Playing a Thundercat song on SBL wasn't something I had on my bingo card at the beginning of the year, but that's exactly what happened! I had a blast shooting the video and was (in a very rare instance for me) quite happy with the performance. I think it was a product of being surprised by the material, feeling comfortable around the crew, and just letting it happen. Massive thanks to Sharon for doing such a great job of hosting the segment and being open to trying something new with the format, and to the whole crew with Scott and Mattie for our mega day in the studio here in Los Angeles.Check out the new Chordal Harmony Bundle if you want to dig deeper into some of the chords and voicings I’m breaking down in today’s episode. More soon, Janek📚 Bass Books👕 Merch🌎 My Website💿 CDs and Vinyl📅 Tour Dates🎧 Stream My MusicSUBSCRIBE OR I'LL CHAGE ALL THE SETTINGS ON YOUR PEDALS Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
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35:13
Did I Just OFFEND 8,641,398 Soundgarden Fans?!
It all started as a very innocent comment about not being a huge Soundgarden fan. Over 200k views and 1k comments in the first week later, and the dumpster fire that YouTube comments can become has been quite an eye-opening ride. The irony is, I don't hate Soundgarden at all. I've even seen them in concert at the old LA Forum and had a great time. The way in which most of the outraged commenters on Musora's video we shot with Vital Information think it's wrong that I don't choose Soundgarden as my go-to band, is quite astonishing. If I asked them to listen to microtonal ambient clarinet music and they weren't a huge fan, should my response be the same? Should I think any less of them? Of course not. In this episode we break down the Soundgarden controversy, my clinics in Europe with Ian Martin Allison, and one of the worst travel weeks of my 30+ year career.Make sure you check out the new vinyl copies of the Mystery to Me 20th Anniversary release that just arrived while I was on tour in Europe. All pre-orders shipped today, and there are a few copies left that are available in the store while stocks last!More soon, Janek📚 Bass Books👕 Merch🌎 My Website💿 CDs and Vinyl📅 Tour Dates🎧 Stream My MusicSUBSCRIBE OR I'LL CHAGE ALL THE SETTINGS ON YOUR PEDALS Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
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46:09
When You're Not Ready for Tour...
When life happens and what you actually need to be doing to get ready for recording, performances, or clinics gets put on the back burner, it can feel a little hectic and out of control. I found myself waking up today, the day before leaving for Europe, and feeling very underprepared with my playing. Today’s episode takes a look at the idea I’m using to inject some confidence and stamina back into my playing, so I can hit the ground running in Germany and play to the best of my ability. The final few tickets for our Bass Bash event in London on June 1st are AVAILABLE HERE, as is a mint-condition Fairfield Circuitry Randy’s Revenge that is flying out of the pedal library this week to make room for something new. I was also given a couple of fun new toys by Tosin Abasi yesterday, so we take a quick look at them towards the end of the episode. More soon, Janek📚 Bass Books👕 Merch🌎 My Website 💿 CDs and Vinyl 📅 Tour Dates 🎧 Stream My MusicSUBSCRIBE OR I'LL CHAGE ALL THE SETTINGS ON YOUR PEDALS Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
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31:44
How to Get Better Faster
It's not clickbait, it's not a hack, it's not a shortcut, and there is no avoiding the work. This is literally how you get better faster than you’re doing it now. Laser focus on small pieces of information for as much time as you can during your practice sessions, will help give you the freedom to play without thinking when it comes to be onstage.More soon, JanekP.S. There are crazy delays on the Mystery to Me Anniversary Vinyl, and I must apologize to everyone who pre-ordered the album. I was expecting to ship in mid-April, and that is already a month gone. The latest from Discmakers is May 15th-Jun 4th as a delivery window. As soon as they’re here, they’ll be on the way to you! 📚 Bass Books👕 Merch🌎 My Website 💿 CDs and Vinyl 📅 Tour Dates 🎧 Stream My MusicSUBSCRIBE OR I'LL CHAGE ALL THE SETTINGS ON YOUR PEDALS Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
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42:27
The Illusion of Virtuosity — Giacomo Turra, Content Theft, and the Erosion of Musical Integrity
In this no-holds-barred episode, we (yes, my wife is finally back on an episode!) react to the recent storm surrounding Danny Sapko's exposé of Giacomo Turra, who’s been accused of stealing musical content and passing it off as his own. The controversy triggered widespread conversation across the online music world—drawing in heavyweights like Adam Neely and Rick Beato. But here’s the twist: we don’t agree with most of what they had to say.🎧 Inside this episode:* A breakdown of Sapko’s claims and what they reveal about the culture of borrowed clout* Our critical take on Neely and Beato’s responses—and where we feel they missed the mark* How social media rewards performance over process, illusion over integrity* The damaging effect this has on real musicians who spend years learning, practicing, and creating* Why defending the process—not just the product—matters now more than everThis isn’t a takedown. It’s a deep reflection on how we define musical value in an era where faking it can get you followers, brand deals, and a career.More soon, Janek Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
Dive deep into the music universe with the podcast that unveils the journey of one of the most influential bass players in the music industry – Janek Gwizdala. Designed for bass enthusiasts and musicians alike, each episode is a sonic exploration into the world of groove, gear. technique, and artistic evolution.
Janek Gwizdala, renowned for his mastery of the bass, shares his life's narrative – from the early days as a budding musician to his current status as a sought-after sideman and solo artist. Whether you're a seasoned bassist or simply appreciate the magic of live music, join us as we unravel the layers of Janek's experiences, revealing the secrets behind his signature sound.
Expect in-depth conversations with Janek and special guests, offering unique perspectives on music, composition, and the art of creating an unforgettable groove. Explore the challenges and triumphs of a professional bass player, gain insights into the creative process, and discover the stories behind some of Janek's most iconic performances.
Whether you're looking for inspiration for your own musical journey or simply want to bask in the rich tones of the bass, "The Janek Gwizdala Podcast" is your backstage pass to the world of bass and music.
Subscribe now for an intimate look at the life and legacy of Janek Gwizdala's bass-centric career. janekgwizdala.substack.com
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