Snarky Puppy bassist and bandleader Michael League discusses improvisation, composition, religion, success, and more. The podcast covers topics like finding inspiration, the impact of church on music, misconceptions about musicians' performances, music distribution, creating unique moments, and a gear discussion on Markbass and DV Mark.
YouTube played a pivotal role in Snarky Puppy's success, providing a platform for exposure and recognition through live recordings.
Being a band leader is not limited to playing a lead instrument but involves guiding and directing the music to create a unique experience.
When assembling a team or community, a shared love for music is vital, fostering a positive and collaborative environment.
Deep dives
Importance of YouTube in achieving success
YouTube played a vital role in the success of the band Snarky Puppy, as it served as the primary driver of viewer interest. The band utilized the platform to share live recordings of their music, showcasing their unique sound and energy. YouTube's timing was crucial, as it provided a platform that was still relatively new and open for artists to gain exposure. The band's success on YouTube ultimately led to broader recognition and opportunities.
Being a band leader without playing a lead instrument
Being a band leader does not require playing a lead instrument. It's about guiding and directing the music, regardless of the instrument played. While some may assume that being at the forefront or playing a lead instrument is necessary, it's important to focus on the music itself and the role one plays within the band. The key is to create a unique and compelling musical experience for the audience, whether it's through percussion, rhythm guitar, or any other instrument.
Building a community of music lovers
When assembling a team or community, such as the one around Snarky Puppy, GroundUP Music, and other projects, a shared love for music is essential. The community should consist of caring, understanding, passionate individuals who prioritize music and its power to connect people. This sense of community extends to all team members, from bandmates and artists on the label to crew members and administrative staff. The shared passion for music becomes a unifying force and creates a positive and collaborative environment.
The Importance of Finding Your Own Artistic Path
One of the key insights discussed in the podcast is the importance of finding a personalized artistic path. The speaker emphasizes that every musician should develop a process that fits their own art, rather than trying to adopt the processes of other successful artists. It is crucial to create a custom-fit approach that aligns with one's own style, goals, and artistic vision. The podcast highlights the idea that each artist's journey is unique, and while it can be beneficial to learn from others, it is essential to find one's own path and make artistic decisions within that framework.
Balancing Composed Material with Live Energy
Another subject explored in the podcast is the challenge of maintaining live energy while performing more composed and intricate music. The speaker discusses how their band, Snarky Puppy, manages to infuse spontaneity and a vibrant atmosphere into their performances, despite having complex compositions with multiple sections. They attribute their ability to balance these elements to a high level of comfort and familiarity with the material, as well as a shared understanding and freedom among band members. This allows for improvisation within the structure, with decisions made on stage that keep the essence of the music intact while reacting to the present reality. The podcast highlights the value of achieving a dynamic and engaging live experience, even when working with highly composed material.
