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Charting Songs

Hi, Justin.

First off, congratulations on the NIN gig. All of the rehearsal and live footage I've seen of you with the band is incredible. You fill the role perfectly, and it definitely shows. Your playing and tone are top notch. I plan on seeing NIN live in Columbus, OH on 11/17, and I'm stoked for it.

That being said, in a number of threads you've mentioned your practice of charting songs when learning new material. While I understand the basic concept of doing so, I'm curious if you could shed some light on what this process involves for you personally. I currently play in a number of bands (both original and covers) and I'm constantly learning new songs. I'm also beginning the practice of trying to do session work. And I realize that different people learn and retain material in certain ways, so I'm simply trying to get a feel for how it works with you.

Also, I read in your discography that you played on Rob Thomas' record "...Something To Be". Out of curiosity, what tracks did you play on? I was under the impression that Mike Elizondo played bass on that record, but perhaps I was ill informed. I only ask because Rob is signing The Nerve, a band I currently play bass for to his RTel label in the first quarter of '09, so it seems we have a mutual acquaintance. A small world, indeed.

Take care and many thanks,
Dustin
 
Hi Dustin,

Congrats on your signing, that's cool. I don't know which songs I played on for Rob, hard to say. Maybe they didn't use my stuff and Mike E. did the final.

Anyway, how do I write charts? I just listen, put a bass in my lap, and write down the chords. There's no secret. Do it the fastest, most efficient way you can. Just practice it. Get with a guitarist or keyboardist and do some charting with them to practice some of the more sophisticated chords if you need the help.

Thanks for the NIN props, looking forward to having you at the Columbus gig.

Best,
JMJ