Jeff Picker: Building a Career as a Freelance Bass Player

In this episode, I sit down with bassist Jeff Picker to talk about the winding road from jazz to roots music, and how his time with Ricky Skaggs became a real-world education in feel, note choice, and serving the song. Jeff shares how he went from New York to Nashville, how that Skaggs connection opened doors at the Opry, and why bluegrass bass is simple in concept but not easy in execution.

We also dig into electric country bass and the influence of players like Joe Osborn, including what it means to think about voice leading, “flop” bass, and why subtle choices can be the difference between good and great. Jeff explains how he approaches being a hired gun, adapting to different bands, and why your individuality comes through without forcing it.

Finally, Jeff walks me through his solo records, what pushed him to start writing, how the first project gained traction on SiriusXM, and what it was like working with Victor Krauss as a co-producer. We wrap by talking about sessions, life as a working musician in Nashville, the Opry staff band, and the reality of raising a puppy while keeping your calendar full.

To learn more about Jeff, visit his website.

Music from the Episode:
The Winds of Spring (Jeff Picker)
Ricky's Run (Jeff Picker)
Night Terrors (Jeff Picker)
The Unfinished Path (Jeff Picker)

Thank you for listening. If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please email me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.