Reader Spotlight: Michael Richman

Meet Michael Richman, a bassist who got his start like a lot of people: there was an open bass seat, and he filled it.

Michael is this week’s No Treble reader in the spotlight (you could be next). Here’s his story…

Bio:

I grew up in Philly, and I took piano and violin lessons early on. It wasn’t until two buddies of mine wanted to start a band and needed a bass player that I became interested in jamming on the bass. My dad, who was an excellent classical guitarist, gave me the kickstart that I needed to grow into the instrument. My all-time favorite gig was a tiki hut bar/restaurant in Florida, where Joe Walsh was having a great time dancing to the music of our band!

Location:

Exton, PA, USA

Years experience:

40+ years (as a hobby)

Why I play the bass:

One of my best buds played guitar, and the other played drums. They needed a bass player!

Gear:

Basses:

• 1973 Gibson SB-450
• Warwick Corvette
• LTD
• Schecter Riot 4

Amps:

• Markbass Mini CMD 121P 1×12 Combo Amp
• Open Box Acoustic B450 450W 2×10 Combo Amp
• An old Peavey Amp with 2 15s

My Influences:

I think playing style-wise, my influences are Jack Bruce, John Entwistle, and John Paul Jones.

On how to approach playing the instrument, nobody is a better teacher than Victor Wooten!

Jaw-dropping players for me: Victor Wooten, Federico Malaman, Brian Bromberg, and most recently, Shaun Munday.

My bass superpower/claim to fame:

I’m a strong pocket player who can add creative fills without losing the rhythm.

More on the web:

I have many videos out on Bandmix. I consider it my band resume.