FIRST BASS
ALEX WINDSOR
SHIRAGIRL
What was your way into bass?
Like hundreds of other young guitarists, I switched over to bass to satisfy a demand. I started out learning the guitar around age 13. I grew up in a pretty small town and the only real opportunity to perform was in my high school pep band. They didn’t have a guitar spot, so I agreed to learn the bass. Little did I know that I would fall in love with the instrument, and ultimately discover my true calling. My first bass was a used Squier Precision that we found at the back of a pawn shop.
What bass gear do you currently use?
A 2011 Fender American Deluxe Jazz V, a 2019 Fender American Professional Precision, a Fender Bassman 800 Hybrid head and a 4x10 cab. My favorite bass is still my Jazz V. It has the best tone and the most comfortable neck out of anything I’ve ever owned. The reason that I sought out a five-string was to be able to play more comfortably in the higher register. It gives me more freedom when soloing or playing intricate jazz lines. I’m proudly endorsed by GHS strings. I’ve been using their Bass Boomers because I really love their punch and clarity.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given about playing bass?
The groove is everything. It is the heartbeat of the song, no matter what style of music you are playing. Fancy lines and funky techniques are a great way to add flavour, but in my opinion, none of that matters if the groove is not totally locked in.
Who is, or was, the greatest bass player ever?
I don’t think in terms of rank when it comes to musicians. Like all other art forms, it’s subjective. If I absolutely have to put down an answer, then I’d have to say that Victor Wooten deserves an enormous amount of credit for bringing a fresh perspective to contemporary music.
Where can we hear you play?
My band is a dystopian punk rock musical with a fresh take on the classic story of . In addition to performing and touring, we plan to write and empower more female musicians along the way.
