When I first stumbled upon Pino Palladino's name in the liner notes of John Mayer's
Continuum album, it was as if I'd uncovered a secret key to the world of smooth, under-the-radar bass playing. Seeing him effortlessly blend into the background in a YouTube video, yet profoundly impact the music, sparked a fascination. This smooth bass cat had me hooked with his unique style and quiet, yet powerful presence. I realized I needed to learn more about him, to understand the magic behind his touch.
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Who is Pino Palladino?
Born in Cardiff, Wales, in 1957, Pino Palladino started his musical journey at a young age, initially dabbling with the guitar before switching to bass. His passion and dedication to music were evident from the start. Hours upon hours were spent honing his skills, practicing relentlessly, and absorbing influences from a myriad of genres. This dedication laid the foundation for a bass playing style that would become revered worldwide. But how did he get so good? It was a combination of natural talent, relentless practice, and a deep understanding of music's rhythm and groove that set Pino apart.
What Bands Has Pino Played With?
Pino's career is a roadmap through the music industry's most iconic moments and bands. He first made waves in the early '80s, adding his signature fretless bass sound to Paul Young's hits. His journey continued with significant collaborations, including playing with The Who, Nine Inch Nails, and D'Angelo. Each project showcased his ability to adapt and enhance the music he touched, seamlessly transitioning between genres and styles.
What Do Famous Musicians Say About Pino Palladino?
John Mayer - "Pino's bass is the bedrock of the Continuum album. His touch is unmatched."
Questlove - "Pino Palladino is a groove master. His playing on D'Angelo's Voodoo album is a masterclass."
Pete Townshend (The Who) - "Pino isn't just playing bass; he's adding a new dimension to our sound."
Eric Clapton - "Pino has an uncanny ability to fill spaces you didn't even know existed in a song."
Stevie Wonder - "His bass lines are like a heartbeat. Essential and full of soul."
Pino palladino's Time with John Mayer
Pino Palladino's tenure with John Mayer is a significant chapter in both musicians' careers, marked by a profound mutual respect and a shared musical vision. Their collaboration extends beyond the acclaimed Continuum album, through Battle Studies, and into the deep grooves of The Search for Everything. Palladino's bass provides a foundational element that is both subtle and profound, underpinning Mayer's exploration of blues, pop, and rock.
On Continuum, Palladino's fluid bass lines are a cornerstone of the album's sound, particularly notable on tracks like "Gravity" and "Slow Dancing in a Burning Room." His ability to meld rhythm with melody complements Mayer's guitar work, creating a sonic landscape that is rich and immersive.
Their collaboration continued with Battle Studies, where Palladino's bass subtly shifts to match the album's introspective and slightly more pop-oriented direction. His work on songs like "Who Says" and "Edge of Desire" showcases his versatility, adapting his style to suit the mood and tone of each track.
With The Search for Everything, Palladino and Mayer delved into an even broader array of sounds and styles. From the funk-infused "Still Feel Like Your Man" to the soulful "Rosie," Palladino's bass is ever-present, providing warmth and groove that elevate the tracks. His mastery of both electric and upright bass adds layers of texture throughout the album, demonstrating his broad musical range.
Throughout their time together, Mayer has frequently lauded Palladino for his incredible musicianship and pivotal role in bringing his songs to life. In turn, Palladino has expressed admiration for Mayer's song writing and guitar prowess, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines their work together. This partnership has not only produced some of the most memorable moments in Mayer's discography but has also solidified Palladino's status as a bassist capable of enhancing and transforming the music he touches.
Pino palladino's Style of Playing
Pino Palladino's playing style is distinguished by its lyrical, melodic approach to the bass. He often employs a fretless bass, which contributes to his fluid, expressive lines. Pino is known for his impeccable timing, deep grooves, and the ability to add complexity without overshadowing the main melody. His technique reflects a blend of influences, from soul and R&B to rock and jazz, making his playing rich and versatile.
The Top 5 Songs Featuring Pino Palladino
John Mayer - "Gravity"
D'Angelo - "Untitled (How Does It Feel)"
The Who - "Baba O'Riley" (Live versions post-2002)
Adele - "He Won't Go"
Gary Numan - "Are 'Friends' Electric?" (Live versions with Nine Inch Nails)
5 Points of Famous Pino Palladino Trivia
Pino Palladino played on the Band Aid single "Do They Know It's Christmas?" in 1984.
He stepped in to play for The Who after John Entwistle's untimely death in 2002.
Pino is a self-taught musician, learning primarily by ear in his formative years.
He was instrumental in the development of the neo-soul sound, particularly through his work with D'Angelo.
Pino rarely uses effects pedals, preferring the natural sound of his bass and amp to define his tone.
In Summary - Pino Palladino's musical deep dive
Pino Palladino's influence on music spans genres, from rock to soul and beyond.
His unique fretless sound and deep grooves have made him a bass legend.
Palladino's collaborations read like a who's who of the music industry.
His approach to bass is both melodic and rhythmic, creating signature lines that complement and enhance the music.
Pino's gear choices reflect his focus on achieving a pure, authentic sound.
List of Products used by pino palladino
Dive into the world of bass playing with the same tools and gear that have shaped Pino Palladino's legendary career. Start with a Fender Precision Bass or a Music Man StingRay Bass to capture that iconic tone. Don't forget to pair it with Ampeg SVT amps for that undeniable warmth and punch. For strings, flatwounds are essential for achieving Palladino's signature smooth sound. Although Pino prefers fingerstyle, experimenting with different techniques and gear can help you find your unique voice on the bass.
Bass Guitars
Music Man StingRay 5-String Bass: Pino has often been seen with a StingRay, particularly in the late '80s and '90s. Its punchy, mid-forward sound contributed to the defining grooves of many tracks during this period.
Fender Precision Bass: A staple in Pino's arsenal, the Precision Bass is known for its warm, round tones. Pino has used this bass across numerous sessions, including his time with John Mayer and The Who.
Yamaha BB Series: During the 2000s, Pino often played Yamaha BB basses, including custom models. These basses were a significant part of his sound during his collaborations with D'Angelo and Erykah Badu.
Fodera Monarch 4 String: Pino has used Fodera basses, known for their exceptional craftsmanship and tone, in various sessions. His Fodera Monarch 4 string has been his go-to for several recordings and live performances, offering a distinct, rich sound.
1961 Fender Jazz Bass: Known for its versatile tone, Pino has utilized the Jazz Bass for its distinctive sound that cuts through the mix, particularly in his jazz and fusion work.
Amplifiers and Cabinets
Ampeg SVT Classic: For many years, the Ampeg SVT has been Pino's choice for its powerful output and ability to deliver a clear, defined bass tone at high volumes, used extensively on tour.
Aguilar DB 751: This high-powered amp head paired with Aguilar cabinets offers a modern, flexible tone with lots of headroom, which Pino has utilized in more recent years for its versatility.
Gallien-Krueger MB Fusion 500: Known for its lightweight design and tube preamp section, Pino has used this for smaller gigs and studio sessions where a nuanced tone is required.
Strings and Accessories
La Bella Flatwound Strings: Pino is known for his preference for flatwound strings, particularly La Bella, which contribute to his smooth, warm tone.
Dunlop Super Bright Nickel Strings: For a brighter tone with more attack, Pino has occasionally switched to these strings, especially when seeking a more pronounced sound in the mix.
Levy's Leather Bass Strap: Pino chooses comfortable, durable straps for support during long sessions and performances, with Levy's being a preferred brand.
Effects and Pedals
MXR M82 Bass Envelope Filter: For funk and soul sessions, Pino has utilized this pedal to add a distinctive, funky articulation to his playing.
Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI: This pedal has been a key part of Pino's setup for achieving a consistent tone, both live and in the studio, especially when going directly into the mixing board.
Pino Palladino’s choice of gear reflects his approach to music: versatile, nuanced, and always serving the song. Whether it’s his iconic fretless lines or his deeply grooving riffs on a Precision Bass, the instruments and equipment he chooses are integral to the soundscapes he creates.
Pino Palladino's mastery of the bass has left an indelible mark on music. By understanding his background, style, and the gear he uses, you can draw inspiration for your own musical journey. Whether you're a seasoned bassist or just starting out, Palladino's work serves as a testament to the power of dedication, practice, and passion for your craft. Explore his discography, try out his gear, and let the smooth grooves and deep tones guide you in your own exploration of the bass guitar.
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