The Bass Line: The Influence of Jazz Bass and Music Learning in the Internet Era (w/ Paul Thompson)

My guest is accomplished jazz bassist, professor, and public music educator Paul Thompson. We discuss the influence of jazz bass on other genres, the regional differences in jazz styles, and the vibrancy of Pittsburgh’s Black community.

The bulk of the conversation, however, centers on music teaching and learning. We not only touch on Mr. Thompson’s decision to educate the public about music and bass online; we also delve into his controversial, viral social media post about the breakdown of the jazz apprenticeship model and the resulting generation gap. Finally, we briefly discuss the role the bass plays in the music of the late hip hop producer James “Jaydee/J Dilla” Yancey.

• Paul Thompson’s website: http://paulthompson.us
• YouTube: http://youtube.com/@pdbass
• Instagram: http://instagram.com/pdbass74
• Twitter: twitter.com/pdbass74
• Full episode notes here: http://blacketcpod.com/episodes/022-paul-thompson