How to become a session bassplayer?

-Jam- · #1 05-13-2008, 02:20 PM

Ok, I only ask this because of recent events that brought the subject out of the dark. Considering that I´m already in a band with a decent groove and a bright future with a small record deal and tour scheduled for the summer, I wouldn´t even consider becoming a session bassplayer. But, the question has been tormenting me for some time now.

So here´s the deal.
A couple of weeks ago I filled in for some buddies of mine as their bassplayer just quit the band. They had studiotime scheduled for a demo of three songs and the guy just dropped the bomb on them that he was moving to Russia (***?). They ended up having a huge argument and their bassplayer took his **** and left two days before they were going into the studio. Since being my buddies and all they called me and practically begged me to record the songs with them.

So, feeling like I could atleast try to help them out we practised before lunch and then went down to the studio in the afternoon. And I simply had this amazing three day luck streak and nailed my work in one or two sessions for every song. It felt great and I even invented some new stuff in some places as we recorded. After we were done I had a smoke with the soundtech and he asked me what the band was paying me for this session. I said "nothing, they´re my friends". He answerd "they should, that was real proffesional playing".

So now I ask. How do I become a Sessionmusician?
//Jam

Xanthyr · #2 05-13-2008, 02:31 PM

My ignorant and completely inexperienced self would suggest do exactly what you did, except get paid next time. Have the sound guy suggest you out to other bands who may need you. Advirtise yourself as a session musician and go on from there.

The Golden Boy · #3 05-13-2008, 03:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Xanthyr

Have the sound guy suggest you out to other bands who may need you. Advirtise yourself as a session musician and go on from there.

The engineer is already a fan- use that.

uethanian · #4 05-13-2008, 05:58 PM

well it sure sounds like you're good enough. but are you comfortable with all styles of music?

all the session musicians I've met are BUSY people. they get a lot of work...but that doesn't mean its an easy job. there's a lot of driving around, so its good if you live in LA, bad if you live in...the middle of Russia. and the guys who I've talked to need to do other jobs on the side (hired gigs, bands, teaching) in order to make a good living. but if you're going to do it, bass is they way to go...everyone needs a bassist.

bonzo4880 · #5 05-13-2008, 10:49 PM

I've gotten my studio work from ... you guessed it, working at a studio. The owner does production work for some artists, and I get my work as part of a package deal. I'm not really putting myself out there, really just taking whatever falls into my lap. I also don't live in a huge music city - Baltimore - so there aren't as many 'artists' looking for a band or producer to back them up. Depending on where you are located, you could advertise on craigslist or in local music publications. But unless you live near a pretty large metro area, there isn't going to be anything consistent. I would try to hookup with studios in the area and let them know who you are. Also, putting together a demo cd of different stuff you've recorded is important - its your resume. And practice a whole lot with a click- it has to become second nature. You gotta be able to go in, play it twice maybe three times, go back and do any punches and be done with it. its all about efficiency.