Yes I do suck! I don't know how many great masters there are out there that are writing all the negative stuff, but glad I've given you a platform to vent your hostilities! Have a wonderful day. Love ya!
Will, being in the New York studio scene myself during the late 70's early 80's playing with Omar, Bashiri and Kashif, you were and still are an inspiration to my bass playing. Everything from Billy Cobham's Dreams to Vince Mendoza. I heard you did a "Mike's" submarine commercial in Montreal, bass and vocals.
You are a great bass player and human... let those to speak sh** they do it 'cause you are so good at what you do... I have learn a lot from hearing your playing ... Peace bro
I know it's tough to read the crap people post on what you've shared, (read taking a shit in your house,) and resist the urge to respond, but you're better off not feeding the trolls. They get off on getting under your skin. Your response only validates them, and their disease. By the way, thanks for your kind comments in regards to one of my favorite musicians.
Will Lee, one of the world's greatest bass players, with a resume of hits and credits longer than a football field...and people want to throw stones from the comfort of their bedrooms! I absolutely love this - you are willing to put yourself on video and speak passionately about some of your inspirations - Jamerson, McCartney, Jaco - and you do it in such a humble way. It makes the regular joe's like myself again understand that musicians on every level are - or should be - connected by the music and musicians we are passionate about and inspired by. Thanks for your contributions to the soundtrack of my childhood!
Thanks for the comments, guys. I never thought music was sexist or needed to discriminate. That is so anti-art! Really appreciate the positive words, all...!
Will Thanks for the great memories you shared about Jaco !! I got to hang with Jaco and I think it was Terry Nagel for a weekend in 1985 at The L.A. guitar show. I stayed at and watched ( slept in ) a room for Musician's Institute ..at that hotel where the guitar show was at.. So I saw pretty much all the music happenings that weekend... I had a few times where Jaco and I were by ourselves and he would tell me some very deep and personal things going on in his life at that time. and the other times it was the 3 of us ..Jaco... Terry ? and me and their friends... I feel so very blessed to have met him . Memories I will always be thankful for !!!!
I might have been a bass player had I not discovered you. Back in 1987 I believe, there was an interview you did in Guitar World called "The hardest working bass in show business" (something like that)I learned about your schedule and your Late Night gig.. then I realized, "Wow, being a musician is work!" So, if freaked me out a bit.. Your world seemed so serious and professional.. So I stuck to being a sloppy rock n roll guitarist.. :) 30 years on I am getting serious about bass.. The ol finger joints aren't liking it but I'm having a blast.. Love the interview .. Thanks for the inspiration!
Will Lee has contributed to so much great music over the past 35-40 years. He's pretty humble, but he's a monster. Not necessarily a trend setter, but a spectacular accompanist and a man with 'big ears' as they say. He really understands his role as a Bass player and always gets inside the music. One of my favorite musicians.
Absolutely. And Jaco's genius becomes apparent when musicians this good can't really approach his feel, musicality & tone. In fact it sounds kinda noisy and crappy when he tries to show us by example. In this way, Jaco is beyond Hendrix originality, that he still can't be imitated in any way that does him justice.
Will Lee spreading the Jaco love - so deserving and props to Will for helping keep his memory alive. Very cool thing to do... much respect to you Will.
There is so much I love about this video, it's hard to know where to start. The absolute reverence for Jaco in Mr. Lee's words are inspiring and touching. But then the degree with which he has studied Jaco's touch on the the fretless J-Bass shows an adoration that translated into hours of study. This film makes me even more proud to be a bassist, and even more convinced that the instrument has centuries of genius ahead of it. Our musical culture embraces scientific rigor, artistic creativity, and respect for our forebears. As Jaco himself said, "WOMEN AND RHYTHM SECTION FIRST!" Thanks again for this, Mr. Lee.
That story about Jaco soloing for an hour (while "giving" a bass lesson) is thee best story ever. So funny. So great. LOVE IT. Thanks for sharing, Will. -ET
Wow! That was fascinating. Not only is Will articulate, but he's able to demonstrate as he speaks. I really enjoyed this. I recall hearing Jaco play in bands around Fort Lauderdale in the 1970s - the Four O'Clock Club, She, Batchelors III, Village Zoo, etc. I didn't appreciate just how good he was. South Florida has always been awash with great musicians. Thanks, Will, for recording and uploading this treasure.
I can feel Will's sadness and pain with the lost of Jaco, Will's been my hero since 1977, I'll buy any album that's got Will's name on it as a sideman. Jaco's a true genius on bass and composition. Lotsa love to you Will, from Singapore. Yes, we took notice of you all the way from the other side of the Globe Mr Lee :)
Hey Will! I'll never forget how cool you were to me when you happened to be at one of my gigs somewhere. I was flattered, and humbled. We had a lot of friends and session mates in common. You speak of 'welcoming' well, you made me feel welcome. Thanks, man.
I've been lucky enough to meet a handful of truly great musicians in my lifetime, and hands down the really great players are always humble and gracious. After watching this, Will Lee is clearly in that league. Thanks for such a down to earth and generous interview.
Thanks, Will! What a laid back interview as if we all were just chill'n with you while you shared some Jaco-"ism" with us. Priceless, a definite keeper for my TH-cam vault. You absolutely right ..... Jaco Lives!!
As someone who has played bass behind Bo Diddley, Jack Bruce, Jeff Beck and Peter Green among others... I'll weigh in... Will Lee is a consummate musician. A great singer, and he took the time to share with you folks. Be thankful... and stop casting stones less you get a brick back. Musical veterans really don't give a crap about your negativity. They've made it... Now it's your turn... Watcha got? Most people don't bother anymore because of the silliness.
That's the Jaco I remember when I was at the UM music school 1972-77. I used to go down to the Unitarian church in S. Miami to hear him play with Ira Sullivan. It didn't matter if you were an established player with real chops or a beginner like I was at the time, Jaco was humble and gracious to everyone. A couple of years later I saw him at a Weather Report concert in NYC and he greeted me like I was an old friend. I have to smile when ever I hear him play because there was so much joy in his performances. He heard things nobody else knew was there and made it real for the rest of us.
I heard Ira Sullivan was maybe the main person responsible for turning Jaco into the pro the he was. Did you know him from the early days or did he just recognize you from the crowd? I heard he had somewhat of a photographic memory.
Will Lee has been a massive inspiration to me as a bass player, his studio credits and ability to play in so many different styles so well and really groove is fantastic. A master of economy of notes and a great reader. Why has he been in so much demand and played on so many recording dates, etc, etc for decades? The proof is in the pudding, its his approach to playing the right notes and with groove and melody - Awesome musician! Enough said.
Will Lee, your superb bass playing really complements the narrative, and the anecdotes of Jaco and bass playing in general. Thanks for posting. Cheers!
So glad that YOU are still with us, Will Lee -- to share you talent and your stories! I remember Dave Holland (drop, drop) telling me about the first time he met Jaco - I wish I was bumping around NYC in the early '80s! (was just a teen way up in Saugerties)
Hi Will, it was great to hear you talk about Jaco. Thanks for the great contribution you made to music as well. I first became aware of you when you were jamming with Steve Gadd & Richard Tee. I think I was just getting into listening & playing funk at that time. I'm a piano player. Lovely to hear one of the greats pay homage to another great .You are a very humble guy! I really appreciate that!!
It's not how many notes you can play in a given moment that matters, but how you make a person feel while playing! As often said in certain circles, "It don't mean a thing, if it ain't got that swing"! Longevity is the key! Will Lee has earned his place in bass player history!!
So enjoyable... me & some friends are coming off immersion of the new Jaco documentary....and getting your take on your experiences with him, Will, is just awesome. Thank you for posting... we're still watching...nearly 3 years later.
Will Lee, when ever I listened to you on the Davis Letterman Show, I was always amazed at how you managed to play just the right note in just the right way to embellish the song. Thank you for sharing your insight on Jaco and playing the bass. You are quite the cat.
Just great to see how someone who has been around still finds pleasure in playing bass even during an interview....music is such a beautiful gift. Thanks for the vid, Will...greetings from Belgium
Thanks Will; I really liked this style of interview, very comfortable and relaxed... it allowed you to get in some fretless work that opened your mind to recollections of the time, people and feel surrounding the breakthroughs Jaco (and you) bring to a great instrument.
Will, this is fantastic. It's such a pleasure listening to you discuss the art of music making and especially here on this amazingly unique spirit, Jaco.
Hey Will Lee! Your interview was just awesome I enjoyed it so much you're my fav kind of musician - honest open minded and willing. The humility you exude explians to me just how and why you have such a talent and ability to "get" music, and from the sounds of it you totally get people too (your comments on Jaco were thought provoking and beautifully reverent). Anyhow I'm just a faceless "nobody", an anon, yet I look at my fellow musicians (rich/poor - famous/nobody) as equals and the real good ones are always "students" no matter how old they are, just look at Wille just turned 91 and still growing. I'd suggest you're this type - "Jaco introduced the world to the treasure of bass". Credit where credit is due, period. No hero worship no class divide, as music is truly the great unifier of mankind! You're an inspiration to us all Will, and I'd just like to say thanks for the half hour well spent dude! Be well! - E.S. from TX
one day, many years ago, i was very close to quit playing. because i only knew a 5 percent of things than can be done on a bass and i was quite bored.. then one day a friend of mine told me ... listen to this ... it was the Invitation record. i still remember what i said : wow ... beautiful ... what instrument is it ? he smiled and said : the one you play. No Way !!! i'm still playing, and thanks to him i explored and still exploring many different types of music, especially jazz.. thanks Jaco, i really love You deeply. thank You Will and many compliments for Your great career ;-)
Great interview session... I have always listed Will Lee as one of my main influences for me to play music on my bass. He brings every element to a bassline that needs to be there.
The thing with Jaco was that he was not interested in the money, he realized that the money kills the music, and if you listen to the radio today, you realize that he was right!
pleximanic Thanks so much for enlightening us all with your bullshit theory. Jaco worked very hard to support a growing family and yes, he ‘cared about money.’ Duh!!
Fabulous bassist, musician and great video. I first heard of Jaco via an art teacher who had got wind of the latest phenomenon of bass, late 76. It was around 6 months later I managed to actually get to hear him. The rest is history.
The first time I heard Jaco in '80 I was blown away. As a 13y old kid I heard you play "Calico Baby" with dreams in '74. My life changed for ever. Thank you Will If you got time check my rendition of your song Youtubing "Alex Bankovic Calico Baby" Alex
Will, thanks for posting this. It's really something to watch one of your bass heroes talking about another of your bass heroes. Love your talent, self-deprecating wit and passion for playing! It's infectious.
I loved Jaco since I heard his debut solo album as a teenager. I was lucky enough to get to see him play back in the day at Bar 55, along with guys like Hiram, Mike Stern, Jeff Andrews and others. Uncle Will is my favorite working musician and not just an immense talent, but a truly beautiful human being. Thanks for this terrific video, which I finally caught up to!
what was it like watching Jaco during those years? Did you see him more than once? Was he still the great musician we know or was it hit or miss? All the video I've seen of him in 84, 85, 86 - he's still sounding amazing.
You are one of the greats, will.... you have such a beautiful and unique voice on the instrument as well as a great "voice". What a generous cat you are. blessings
I love this interview Will. You tell us about Jaco whom I love as well and could not lay it out any clearer for us.A lot of folks out there are not really informed about what Jaco did for music or what he was about as a person either but this helps immensely and thank you. I discovered Jaco years ago listening to a live Joni Mitchell show with Jaco and Metheny! I wish others could hear what some of us hear in music but I know that's impossible. They are missing out. Now on a final note as an Amateur radio operator that shirt you have there is way cool. Thanks again!
God I only wish I could play 1/400th the notes that you put out there. Listening to you and others like you, makes me question my own life choices. I will keep plucking along and enjoying you and all the others. I saw you twice on Letterman and I really enjoyed the commercial breaks the most. Thanks for the memories.
What a Gem of an interview. Thanks So Much for posting this what a fountain of knowledge. Its refreshing to hear such a veteran speak so candidly about such an enigma
Thanks for sharing this................... Though masterful through in and through out, I particularly like his work with Joni. He added such great flavor without having to extend. Just great color............. I really appreciate a guy who can make a statement without choosing to use enormous chops to do it.... Like Bill Evans...........
Thanks for sharing Will. I remember sitting at a table at The Iridium with you, Jack Pastorius, John Pastorius, Bob Bobbing and others watching Jimmy Haslip play Word of Mouth Revisited tour. Amazing experience. Jaco will live in all of us bsss players who were exposed to his greatness.
you one of my favorites too Will, I love playing Jaco's style too like you said hard not to think of him when you pick up a fretless. Phil Magini and Bunney Brunel do some amazing fretless work too. Thank your for your great music and Jaco Stories
Love you, love music. Great video and how nice it is to have a musician speak so highly of another. There is no greater trait in an artist. you rock and swing and bop...don't stop!
Wiil, your spirit is even bigger than your playing which is saying a lot. I am a big fan of you as a person on earth having met you at least four times since 1980 when you were on your way to do a Steely Dan session. Rock on bro.
Will Lee is - and always has been THE SHIT!!! His work, and history needs no defense from these never -beens, and never-will-be's out here trying to throw shade. Always gonna be haters that can't - talking shit about winners that can. As Rocco Prestia told me once - "you keep thumpin, and ignore the noise".....
So sad he left us when he did..he is gone not forgotten. Seeing him live was unbelievable..he was his own man.He expanded us as to what the possibility of the bass could do..Monster...player.Thank you for this post greatly appreciated 👍.
Personally I'm sick of people using insightful and educational material such as this and trying to put a negative spin on it. Music is Love. Jaco is a God among men. Will Lee is a Mensch. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for that, I really agree with you about Jaco and love your 'unlocking the bass' thing and the treasures within. He was so subtle and yet so dynamic, there's a lifetime of things to discover. BTW, I love your playing on Lets Stay Together Letterman 1989 with Al Green Toni Childs Tower of Power et al. You held it all together and drove it at the same time.
I finally got turned on to Will Lee by watching some videos of him with Nanci Griffith from Late Night and was just blown away at how he seemed to FEEL the music, both vocally and instrumentally. He appears to be so easy going and yet so free swinging at the same time. While Lee Sklar inspired me to start playing again, Will can almost scare me into selling my instrument. A GREAT player!
Love you Bro. Will 🎸🎸🎸 My main axe is drums but I’ve been trying to learn the bass for the last few years now but I became a fan of yours watching the CBS Orchestra on Letterman. You and Anton were and still my guys! God bless 🎸😀🎸
I love Will Lee ...I really do.As a musician the thing we all strive for is to entertain and Will doe's that bigtime. Great playing and great stories..Cheers Will......Oh!...please come back to Liverpool we miss you.
I saw Will Lee when he was a teenager playing with the Brecker Brothers at the Wise Fools Pub in Chicago. The Brecker Brothers were a hot funk/jazz band and Lee was spot on with some monster bass work as a young teen. Very cool!
Appreciate the interview Will....you have always been a First Tier Bassist to me since I was a teen....When I get back to visit Gotham again I would love to come to a gig of yours outside the TV Studio...Peace
Thank you, Will, for your moving and honest view of this great artist. I am a bit confused by some of the negative comments on this page. They seem pointless. Thanks, again.
That was great Will. Thanks. I got sucked in! Someone posted "Zawinul talks about the loss of Jaco" on fb and I went down a rabbit hole o vids that ended with you. A much needed, inspirational kick in the ass. I've been playing punk too long and need to shed! Seiwell says hi.
Taste! Thats what I try to do for a delivery!! Will your a huge influence on me! It's how you back everyone up so well and professionally man! I want to fill the shoes you do as well as you do it!!
This is a good video becuase it's late and I've just finished my second long gig in two days and I left my bass in the boot of the car as I have another long gig tomorrow... And this makes me want to go and get my bass!
Hi Will, The flageolets on Birdland are easy to play! With your right hand index finger just dampen the note exactly one 8ve above the note you're playing in your left hand. Then you can also move your right hand down (towards the bridge) and you can even get the seventh, which gets that second color Jaco uses. By just playng the "natural harmonics" on open strings, you are limiting yourself. :-) I'm also a bassist but I really enjoy all the work you've done, and the great playing. I've been over here in Europe for the last 50 years so naturally I have played with a lot of other artists. Oops, your clip is from 2013. I'm sure you have figured out the flageolet technique by now :-) Pandemic greetings from an American in Germany! Dave King
Will, I saw Jaco with Wayne Cockryn in Fat City back before he was famous. His band and ours played a group of clubs called the "Place across the Street". I got to town early and walked in through the back by the stage and listened to their last show. Three piece rhythm section and about 8 horn players. I had never heard someone play so percusiively. The band had so much punch. I talked to him a bit and he seemed like he was done with them. I only realized years later while reading about him that it was he that was playing that night.
Yes I do suck! I don't know how many great masters there are out there that are writing all the negative stuff, but glad I've given you a platform to vent your hostilities! Have a wonderful day. Love ya!
Will, being in the New York studio scene myself during the late 70's early 80's playing with Omar, Bashiri and Kashif, you were and still are an inspiration to my bass playing. Everything from Billy Cobham's Dreams to Vince Mendoza. I heard you did a "Mike's" submarine commercial in Montreal, bass and vocals.
You are a great bass player and human... let those to speak sh** they do it 'cause you are so good at what you do... I have learn a lot from hearing your playing ... Peace bro
I know it's tough to read the crap people post on what you've shared, (read taking a shit in your house,) and resist the urge to respond, but you're better off not feeding the trolls. They get off on getting under your skin. Your response only validates them, and their disease. By the way, thanks for your kind comments in regards to one of my favorite musicians.
"Pay no attention to what critics say. No statue has ever been put up to a critic." Jean Sibelius
Cool hit Mr Lee
Will Lee, one of the world's greatest bass players, with a resume of hits and credits longer than a football field...and people want to throw stones from the comfort of their bedrooms!
I absolutely love this - you are willing to put yourself on video and speak passionately about some of your inspirations - Jamerson, McCartney, Jaco - and you do it in such a humble way. It makes the regular joe's like myself again understand that musicians on every level are - or should be - connected by the music and musicians we are passionate about and inspired by.
Thanks for your contributions to the soundtrack of my childhood!
Thanks for the comments, guys. I never thought music was sexist or needed to discriminate. That is so anti-art! Really appreciate the positive words, all...!
Great interview and insight into Jaco, Will. Peace from New Zealand!
Will
Thanks for the great memories you shared about Jaco !!
I got to hang with Jaco and I think it was Terry Nagel for a weekend in 1985 at The L.A. guitar show.
I stayed at and watched ( slept in ) a room for Musician's Institute ..at that hotel where the guitar show was at.. So I saw pretty much all the music happenings that weekend...
I had a few times where Jaco and I were by ourselves and he would tell me some very deep and personal things going on in his life at that time. and the other times it was the 3 of us ..Jaco... Terry ? and me and their friends... I feel so very blessed to have met him . Memories I will always be thankful for !!!!
Will, you're a great guy. Thanx for this
I might have been a bass player had I not discovered you. Back in 1987 I believe, there was an interview you did in Guitar World called "The hardest working bass in show business" (something like that)I learned about your schedule and your Late Night gig.. then I realized, "Wow, being a musician is work!" So, if freaked me out a bit.. Your world seemed so serious and professional.. So I stuck to being a sloppy rock n roll guitarist.. :) 30 years on I am getting serious about bass.. The ol finger joints aren't liking it but I'm having a blast.. Love the interview .. Thanks for the inspiration!
Why am I just now seeing this! Man that was cool stuff! Thanks for sharing Will your the best man!
Will Lee has contributed to so much great music over the past 35-40 years. He's pretty humble, but he's a monster. Not necessarily a trend setter, but a spectacular accompanist and a man with 'big ears' as they say. He really understands his role as a Bass player and always gets inside the music. One of my favorite musicians.
Absolutely. And Jaco's genius becomes apparent when musicians this good can't really approach his feel, musicality & tone. In fact it sounds kinda noisy and crappy when he tries to show us by example. In this way, Jaco is beyond Hendrix originality, that he still can't be imitated in any way that does him justice.
Will Lee spreading the Jaco love - so deserving and props to Will for helping keep his memory alive. Very cool thing to do... much respect to you Will.
There is so much I love about this video, it's hard to know where to start. The absolute reverence for Jaco in Mr. Lee's words are inspiring and touching. But then the degree with which he has studied Jaco's touch on the the fretless J-Bass shows an adoration that translated into hours of study. This film makes me even more proud to be a bassist, and even more convinced that the instrument has centuries of genius ahead of it. Our musical culture embraces scientific rigor, artistic creativity, and respect for our forebears. As Jaco himself said, "WOMEN AND RHYTHM SECTION FIRST!" Thanks again for this, Mr. Lee.
That story about Jaco soloing for an hour (while "giving" a bass lesson) is thee best story ever.
So funny. So great.
LOVE IT.
Thanks for sharing, Will.
-ET
Wow! That was fascinating. Not only is Will articulate, but he's able to demonstrate as he speaks. I really enjoyed this.
I recall hearing Jaco play in bands around Fort Lauderdale in the 1970s - the Four O'Clock Club, She, Batchelors III, Village Zoo, etc. I didn't appreciate just how good he was. South Florida has always been awash with great musicians.
Thanks, Will, for recording and uploading this treasure.
Thank you for taking the time to create this video. It's great to get some insights into both your and Jaco's experiences.
It seems as though Will Lee is, as great a human being, as an electric bassist-phenomenal!!! What a true pleasure to watch and listen!
I can feel Will's sadness and pain with the lost of Jaco, Will's been my hero since 1977, I'll buy any album that's got Will's name on it as a sideman. Jaco's a true genius on bass and composition. Lotsa love to you Will, from Singapore. Yes, we took notice of you all the way from the other side of the Globe Mr Lee :)
let's not forget to recognize and thank, Will Lee who has given us a mountain of beautiful music as well...
Hey Will! I'll never forget how cool you were to me when you happened to be at one of my gigs somewhere. I was flattered, and humbled. We had a lot of friends and session mates in common. You speak of 'welcoming' well, you made me feel welcome. Thanks, man.
I've been lucky enough to meet a handful of truly great musicians in my lifetime, and hands down the really great players are always humble and gracious. After watching this, Will Lee is clearly in that league. Thanks for such a down to earth and generous interview.
Will you are a great player class act with enormous respect to all musicians not just Jaco.
Touching interview man. Thank you so much for sharing your experiences and memories!
Thanks, Will! What a laid back interview as if we all were just chill'n with you while you shared some Jaco-"ism" with us. Priceless, a definite keeper for my TH-cam vault. You absolutely right ..... Jaco Lives!!
As someone who has played bass behind Bo Diddley, Jack Bruce, Jeff Beck and Peter Green among others... I'll weigh in... Will Lee is a consummate musician. A great singer, and he took the time to share with you folks. Be thankful... and stop casting stones less you get a brick back. Musical veterans really don't give a crap about your negativity. They've made it... Now it's your turn... Watcha got? Most people don't bother anymore because of the silliness.
great video! thanks great Will for sharing memory and love for JAco the greatest
So much bass knowledge and ONLY TOTAL love for Jaco. Great interview!
That's the Jaco I remember when I was at the UM music school 1972-77. I used to go down to the Unitarian church in S. Miami to hear him play with Ira Sullivan. It didn't matter if you were an established player with real chops or a beginner like I was at the time, Jaco was humble and gracious to everyone. A couple of years later I saw him at a Weather Report concert in NYC and he greeted me like I was an old friend. I have to smile when ever I hear him play because there was so much joy in his performances. He heard things nobody else knew was there and made it real for the rest of us.
I heard Ira Sullivan was maybe the main person responsible for turning Jaco into the pro the he was. Did you know him from the early days or did he just recognize you from the crowd? I heard he had somewhat of a photographic memory.
@@PatriotSteve Jaco had a 150IQ and many speculate now, including myself, he may have been on the spectrum.
Will Lee has been a massive inspiration to me as a bass player, his studio credits and ability to play in so many different styles so well and really groove is fantastic. A master of economy of notes and a great reader. Why has he been in so much demand and played on so many recording dates, etc, etc for decades? The proof is in the pudding, its his approach to playing the right notes and with groove and melody - Awesome musician! Enough said.
Will Lee, your superb bass playing really complements the narrative, and the anecdotes of Jaco and bass playing in general. Thanks for posting. Cheers!
So glad that YOU are still with us, Will Lee -- to share you talent and your stories! I remember Dave Holland (drop, drop) telling me about the first time he met Jaco - I wish I was bumping around NYC in the early '80s! (was just a teen way up in Saugerties)
Hi Will, it was great to hear you talk about Jaco. Thanks for the great contribution you made to music as well. I first became aware of you when you were jamming with Steve Gadd & Richard Tee. I think I was just getting into listening & playing funk at that time. I'm a piano player. Lovely to hear one of the greats pay homage to another great .You are a very humble guy! I really appreciate that!!
It's not how many notes you can play in a given moment that matters, but how you make a person feel while playing! As often said in certain circles, "It don't mean a thing, if it ain't got that swing"! Longevity is the key! Will Lee has earned his place in bass player history!!
So enjoyable... me & some friends are coming off immersion of the new Jaco documentary....and getting your take on your experiences with him, Will, is just awesome.
Thank you for posting... we're still watching...nearly 3 years later.
Will Lee, when ever I listened to you on the Davis Letterman Show, I was always amazed at how you managed to play just the right note in just the right way to embellish the song. Thank you for sharing your insight on Jaco and playing the bass. You are quite the cat.
Just great to see how someone who has been around still finds pleasure in playing bass even during an interview....music is such a beautiful gift. Thanks for the vid, Will...greetings from Belgium
Outstanding dissertation on my favorite bassist and this drummer loves em’ all! Thanks Will
Thanks Will; I really liked this style of interview, very comfortable and relaxed... it allowed you to get in some fretless work that opened your mind to recollections of the time, people and feel surrounding the breakthroughs Jaco (and you) bring to a great instrument.
Whew that made me feel happy and good..glad to be here..ty Will
Thanks for the video Will, have always loved your work. Jaco was a prize, appreciate your opinion of his playing.
love your work, and your open heart; thanks for all you have given us
Will, you are a legendary player with a keen wit to boot. Lots of wonderful, honest insights in this clip. Thank you very much for sharing!
Will Lee thanks so much for the post.
Dig your channel Will, killer bass player too. Miss the tonight show.
Thank you for your insight. You are quite accomplished. To hear your take on Jaco is enlightening. Thank you for sharing.
Will, this is fantastic. It's such a pleasure listening to you discuss the art of music making and especially here on this amazingly unique spirit, Jaco.
Hey Will Lee! Your interview was just awesome I enjoyed it so much you're my fav kind of musician - honest open minded and willing. The humility you exude explians to me just how and why you have such a talent and ability to "get" music, and from the sounds of it you totally get people too (your comments on Jaco were thought provoking and beautifully reverent). Anyhow I'm just a faceless "nobody", an anon, yet I look at my fellow musicians (rich/poor - famous/nobody) as equals and the real good ones are always "students" no matter how old they are, just look at Wille just turned 91 and still growing. I'd suggest you're this type - "Jaco introduced the world to the treasure of bass". Credit where credit is due, period. No hero worship no class divide, as music is truly the great unifier of mankind! You're an inspiration to us all Will, and I'd just like to say thanks for the half hour well spent dude! Be well! - E.S. from TX
Hello Mr. Will. Thank you very much for uploading this video and for sharing your personal memories ´bout Jaco. Great !!!
one day, many years ago, i was very close to quit playing. because i only knew a 5 percent of things than can be done on a bass and i was quite bored.. then one day a friend of mine told me ... listen to this ... it was the Invitation record. i still remember what i said : wow ... beautiful ... what instrument is it ? he smiled and said : the one you play. No Way !!! i'm still playing, and thanks to him i explored and still exploring many different types of music, especially jazz.. thanks Jaco, i really love You deeply. thank You Will and many compliments for Your great career ;-)
What a great tribute!
Great interview session... I have always listed Will Lee as one of my main influences for me to play music on my bass. He brings every element to a bassline that needs to be there.
The thing with Jaco was that he was not interested in the money, he realized that the money kills the music, and if you listen to the radio today, you realize that he was right!
+pleximanic I love the artwork on that 8:30 Album...it's BEAUTIFUL!
pleximanic WELL SAID!!!
He did say that he liked playing rock and roll because there was more money in it though.
pleximanic Thanks so much for enlightening us all with your bullshit theory. Jaco worked very hard to support a growing family and yes, he ‘cared about money.’ Duh!!
and he slept on a park bench homeless with a pair of pants in his guitar case. are you willing to do that for your art
Thx Will Lee for sharing your tought and passion.
Fabulous bassist, musician and great video. I first heard of Jaco via an art teacher who had got wind of the latest phenomenon of bass, late 76. It was around 6 months later I managed to actually get to hear him. The rest is history.
The first time I heard Jaco in '80 I was blown away.
As a 13y old kid I heard you play "Calico Baby" with dreams in '74.
My life changed for ever.
Thank you Will
If you got time check my rendition of your song Youtubing "Alex Bankovic Calico Baby"
Alex
Will, thanks for posting this. It's really something to watch one of your bass heroes talking about another of your bass heroes. Love your talent, self-deprecating wit and passion for playing! It's infectious.
I loved Jaco since I heard his debut solo album as a teenager. I was lucky enough to get to see him play back in the day at Bar 55, along with guys like Hiram, Mike Stern, Jeff Andrews and others. Uncle Will is my favorite working musician and not just an immense talent, but a truly beautiful human being. Thanks for this terrific video, which I finally caught up to!
what was it like watching Jaco during those years? Did you see him more than once? Was he still the great musician we know or was it hit or miss? All the video I've seen of him in 84, 85, 86 - he's still sounding amazing.
Wonderful insights and great playing. Thank you Will!
You are one of the greats, will.... you have such a beautiful and unique voice on the instrument as well as a great "voice". What a generous cat you are. blessings
Thank you for this video, Mr. Lee. Hugely informative and entertaining.
Thanks for honoring Jaco with your recollections - I learned something from your fabulous playing - I need to practice a lot more.
Great vid.. I have enjoyed your playing for decades...
it was a good interview. insightful and genuine
thanks
I love this interview Will. You tell us about Jaco whom I love as well and could not lay it out any clearer for us.A lot of folks out there are not really informed about what Jaco did for music or what he was about as a person either but this helps immensely and thank you. I discovered Jaco years ago listening to a live Joni Mitchell show with Jaco and Metheny! I wish others could hear what some of us hear in music but I know that's impossible. They are missing out. Now on a final note as an Amateur radio operator that shirt you have there is way cool. Thanks again!
God I only wish I could play 1/400th the notes that you put out there. Listening to you and others like you, makes me question my own life choices. I will keep plucking along and enjoying you and all the others. I saw you twice on Letterman and I really enjoyed the commercial breaks the most. Thanks for the memories.
Thanks Will. Thoroughly enjoyed it!
What a Gem of an interview. Thanks So Much for posting this what a fountain of knowledge. Its refreshing to hear such a veteran speak so candidly about such an enigma
@ 22:00 Kermit Driscoll also studied with Jaco.
Great interview. Will, really love your playing on Burton/Metheny's Reunion. Cheers!
Will, you are awesome, thanks for sharing.
Thanks for sharing this................... Though masterful through in and through out, I particularly like his work with Joni. He added such great flavor without having to extend. Just great color............. I really appreciate a guy who can make a statement without choosing to use enormous chops to do it.... Like Bill Evans...........
This is such a cool interview.... Brings Jaco alive & your sense of humour is spot on!!!
Thanks for sharing Will. I remember sitting at a table at The Iridium with you, Jack Pastorius, John Pastorius, Bob Bobbing and others watching Jimmy Haslip play Word of Mouth Revisited tour. Amazing experience. Jaco will live in all of us bsss players who were exposed to his greatness.
Good times indeed!!
thank u Will, for sharing your memories on Jaco
Thanx Will!!!
Awesome for Any bass fan!!!
Made my Day!!!
Great vid Will. Loved your stories on Jaco and your thoughts on things. Excellent playing as always 👍
Excellent interview!
you one of my favorites too Will, I love playing Jaco's style too like you said hard not to think of him when you pick up a fretless. Phil Magini and Bunney Brunel do some amazing fretless work too. Thank your for your great music and Jaco Stories
very cool... thank you for sharing your insights Will!
Much love and respect brother. Always so much to learn from the bass greats.
@ 16.50 On mapping harmonics: Harmonics for the electric bass by Adam Novick. Awesome book! 1980
Thanks for leaving all the raw video here - it's more human. :)
Love you, love music. Great video and how nice it is to have a musician speak so highly of another. There is no greater trait in an artist. you rock and swing and bop...don't stop!
Wiil, your spirit is even bigger than your playing which is saying a lot. I am a big fan of you as a person on earth having met you at least four times since 1980 when you were on your way to do a Steely Dan session. Rock on bro.
Great video! Love the UV Tee shirt!
Will Lee is - and always has been THE SHIT!!! His work, and history needs no defense from these never -beens, and never-will-be's out here trying to throw shade. Always gonna be haters that can't - talking shit about winners that can. As Rocco Prestia told me once - "you keep thumpin, and ignore the noise".....
Good stuff Mr. Lee! Thank you!
Great interview. I absolutely love your Wayne Cochran impression " little head inside the big hair screaming like an infant" lmao!!!
So sad he left us when he did..he is gone not forgotten. Seeing him live was unbelievable..he was his own man.He expanded us as to what the possibility of the bass could do..Monster...player.Thank you for this post greatly appreciated 👍.
I'm not a bass player (I play guitar and drums for some bands), but I love to hear bass and you're my most favorite bass player.
Great to hear the Jaco insights from another great; thanks for the inspiration!
Personally I'm sick of people using insightful and educational material such as this and trying to put a negative spin on it. Music is Love. Jaco is a God among men. Will Lee is a Mensch. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for that, I really agree with you about Jaco and love your 'unlocking the bass' thing and the treasures within. He was so subtle and yet so dynamic, there's a lifetime of things to discover. BTW, I love your playing on Lets Stay Together Letterman 1989 with Al Green Toni Childs Tower of Power et al. You held it all together and drove it at the same time.
Great conversation!
I finally got turned on to Will Lee by watching some videos of him with Nanci Griffith from Late Night and was just blown away at how he seemed to FEEL the music, both vocally and instrumentally. He appears to be so easy going and yet so free swinging at the same time. While Lee Sklar inspired me to start playing again, Will can almost scare me into selling my instrument. A GREAT player!
Love you Bro. Will 🎸🎸🎸
My main axe is drums but I’ve been trying to learn the bass for the last few years now but I became a fan of yours watching the CBS Orchestra on Letterman. You and Anton were and still my guys! God bless 🎸😀🎸
I love Will Lee ...I really do.As a musician the thing we all strive for is to entertain and Will doe's that bigtime. Great playing and great stories..Cheers Will......Oh!...please come back to Liverpool we miss you.
I saw Will Lee when he was a teenager playing with the Brecker Brothers at the Wise Fools Pub in Chicago. The Brecker Brothers were a hot funk/jazz band and Lee was spot on with some monster bass work as a young teen. Very cool!
Appreciate the interview Will....you have always been a First Tier Bassist to me since I was a teen....When I get back to visit Gotham again I would love to come to a gig of yours outside the TV Studio...Peace
Great man..ty Will!...fantastic!!!!
Thank you, Will, for your moving and honest view of this great artist. I am a bit confused by some of the negative comments on this page. They seem pointless. Thanks, again.
That was great Will. Thanks. I got sucked in! Someone posted "Zawinul talks about the loss of Jaco" on fb and I went down a rabbit hole o vids that ended with you. A much needed, inspirational kick in the ass. I've been playing punk too long and need to shed! Seiwell says hi.
Taste! Thats what I try to do for a delivery!! Will your a huge influence on me! It's how you back everyone up so well and professionally man! I want to fill the shoes you do as well as you do it!!
This is a good video becuase it's late and I've just finished my second long gig in two days and I left my bass in the boot of the car as I have another long gig tomorrow... And this makes me want to go and get my bass!
Hi Will, The flageolets on Birdland are easy to play! With your right hand index finger just dampen the note exactly one 8ve above the note you're playing in your left hand. Then you can also move your right hand down (towards the bridge) and you can even get the seventh, which gets that second color Jaco uses. By just playng the "natural harmonics" on open strings, you are limiting yourself. :-) I'm also a bassist but I really enjoy all the work you've done, and the great playing. I've been over here in Europe for the last 50 years so naturally I have played with a lot of other artists. Oops, your clip is from 2013. I'm sure you have figured out the flageolet technique by now :-) Pandemic greetings from an American in Germany! Dave King
Will, I saw Jaco with Wayne Cockryn in Fat City back before he was famous. His band and ours played a group of clubs called the "Place across the Street". I got to town early and walked in through the back by the stage and listened to their last show. Three piece rhythm section and about 8 horn players. I had never heard someone play so percusiively. The band had so much punch. I talked to him a bit and he seemed like he was done with them. I only realized years later while reading about him that it was he that was playing that night.
Great video, Will. Love your playing