Each of us,even as beginners, are influenced by certain players and certain styles of music. For some,it's metal. For some,it's jazz. That is great. It's crucial in our evolution and progression as musicians to want to play as well as "Insert name here". But there are actually musical influences all around us. Every player we hear,every player we see can be an influence upon us as musicians. The good players are great. From them,we learn what to do. The not-so-good players can be an influence as well. Fromthem,we can learn what works only sometimes. All of us can only get better with proper practice routines,playing with others,and taking active interest in the playing of others. In my opinion,there are no BAD players,just players with less experience.Basically,what I'm asking you to do is ACTIVELY LISTEN to ALL different kinds of music. There's something that can be learned everywhere. Now,if you just don't like jazz,don't go out and buy 6 Jaco Pastorius albums. Listen to some on your local public radio station. If you don't like country,just listen to some. There is no genre of music that isn't a potential influence for you as a player. Another good source of information is going out and seeing bands whenever you can. Watch them,listen to them. See what works and doesn't work. If you listen or watch a band for one hour and pick out one tidbit of information that can be applied to your playing,you've been influenced.

As bass players and musicians,there are a lot of tools at our disposal:fingers,thumbs,hands,books,tapes,videos,etc. But the most important tool we must learn to develop is an OPEN MIND! Until next time,keep practicing,have faith,have patience and Happy Playing!!-Steve