John Peña

The A-list bassist’s most important tool: Versatility

Versatility.  For A-list session players, it’s not only the ability to adapt to a variety of musical styles and genres, but to the artists who call them in for a gig.  John Peña has made a successful career in music by having this ability to adapt to any musical scenario that comes his way.  On today’s episode of Inside MusiCast, we’ll chat with John about his path to becoming a first call bassist in L.A. John’s gift of versatility has led him to gigs with a variety of artists and musical styles, including Carlos Santana, Julio Iglesias, Los Lobotomys, Natalie Cole, The Crusaders, Herb Alpert, Chaka Khan, Jerry Garcia, Chick Corea, Steve Vai, Diana Ross, Aretha Franklin, Larry Carlton, Michael McDonald, Joe Sample, Michael Brecker, David Sanborn, Patti LaBelle, Patti Austin, and many others. He recently finished-up a tour with Oleta Adams and took some time to discuss life, music, computers, and even airplanes.  Inside MusiCast welcomes John Peña.