Bass Videos
In-Depth Interview with Derek Jones, Bassist for KÀ by Cirque du Soleil at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas
It use to be that, “What Happened in Vegas, stayed in Vegas.” But with the magic of technology and my most recent trip to Sin-City, what happened in Vegas is now on video for all to see!
What a thrill it was to sit down behind the scenes of KÀ by Cirque du Soleil at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas, for an in-depth interview with bassist Derek Jones…
When Bass Musician Magazine launched back in August 2007, Derek was one of the first friends we connected with on Myspace. We chatted online, and as my wife and I had seen KÀ several years prior, Derek and I had something to talk about besides G.A.S. (gear acquisition syndrome). Derek commented that if we were ever in Vegas to, “look him up.” So this fall, we did just that, and Derek was kind enough to put us in conversation with Jeff Lovari from Cirque’s PR department. As KÀ performs twice nightly at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas (five nights per week) Jeff offered us a rare opportunity to view the show again from the audience, and then join the performers backstage where we could sit-in with the band and film live during the show, following which would be an interview with Derek. Who could say no to that?
For those that have not had the opportunity to see KÀ (yet), it is an unprecedented, gravity-defying production by Cirque du Soleil that takes adventure to an all-new level. Encompassing a colossal dynamic stage, 100 performers & musicians as well as 200 crew members, it is a captivating display of aerial acrobatics that envelops the audience leaving us asking the question, “HOW did they do that?”
The following are a series of videos of our time with Derek Jones and KÀ, the first being an opportunity to view clips of the show as well as Derek playing behind the scenes. As this is live, during the segments with Derek, you will get to hear the stage manager’s cues as well!
Behind the Score of KÀ by Cirque du Soleil at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas with Bassist Derek Jones
Interview with Derek Jones, Bassist for KÀ by Cirque du Soleil at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas
Derek Jones talks about the Bass gear behind the scenes of KÀ by Cirque du Soleil at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas
How he got to play Bass for Cirque Du Soleil’s KA
Derek Jones, summing it up…
KÀ by Cirque du Soleil at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas… “You can see it. You can experience it. But, you wont believe it!” For tickets, visit online at www.MGMresorts.com/KA. For more information on Cirque du Soleil, visit online at online at www.cirquedusoleil.com.
For those interested in audition opportunities for Cirque du Soleil, click here.
CD for KÀ available at Amazon.com.
A special thanks to:
Jeff Lovari
Publicist Resident Shows Division
Cirque Du Soleil
Bass CDs
New Music: Oteil Burbridge & Lamar Williams Jr. New Single, Hush
Oteil Burbridge & Lamar Williams Jr. Champion Love Over Hate in New Single “Hush” | New Album ‘The Offering’ Out May 1.
Bassist Oteil Burbridge and vocalist Lamar Williams Jr. continue the rollout of their forthcoming collaborative album The Offering, with the release of its second single, “Hush”. A slow-burning Southern soul meditation rooted in love, peace, and emotional clarity, the track is a centerpiece on the album with a potent, thematic statement, in Williams’ words to “block out all of that nonsense” and “remember that there is more love in the world than hate.” The full-length album arrives May 1 via Flóki Studios, recorded on Iceland’s northern coast and produced by drummer, engineer, and Soulive co-founder Alan Evans.
While much of The Offering grew out of Burbridge’s banjo-based writing, “Hush” emerged from he and Williams’ shaping a deliberate sonic vision. Burbridge says they were “trying to capture a more old school Memphis, Macon, Muscle Shoals vibe,” leaning into a Southern soul feel that fits Williams’s phrasing. The end result is a song that is unhurried with a deep pocket that allows the groove and the song’s message breathe and stand at the forefront.
The album features an all-star lineup of drummer John Morgan Kimock, percussionist Weedie Braimah, organist Melvin Seals of the Jerry Garcia Band, pianist and violinist Jason Crosby, guitarists Tom Guarna and Jaden Lehman — musicians whose overlapping histories connect the Allman Brothers Band, Dead & Company, the Jerry Garcia Band, Soulive, and West African percussion traditions.
CONNECT WITH OTEIL BURBRIDGE
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Bass Videos
Interview With Bassist Virginia Franks
When I heard that American Vanity, formerly known as Burn the Jukebox, was gearing up to release a new album this summer, it felt like the perfect moment to catch up with bassist and vocalist Virginia Franks.
With a fresh name unveiled just this past January and a clear shift in musical direction, the band is entering an exciting new chapter, one defined by both sonic evolution and a deeper, more focused message.
In this conversation, Virginia opens up about the inspiration behind the upcoming record, how she crafts her distinctive bass tone, what fans can expect from their upcoming tour, and where she sees both herself and the band heading next.
Join me as we dive into it all.
Here is Virginia Franks.
Photo, Devin Kasparian
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Bass Videos
Nathan East, Echoes of a Lineage – April/May 2026 Issue
For decades, we’ve had the privilege of following the remarkable career of Nathan East, listening closely to his albums, tracking his milestones with Yamaha Instruments, and watching his evolving partnership with Laney Amplification with great interest. Along the way, we’ve talked gear, tone, and technique, while hearing his unmistakable musical “voice” woven into the work of more iconic artists than we could possibly list.

Today, we’re thrilled to reconnect with this true giant of the bass world following the release of a very special new album, Father Son, produced by Nathan alongside his son, Noah East. It’s a deeply personal project that showcases not only extraordinary musicianship but also a powerful family bond.
Join us as we dive into the making of this outstanding record, explore the new Laney Nathan East Signature Bass Preamp, and look ahead to what the future holds for one of music’s most respected and influential bassists.
Here is the one and only… Mr. Nathan East.
Photos, John Abbott @johnabbottphoto
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Bass Videos
Gear Review: Italia Leather Straps
Disclaimer: This bass strap was kindly provided by Italia Leather Straps for the purpose of this review. However, this does not influence our opinions or the content of our reviews. We strive to provide honest, unbiased, and accurate assessments to ensure that our readers receive truthful and helpful information.
I’ve spent years searching for the perfect wide bass strap, something that delivers both comfort and durability without compromising on style. That search ended nearly two decades ago when I discovered Italia Leather Straps.
Handcrafted in the USA from premium Italian leather, Italia Straps offers an impressive range of straps for both bass and guitar players. What immediately stood out to me was the exceptional craftsmanship; every detail, from stitching to material selection, reflects a commitment to quality. These aren’t just accessories… they’re long-term investments for serious musicians.
After more than 19 years of consistent use with my original strap, I can confidently speak to its longevity and comfort. Even under the demands of extended performances, the support provided by a 4” wide strap makes a noticeable difference.
In this review, I’m taking a closer look at the 4” Elite Series Leather Backed Bass Strap, now available in a sleek new Slate Black finish. It’s a refined addition to an already outstanding lineup, combining aesthetic appeal with the same trusted performance.
For more information, visit www.italiastraps.com.
Bass Videos
Interview With Bassist Tom Doyle
Since 2012, Tom Doyle has been holding down the low end for UK alt-rock heavyweights Don Broco, helping to shape the band’s groove-driven, genre-blurring sound into one of the most distinctive in modern British rock. With thunderous tone, razor-sharp precision, and an instinct for hooks that hit just as hard as the riffs, Doyle has become a crucial force behind the band’s ever-evolving sonic identity.
As Don Broco gear up to unleash their highly anticipated new album, Nightmare Tripping, this feels like the perfect moment to dive into the mind of the man anchoring the chaos. From his musical roots and influences to the gear and techniques that craft his signature sound, Doyle opens up about the journey so far and what lies ahead.
Join me as we explore Tom’s evolution as a musician, the creative process behind Nightmare Tripping, and his vision for the future in a band that refuses to stand still.
Here is Tom Doyle.
Photos by Ton Pullen


