See Brandon Gilliard’s business listing here
Brandon Gilliard is a world touring bass player who has recorded or shared the stage with artists such as Janelle Monae, KIMBRA, Big Boi of OutKast, and many others. He has also performed with world class ensembles such as the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, The Chicago Symphony and the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra.
We interviewed Brandon recently to get some insight into how he came into the world of bass playing.
What made you choose the bass guitar as your primary instrument?
I actually started out on guitar as kid, but always wanted to play bass lines on guitar. The bass player in my Dad’s band quit at a rehearsal when I was 8 years old. My Dad told the band that I could probably get them through the rehearsal by playing bass lines on a guitar. That was my chance and I was ready. The next week my Dad brought home my first real bass. An early 70’s Carvin medium scale bass.
What are some of your favorite songs that have influenced you most?
A lot of the Jackson 5 songs were inspirations to me. One in particular is “I’ll Be There”. I figured out later in life that James Jamerson’s bass lines were a major part of that. I’m also inspired by the music of Earth, Wind and Fire, James Brown, Tower of Power and D’Angelo. All of those bands are/ were driven by amazing bass players such as Verdine White, Rocco Prestia, Pino Pallidino and Bootsy Collins. Over the years I’ve also had the privilege of meeting and becoming friends with several of these guys while out on the road.
How did you develop your personal playing style?
I developed my own playing style through years of listening, practicing and playing shows. I’m not trying to re-invent the wheel. My playing style is old-school with a modern twist.
Do you play by ear, read sheet music or use both?
I “play by ear” and sight read well. I graduated from Anderson University with a Bachelors Degree in Music in 2005. Doing both well gives me the ability to feel comfortable in any musical situation. Over the years I’ve worked in almost every type of musical setting from the Grand Ole’ Opry to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
What genres of music do you enjoy playing most?
There is something to like about every type of music. I really like playing Country music though. It gives the bass player the chance to really lock with the drummer.
Who are the musicians that you enjoyed playing with most?
I’ve met a lot of good players over the years. There are a few that really stand out because of their musicality and stage presence. One is Warner Bros. Artist, KIMBRA. We met at the Montreaux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, hit it off and played together for the first time that night. I’ve recorded a few tracks on her upcoming album. Another is Prince. I’ve run into him a few times over the years. I had the chance to play with him at a late night session a few months ago. That guy is incredible!
Which musicians would you like to play with the most?
I just like working with solid musicians that are also good people. I would love to work with John Mayer and Pharrell. I’ve met both of them back stage at shows, but never worked with them. The music world is small. Maybe it will happen at some point.
What is your main bass guitar?
I have just a few main basses. An 84′ Squier Frankenstein P Bass, a Sadowsky PJ and a 5 String Guild. The Squier and Guild have aftermarket Hipshot Hardware.
Do you use any effects?
I have a few effects, but I use them sparingly. My board consists of an overdrive, envelope filter, tuner and octave pedal. I might use them one time per show. My tone is usually dry.
What is your main amplifier?
I’m all about tube amps. There’s nothing like a warm vintage SVT. I usually backline Ampeg SVT rigs for my live work. In the studio I usually run direct.
What projects have you been working on, and what projects do you have lined up for the future?
The past few months have been really busy and I’m thankful for that. I recently finished a world tour with Atlantic Records artist, Janelle Monae. I also played bass on the soundtrack of the new movie Rio 2. It released to theaters April 11th and is currently #1 in the box offices. I’m currently playing with quite a few artists. You might just see me pop up on a stage anywhere. I try to keep my tour schedule posted at www.btgill.com
