You never quite knew what Chicago bassist Kelly Sill was going to play (or what he was going to say). But you always knew that whatever you heard on or off the bandstand would contain wisdom and wit, likely surprise you, and startle those unprepared for the intensity of his bass playing and conversation.
Once we were listening to a star soloist at a club backed by seasoned pros. The time was steady, and everyone sounded fine individually, yet the music wasn’t happening. I couldn’t figure out why until Kelly leaned over and whispered into my ear:
