Upright Citizens

"What does it mean to lead a band from the bass? What's different, what's the same, and what do two professional bassists think about what it takes? Listen in to this discussion about what we really think about being a bass leader..."We hope you enjoy this conversation and we'd love to hear your thoughts. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] and let us know what's up. Peace!  ★ Support this podcast ★

"Your life is your greatest musical asset - so go live it. In this episode of Upright Citizens, we're talking about why the best thing you can do for your playing might have nothing to do with practicing."We hope you enjoy this conversation and we'd love to hear your thoughts. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] and let us know what's up. Peace!  ★ Support this podcast ★

"In this episode, Bob and Reuben explore the hidden beauty inside musical “mistakes” - and why the notes we didn’t mean to play might be the ones that move us forward. Through stories and reflection, they invite us to loosen our grip on perfection and discover how missteps can open the door to something honest, creative, and unexpectedly beautiful."We'd love to hear your thoughts as well! Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] and let us know  ★ Support this podcast ★

"We do need to have good technique to play and say what we hear on the bass - but how much is enough? Can technique go too far, and what is essential? In this episode Reuben and Bob share their thoughts on just how much technique we really need" We'd love to hear your thoughts as well! Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] and let us know  ★ Support this podcast ★

"There are always certain traits, habits, or even non-tangible elements that draw us to our favorite people and artists. Find out what those elements are to Bob and Reuben in this episode."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Music is all about connection, and nurturing your relationships is so important to keeping those connections happening! Hang with Bob & Reuben today as they discuss their thoughts on staying connected and keeping your relationships happening."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Bassist extraordinaire Joe Sanders is getting his flowers from the Upright Citizens this time. Nobody plays like Joe, and his writing and collaborations are always incredible. Let's listen and share thoughts on this master!" The UC Joe Sanders playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0ASufk595TtFJygTLRQGt9?si=b1d483320c8043e7If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"The role of the bass is support of course, but there's ways that we can be more or less 'melodic' with our playing. This episode dives into what it means to play 'melodically' and why you might want to..."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"We're back with another drum & bass teamup focus! This time we're celebrating the connection that Larry Grenadier and Jeff Ballard have, as well as the the incredible driving force of the Rodney Whitaker and Carl Allen hookup."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Everybody makes "mistakes"...and there's no better way to learn! Join Bob & Reuben on this discussion of what's important to keep in mind when we have things go other than expected..."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"In this episode Reuben mentions three names and has Bob respond on the spot with his thoughts. You'll have to listen to find out who gets mentioned...and to hear what Bob has to say about them!"If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"The connection between the bass and the drums is a deep one! In this episode we shine light on two of our favorite teams: Peter Washington/Kenny Washington and Robert Hurst/Jeff Tain Watts. Let's listen together and dig into what makes these teams so great..."Peter Washington/Kenny Washington:1) Bill Charlap Trio "While We're Young" (Live at the Village Vanguard)2) Grant Stewart "Koko" (Downton Sounds)Robert Hurst/Jeff 'Tain' Watts:1) Wynton Marsalis "Cherokee" (Standard Time Vol. 1)2) Branford Marsalis "Wolverine" (Crazy People Music)If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"This is a fun one! Bob says three names, and Reuben shares his immediate thoughts on those folks. There's a theme here, but you have to listen to find out!"If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Finding the right bow is a very personal journey and can be daunting. Join the Citizens as they discuss Reuben's recent search for a bow while on tour..."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Music 'theory'....Is it helpful? Is it a crutch? Can it make you a better player? Can it stifle your creativity? Come join the Upright Citizens as we kind of say 'yes' to all of these questions!"If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

The Upright Citizens are back! This time with some inspired ideas on creating new habits in your musical life that will set you up for success. We tend to focus so much on goals, but in this episode Bob and Reuben take time to talk about the journey. If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"We're taking a look back at some of our favorite Upright Citizens moments of 2024!"If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"It's not always easy to hear, but receiving criticism is a gift! This episode deals with ideas on how to be open to criticism, what to do with it, and perhaps how to give it to yourself..."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"We all end up so busy and it's easy to get burned out these days....so what can we do to get and stay inspired as musicians? Join the Citizens this time as they share their ideas about keeping it fresh!"If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"This time the Citizens celebrate one of the greatest, and perhaps underrated, bassists of all time - Percy Heath. He played and recorded with everyone from Bird to Dizzy and was a crucial component to the Modern Jazz Quartet. Join us as we listen and learn more about the great Percy Heath!"UC - Percy Heath PlaylistIf you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

Many upright bassists start on the electric first - we both did! They are very different instruments that often function in similar ways, but there is a lot of technical considerations that must be addressed. In this episode we share our thoughts and suggestions for electric bassists looking to make 'The Switch!'If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

As musicians, our ears are one of the most important tools we use! They are instruments unto themselves and we have to practice listening to grow in our musicianship. In this episode we delve into our thoughts on how to get "Better Ears"... If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

We're back with another 'Guess THAT Bassist' episode! This time Reuben will say a few bits of trivia about some well-known jazz bassists, and let's see how quickly Bob can figure it out. Can you guess before he does? If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"We love the electric bass here at Upright Citizens, and most especially the great Marcus Miller! A true pioneer of music, Marcus is just as well-known for his writing, producing, arranging, and is a leader in so many facets in the music biz. In this episode, Bob and Reuben share some of their favorite Marcus tracks, as well as their thoughts and stories all about this legendary musician..." UPRIGHT CITIZENS MARCUS MILLER PLAYLIST If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

Let's play a nerdy bass game. Bob will say a few bits of trivia about some well-known jazz bassists, and let's see how quickly Reuben can figure it out. Sounds like fun! If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"The Citizens are back for part 2 of the Bass Blindfold Test! This time Reuben is in the hot seat trying to guess who's playing. See if you can name the bassists that Bob is choosing before Reuben does!"If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected]  ★ Support this podcast ★

"We all know the classic 'blindfold test' - well, here's the Upright Citizens "bass-centric" version with Bob in the hot seat first! Reuben has picked a few bassists and will play a snippet of a recording and then we're off to guess who is playing and talk about what we hear..."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"The Upright Citizens are celebrating the release of their 100th episode in style with very special guest and bass legend, John Patitucci. The conversation goes from 'doubling' to football, and Instagram to Larry Graham...listen to the end to find out what John thinks would surprise his fans to know about him!"If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"We all know the phrase 'One man's trash is another man's treasure' and the Citizens are here this time to talk about letting go of the things we don't really need. Not just for ourselves, but for others." If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"We open up with a great T.K. Coleman quote about what success is and understanding what that means for ourselves. Give yourself some grace and start working towards who you are for yourself..."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Can you practice away from the bass? Of course you can! In this episode the Upright Citizens answer 'why' you might want to practice without your instrument, and then offer some great advice on 'how' to creatively do just that!"If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"In a rut? Feeling uninspired when you play? Try out these 5 'on the gig' challenges that just might open up some new pathways for your musicianship today!" If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"We have often heard that we should transcribe and study the Masters - we're talking about Ray Brown, Ron Carter, Paul Chambers, and many more - but the deeper question was brought up by our recent special guest Linda Oh: "WHY should we transcribe the Masters?" Well, that's what we're here to talk about...the WHY!"If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"We heard from so many of you after our last release that you dug the 'Sax Trio Brilliance' episode - so we are back with more of Bob and Reuben's favorite Sax Trios! As a bassist, the freedom and transparency that happens in a chord-less saxophone trio can lead to inspiring new territory. We'll dig in this time to cuts that feature some of our favorite bassists - Milt Hinton, Gary Peacock, Charlie Haden, Ron Carter, Reggie Workman, and Christian McBride" If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Sax Trios have long been an engaging and explorative vehicle for bassists. Think the freedom of Wilbur Ware on "A Night at the Village Vanguard", Oscar Pettiford on "Freedom Suite", or Ray Brown on "Way Out West"...yeah, we love Sonny Rollins! In this episode Bob and Reuben share and rap about some of their favorite Sax Trios 'situations'. Larry Grenadier, Henry Grimes, Pablo Menares, Dave Holland, and Kiyoshi Kitagawa are featured in this 1st of a 2-part series." Here's a bonus Spotify Playlist with some of our favorite Sax Trios. Let us know what YOU like!If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Versatility. That word gets used a lot when talking about being 'marketable' as a musician. While it is a positive attribute when balanced being too versatile can potentially hinder us as well. Bob and Reuben discuss their thoughts on finding that balance in this episode..." If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Linda May Han Oh is one of the premier bassists and composers in the world. In this episode the Upright Citizens discuss everything from advice for students, hearing and singing what you play, emotional aspects of her compositions, and so much more..."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Why is the 'Trial & Error' process so important for creative musicians? We need to be fearless and embrace our mistakes to grow, so that's where we'll start in this episode of Upright Citizens."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Bassist Scott Colley has been in high demand for decades, and for good reason! Come hang with the Upright Citizens as we listen to and discuss his bass brilliance..."Upright Citizens 'Scott Colley' PlaylistIf you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"2024 is here and the Upright Citizens are putting their energies towards growth! What is on your list of ways to grow this year?" If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Well here we are at the end of another great year of Upright Citizens. In this episode Reuben and Bob take a look back of some of the bright moments of 2023 and say "peace" until next year. Happy Holidays and a Joyous New Year from Bob and Reuben✌️" If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"It's here, it's here! It's Christmas time again, and the Upright Citizens are back with more of their favorite Christmas recordings and memories. Let's get in the spirit with sounds from some of our favorite bassists including John Clayton, Charlie Haden, Milt Hinton, Gary Peacock, Larry Grenadier!"Upright Citizens Xmas Party 2023 PlaylistInterested in more music advice? Check out the Open Studio courses and online practice community that is Open Studio Pro...where you'll find regular live guided practice sessions and masterclasses by Open Studio Artists like Reuben Rogers, Bob DeBoo, Peter Martin, Adam Maness, and many more. ★ Support this podcast ★

"Maestro John Clayton has been a looming and positive presence on the scene for decades. Inspiring audiences and musicians all over the world with his playing, writing, and gracious personality is his forte...and in this interview we get to hear about what inspires him! You might be surprised to hear that YOU are an inspiration to him..."Here's the Upright Citizens John Clayton Playlist!If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Vulnerability. Easier said than done, right? What does it take to tear down those walls we build around our egos in search of being more creative in our improvisation? In this episode, Bob and Reuben discuss the power of vulnerability and how to use it to do just that and much much more."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Maestro Rufus Reid has been on the frontlines of the bass world for decades. He is a most prolific performer, composer, arranger, and educator...and now he can add being a guest on the Upright Citizens Podcast to his incredible resume! Join Reuben and Bob as they get deep with Rufus Reid."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"We're back this time for part 2 of our focus on the art of the duo. Jimmy Blanton, Gary Peacock, Charlie Haden, and Red Mitchell get some much-deserved love this time!"If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Playing in a duo is one of the most intimate musical experiences, and we've picked out some of our favorite duo situations involving some of our favorite bassists. Christian McBride, Ron Carter, NHOP, and Dave Holland open up the first part of our conversation on duos..."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"Having a love of learning and a growth mindset is a great way to live, and as musicians we are always aiming to grow and learn more about our craft. Let's talk about some creative ways to grow as a person and musician..."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★

"In modern society, where we are bombarded with information constantly, it can be challenging to slow down and absorb glorious details that surround us in depth. This relates directly to our music life as well, so we better pay attention! In this episode Reuben and Bob discuss their thoughts on why details matter, and what you can do to build your awareness muscle..."If you like Bass - you're in the right place! Interested in more music and practice advice? Check out Open Studio...where you'll find courses and much more by world-class bassists like Reuben Rogers, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Bob DeBoo and more. Reach out to the Upright Citizens anytime at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast ★