Podcast Episode Details

Bakithi Kumalo: Groove, Graceland, and the Power of Consistency

Episode 447

In this week’s Gig Gab, Bakithi Kumalo joins the show, diving into the passion and journey that led him to music. You’ll hear about how he started playing professionally at just seven years old, practicing on a cardboard bass while singing his bass lines, inspired by the grooves of Motown and James Jamerson. His first real bass came ten years after he had already been playing professionally! Kumalo emphasizes the importance of consistency and showing up, both to get the gig and to stay focused on the music. His mantra is clear: “Sing what you play, and listen to what everyone else is doing.”

The episode goes deeper into Kumalo’s remarkable experiences, from locking in with legendary drummers like Steve Gadd and Vinnie Colaiuta to his life-changing Graceland tour with Paul Simon. Kumalo shares stories of playing for survival in Zululand and how music quite literally saved his life.

Wrapping up with practical advice on getting that perfect mix with IEMs, this episode is a masterclass in how to “Always Be Performing,” no matter where you are in your career.

• 00:00:00 Gig Gab 447 – Monday, September 16th, 2024
  • September 16th: National Sit With a Stranger Day
• 00:02:18 Guest Co-host

  ---

  Published on 1 year, 3 months ago