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In this episode of From the Bottom, Paul Thompson digs into the music of Charlie Parker, aka “Bird.” Bird’s library of music is essential for all musicians, including the five specific aspects that make his compositions exceptional.

In this episode of From the Bottom, Paul Thompson breaks down his favorite track from Meshell Ndegeocello’s 1993 debut album, “Plantation Lullabies,” and the three ways she makes a perfect groove on three different instruments in one song.

In this “From the Bottom” episode, Paul Thompson revisits one of the great R&B/funk groups of the 1980s. Check out his breakdown of The Dazz Band and their iconic hit, “Let It Whip,” and why Michael Wiley is a name you should know.

In this episode of “From the Bottom”, Paul Thompson digs into one of the most iconic bass lines ever - “Juicy” by the Notorious B.I.G., aka “Juicy Fruit” by Mtume - and the work of Raymond Jackson.

In his latest episode of “From the Bottom”, Paul Thompson explores one of his favorite tracks from one of his favorite albums: King Crimson’s “Discipline.” Paul discusses Tony Levin’s bass line and how to play in 17/16 with GROOVE!!

For this edition of “From the Bottom,” Paul Thompson revisits the story of how two musical giants met in 1972 and started making music together: Stevie Wonder and Jeff Beck. This is the story of how the “Riff of the Century” was born.

As the bassist for Melvins and Red Kross, you know Steven McDonald’s musical knowledge is as broad as it is deep. We picked McDonald’s brain about the essential bass lines that everyone should know.

In this first “From the Bottom” column of 2023, Paul Thompson revisits an iconic bass line that has haunted him since childhood. Diving into 1983’s “Too Shy” by Kajagoogoo and the amazing bass line that made Nick Beggs a giant among men!

Using a G Blues, Paul Thompson traces the history of jazz bass playing over the last 100 years. Check out this episode as he plays in the style of 15 of his favorite bassists.

Throughout his career, Michael Tobias has quietly and generously supported musicians in need. Guest contributor Luke Putney shares the story on The Tobias Luthier Legacy.

In this episode, Paul Thompson digs into a huge hit from 1983 and the iconic bass line that carried it. George Duke, Steve Ferrone, and Alphonso Johnson bring the funk on “Stay With Me Tonight” by Jeffrey Osborne.

Lorenzo Feliciati is one of my favorite players because he has total control of the instrument with exciting creativity that really draws you into his music. We picked Feliciati’s brain about the essential bass lines that everyone should know.