Christian McBride - Learning To Solo From Jazz Giants

Legendary bassist Christian McBride (James Brown, Chick Corea) talks to fellow Epifani artist KJ (‪@TheOddysy‬, Public Enemy) about learning to solo by listening to the world's greatest jazz musicians.

Christian tells KJ that most of the solos he transcribed back in Philly were originally played by horn players like trumpeter Freddy Hubbard, tenor sax player Joe Henderson, and James Brown trombone player Fred Wesley.

When it came to bassists, he looked for solos by those who put a premium on articulation and clarity like Jaco Pastorius, Dave Holland, and Ray Brown.

"I would mimic what I heard on records," says the young lion from Philly. "You just have to find the courage to go for the sound you're hearing."

Mr. McBride knows what his job is. He knows that bassist are hired to cover the low end and create a groove. Soloing is secondary at best. But when it's time step out, you gotta make it crystal clear.

Rhythm is key here. "Solo like a drummer," the man says. Rhythm and groove are paramount. Maybe even more important than the notes themselves?

Christian also shows KJ some fast arpeggios on the upright bass, and describes how he got them under his fingers (again, "just go for it.").

Christian McBride and KJ are both long time Epifani artists. They use various combinations of Nick Epifani's latest creations including Piccolo and UL 901 bass amps, and DIST2 dual-impedance bass speaker cabinets.

This session was recorded live at The Guitar Shop NYC and La Bella Strings showroom in Brooklyn. Audio/Video by 23b Productions.