How Important Is It for a Bass Player to Be Able to Read Music? Chuck Rainey Explains [AUDIO]

According to bass legend Chuck Rainey, the genius behind countless recordings by Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Steely Dan, Roberta Flack, Quincy Jones, and several of your other favorite artists across every genre, it is imperative for a bass player to be able to read music.

At 74, Rainey is devoting a tremendous amount of his time to educating young bass players about music, music theory, bass playing, and the industry at large. Recently, he shared his talents with students at Victor Wooten's camp in Only, Tennessee. His lectures included the skills needed to be a session bassist, as well as a working gig bassist.

Take a listen to Chuck Rainey's thoughts on the necessity for bass players to be able to read music. Of course, he validates his points by sharing memories from his own career.