I learned how to play bass by playing along with the radio. I didn't know anyone else who played back then (until I met Robert Crotty and Rob Silverman), so I played along with the bands on the airwaves. I figured it was a great way to play with some of the greatest musicians in the world. I used to get blisters on my blisters and felt like I would never be able to play like the bass players on the radio...but I never gave up. I was, and still am, passionate about music. I am lucky to have performed with some incredible musicians over the years (on the radio, and even in person!). I credit my success and enjoyment in music with the wood-shedding I did and the 'schooling' I received.
After visiting www.carolkaye.com in 2001 and looking through her archival information and discography, I realized that close to 80% of the recorded bass lines I learned over the past few decades are all Carol's! They are solid, creative, and they COOK! I was stunned as I scrolled down page after page at how many jazz, rock and pop music hits were built on the solid foundation and distinct, rich tone and style of Carol Kaye's bass lines.
Carol is a giant in American music. She is a national treasure. There isn't a bassist out there today who hasn't heard, played, stolen, (er, uh, I mean 'borrowed'), or been influenced by Carol Kaye's music. Thousands of musicians have learned to play using her unique method of teaching. We owe a lot to Carol Kaye for all she has shared with us so far, and we look forward to what she continues to share with us today. If anyone should be nominated and inducted into the Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame in 2002, it should be Carol Kaye! Thanks for all the music, lessons and friendship you share with us all, Carol. You are the greatest!!!
-David Bobo Lavorgna