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PODCAST

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair

‘Why Bass?” Is a podcast that shifts the focus from a bass players history and CV to that age old question - why would anyone want to play the bass guitar? Donivan Blair asks this question with bassist’s of all styles and ranges on each episode and allows the guest to tell the audience in their own words who inspired them, why they chose the instrument and their gear of choice. ‘Why Bass?’ Is hosted by Donivan Blair who does not understand why anyone needs more than four strings and has been

music music interviews

All Episodes

49:57

Becky Baldwin-Delilah Bon-Mercyful Fate-Fury

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/10/01

We have a banger of an episode here. The amazing Becky Baldwin! Doni and Becky discuss their love for Rickenbackers, the beauty of metal and Becky shares the best origin story since some nerd got bit by a radioactive spider...tune in and learn what this all means.Becky BaldwinMercyful FateDelilah BonFuryOur partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit.Unleash the full force of you guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals,

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57:04

Special Episode! Why Ricks? The Brothers Blair...

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/09/03

Why Ricks?- Donivan discusses WHY he plays Rickenbackers, the answer is Why Not? The discussion includes the person who's been there for his entire 4003 obsession , his brother Zach. They argue over the pronunciation of Rickenbackers, Celtic Frost and sometimes agree to discuss the topic at hand. Enjoy!Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit.Unleash the full force of your guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals,

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43:21

Kira Roessler-Black Flag-dos-Enigma

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/08/20

This is a big one. What more to say than its Kira! Once again Donivan gets to talk to an inspiration and hero. He asked Kira every question a 17 year old Donvian wanted to ask and more. We hear what she's up too and whats in her bass playing future. See how long Kira puts up with Donivan's fanboyage. Kira RoesslerOur partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit.Unleash the full force of your guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST

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01:15:09

Matt Reilly-Avril Lavigne

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/08/06

This week Donivan talks with Matt Reilly, bass player for Avril Levigne. The two discuss the job of the rhythm section, both in terms of driving the song and the power of its absence. Matt shares how a 5 minute meeting leads to the gig of a lifetime and why coffee is so goddamn amazing.Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit.Unleash the full force of your guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks,

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46:30

Patrick Smith-The Vandoliers

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/07/23

Donivan and Patrick discuss Patrick's journey as a bassist, The Vandoliers new record, and how awesome Flying V basses are. They explore the importance of individuality in music, the ongoing debate between using picks or fingers, andthe significance of gear choices in achieving the desired sound. The two also share insights into their collaborative projects and the influences that shape their musical journeys, culminating in a passionate discussion about the legendary band King's X. The

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01:02:21

Matt Noveskey-Blue October

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/07/09

Donivan and Matt talk about his secret origin in Michigan that led to him joining Blue October, his studio, producing and life in general. They discuss the magic that is Level 42, Rocket From The Crypt and ....hey...did they just become best friends? Listen and find out.Blue OctoberOur partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit.Unleash the full force of your guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks, and

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01:16:25

Casey Orr-GWAR

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/06/25

On todays episode Casey Orr shares his journey as a bassist, influenced by his brother and the iconic bands they grew up with. Donivan and Casey discuss the formation of Casey's previous band Rigor Mortis and his entry into the world of GWAR. Casey talks about the impact of musicians like Mike Scaccia and his collaborative experience with notable artists like Ministry and the Burden Brothers. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by artists, including threats and the evolution of

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01:09:02

Matt Freeman-Rancid-Operation Ivy

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/06/11

In the episode Donivan and Rancid's Matt Freeman delve into Matt's personal collection, the significance of signature basses, and the affordability of instruments for aspiring musicians. The discussion turns to why only badasses were born on April 23rd, they share humorous anecdotes about meeting musical icons and discuss the impact of Kathy Valentine and John Entwistle. Matt talks about the Bass Bunker, Rancid, playing a Rickenbacker in Charger and why you must watch what you say when meeting

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01:05:17

Rob Felicetti-Bowling For Soup

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/05/28

In this episode Doni & Rob talk about getting booed, and why it is bad; why MusicMan basses aren't for everyone, (especially if you're short), Rob's beginnings as a drummer and how he joined Bowling For Soup. Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit.Unleash the full force of your guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks, and strings and more. Go to Jim DunlopFor 50 years, Schecter Guitars has

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01:06:18

Dominic "Rocky" Laroche-Voivod

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/05/14

Today Donivan interviews Dominic "Rocky" La Roche, the bassist for his favorite band, the iconic Voivod. They discuss Rocky's life in music, his early influences, and the evolution of Voivod's sound. Rocky shares personal anecdotes about his first bass, his first show with Voivod, and the impact the band has had on his life and career. The conversation highlights the importance of perseverance, inspiration, and Rocky’s unique musical experience. Donivan and Rocky discuss the importance of connecting

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42:32

Eva Gardner-Pink-The Mars Volta

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/04/30

Donivan interviews Eva Gardner, exploring her musical journey influenced by her father's legacy as a bass player. They discuss the significance of instruments, early lessons, and personal preferences in bass guitars, while also delving into recording experiences and the nuances of tone in music. They explore the formation of Mars Volta, discuss various collaborations, and share insights on gear preferences, including amps and pedals. Eva recounts her audition experiences and the resilience required

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01:09:52

Jay Bentley-Bad Religion

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/04/16

Jay Bentley is the bass player and a founding member of Bad Religion. Jay shares his journey from a young guitar player to a prominent bassist in the punk rock scene. He discusses his musical influences, the evolution of his playing style, and the dynamics of being in a band. Bentley reflects on the challenges of live performances, the impact of technology on music, and the creative process behind songwriting. He emphasizes the importance of individuality in music and the learning experiences that

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48:51

Rob Marchant/ Riverboat Gamblers

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/04/01

Rob Marchant the bassist for Slowride, Saboteur, Drakulas, Riverboat Gamblers and is one of Donivan’s best friends. In this episode Donivan and Rob discuss the beginning of Rob’s bass playing as a young punker and his love for Mani from The Stone Roses/Primal Scream. Rob shares the story of joining Texas legends The Riverboat Gamblers and the two share their love for the undisputed champion of bass guitars, the Fender Precision.Riverboat GamblersSpear MusicCourse of EmpireTrue WidowTeam MortgageBad

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01:02:31

Eric Bootow

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/03/18

Eric Bootow, the creator of the Punk Rock Bass Players Community shares his journey as a bass player Fourth In Line, Jugheads Revenge and creating PRBP, an online community for punk rock bass players to communicate, trade gigs and support one another. In this conversation, Donivan and Eric delve into their experiences growing up in the punk rock scene, discuss the influence of iconic musicians, the impact of family on their musical journeys, and the challenges of youth culture, including violence

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01:19:33

Joe Principe

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/03/04

On this first episode of ‘Why Bass?’ We welcome Joe Principe of Rise Against!The two discuss Joe's journey through the his music scene, particularly the Chicago punk and thrash. Joe discusses his unexpected start in music, the influences that shaped his career and the vibrant community that fostered originality. They talk about the politics of dancing and mmmmm feelin’ good and why Lars Frederiksen from Rancid doesn’t want to talk about bass. Joe and Doni highlight the importance of personal

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02:43

Introducing Why Bass? with Doni Blair

Why Bass? with Donivan Blair ·

2026/02/25

Ruinous Media would like to welcome Why Bass?Why Bass? Is a podcast that shifts the focus from a bass players history and curriculum vitae to that age old question - why would anyone want to play the bass guitar? Donivan Blair asks this question with bassist’s of all styles and ranges on each episode and allows the guest to tell the audience in their own words who inspired them, why they chose the instrument and their gear of choice.‘Why Bass?’ Is hosted by Donivan Blair who does not understand why

en

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