# Play It Simple, Play It Right: Russell Carr on Groove, Gigs & Staying in the Game

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/now-that-s-bass-7778716/play-it-simple-play-it-right-russell-carr-on-groove-gigs-staying-in-the-game
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/now-that-s-bass-7778716/play-it-simple-play-it-right-russell-carr-on-groove-gigs-staying-in-the-game.md
Podcast: [Now That’s Bass](https://stenobird.com/podcast/now-that-s-bass-7778716)
Published: 2026-04-04T13:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://peteb.podbean.com/e/play-it-simple-play-it-right-russell-carr-on-groove-gigs-staying-in-the-game/
Audio file: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/u4aqau525wgi3msz/Russell_audio-only.mp3
Processing state: not_requested
JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/now-that-s-bass-7778716/episodes/play-it-simple-play-it-right-russell-carr-on-groove-gigs-staying-in-the-game
Duration seconds: 2412

## Resource

Session bassist Russell Carr joins Pete on Now That’s Bass for a refreshingly honest conversation about what it really takes to build a long-term career as a working bass player. From playing with Skin and The Blockheads to teaching, function gigs, gear choices and the power of word of mouth, Russell breaks down the real-world side of life as a musician: groove over flash, professionalism over ego, and why being a safe pair of hands matters. If you want a realistic, encouraging look at bass careers beyond the fantasy, this episode is packed with insight. Topics covered: The magic of simple bass playing Filling in on iconic material How session work actually comes your way Why drummers often recommend bass players The value of function gigs Gear, tone and why Fenders still dominate Soft skills, networking and getting hired again Enjoying the journey instead of chasing the endpoint #NowThatsBass #RussellCarr #BassGuitar #SessionBass #BassCareers #WorkingMusician #BassPodcast #GiggingLife #MusicIndustry #BassPlayers

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## Transcript

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