Billy Sheehan on Groove - The No Treble Podcast, Episode 133

This episode of Groove Podcast hosted by Mitch Joel welcomes Billy Sheehan

See all Episodes here: https://www.notreble.com/podcast/

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  / billysheehanonbass  

00:00 – Welcome to Groove & Introducing Billy Sheehan
Mitch opens the show and welcomes Billy back to the podcast.

01:00 – First Impressions, Early Inspiration & Fan Stories
Mitch shares how Billy inspired him as a young bassist—and why Billy is such a polarizing influence.

02:45 – Early Woodshedding & Redefining the Role of Bass
Billy reflects on practicing, finding his sound, and imagining new roles for the bass.

09:40 – Locking with Drums vs. Leading from the Front
Discussion on groove, musical responsibility, and bass as a forward voice in the mix.

14:00 – Paul McCartney, The Beatles & Bass as a Melodic Instrument
How classic recordings shaped ideas of bass as more than a support role.

17:45 – Four Strings, Two Hands & Pure Technique
Billy’s long-standing philosophy on minimalism, feel, and avoiding gear dependence.

23:00 – Creativity Beyond Solos & Technique Debates
Fingerstyle, picks, slap, lead bass, and respecting all musical approaches.

24:45 – New Projects, The Fell & Choosing What to Say Yes To
Why Billy joined The Fell and how he evaluates new musical commitments today.

30:00 – Touring, Nashville Life & Creative Energy Management
Balancing the road, home life, and inspiration later in a long career.

32:00 – Aging, Physical Changes & Staying Musically Sharp
Honest reflections on technique, endurance, and adapting over time.

37:45 – Refining vs. Reinventing the Billy Sheehan Sound
Is discovery still the goal—or is refinement the real challenge?

38:45 – Changing Musical Tastes, Jazz & Genre Exploration
How listening habits evolve and influence creative output.

42:45 – Bass Heroes, Mount Rushmore Players & Peer Conversations
Talking bass with legends like Entwistle and Geddy Lee.

46:15 – Obsessions Beyond Bass: Books, Cats & Curiosity
A glimpse into Billy’s interests outside of music.

50:00 – Solo Records, Recording & Creative Motivation
Thoughts on recording, personal projects, and legacy work.

51:45 – Young Players, Social Media & Artificial Intelligence
Billy’s take on modern bass culture, virality, and mentorship.

55:30 – Technique Crossovers & Modern Guitarists Using Bass Ideas
How bass techniques are shaping the next generation of players.

59:40 – The End of Mr. Big & Knowing When to Stop
Reflecting on the final chapter of Mr. Big and ending with intention.

01:04:15 – Lean Into It, Legacy & Career Reflections
Looking back on landmark albums and long-term impact.

01:06:45 – The Fell, New Music & What’s Next
What to expect from Billy’s newest band and upcoming releases.

01:07:55 – Final Thanks & Closing Thoughts