family shared the news, honoring his legacy as an artist, designer, builder, and father.

Jazz bassist Kiyoshi Kitagawa, longtime member of Kenny Barron’s trio and a fixture of the New York jazz scene, has passed away at 67.

Tony Wilson, Hot Chocolate co-founder, bassist, and co-writer of “You Sexy Thing,” has died at age 89. His son confirmed the news in a tribute.

In this interview, Dave Marks talks tone, touring, and stepping into the Hans Zimmer show with just days to prepare.

Lyndon Laney, founder of Laney Amplification, has died at 77. The bassist-turned-innovator helped shape the sound of artists like Tony Iommi and generations of musicians.

Former Men Without Hats bassist Alain Lefebvre, aka Al Gunn, has passed away. He was also a longtime Montreal luthier and fixture in the guitar repair community.

Stu Brooks shares how he joined Nine Inch Nails, prepared for the gig, and built a massive multi-instrument touring rig for the Peel It Back tour.

Yuichiro Yokouchi, founder of Fujigen and a key figure in Japan’s instrument industry, has died at 98. His work helped shape generations of basses and guitars.

Doug Irwin, the legendary luthier behind Jerry Garcia’s Wolf, Tiger, Rosebud, and more, has died at 76. He also left a lasting mark on bass history.

Joe Lally discusses The Messthetics’ new album "Deface the Currency," his years with Fugazi, bass gear, recording with Steve Albini, and his philosophy on groove, riffs, and authenticity.

Corcoran Holt discusses his most personal album, "Freedom of Art," the DC jazz bass lineage, family, loss, and his role as an educator.

Fred Smith, bassist for the influential New York band Television, has died at 77. Known for his melodic, song-first approach, Smith helped define the sound of the NYC punk era.