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Tomohiko Ohkanda – Bass Musician Magazine, March 2015 Issue

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Tomohiko Ohkanda - March 2015 - Bass Musician Magazine

Tomohiko Ohkanda – Bass Musician Magazine, March 2015 Issue…

We learn more by meeting, interacting and listening to musicians from different cultures. After a recording session at Neila Productions,  I was recently introduced to an amazing bass player named Tomohiko Ohkanda. He is alreadya brand name in the Japanese Music Scene, therefore i found it vital to introduce you to his music as well as his way of approaching music
Sometimes, talking  and listening is more helpful than playing therefore Tomohikos mellow and groovy approach to music is a wake-up call for any musician out there wanting to be inspired.
[Andreas] Hi Tomohiko. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Who is Tomohiko Ohkanda?

[Tomohiko] Hi Andreas. I was born in 1976; here are some of the important professional events in my life:

2003 – Present
Started to play on Ken Hirai’s Tour

2006
Recorded and performed with Alan Toussaint for Mika Nakashima’s Charity for New Orleans “Hurricane Katrina” CD single “All hands together”

2010
Performed in NY with Ken Hirai

2010 – Present
Dream Live with Peabo Bryson

2012
Performed with JUJU for MTV Unplugged in New York

Artists (Recorded and Performed)

Ken Hirai, JUJU, Ayaka, Ayaka Hirahara, Miki Imai, Saori Yuki, May J, Syota Shimizu, Mika Nakashima, Toko Furuuchi, Peabo Bryson, BoA, Gabrielle Aplin, Super Junior K.R.Y (Music Director), Miho Fukuhara, Superfly, Telma Aoyama, Masayuki Suzuki, EXILE Atsushi, Daichi Miura, Masaki Ueda, Jyunko Yagami, Chris Hart, Beni etc.

Live Performance for SOUL STRUT, Little steps, Gold’z Jam, Singer 5, Soulympic Tokyo

[Andreas] What inspired you to play bass

[Tomohiko] I was fascinated with the bass sound and the fact that it supports the sound of the whole band. It is the “base” of the band. I also loved the looks and silhouette of the electric bass and acoustic bass.

When I felt the groove for the first time, I thought that I was bouncing the basketball, while playing bass. I decided that I was going to play bass for my entire life; unique feeling.

[Andreas] Who are your Favorite musicians?

[Tomohiko]

  • Marvin Gaye
  • James Jamerson
  • Willie Weeks
  • Chuck Rainey
  • Alex Al
  • David T. Walker

[Andreas] Can you list your Top 10 CDs that you never get tired of listening to and that you learned the most from?

[Tomohiko] That’s a difficult question however, I really love

  • D’Angelo (Voodoo)
  • Marlena Shaw (Who Is This Bitch, Anyway)
  • Marvin Gaye (I Want You)
  • Sam Cooke (Twistin’ The Night Away)
  • Donny Hathaway (Live)
  • Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga (Cheek to Cheek)
  • George Duke (Duke)
  • Marvin Sapp (Thirsty)
  • Me’Shell Ndegéocello (Peace Beyond Passion)
  • Brigette McWilliams (Too Much Woman)

[Andreas] Everybody loves to talk about gear. Can you tell my your Favorite basses & gear

[Tomohiko] My Favorite Gear:

-Bass

  • Fender – 1962 P.Bass
  • Fender – 1978 J.Bass
  • Performance Guitar – 5strings Bass
  • Sadowsky Tokyo – RB5
  • Wood Bass

-Bass Amp

  • 1967 B-15

-Pedal

Tomohiko Ohkanda_O1A8904

[Andreas] Any tips for younger musicians?

[Tomohiko] Probably, many who want to be professional musicians, feel that they have to play all kinds of music, however I think that if you learn a specific kind of music – music that you like – then you will learn so many things.  I believe that you should play the music you love; if you do what you love you will also perfect that style.

Your strong points and weak points, likes and dislikes, will make your character stronger and bring out what makes you unique… and this is the most important thing. You need to find your own VOICE.

Additionally style is important as well as posture. Not only to have a good looks on stage but also to have proper technique. Keep your chest high and be confident in order to have and create your style!

It is very important for all of us to become the musician that, any genre you play and any style, you can tell a story through your experiences and life lessons. I still have so many weak points but I always keep these things in my mind.

And lastly, the most important thing is to listen to what other people are playing. Remember, other people are also listening to you too.

[Andreas] Very interesting. I know you toured a lot! You have been touring since you were young musician… any touring advice?

[Tomohiko] A few thoughts…

You have to be healthy both physically and mentally.

Think what makes other people happy and what makes it easier for the singer to perform. There’s no answer to it but that honest sincerity and care will become your sound.

I think simple playing is very important but sometimes you have make things happen.

You should never have stereotype thoughts.

And remember that some people may like what you played today, some may don’t.  But it doesn’t really matter because at the end of the day, the most important thing is to trust your ability and believe in who you are.

Always try to maintain peaceful and calm relationship with band members. Imagine having to spend 6 months on a bus with people you argue with. You should always try to find the good in every situation

Lastly, it is important for me to have a drink after the show and forget about the night. That way, I can re-start tomorrow and play in the state of a “new mind”.

[Andreas] Since we talk about touring… any funny touring moments?

[Tomohiko] It is great to be exposed to diverse cultures when you visit places. Especially when you go to Okinawa, which is located in the south of Japan, or Aomori in the north of Japan, you can enjoy traditional Japanese blues at the bars and restaurants, sing along and dance with everybody together.

I can’t talk about other stuff because it is too “dirty” to mention (laugh) but it is so fun that you will meet musicians and staff members that will become like a family and call them “brother”, “father” and will become a lifelong friends.

[Andreas] I saw that you have exceptional technique on electric as well as acoustic bass. Do you have any technique tips (4 finger – chords approach etc.)?

Tomohiko Ohkanda_O1A8956

[Tomohiko] The best advice I can give is that:

When singers sing softly, you have to play sensitive, when drummer plays something strong and dynamic then you have to follow them and bring additional excitement to it. So you need the dynamic control. But never forget to keep the tempo and feel and groove.

Also, it is important to create a chord feel, even if you play one single note. To do that, you have to practice everyday by yourself and understand the harmony and sound.

Rich flavorful sound always comes from the warm heart.

Lastly you need to understand when NOT to play. If you leave space sometimes, it is more important and more effective than being busy all the time! (Smile)

[Andreas] Any studio/recording advice?

[Tomohiko] When you are in the studio, you will feel nervous without you noticing, so make some funny jokes! I like to talk about something dirty and make people laugh! Just make yourself relax. It is important, but when the main singer is female, you should be careful. There is a thin line that you shouldn’t cross; always with good intention and respect towards yourself, as well as the rest of the group.

And sometimes the take when you are relaxed is better than the time you are pushing yourself hard. Everybody is different so just do and play what you feel.

[Andreas] What are you plans for the future?

[Tomohiko] There are so many tours that haven’t been announced publicly, so please check on my website for the latest updates.

This year, I will have a couple of long-term tours.

[Andreas] Any Solo music plans?

[Tomohiko] Soul Strut / Little Steps / Soulympic Tokyo / Gold’z Jam – These are the gigs that I am doing as a session leader.

Show dates vary, but I usually perform at “Koenji JIROKICHI” or “Meguro Blues Alley Japan” so please come say hello, talk to me and have a drink with me!

Please check Live DVD / TV

MASAKI UEDA (Kanashi Iro Yane)

(2012 – TV LIVE)

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=f3uYwkB4b0Y

LIVE & TOUR VIDEO

  • Ken Hirai Live Tour 2008 FAKIN’ POP
  • Ken Hirai 15th Anniversary Special!! Vol.4 (2010)
  • BoA THE LIVE 2009 X’mas (2009)
  • BoA LIVE TOUR 2010 IDENTITY (2010)
  • BoA THE LIVE 2010 X’mas (2010)
  • BoA THE LIVE 2011 X’mas (2011)
  • JUJU 10.10.10 Special Live Request (2010)
  • MTV UNPLUGGED JUJU (2012)
  • MIKI IMAI?Concert Tour 2011?LOVE & BLESSINGS – Miki’s Affections (2011)
  • DAITA TGE DIRECT THIRD (2012)
  • SUPER JUNIOR-K.R.Y. SPECIAL WINTER CONCERT 2012 (2012)
  • MIKA NAKASHIMA CONCERT TOUR 2009 – TRUST OUR VOICE – (2009)
  • MIKA NAKASHIMA LIVE IS “REAL” 2013 – THE LETTER Anatani Tsutaetakute (2013)
  • AYAKA LIVE TOUR 2013 Fortune Cookie – Nani ga derukana- (2013)
  • Many more…

(2012 – TV LIVE)    https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=f3uYwkB4b0Y

[Andreas] Thanks… before we wrap up, is there anything else you want me to mention?

[Tomohiko]

Tomohiko Ohkanda as a leader

March 23th (Mon) @Koenji JIROKICHI

SOUL STRUT Nobuyoshi Nakazawa (vo.g) Azumi Takahashi (vo.) Shin Kouno(pf) Yoshito Tanaka (g) Shin Takada (dr.) Ohkanda Tomohiko (b)

Advanced ticket (3,500 Yen) Day of show (3,800 Yen)

2015 @ JIROKICHI

[Andreas] Thanks Tomohiko for finding the time to talk to us in between shows and whilst on tour!

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Leland Sklar, Over Half a Century of Bass, March 2024

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Leland Sklar, Over Half a Century of Bass, March 2024

We all have enjoyed Leland Sklar’s Bass lines for over half a century.

You might remember that we had him on our cover back in 2017 and did an update when he launched his book “Everybody Loves Me” in 2020. It was exciting to hear that The Immediate Family had got back together in the studio to work on their own music in 2019 and are now up to two albums.

Just last December, Magnolia Pictures released a documentary titled “Immediate Family” where we got a behind-the-scenes look at the massive contributions Danny Kortchmar, Waddy Wachtel, Ross Kunckle, Leland Sklar and Steve Postell have made in countless songs that are the very essence of our daily personal musical soundtracks. Seeing the astronomical roster of performers they have supported over many years is very eye-opening. It is a must-see for any music lover!

Now, I am thrilled to bring you a special chat with Leland Sklar where we go more in-depth into the bass side of his musical journey.

Photos: Header, Rob Shanahan – Cover Photo, Jay Gilbert/Chris Schmitt

Skin In the Game – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhbnzIrdjJ8 
from new album Skin In The Game

The Toughest Girl In Town – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVQLZIRfLjU 
from new album Skin In The Game

Fair Warning – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DN18DYwLsU –
from the self-titled album The Immediate Family

Visit Online

www.immediatefamilyband.com/
www.facebook.com/TheImmedFamily
www.instagram.com/theimmedfamily/

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Bass Videos

Ricky Phillips, STYX Bass And More – February 2024

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Ricky Phillips, STYX Bass And More, January 2024

Ricky Phillips, STYX Bass And More…

This Week’s Top 10 Basses on Instagram

I have always been a huge Styx fan. Their music kept me awake during countless nights studying and gave my imagination a place to escape when I had a moment to take a break. 

I had the immense opportunity to chat with STYX bassist Ricky Phillips for our August Cover in 2017 and follow his projects as time passed. Now, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to catch up with Ricky as he has been super-busy over the past six years. 

Join me as we take a deep dive into the band’s most recent album “Crash the Crown” and EP “The Same Stardust”. Ricky shares some insights into the herculean team effort behind the scenes and the musical process that keeps them ever so busy and how he has updated his sound. 

Without further ado… Here is Ricky Phillips!

Photo: Jason Powell

“Crash of the Crown” lyric video

“Reveries” lyric video

“Save Us From Ourselves” lyric video

“Sound the Alarm” lyric video

“Too Much Time On My Hands” Zoom video 2020

Visit online:

www.Styxworld.com
FB & IG @styxtheband

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Bass Videos

Jeff Pilson, Foreigner Low End – January 2024

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Jeff Pilson - Bass Musician Magazine - January 2024

Jeff Pilson, Foreigner Low End – January 2024…

Those of us who were around back in the 70’s remember how certain songs on the radio resonated with us. It turns out that many of these iconic melodies came from Foreigner and they were part of our personal soundtracks! 

After all these years, the band is going as strong as ever with Jeff Pilson firing away on bass midstream into a 2-year farewell tour. 

I am excited to be able to bring you all the details about Jeff’s musical Journey, the farewell tour in progress, how he gets his sound and his plans for the future.

Cover Photo: Krishta Abruzziini / Video Photos: Krishta Abruzzini, Karsten Staiger, Gina Hyams

For more news on FOREIGNER and upcoming Farewell Tour dates, fans can visit:
foreigneronline.com
facebook.com/Foreigner
twitter.com/ForeignerMusic
instagram.com/foreignerlive
youtube.com/user/FWebTeam
Also on FB @officialjeffpilson

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Bass Videos

Rodney O’Quinn, Rockin’ Hard Through the Years – December 2023

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Rodney O'Quinn, Rockin’ Hard Through the Years – December 2023

Interview With Foghat Bassist Rodney O’Quinn…

Rodney O'Quinn - Bass Musician Magazine - December 2023-v2

Many rock fans have enjoyed music by Foghat, who originally formed in London back in 1971.

Over the many decades of playing, the band members have changed, leaving behind only Roger Earl as the only original member. Bassist Rodney O’Quinn left the Pat Travers Band and joined the group in 2015 and has been laying down the low end for this iconic quartet keeping the Foghat legacy alive. With a new album titled “Sonic Mojo” which dropped on November 10th, the band is as busy as ever and there is lots of very tasty music to come.

Join me as we learn of Rodney O’Quinn’s musical journey, how he gets his sound, and his plans for the future.

Photos:
Cover,
Jake Coughlin
Video Thumbnail, Tom Apathy
Photos used in the video: Kerry Quinn, Chuck Lanza, Kim Granger, Kenneth Strohm, Jake Coughlin, Jay Jylika

1st Single from Sonic Mojo – Official “Drivin’ On” 

2nd Single from Sonic Mojo – “She’s a Little Bit of Everything Official Video

 “Road Fever”- California Mid State Fair – Paso Robles, CA – 7-27-22

“Stone Blue” – Rodney O’Quinn Bass/Lead Vocals – Don Odell’s Legends – Woonsocket, R.I – 10/15/22 – The Stadium Theater

The Earl’s Court – Season 2, Episode 7: Funny Guys 

“I Just Want to Make Love to You” – CasinoRama – 6-9-23 

FOGHAT “Somebody’s Been Sleepin’ in My Bed” – Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, CT – 1/28/22

“I Just Want to Make Love to You” – California Mid State Fair – Paso Robles, CA – 7-27-22

Visit Online:

www.foghat.com
www.facebook.com/Foghat
www.twitter.com/FOGHAT
www.instagram.com/foghat_official
www.youtube.com/user/FOGHATMUSIC

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Bass Videos

Suzi Quatro, Eternal Powerhouse – November 2023

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Suzi Quatro, Eternal Powerhouse – November 2023

Interview With Bassist Suzi Quatro…

Suzie-Quatro-Bass-Musician-Magazine-November-2023

It is always exciting to have the opportunity to talk to an artist who has been prolific for decades.

Suzi Quatro has been rocking our world since the sixties and has been super-creative as a bassist, musician, actress, singer, songwriter, author, radio show host and so much more. Most recently, Suzi released a new album titled “Face to Face” where she joined forces with KT Tunstall and together they are a force of nature. (See our video with Suzi about the album release)

Join me as we hear about Suzi’s musical journey, her many projects, how she gets her sound and her plans for the future.

Here is Suzi Quatro…

Suzi Quatro & KT Tunstall – “Truth As My Weapon” (Official Music Video)

“Shine A Light” music video (from the upcoming album)

“Bad Moon Rising” music video (from 2022):

Bass-Solo / Live in Prah? 1979

Glyserine Queen / Bass solo – Tampere Finland

Follow Online:

suziquatro.com
IG @suziquatroreal
FB @Suziquatrorocks
TW @Suzi_Quatro

Photos: 
Video – Andrew Whitton
Cover and Header Photo – Courtesy of Suzi Quatro

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