Is This the Greatest Walking Bass Line Ever? Breaking Down “Killer Joe” from Quincy Jones’s “Walking In Space”
The world lost a musical giant on November 3rd. In this episode, I’m focusing on the music of the late, great Quincy Jones and his iconic album Walking In Space (1969).
His version of Benny Golson’s jazz standard “Killer Joe” just might be the best walking bass line you’ve ever heard.
I’ll tell you how Ray Brown made it so great, from his choice of notes to his mind-lock with the great drummer Grady Tate.
I’ll also tell you why quarter notes separate the good from the GREAT.
Paul Thompson has been playing bass professionally for over 30 years, including recording and touring stints with trumpeter Maynard Ferguson and saxophonist Stanley Turrentine. Recent playing credits include Bob Reynolds, John Pizzarelli, Jeff 'Tain' Watts, and Bob James, among others. Currently, he can be seen playing in and around the Pittsburgh, PA area with the THOTH Trio, the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra, and many other musicians in the city's rich Jazz community. An educator of over 25 years, Paul currently teaches Jazz Bass at Duquesne University, West Virginia University, and his alma mater, Pittsburgh CAPA 6-12 Performing Arts School. Connect with Paul on Instagram, Twitter, Youtube, and his website.
