Exploring the Musical Journey of Michael Manring: A Conversation with a Bass Virtuoso

Introduction: In the first episode of Shambhu Sessions Season 2, we dive deep into the musical world of Michael Manring, a bassist known for his innovative approach and distinctive voice. From his early inspirations to his groundbreaking collaborations, this episode captures the essence of a journey that has shaped the landscape of contemporary music.

Early Life and Musical Influences: Michael Manring's passion for music was ignited in his childhood home, where a variety of genres filled the air. He recalls, "My parents were music fans, and so it was a pretty wide range of stuff... Broadway show tunes, classical music, and a lot of pop music of the time." The joyful sounds of The Monkees and The Beatles became the soundtrack of his youth. Michael's early connection to music was further nurtured by his parents, who enrolled him in piano lessons at the age of nine. Despite their reservations about pursuing music as a career, they recognized his passion and talent.

Transition to Bass: Michael’s love for the bass was evident from an early age, even though he initially played the piano. He fondly remembers hearing bass lines that captivated his imagination. "I always loved the sound of the bass... it was always in my ear," he shares. After persistent requests to his parents, he finally received his first bass guitar around the age of ten, marking the beginning of a lifelong romance with the instrument.

High School and Early Compositions: During high school, music became Michael's obsession. He participated in the school band program and was even encouraged to compose for various groups. Michael humorously recounts, "I thought, oh boy, now I'm in trouble. And she said instead, this is awesome. You can do this any time you want." This supportive environment allowed him to explore composition further, leading to his ambitious yet unfinished opera project.

Berklee School of Music: After high school, Michael pursued his studies at Berklee School of Music, where he honed his skills in electric bass. "I was just soaking up everything that they had to offer," he said, reflecting on the enriching experience. Michael's time at Berklee allowed him to play with various musicians, developing his unique style while being deeply influenced by jazz and fusion music.

Discovering and Studying with Jaco Pastorius: A pivotal moment in Michael's career was discovering the legendary bassist Jaco Pastorius. "I first heard Jaco on Pat Metheny's first album... it was like a bomb going off," he recalls. This encounter inspired him to study with Jaco in New York, significantly shaping his musical journey and approach to the electric bass.

From Disco to Original Fusion: After leaving Berklee, Michael joined a disco band, but his true calling lay in original fusion music. He shares how he quickly transitioned into a professional band in Washington, D.C., where he met the influential guitarist Michael Hedges. This connection would lead him to Windham Hill Records, where he would make a lasting impact on the music scene.

Conclusion: Michael Manring's journey as a bassist, composer, and innovator is a testament to his passion for music and the transformative power it holds. From his early influences to groundbreaking collaborations, his story inspires aspiring musicians everywhere. Key takeaways from this conversation include the importance of nurturing one's passion, the value of collaboration, and the endless possibilities that come with exploring musical creativity.

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