Simon Beck

Story

Profile

• Multi-instrumentalist
• Home Recording Enthusiast

Instruments

• Organ
• Synths
• Bass Guitar
• Double Bass
• Ukulele
• Stylophone
• Wurly

Genres

• Blues
• Jazz
• Country
• Easy Listening
• Experimental
• Neoclassical

Influences

• J. S. Bach
• Ray Charles
• Ian Mclagan
• James Jamerson
• Dr John

Equipment

• Nord Electro
• Fender Squier P-bass
• Stagg Electric Double Bass
• Stylophone Gen X-1
• Yamaha Reface Cs
• Squier Telecaster
• Behringer Neutron

What is music to you? What does it give you?

Music has been one of the most important parts of my life for over 40 years. Playing music makes me who I am.

What is your music dream?

Does it matter?

If you could change the world - what would you start with?

I would get rid of hatred, bigotry and ignorance. That's not going to happen any time soon...

Which is the most memorable song from your childhood?

Not really a song, but Wendy Carlos' recording of Bach's Brandenburg Concerto no. 3 from the album "Switched-On Bach". It introduced me to Bach's music and the sound of the Moog Synthesiser, and changed my life forever.

Who are your favorite musical artists or bands?

Ray Charles, Dr John, 1960s Stax and Motown artists, Bob Marley. And J S Bach of course.

What inspires you to make music?

Almost anything. My wife and kids, things that happen, a phrase or saying. Sometimes I just need to sit behind a keyboard and play some blues.

What is the message you want to send with your music?

Enjoy life. It's Nature's gift to you, and it's the only one you've got!

How do you feel when you perform in front of an audience?

It's the best feeling ever. Ever.

How do you see the musicians’ reality nowadays? What could be improved?

It's never been easier to record and distribute music, and it's never been more affordable. That also means that the market is more crowded. The established music industry is full of mediocre songwriting, identical arrangements and singers who can't perform without technology. The only way out is to play real instruments, sing with your true voice and get your music out there!

What do you think of Drooble?

Early days yet, but it seems like a very promising idea.

What frustrates you most as a musician?

Not getting my music heard by enough people!

Do you support your local scene as a fan? How?

There's a problem here. I hate gigs unless I'm performing. I would never choose to go and hear a band, however great. I don't like crowds, parties or noise (unless I'm making it!). I can't even listen to the radio, because I'm not in control of what I am going to hear.

What qualities should a musician nowadays have in order to get their music heard by a larger audience?

I have no idea!

Share some awesome artists that we’ve never heard of.

Penguin Cafe Orchestra

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