I sometimes think I was destined to have all of these "Forrest Gump" moments. My life path seems to keep connecting me with great bassists and musicians - starting with Larry Graham when I was still in grade school. I never played with Larry directly, but I did perform with his son Derek on drums and Larry was there to watch and critique. I did not know at that time that I would grow up to respect him as I do today. I cannot imagine what someone would pay for a private lesson with Larry Graham! From Larry to meeting and getting bass tips from Cliff Burton while he was still in high school to a meeting and playing with whole bunch of famous musicians in L.A. in the late 1980's and early 1990's before their success would put them on the covers of Spin, Kerrang or Rolling Stone. Funny thing is, I am a journeyman bassist at best. I never had the chops or the dedication to be a top tier pro. But, for whatever, reasons, I have been really blessed to play and know some truly great artists in my life.
Sorry to derail the thread. As for Justin Brown, he is going to be a force to be reckoned with in the years to come. As I said above, both Esperanza and Thundercat chose him to keep the beat for them on recent tours, and he is still in his early 30's. I see lots of gold and platinum in his future.
