This song was recorded on December 29, 2014, so “Year’s End” seemed fitting for a working title. Like many of my musical creations, this song started out as a rhythm track on a looper pedal. Unlike many of my previous songs, however, I actually went back and recorded this one in the more normal order (drum track, rhythm track, bass track, lead track). The guitar tracks were created with a 2011 Fender American Deluxe Stratocaster. They were recorded via USB using a Fender Mustang III amp. The bass is a 2012 Rickenbacker 4003, recorded via USB using a Zoom B3 Bass Effects / Amp Simulator. The Zoom B3 also provided the drum track.

©2014 Joseph R. Ellis
All Rights Reserved

I’ve met some really nice bass players in the past. But, wow! If you have spent any time at all in the online bass forums, you may come to the conclusion I have: Many bass players seem to have a chip on their shoulders. They seem to be extremely opinionated, a bit sarcastic and maybe a tad arrogant. I think it is because bass players just haven’t received the respect they deserve. The lead guitarists and the singers get all the limelight, and any attention that remains seems to go to the drummer. Yes, the lowly bass player is often forgotten when it comes to fame.

I picked up a bass for the first time last May (2014) and immediately took to it. Lately, I seem to be more inspired to write new material just so I can have an excuse to come up with a new bass line. Maybe I missed my calling, LOL!

Please take some time to listen to a few of my more recent recordings listed below and let me know what you think – bass and all! And next time you are asking for autographs – don’t forget the bass player!