Feature: Mighty Joe Belson Decodes “Basie Boy”
What was the creative process like for this particular single?
Though I'm primarily a bass player, I started on trumpet when I was a kid, and still like to toot on it from time to time. One day a few years ago I picked it up and the melody for "Basie Boy" came out. It immediately reminded me of some of the big band jazz that I love, so I wrote it down for later.
How did you approach the arrangement and composition of the music for "Basie Boy?"
When it came time to record more Doodle Cats jazz, I didn't have the personnel or frankly the expertise to arrange and record a big band tune, but I did think a trombone lead would sound good, and the saxophone could respond to and double the lead. I got a great local Bay Area player named Will Shannon to do the bone part and Carl Schultz to play the tenor.
What impact do you hope "Basie Boy" will have on your audience?
This song is meant to be a feel-good tune. Swingin' and finger snappin' is what we're going for here. As the lead single off the new album "Reinventing The Wheel," I hope it gets people excited for more great jazz.
Every composer has a unique style. How would you describe your musical "voice" or signature style? What sets your compositions apart?
For me, I honestly came to jazz and upright bass after decades of playing rock/punk/metal. So it's been a learning process to understand how the music works and what makes it special. To honor that tradition, for me that means keeping it straightforward with a great singable melody and some brief but tuneful solos. Songs that aren't too long or complicated, but are hopefully enjoyable for everyone.
Are there any upcoming projects or releases that you're particularly excited about?
Stay tuned for a couple more singles and then the album "Reinventing The Wheel" out 10/24!
