If I win the lottery, I'd pay anything for that bass! My YOB, played at Woodstock and owned by one of my bass heroes. And it's a Jazz! And Leo, what a legend :-) You hug that bass like it's an old friend.
Anytime you see an instrument like this, well worn, you can feel the love the player has for the instrument. Leo mentioned he broke strings. It's easy to break guitar strings, bass strings are thick and sturdy. I was always fascinated by the way Leo's right hand danced on the strings. Almost looked like they were bouncing on a trampoline. You really have to spank those strings to break them. Amazing. Thanks Leo. Always a joy to hear what you have to say.
We had the Woodstock movie as a fundraiser for the United Way way back in the day @ my high school.. it was the TYA performance that blew me away .. and sent me to PU the Recorded Live lP....
Hello again Leo, its Peter from the Newtones again,I remember I went to your last gig before you guys went pro, It was at Nottingham University, we all had a good night there.I still play but only at home, I live in Orlando Florida now. I have a Fender jazz Bass and also a white Fender precision bass, but play for fun at home.Its good to talk to old friends still, I am 76 years old now.God Bless Leo.
Hi Peter. A Happy New Year to you. Florida must be nicer weatherise compared with cardiff , Hurricanes aside that is. I lived in Nashville for 16 years which was exciting. One of my sons still lives there but my wife Sally and I moved back to the UK around 11 years ago. Glad to hear you still keep your hand in on the bass. I'm still working but maybe not so much touring this year. Brexit and Covid killed the business in Europe and it costs so much money and time to organise visas for the US. I still have all my basses and amps in storage. I should sell some. Two or three basses should be enough for anyone. Take care. Regards Leo
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That energy at Woodstock is phenomenal. Thanks for such a good vibe.
I am a Venezuelan bass player know mostly in the 90s heavy metal world but my real influences are coming from the 70s the great bass players like you, Jack Bruce, Paul Newton from Uriah Heep, Doug Ferguson from Camel and some older ones like Sam Jones on double bass. For me it is a VALUABLE LEGACY music with soul and groove not so technological as it is today. You made my day master Leo this video makes me smile!
@@LeoLyonsMusician would be very interested in reading that, hope to be lucky enough to see you play live at some point, keep on playing leo your one in a million fella. 👍
Hey Leo this is a great surprise for me! I am really happy watching this video, not only for the Bass (wich is really nice) but, I found your playing is as always awesome. You are one of my favorite and more respected bass player on rock music. It is really a pleasure watching your magic fingers playing some notes there!
This newly-discovered upload of yours is a missed gem by me, Leo. I have just found this, sacred to me, wondrous piece of your archives. So many memories of you and TYA, live in Edinburgh and via many cinema viewings of _Woodstock_ ... When I was playing bass with Blues 'n' Trouble in the late 1970s - early 1980s, I used a Sakai copy of a Fender Jazz Bass. After I worked on the action and intonation, and restrung this guitar with RotoSound wire-wound strings, it changed from being 'modest' to 'having a relatively big presence'. Never the original sound, but augmented with my amplification. Enough about me. Thank you, Leo. All the best. Rab 🍻 😎 👋
You've both aged beautifully Leo ! Another fascinating video. TYA were such a great band, it must have been so exciting to play with Alvin and the guys. You always gave it your all. Thanks for bringing back the great memories and creating some new ones too.
Thankyou Dear Leo for your nice Story behind your favorite bass from 1962. Many times I saw you playing it on stages. It's a legend like yourself my friend. Keep them well and safe, the same yourself Leo. Hope we meet us next again as well with HSS on stage. Many regards to you and all friends, yours Christian.
Hello, greetings from Ecuador, a South American country, you have been my inspiration to play the bass since I heard Ten Years After. It blew my mind. I am 53 years old and I have been listening to you since I was 15. A hug, dear Leo.
I mentioned before how I loved yr seasoned jazz bass...A friend of mine has a 62 which looks like yours he got in in 1972 ...we thought it was old then...thankfully he didn’t refinish it...the broken in feel is awesome though I’m guitarist...love those red tortoise shell guards...I think the boards in 62 were Brazilian rosewood nice dark.....well...enjoy your channel...and yr a gentleman..👍👍🇺🇸🇺🇸Glenn NYC
You are a great legendary bass player, just like your bass. It was a pleasure to greet you at the Cerdanyola blues festival. Hopefully they will play in Catalonia soon with their hungred seventy split band. Thanks for your music, cheers!
Dear Leo, when I was a kid I watched the Woodstock movie 7 times because of the certain "Ten Years After" band. Although many people thought it was because of Alvin Lee, which is a monster of a player, it was because of the "other" guitar player hitting the strings like a maniac. Little I knew he was a bass player, but I do know you are the reason why I play bass. Thank you kindly for putting this together. All the best to you and your loved ones.
Fantastic history on the old jazz bass good to know this was the number one main star of your illustrious career Leo ...! Thanks for sharing these amazing memories ...!!! Scarboro
Your the best Leo, We've meet a few times, London, Ontario, Canada, Bluesfest, and at the Day in the Garden 1998, got my picture with you, your son took it, remember.
Hello Leo, very interesting history of your guitar, and appreciate you sharing. While I honestly can't say I listened to a lot of TYA in my youth (I'm 60), I'm making up for lost time in a big way in more recent years and am fascinated with your playing style. Thanks for all of the joy you have brought to so, so many people in your career, and I hope to see you out on the road in the future.
Thanks for the great post Leo! The fellows on B.A.S.S are going to love it! B.A.S.S. is a group started by some school friends of mine including Banner Thomas from Molly Hatchet. Although I'm a guitar player, they made me an honorary member since I played cello years ago! Hope to see you tour in the states at some point!!
@@LeoLyonsMusician you’re welcome sir! Thank you for making these videos, and for taking the time to thank me! That’s me if the great things about the internet, legends like your good self make these kind of videos, and us mere mortals get a glimpse of your life! Best things
Fantastic insight into the jazz Leo. I remember watching the Woodstock performance as a kid on Tv and being blown away by the “Going Home” performance. When the camera was on you The way you were laying into that bass was superb. You weren’t just playing the strings it was the whole bass getting a workout!!! Thanks for the music and videos! Kind regards, Kev Uk 🇬🇧
Love hearing these old road stories especially with my favorite band of that era next to Jimi. I saw you guys play about half a dozen times and got to meet allof you briefly backstage at the L.A. Forum when YES was the opening act with Ji Geils next then TYA. I know it was always about Alvin but I used to watch you play and just kept figuring you had to be on serious painkillers as it looked like you were beating your hand and fingers to death. AND I know you meet thousands of people but when you played Hawaii for the first time I had backstage passes as a friend of mine...well anyway and then I got to talk to for a few minutes and I mentioned how I loved your playing and talked for a few minutes about my favorite bass player Berry Oakley and I was surprise you were not familiar with him as the bass player for The Allman Brothers Band. You were VERY nice and after a bit you all left for your hotel. At taht time i was also playing a Jazz bass in a local club band. As I said I saw you all play at least half a dozen times. Is it true both you and Alvin could no longer use your own bass and guitars due to the value?
I like yr style ....bass playing and when I found yr channel....I was fond of the fact that you act like a regular guy even though you rubbed elbows with many top acts....that goes along well...cheers....I’m in NYC but my mom was born in Liverpool...dad met her in the war...hence Evans ...my middle name....still in touch with some of mums....lol mum.....relatives...I only guy heard of a ‘tea cozy”....lol ok...stay as nice as you are
Really enjoyed, that, sir! I would have seen the bass at the Bath Festival 1969 and The Free Trade Hall in Manchester on 19th December, 1969 (supporting by Blodwyn Pig) and then at the Isle of Wight in 1969. thanks for showing us the scars!
@@LeoLyonsMusician I have all TYA albums on vinyl. I'm only 23 years old and love the music. My favorite record has to be the debut album or Stonehenged...love your playing on "Hear Me calling"
@@StealthyAssassin007 Thanks very much for the kind words. Out of interest 'Stonedhenge' is the third album but I'm not sure if the early ones have been re-issued. Regards Leo
@@LeoLyonsMusician they have not been reissued yet…but I’d love for that to happen!! Also Leo, have you seen this footage of you and the boys in Germany? 1969 love your energy on stage!!!! Here’s the link: th-cam.com/video/zO7Gg05HHc8/w-d-xo.html
@@StealthyAssassin007 Thanks for sharing. Yes I remember the video. It was a pre- gig run through at Bristol University, UK, filmed by director Wim Wenders. I believe Wim, who went on to have a very successful career, was a a student at the college.
Greetings from Eastern Washington State Leo. I will always treasure the memories from the little time we talked in Twisp, WA at the Woodstock 40th Anniversary tour. Would love to see you do a US tour. Be safe my friend.
looks awesome! one of those rare authentic examples of what most would call “heavy relic”, though i guess that just means it was used well for a long time. that bass has quite a tale to tell.
Leo, Just watched this story. What a treat! Watching you play that bass at Woodstock, your attack, was mind blowing. No one before or since has hit the strings with that energy! Plus I got to see you playing a doghouse! You're the first cat I've seen in a while that makes one look small! Who was it that made the copy? Did they make many? I play steel guitar but I would like to have a bass around for fun and one that comes with MOJO "built in" would be a blast! Someone needs to explain why TYA isn't in the R&R Hall of Fame!
Hi Michael. Thanks for watching and for the kind words. My Woodstock tribute bass is manufactured by The Bass Centre London. www.basscentre.com/british-bass-masters/bbm-woodstock-revival.html Regards Leo
Great to see - and what a gent you are, Leo. In my formative years as a muso, from the age of 16 I adored TYA. (The LP's are still around in my house somewhere, in this digital age!) But - did I or not see you playing a Wal Custom on a TH-cam video at some point?
Hi Paul thanks for the kind words. Yes. I do have a Wal bass and used it for a year or so when TYA reformed in the mid eighties. It's a great instrument but fans prefer me to play my Fender and that's fine with me.
@@LeoLyonsMusician Thanks for replying, Leo. In my career as a session/gig bass player I've met/worked with many of my musical heroes - and now I can say that I've "had words" (in a nice way) with you! All the best.
Leo, at Woodstock were you hopped up on something? I thought what a wild into it hippie bass player we have here!!? Your Woodstock Bass should be in the Simsonian Institute next to Willie's "Trigger". OR, at the Woodstock museum place. I like that you made these story video's of the past because they will live on in infamy. And for that I thank you..."Sir Lyon".
Hi. Thanks for watching. Re Woodstock. I was hyped up on playing the music and charged up with the atmosphere. Strange to say I hadn't taken any drugs and only smoked a joint after the show on the way back to NYC. Regards Leo
Hello Bass God Leo! What a amazing channel! Directly from the legend that's make a story! So big pleasure to see you legendary bass! It's all original "as stock"? Frets, machine head? Dear Leo, what about strings? Gauge, company? Thank a lot and be safe
Hi Drive Dogs. Yes my bass is all original. It has been re-fretted as you'd expect for the amount of gig mileage I've put on it. The strings I used in the early days were La Bella 760's, These datys I use Bass centre Elites 45-105
Hey Leo, if there ever was a band that took advantage of Woodstock it was TYA. You show pure joy and energy on I’m Going Home, I never get tired watching it. 2 questions: 1) is it true the drums had to be re-recorded for the album because of mic problems? 2) was the watermelon displayed on stage known beforehand or was that spontaneous? You guys were the highlights of that wonderful film. Thank you Leo.
Hi Bert. Thanks for watching. In answer to your questions. 1; I believe the snare had to be replaced because of mic problems. 2:The watermelon was a complete surprise.
This is the same bass you used at the Seattle Pop Festival, July 25, 1969. I've got a couple really nice shots of you and Alvin I'd like to get to you if you let me know how. Most enjoyable music. Thanks.
Hi Paul.What a great venue Red Rock is. One of my favourites. I remember the two times we've played there. I knew GFR quite well form early on in their career the they supped TYA in Detroit.
Hi Leo,I'm Peter, I used to play in a band in Mansfield Notts in the 1960's called The Newtones, I played bass with them. Do you remembering TheNewtone's ?and we sat at a table with The Trogs Band, in a chinese restaurant in Doncaster after we finished doing a gig?. Alvin and Rick and you were there also.Alvin was cracking jokes about the Trogs.
Hi Peter. Hope you're well. Thanks for your post. I recall the Newtones band but don't remember that particular incident. It sounds fun. I met Reg Presley a number of times in later years. he was an interesting guy. Regards Leo
Just discovered your channel, this is amazing. I used to knock around with your son's when I was a kid. My dad saw you most times you played on London. I was wondering what strings you use?? So pleased to have found this channel and I hope you are well.
Hi Tc W. Thanks for watching. I'm well thank you but miss touring. I wonder if I'd remember you? We're still in touch with some of Tom and Harry's school friends. Re strings: I use Bass Centre Elites round wounds 45-105's. Enjoy your music. Regards Leo
@@LeoLyonsMusician Great to hear back from you , My name is Tom Wright, my dad is Don and we were very good friends with the Sidney's. I was a little younger than your boys. Thanks for the string info. Ill keep an eye on your channel and of course some tour dates! Glad you are well and thanks for all the awesome bass/touring insights
@@tcw8287 Hi Tom. I remember Don and Brian Sidney coming to see TYA at a rare show in London. Give your dad my best wishes. I run into Joel Sidney occasionally; He now lives in Wales, Regards Leo
Today Is Sunday morning here in Panamá and just found your channel. Really interesting. Increíble you still have your Woodstock bass ! A question: can you name some of the other bands/musicians you did meet backstage at Woodstock?
I've met all the artistes that played Woodstock at some time or other. Back stage Woodstock I met , Hendrix, Janis Joplin, The Who, Country Joe, Canned Heat, Jefferson Airplane, Joe Cocker and some I've forgotten.
Oh wow! I always wanted to ask Pete Way what bass he used on the Force it album, I think you produced that album. I always thought he played a Fender P bass on that, because I loved the tone he had and he never seem to sound the same as he did.. know I know it was your bass! The life long mystery is solved.
@@LeoLyonsMusician Thank you for the response. Feel honored to have a top musician answer my question. What amps did Pete use with your Jazz bass? And Did Alvin ever get tired of playing "Im going home" while on tour? Seems like such an exhausting song to play every night with fans expecting a Woodstock performance repeat. I love that School Girl song you guys play. I love the bass line you got running on that one. I saw the video live performance and you were playing a Wal bass? Sounded great! Thanks again!
What a nice chap you are Leo. You seem like a very humble man compared to your high skill level and success. Thanks for sharing the Jazz bass story. I feel a bit embarrassed that I didn't know about your incredible ability. I was just watching YT and found Winterland 75 and was just blown away with your physical style of playing. I had just graduated HS in the U.S. and somehow never made any of your west coast shows. I was making quite a few Dead shows but, missed the one you did with them. Did you have any more stories about that experience with the Dead? How did your fingers and joints hold up so well after all the power striking? And do you have any recommendations for other YT live shows of TYA or yourself?
Hi Cantweall, Thanks for the kind words. TYA played with The Dead a number of times and I recall Jerry jammed with us at The Fillmore San Francisco. I'll think about some stories. Re fingers: So far I've been very lucky not to have damaged my joints from the heavy handed playing. There are a number of videos on line , YT and Facebook; I've probably not seen them all. You'd have to search.Please also check out the music on Spotify My current band Hundred Seventy Split is on there too. Regards Leo
Do we have a Leo Lyons bass from Fender yet? You know, one of those $10,000 dollar remakes? lol. Can you tell us about ever meeting with Paul McCartney or others?
There is a Leo Lyons Heritage bass but not from Fender see the link. www.basscentre.com/british-bass-masters/bbm-woodstock-revival.html I'll need to think of some more stories to tell. Regards Leo
What gauge La Bella's do you use Leo? I know you said in one of your videos you used La Lellas. You use the big ones with the .110 E string or the smaller ones? I put this video in the Talkbass thread by the way, very interesting. I use them too and just leave them on, great strings. I like the Fender 9050 flat wounds too for my Rickenbacker. Oh yeah, do you still have the Ric? What year is it or was it? I have a 1979 4001, natural.
Hi Bob. I used La Bella 760's 45-105. These days I use Bass Centre Elites 45-105 round wound. I still have my Rickenbacker stereo bass1972 with natural finish.
@@LeoLyonsMusician I've got the La Bella 760 45-105's on my Fender P/J bass. I had a 72 factory fretless 4001 that I stupidly sold about ten years ago, it was a jetglo, black. I have a 1985 4003FL factory fretless now, natural. Have you tried the Tony Franklin fretless Fender yet? Nicest fretless bass I've ever owned, ebony neck and has a bridge Jazz pickup in addition the the neck Precision pickup. The ebony stands up to round wound strings with hardly a mark. I had another volume control put in it, as they come V/T which I don't like, I like the Jazz scheme of two volumes and a tone, mine's now VVT with a side jack. I also have a 1996 vintage reissue 62 Jazz which hopefully sounds something like yours.
Hi Leo, have a couple of questions: I think John Paul Jones of Zeppelin used 1962 like yours. Did he ever play yours and you try his while on the road? And what type of Bass strings were available in the '70s did everyone play flatwound or round strings? Seems like most bass player swear you guys only used flats in those days and it's the only way to get your sound.
Hi. No John Paul Jones and I never played each other basses but they were about the same vintage. I used La Bella 760 Flatwound Strings. Most people did except I believe John Entwistle stared using Rotosound round wounds quite early on. These days I use Elites round wounds 45-105 although I do have one bass strung with flats.
Hi Leo I was wondering that considering how many miles that Jazz Bass has done has it ever needed any repairs. I ask because I have just had to have the headstock glued back on my Gibson LP after a really minor accident cracked it.
Hi Cliff. Fender basses are pretty sturdy planks. Mine has been re-fretted twice and I replaced a couple of pots. Other wise all original with no repairs needed. Gibson LesPauls are notorious for snapping headstocks. My sons Les Paul had the same break. Alvin's 345 also had a headstock repair.
@@LeoLyonsMusician Thanks Leo, your comment makes me admire you more, I said I wanted to play bass like you because I feel like I play it like everyone else, and you make your bass roar
Leo Lyons and his bass, pure music history, all the best☮
Thanks for watching.Much appreciated.
Regards Leo
I just love listening to Leo talk, events,music, people, and BASS guitars!!! 🫵👍😎💪🇺🇸🙏🙏🙏
Thanks for watching my video. much appreciated. Regards Leo
Another great post, great memories, astonishing band, career etc
Thank you for watching.
I just found this channel. Great content! What a treat to hear these stories from a legend. Thank you!
Thank you. Glad you like them!
If I win the lottery, I'd pay anything for that bass! My YOB, played at Woodstock and owned by one of my bass heroes. And it's a Jazz!
And Leo, what a legend :-) You hug that bass like it's an old friend.
Thanks Stub. It's a great bass and has shared many exciting moments with me.
Leo Lyons Thanks for sharing your jazz bass, Keep Rocking !!!
My pleasure!. Thanks for watching. I intend to keep playing for as long as I'm able.
Anytime you see an instrument like this, well worn, you can feel the love the player has for the instrument.
Leo mentioned he broke strings. It's easy to break guitar strings, bass strings are thick and sturdy. I was always fascinated by the way Leo's right hand danced on the strings. Almost looked like they were bouncing on a trampoline. You really have to spank those strings to break them. Amazing.
Thanks Leo. Always a joy to hear what you have to say.
Thanks for watching Tom. It's much appreciated.
Fabtastic
Yes it's a good bass. Thanks for watching.
@@LeoLyonsMusician amazing piece of history Thanks for sharing
No price on that jazz bass
We had the Woodstock movie as a fundraiser for the United Way way back in the day @ my high school.. it was the TYA performance that blew me away .. and sent me to PU the Recorded Live lP....
Thanks Steve.
When I think bass Leo's image comes right to my mind
Thanks Gabriel
WOW!! THAT bass. Amazing to get a look at that!!
It's held up well I think.
Hello again Leo, its Peter from the Newtones again,I remember I went to your last gig before you guys went pro, It was at Nottingham University, we all had a good night there.I still play but only at home, I live in Orlando Florida now. I have a Fender jazz Bass and also a white Fender precision bass, but play for fun at home.Its good to talk to old friends still, I am 76 years old now.God Bless Leo.
Hi Peter. A Happy New Year to you. Florida must be nicer weatherise compared with cardiff , Hurricanes aside that is. I lived in Nashville for 16 years which was exciting. One of my sons still lives there but my wife Sally and I moved back to the UK around 11 years ago. Glad to hear you still keep your hand in on the bass.
I'm still working but maybe not so much touring this year. Brexit and Covid killed the business in Europe and it costs so much money and time to organise visas for the US.
I still have all my basses and amps in storage. I should sell some. Two or three basses should be enough for anyone.
Take care.
Regards
Leo
That energy at Woodstock is phenomenal. Thanks for such a good vibe.
Thanks Yoleima
A real delight listening to these stories. Thank you.
Thanks for watching Frank. Much appreciated.
I am a Venezuelan bass player know mostly in the 90s heavy metal world but my real influences are coming from the 70s the great bass players like you, Jack Bruce, Paul Newton from Uriah Heep, Doug Ferguson from Camel and some older ones like Sam Jones on double bass. For me it is a VALUABLE LEGACY music with soul and groove not so technological as it is today. You made my day master Leo this video makes me smile!
Thanks Nicky
Wow what a great video! And an even better bass!! So so so cool!
Hi John. Glad you enjoyed it!
If the bass could talk, leo you make the bass talk one of the greatest.❤
Thanks Timpski. I thought of writing story from my bass's point of view. 'From tree to plank of wood to Woodstock'
@@LeoLyonsMusician would be very interested in reading that, hope to be lucky enough to see you play live at some point, keep on playing leo your one in a million fella. 👍
@@timpskihighbury8161 Thank you
Hey Leo this is a great surprise for me! I am really happy watching this video, not only for the Bass (wich is really nice) but, I found your playing is as always awesome. You are one of my favorite and more respected bass player on rock music. It is really a pleasure watching your magic fingers playing some notes there!
Glad you like it!
this was a real treat leo!
Hi Muya. Thanks for watching.
Just lovely, Leo - thanks for this nice story!
My pleasure. Thanks for watching. Regards Leo
Wow amazing. I have a Jazz bass with the covers on quite similar 🎸🎸
They are great basses Paul. Mines lasted me for sixty years so far. Enjoy your music.
Evry time I look you I see a great master. Thankyou too exisist.
Thanks for the kind words Andrea.
This newly-discovered upload of yours is a missed gem by me, Leo. I have just found this, sacred to me, wondrous piece of your archives. So many memories of you and TYA, live in Edinburgh and via many cinema viewings of _Woodstock_ ...
When I was playing bass with Blues 'n' Trouble in the late 1970s - early 1980s, I used a Sakai copy of a Fender Jazz Bass. After I worked on the action and intonation, and restrung this guitar with RotoSound wire-wound strings, it changed from being 'modest' to 'having a relatively big presence'. Never the original sound, but augmented with my amplification. Enough about me.
Thank you, Leo. All the best. Rab 🍻 😎 👋
Thanks for watching Rab. There was always fixes to do on stock basses. It’s part of the fun. Regards Leo
You've both aged beautifully Leo ! Another fascinating video. TYA were such a great band, it must have been so exciting to play with Alvin and the guys. You always gave it your all. Thanks for bringing back the great memories and creating some new ones too.
Thanks for watching Phil. Much appreciated. Regards Leo
Beast of a Bassist!
Loved Leo's Playing.
Hi Ralph. Thanks for watching and for the kind words. Regards Leo
Thankyou Dear Leo for your nice Story behind your favorite bass from 1962. Many times I saw you playing it on stages. It's a legend like yourself my friend. Keep them well and safe, the same yourself Leo. Hope we meet us next again as well with HSS on stage. Many regards to you and all friends, yours Christian.
Thanks Christian. See you on the road.
Thank you For sharing this 👍☮️❤️🎸
My pleasure. Thanks for watching. Regards Leo
Hello, greetings from Ecuador, a South American country, you have been my inspiration to play the bass since I heard Ten Years After. It blew my mind. I am 53 years old and I have been listening to you since I was 15. A hug, dear Leo.
Thanks very much for the kind words. They're much appreciated. Enjoy your music. Regards Leo
Thank you for showing and sharing with us a piece of rock history. Greatly appreciated.
Hi Robert. My pleasure. Thanks for watching and subscribing.
I mentioned before how I loved yr seasoned jazz bass...A friend of mine has a 62 which looks like yours he got in in 1972 ...we thought it was old then...thankfully he didn’t refinish it...the broken in feel is awesome though I’m guitarist...love those red tortoise shell guards...I think the boards in 62 were Brazilian rosewood nice dark.....well...enjoy your channel...and yr a gentleman..👍👍🇺🇸🇺🇸Glenn NYC
Hi Glenn. Thanks for your post. I'm pleased you're enjoying the channel. Take care. regards Leo
Mr. Leo Lyons Woodstock Performance may be one of the Greatest Live Performances ever…..
Thanks for watching Ronny
Leo you are amazing thanks for the motivation you have give me to play bass and rock. Love TYA listen to it all the time.
Thanks Felipe. Enjoy your music.
80 years young! Quite the 'Mad Thumper' on that Woodstock video.
You could be Going Home to see Jesus one of these Years, but until then Best Wishes!
Thanks for watching and for the good wishes. all the very best to you too. Regards Leo
So very cool,Leo. Thanks for sharing the history of Old Faithful Jazz👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Glad you enjoyed it
You are very humble person Sir! I`m a big fan of Jazz Bass ESPECIALLY genuine "TRUE WORN" 62s! WHAT A BEATY! - Cheers from N. Ireland!
Thanks for your post Tomek. Enjoy your music.
Thank you wonderfull story, such a iconic instrument, you could say historic. Thank you enjoyed! T.C.B.
Hi Eric. My pleasure. Thanks for watching. Regards Leo
Wow she’s a beautiful bass that’s been on the wonderful journey.
Yes very true. Thanks for visiting my channel. Regards Leo
You are a great legendary bass player, just like your bass. It was a pleasure to greet you at the Cerdanyola blues festival. Hopefully they will play in Catalonia soon with their hungred seventy split band. Thanks for your music, cheers!
Thank you Alberto Hope to be back in Catalonia soon. Regards Leo
Absolutely wonderful. Thank you for sharing this with us all.
Hi Bernie Glad you enjoyed it!
Dear Leo, when I was a kid I watched the Woodstock movie 7 times because of the certain "Ten Years After" band. Although many people thought it was because of Alvin Lee, which is a monster of a player, it was because of the "other" guitar player hitting the strings like a maniac. Little I knew he was a bass player, but I do know you are the reason why I play bass. Thank you kindly for putting this together. All the best to you and your loved ones.
Thanks for the kind words and good wishes. Much appreciated. Stay safe and enjoy your music.
This man is so informative and is a legend !🇬🇧🤙
Thank you.
Agreed, John. To me, Leo is also one of Nature's True, Perfect Gentlemen.
Stay free. Rab 🍻 😎
A real gentleman,good on you, Leo.
Thanks for watching. Regards Leo
Absolutely fantastic… I found your video by mistake, and I’m so happy I did ! 😊
Thanks very much for watching.
Fantastic history on the old jazz bass good to know this was the number one main star of your illustrious career Leo ...! Thanks for sharing these amazing memories ...!!! Scarboro
Thanks for watching Scarboro.
Your the best Leo, We've meet a few times, London, Ontario, Canada, Bluesfest, and at the Day in the Garden 1998, got my picture with you, your son took it, remember.
Thanks for the kind words Maxoom. Yes. I remember. It's a small world.
Legend, great memories sir ❤
Thanks for the kind words.
Hello Leo, very interesting history of your guitar, and appreciate you sharing. While I honestly can't say I listened to a lot of TYA in my youth (I'm 60), I'm making up for lost time in a big way in more recent years and am fascinated with your playing style. Thanks for all of the joy you have brought to so, so many people in your career, and I hope to see you out on the road in the future.
Hi Tomham. Thanks for the kind words. Much appreciated.
Thanks for the great post Leo! The fellows on B.A.S.S are going to love it! B.A.S.S. is a group started by some school friends of mine including Banner Thomas from Molly Hatchet. Although I'm a guitar player, they made me an honorary member since I played cello years ago! Hope to see you tour in the states at some point!!
Thanks for watching Vinnie. Yes I'd love to play in the States again. It's been a while. Regards Leo
As i was marveling at your J bass, I was thinking of Rory. His Strat is most likely the epitome of a worn finish.
Yes indeed. The last time I saw Rory just before he died he asked" Do you still have that Jazz bass?"
You are a true gentleman sir, I love your videos 😊
Hi Chris. Thanks for the kind words and for watching.
Oh yes! What a bass, what a story! Thanks for sharing this.
Thanks for watching Rich. Good luck with your music.
@@LeoLyonsMusician you’re welcome sir! Thank you for making these videos, and for taking the time to thank me!
That’s me if the great things about the internet, legends like your good self make these kind of videos, and us mere mortals get a glimpse of your life!
Best things
@@richftbass I agree I've learnt a lot of interesting things on line.
Nice bass for a nice guy!
Thank you.
That was Awesome! Thanks Leo, keep Rockin' & stay safe! You & Alvin, will always be my #1!
Thank you. Rock on as Alvin used to say.
@@LeoLyonsMusician To you and Alvin, and TYA, Leo. 💚
Thank you for your generosity.
Stay free. Rab 👋
Merry Christmas, Leo!
Thanks very much. I send seasons greetings to you. All the best for 2025.
Regards
Leo
Delightful to see you Leo. Fascinating tales.
Thanks Thomas.
Great Leo ,more stories like this of the 60's 70's tours please! :) Any memories of The Groupies film?
Yes Mark. I do.
Fantastic insight into the jazz Leo.
I remember watching the Woodstock performance as a kid on Tv and being blown away by the “Going Home” performance.
When the camera was on you The way you were laying into that bass was superb.
You weren’t just playing the strings it was the whole bass getting a workout!!!
Thanks for the music and videos!
Kind regards,
Kev Uk 🇬🇧
Thanks for the kind words and for watching the video's.
That is so cool! Thanks for showing it off, Leo!
Hi Panama Glad you liked it! If you have any questions please let me know and I'll do my best to answer.
Love hearing these old road stories especially with my favorite band of that era next to Jimi. I saw you guys play about half a dozen times and got to meet allof you briefly backstage at the L.A. Forum when YES was the opening act with Ji Geils next then TYA. I know it was always about Alvin but I used to watch you play and just kept figuring you had to be on serious painkillers as it looked like you were beating your hand and fingers to death.
AND I know you meet thousands of people but when you played Hawaii for the first time I had backstage passes as a friend of mine...well anyway and then I got to talk to for a few minutes and I mentioned how I loved your playing and talked for a few minutes about my favorite bass player Berry Oakley and I was surprise you were not familiar with him as the bass player for The Allman Brothers Band. You were VERY nice and after a bit you all left for your hotel. At taht time i was also playing a Jazz bass in a local club band.
As I said I saw you all play at least half a dozen times.
Is it true both you and Alvin could no longer use your own bass and guitars due to the value?
thanks for the kind words and support.
I’m always possessed by your unique playing style when I watch Ten Years After concerts. Thanks so much for sharing!
My pleasure. Thanks for watching.
I like yr style ....bass playing and when I found yr channel....I was fond of the fact that you act like a regular guy even though you rubbed elbows with many top acts....that goes along well...cheers....I’m in NYC but my mom was born in Liverpool...dad met her in the war...hence Evans ...my middle name....still in touch with some of mums....lol mum.....relatives...I only guy heard of a ‘tea cozy”....lol ok...stay as nice as you are
Hi Glenn. Thanks for the kind words. I'm pleased you enjoy the channel.
the best bass ,for ever. the most speed
It's certainly been good to me. Regards Leo
Really enjoyed, that, sir! I would have seen the bass at the Bath Festival 1969 and The Free Trade Hall in Manchester on 19th December, 1969 (supporting by Blodwyn Pig) and then at the Isle of Wight in 1969. thanks for showing us the scars!
Hi Alan. Seems like only yesterday doesn't it.
wonderful story - great bass - thank you so much ! Wow.
Thanks for listening Luky.
Legendary !
Thanks Frank.
@@LeoLyonsMusician thanks to you ! I'm a bass player too and your works are such an ispiration to me ! TYA forever ! Keep on rockin' Leo ;-)
Leo you are one of my fav bass players!!!
Thank you. That means a lot to me.
@@LeoLyonsMusician I have all TYA albums on vinyl. I'm only 23 years old and love the music. My favorite record has to be the debut album or Stonehenged...love your playing on "Hear Me calling"
@@StealthyAssassin007 Thanks very much for the kind words. Out of interest 'Stonedhenge' is the third album but I'm not sure if the early ones have been re-issued. Regards Leo
@@LeoLyonsMusician they have not been reissued yet…but I’d love for that to happen!! Also Leo, have you seen this footage of you and the boys in Germany? 1969 love your energy on stage!!!!
Here’s the link: th-cam.com/video/zO7Gg05HHc8/w-d-xo.html
@@StealthyAssassin007 Thanks for sharing. Yes I remember the video. It was a pre- gig run through at Bristol University, UK, filmed by director Wim Wenders. I believe Wim, who went on to have a very successful career, was a a student at the college.
Greetings from Eastern Washington State Leo. I will always treasure the memories from the little time we talked in Twisp, WA at the Woodstock 40th Anniversary tour. Would love to see you do a US tour. Be safe my friend.
Hi Richard. A US tour would be great. In fact any tour would be great. I hope this pandemic is over with soon.
You stay safe Good Sir!
looks awesome! one of those rare authentic examples of what most would call “heavy relic”, though i guess that just means it was used well for a long time. that bass has quite a tale to tell.
Yes it does Bon. It sounds great to
Grande musico super talentoso, quanto ap Alvin lee faz muita falta
Thanks you Alarcon.
Hoje ouvi ( the bluest blues) musica maravilhosa guitarra poderosa na musica e uma grande linha de baixo, sucesso e vida longa a todos
@@alarconsantos4894 Thank you. All the best to you too. Regards Leo
What a lovely video! Thank you.
Interesting to see the bass centre jazz too, I have a bass centre jive jazz bass which I like very much.
Thank you for listening Tim. Yes. The Bass Centre basses are great and not expensive..
Leo, Just watched this story. What a treat! Watching you play that bass at Woodstock, your attack, was mind blowing. No one before or since has hit the strings with that energy! Plus I got to see you playing a doghouse! You're the first cat I've seen in a while that makes one look small!
Who was it that made the copy? Did they make many? I play steel guitar but I would like to have a bass around for fun and one that comes with MOJO "built in" would be a blast!
Someone needs to explain why TYA isn't in the R&R Hall of Fame!
Hi Michael. Thanks for watching and for the kind words. My Woodstock tribute bass is manufactured by The Bass Centre London. www.basscentre.com/british-bass-masters/bbm-woodstock-revival.html Regards Leo
Great to see - and what a gent you are, Leo.
In my formative years as a muso, from the age of 16 I adored TYA. (The LP's are still around in my house somewhere, in this digital age!)
But - did I or not see you playing a Wal Custom on a TH-cam video at some point?
Hi Paul thanks for the kind words. Yes. I do have a Wal bass and used it for a year or so when TYA reformed in the mid eighties. It's a great instrument but fans prefer me to play my Fender and that's fine with me.
@@LeoLyonsMusician Thanks for replying, Leo.
In my career as a session/gig bass player I've met/worked with many of my musical heroes - and now I can say that I've "had words" (in a nice way) with you!
All the best.
@@BassistPaul Thanks Paul.All the best to you too.
Great story
Glad you enjoyed it
Leo, at Woodstock were you hopped up on something? I thought what a wild into it hippie bass player we have here!!? Your Woodstock Bass should be in the Simsonian Institute next to Willie's "Trigger". OR, at the Woodstock museum place. I like that you made these story video's of the past because they will live on in infamy. And for that I thank you..."Sir Lyon".
Hi. Thanks for watching. Re Woodstock. I was hyped up on playing the music and charged up with the atmosphere. Strange to say I hadn't taken any drugs and only smoked a joint after the show on the way back to NYC. Regards Leo
Far out... Thanks Leo...
Thanks for watching my video. Much appreciated. Regards Leo
@LeoLyonsMusician I just subscribed to your channel... Thanks again...
You did change the world...
Thanks for that
I've been playing guitar since '71 and bass since '72. And yes, I have a Jazz Bass. You are the reason for that.
Thanks for the kind words. Enjoy your music.
Hello Bass God Leo!
What a amazing channel! Directly from the legend that's make a story!
So big pleasure to see you legendary bass! It's all original "as stock"? Frets, machine head?
Dear Leo, what about strings? Gauge, company?
Thank a lot and be safe
Hi Drive Dogs. Yes my bass is all original. It has been re-fretted as you'd expect for the amount of gig mileage I've put on it. The strings I used in the early days were La Bella 760's, These datys I use Bass centre Elites 45-105
Hey Leo, if there ever was a band that took advantage of Woodstock it was TYA. You show pure joy and energy on I’m Going Home, I never get tired watching it. 2 questions: 1) is it true the drums had to be re-recorded for the album because of mic problems? 2) was the watermelon displayed on stage known beforehand or was that spontaneous? You guys were the highlights of that wonderful film. Thank you Leo.
Hi Bert. Thanks for watching. In answer to your questions. 1; I believe the snare had to be replaced because of mic problems. 2:The watermelon was a complete surprise.
This is the same bass you used at the Seattle Pop Festival, July 25, 1969. I've got a couple really nice shots of you and Alvin I'd like to get to you if you let me know how. Most enjoyable music. Thanks.
Wow, thanks Elston. You can message me on my Leo Lyons Musician Facebook site.
I was there too and as a beginner bassist myself that year, you were an inspiration Leo.
I saw TYA on 7/21/70 at red Rocks Amphitheater. Grand Funk was your opener.
Hi Paul.What a great venue Red Rock is. One of my favourites. I remember the two times we've played there. I knew GFR quite well form early on in their career the they supped TYA in Detroit.
@@LeoLyonsMusician Had TYA continued playing smaller venues like Fillmore East and West would Alvin stay with the band?
@@Pepco54 Personally I think not. He was tired of touring and had made enough money to stay at home.
@@LeoLyonsMusician thanks for the response.
Haven heard from you in a long time
I've made a few posts recently. Regards Leo
How come Leo is not recognized as one of the bass players of our time?
Thanks for the kind words. I must try harder.
Only kidding.I enjoy what I do and have been lucky to have earned a living in music.
Regards
Leo
Hi Leo,I'm Peter, I used to play in a band in Mansfield Notts in the 1960's called The Newtones, I played bass with them. Do you remembering TheNewtone's ?and we sat at a table with The Trogs Band, in a chinese restaurant in Doncaster after we finished doing a gig?. Alvin and Rick and you were there also.Alvin was cracking jokes about the Trogs.
Hi Peter. Hope you're well. Thanks for your post. I recall the Newtones band but don't remember that particular incident. It sounds fun. I met Reg Presley a number of times in later years. he was an interesting guy. Regards Leo
Just discovered your channel, this is amazing. I used to knock around with your son's when I was a kid. My dad saw you most times you played on London. I was wondering what strings you use??
So pleased to have found this channel and I hope you are well.
Hi Tc W. Thanks for watching. I'm well thank you but miss touring. I wonder if I'd remember you? We're still in touch with some of Tom and Harry's school friends. Re strings: I use Bass Centre Elites round wounds 45-105's.
Enjoy your music.
Regards
Leo
@@LeoLyonsMusician Great to hear back from you , My name is Tom Wright, my dad is Don and we were very good friends with the Sidney's. I was a little younger than your boys.
Thanks for the string info. Ill keep an eye on your channel and of course some tour dates! Glad you are well and thanks for all the awesome bass/touring insights
@@tcw8287 Hi Tom.
I remember Don and Brian Sidney coming to see TYA at a rare show in London. Give your dad my best wishes. I run into Joel Sidney occasionally; He now lives in Wales,
Regards Leo
I saw that bass on 5th November, 1970., :-)
Hi Rich, The 5th of November is when they have bonfires in the UK. luckily my bass obviously was not on a fire.
@@LeoLyonsMusician TYA played the Bournemouth Pavilion on that night. Great gig! :-)
@@Rich6Brew I do remember that show.i've got a photograph somewhere.
Today Is Sunday morning here in Panamá and just found your channel. Really interesting. Increíble you still have your Woodstock bass ! A question: can you name some of the other bands/musicians you did meet backstage at Woodstock?
I've met all the artistes that played Woodstock at some time or other. Back stage Woodstock I met , Hendrix, Janis Joplin, The Who, Country Joe, Canned Heat, Jefferson Airplane, Joe Cocker and some I've forgotten.
Oh wow! I always wanted to ask Pete Way what bass he used on the Force it album, I think you produced that album. I always thought he played a Fender P bass on that, because I loved the tone he had and he never seem to sound the same as he did.. know I know it was your bass! The life long mystery is solved.
Yes. Pete's Gibson Thunderbird looked good but I never liked the recorded sound.
@@LeoLyonsMusician Thank you for the response. Feel honored to have a top musician answer my question. What amps did Pete use with your Jazz bass?
And Did Alvin ever get tired of playing "Im going home" while on tour? Seems like such an exhausting song to play every night with fans expecting a Woodstock performance repeat.
I love that School Girl song you guys play. I love the bass line you got running on that one. I saw the video live performance and you were playing a Wal bass? Sounded great! Thanks again!
@@mamothcar1 Pete used Marshall amp and cabinet plus a DI. Yes Alvin tired of touring period.
What a nice chap you are Leo. You seem like a very humble man compared to your high skill level and success. Thanks for sharing the Jazz bass story. I feel a bit embarrassed that I didn't know about your incredible ability. I was just watching YT and found Winterland 75 and was just blown away with your physical style of playing. I had just graduated HS in the U.S. and somehow never made any of your west coast shows. I was making quite a few Dead shows but, missed the one you did with them. Did you have any more stories about that experience with the Dead?
How did your fingers and joints hold up so well after all the power striking? And do you have any recommendations for other YT live shows of TYA or yourself?
Hi Cantweall, Thanks for the kind words. TYA played with The Dead a number of times and I recall Jerry jammed with us at The Fillmore San Francisco. I'll think about some stories. Re fingers: So far I've been very lucky not to have damaged my joints from the heavy handed playing. There are a number of videos on line , YT and Facebook; I've probably not seen them all. You'd have to search.Please also check out the music on Spotify My current band Hundred Seventy Split is on there too. Regards Leo
Brillllllliant
Thanks John.
Do we have a Leo Lyons bass from Fender yet? You know, one of those $10,000 dollar remakes? lol. Can you tell us about ever meeting with Paul McCartney or others?
There is a Leo Lyons Heritage bass but not from Fender see the link.
www.basscentre.com/british-bass-masters/bbm-woodstock-revival.html
I'll need to think of some more stories to tell.
Regards
Leo
Do you live in Manitoba, Canada?
Because that license plate in the background look like it’s from Manitoba.
The licence plate is fro Tennessee. I used to live in Nashville.
@@LeoLyonsMusician oh ok
What gauge La Bella's do you use Leo? I know you said in one of your videos you used La Lellas. You use the big ones with the .110 E string or the smaller ones? I put this video in the Talkbass thread by the way, very interesting. I use them too and just leave them on, great strings. I like the Fender 9050 flat wounds too for my Rickenbacker. Oh yeah, do you still have the Ric? What year is it or was it? I have a 1979 4001, natural.
Hi Bob. I used La Bella 760's 45-105. These days I use Bass Centre Elites 45-105 round wound. I still have my Rickenbacker stereo bass1972 with natural finish.
@@LeoLyonsMusician I've got the La Bella 760 45-105's on my Fender P/J bass. I had a 72 factory fretless 4001 that I stupidly sold about ten years ago, it was a jetglo, black. I have a 1985 4003FL factory fretless now, natural. Have you tried the Tony Franklin fretless Fender yet? Nicest fretless bass I've ever owned, ebony neck and has a bridge Jazz pickup in addition the the neck Precision pickup. The ebony stands up to round wound strings with hardly a mark. I had another volume control put in it, as they come V/T which I don't like, I like the Jazz scheme of two volumes and a tone, mine's now VVT with a side jack. I also have a 1996 vintage reissue 62 Jazz which hopefully sounds something like yours.
Do You prefer Jazz or P-Bass? I know it probably depends on the song but if You would have to make a decision, which one would it be?
Hi Leon. I love and own both but probably if I only had one bass it would be my Jazz Bass . Regards Leo
Hi Leo, have a couple of questions: I think John Paul Jones of Zeppelin used 1962 like yours. Did he ever play yours and you try his while on the road? And what type of Bass strings were available in the '70s did everyone play flatwound or round strings? Seems like most bass player swear you guys only used flats in those days and it's the only way to get your sound.
Hi. No John Paul Jones and I never played each other basses but they were about the same vintage. I used La Bella 760 Flatwound Strings. Most people did except I believe John Entwistle stared using Rotosound round wounds quite early on. These days I use Elites round wounds 45-105 although I do have one bass strung with flats.
Hi Leo I was wondering that considering how many miles that Jazz Bass has done has it ever needed any repairs. I ask because I have just had to have the headstock glued back on my Gibson LP after a really minor accident cracked it.
Hi Cliff. Fender basses are pretty sturdy planks. Mine has been re-fretted twice and I replaced a couple of pots. Other wise all original with no repairs needed. Gibson LesPauls are notorious for snapping headstocks. My sons Les Paul had the same break. Alvin's 345 also had a headstock repair.
i want play my fender geddy lee jazz bass mim like leo plays his fender
Play it like yourself Fernando. It's all in there.
@@LeoLyonsMusician Thanks Leo, your comment makes me admire you more, I said I wanted to play bass like you because I feel like I play it like everyone else, and you make your bass roar
@@willscarlett1000 Thank you
Nice
Yes . It's been a good friend to me. Regards Leo
I meant the rolling stone mag
Yes from a Movie we were in in 1969.
Leo hope you guys are doing well see you still have your Tennessee car tag you are welcome back anytime. Stay well my friend
Yes I do. Thanks 👍Roy.
wow
Thank you.