Episode
The Secret Isn't Talent, It's Consistency | Jimmy Sims on building a lasting bass career
- Podcast
- Now That’s Bass
- Published
- Jul 27, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 4101
- Processing state
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Summary
Everyone talks about getting "the big break." Jimmy Sims doesn't believe it exists. Having toured and recorded with artists including George Ezra, Brian Ferry, Amy Macdonald, Mika and Dido, Jimmy has built one of the UK's most respected freelance bass careers—not through luck alone, but through years of quietly building relationships, saying yes to opportunities and constantly improving his craft. In this episode Jimmy shares what touring is really like, why community matters more than networking, how the legendary Bass Centre helped launch his career, and why being a professional musician is often about handling the uncomfortable moments rather than the glamorous ones. If you're trying to build a sustainable career as a bass player—or as any musician—this conversation is packed with practical wisdom. In this episode we discuss: Building a career without a single "big break" How the Bass Centre became Jimmy's music college Touring with Mika, Brian Ferry and Amy Macdonald Why community beats networking The realities of life on tour Mental health and looking after yourself on the road Why versatility creates opportunities How to become the musician people recommend Learning theory without losing your creativity Why every rejection is simply another brick in the wall 🎸 Subscribe for weekly conversations with the world's best bass players. #NowThatsBass #BassGuitar #BassPlayer #MusicianLife #SessionMusician #TouringMusician #MusicCareer #BassCommunity #JimmySims #GeorgeEzra #BrianFerry #AmyMacdonald #Mika #Dido