2020 Reader Favorite Bassists – #5: Rebecca Johnson

Rebecca Johnson first reached out to us in 2011 to share a video. We immediately shared it. Over the years, we’ve shared a lot more of Rebecca and her band, who consistently generate a lot of views.

This year, we finally got to hear Rebecca’s story, thanks to our interview with her. That, plus a steady dose of videos throughout 2020 placed her at #5 on the “2020 Reader Favorite Bassists” list.

Rebecca Johnson Band: Peg

Steely Dan’s “Peg” is one of my all-time favorite tunes, thanks to the incredible bass line by Chuck Rainey. Rebecca Johnson and her band performed the tune live back in January. As always, Rebecca knocks us out with both her playing and singing.

Rebecca Johnson Band: You Got The Love

Back in June, we shared a video by the Rebecca Johnson Band performing Steely Dan’s “Peg”. Here’s another from the same set. Rebecca says this is a favorite song in her setlist: “You Got The Love” from the Rufus & Chaka Khan album, “Rags to Rufus”.

An Interview with Rebecca Johnson

Even though she can cite all of her influences from the funk, soul, and R&B masters, Rebecca Johnson has a groove all of her own. We caught up with Johnson to talk about her playing, recording gigs, and finding the people you want to play with.

Rebecca Johnson and Con Settineri: Bass/Drums Home Studio Jam

Rebecca Johnson is trying out a new bass (a Dean Edge Select 5), and so she decided to document it. In this clip, Rebecca gives the new bass a test drive in bass/drum jam at home with Con Settineri.

Rebecca Johnson Band: I Keep Forgettin’

As always, Rebecca Johnson and her band knock us out with each new video they share. In this one, they perform Michael McDonald’s “I Keep Forgettin’.” Rebecca’s tone is incredible, and once again, she simultaneously handles the lead vocals.

Rebecca Johnson Band: Don’t Change Horses (In The Middle Of A Stream)

Rebecca Johnson and her band shared this video in honor of Rocco Prestia, who sadly passed away earlier this week. In this clip, the band covers Tower of Power’s 1974 tune, “Don’t Change Horses (In The Middle Of A Stream)”.

Rebecca Johnson Band: Mo Hippa

Rebecca Johnson is back with another funky video with her band, from a 2017 gig at The Co-Op Club in Sydney, Australia. In this one, they take on Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen’s “Mo Hippa.”