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 Videos
Artist Update With Bassist Derek Frank
Bassist Derek Frank…
Many of you will remember the last time I chatted with Derek Frank was back in 2017. The main thing that impressed me was how busy Derek was and how he juggled playing with many huge acts.
Now, I am happy to hear that Derek launched a new album last March titled “Origin Story” where he digs deep into his roots and pays homage to Pittsburg.
Join me as we get caught up after all these years and hear the details about the new album, how Derek gets his sound, and his plans for the future.
Photo, Stephen Bradley
Featured Videos:
Visit Online:
www.derekfrank.com
www.instagram.com/derekfrankbass
www.youtube.com/derekfrankbass
www.facebook.com/derekfrankbass
Bass Videos
String Instrument Humidifiers
String Instrument Humidifiers
After living in some very humid parts of the country for decades, we moved to a dryer, much sunnier location. As a result, I started noticing some fret sprout on my string instruments and recently did a video on fret sprout correction.
It occurred to me that I should take a more preventative approach to string instrument humidification. Of course, I turned to my instrument maintenance experts, Music Nomad Equipment Care, for a solution and they suggested their Humitar series. (Note: They sent two press samples and I purchased the remainder online.)
Join me as I look at these useful tools for keeping my string instruments in tip-top condition.
The Humitar series is available online at Music Nomad Equipment Care, as well as Amazon.com
Bass Videos
Interview With Bassist Graham Stanush
Bassist Graham Stanush…
Return to Dust is keeping Grunge alive and well! They have a new self-titled album that went out on May 3rd, 2024 and will be super busy promoting this project in the near future.
Graham Stanush is the bass powerhouse driving their sound and adding vocals to the mix. Join me as we hear all about Graham’s musical journey, details about the new album, how he gets his sound and their plans for the future.
Featured Videos:
Visit Online:
linktr.ee/returntodust
instagram.com/returntodustband/
twitter.com/Returntodustbnd
youtube.com/@returntodustband
tiktok.com/@returntodustband
Bass Videos
Review: CrystalBright Rombo Picks
CrystalBright Rombo Picks
PR SamplePlaying bass with a pick is still a touchy subject in our community. I believe you should be able to use whatever you need to get your sound. Even though I mostly play with my fingers, I like to check out innovative new picks that might have something new to offer, sonically speaking.
Judith and Carlos from Rombo recently contacted me about a new material called CrystalBright that they have been researching for the last 12 months and offered to send some prototype picks. After trying them out, I put together this video with my findings.
For more info check out @rombopicks
Bass Player Health
Preparing for Performance with Dr. Randy Kertz
Preparing for Performance…
This month we discuss how to prepare for a performance and easy strategies that go a long way.
Dr. Randall Kertz is the author of The Bassist’s Complete Guide to Injury Management, Prevention and Better Health. Click here to get your copy today!
View More Bass Health Articles
New Gear: Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series Basses
Artist Update With Bassist Derek Frank
String Instrument Humidifiers
Interview With Bassist Graham Stanush
Review: CrystalBright Rombo Picks
This Week’s Top 10 Basses on Instagram
Artist Update With Bassist Derek Frank
String Instrument Humidifiers
New Gear: Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series Basses
