Born and raised in Wellington, New Zealand, Grammy nominated and winning Bassist Benjamin J. Shepherd started playing when he was 7 years old. 11 years later he moved to Los Angeles to pursue a full time music career and to study with Bass legends Charlie Haden, Alphonso Johnson and Darek Oles at the California Institute of Arts (CalArts). He has since become one of the most in demand and versatile bassists in Los Angeles. His extensive resumè covering a multitude of different musical styles is a testament of his ability to virtually fit in on any gig.His studio and live credits include: Chance the Rapper (Bassist on Grammy winning album “Coloring Book”), School Boy Q, Isaiah Rashad (Bassist and Co-producer on critically acclaimed track entitled “Free Lunch”), Kamasi Washington, Lee Ritenour, Patrice Rushen, Marquis Hill, Dave Weckl, Billy Childs, Peter Erskine, Simon Phillips, Jeff Lorber, Mike Stern, John Beasley and MONKestra (6x Grammy nominations and 1x Grammy award), Amanda Seales, Miguel Atwood Ferguson, Mark de Clive-Lowe, and many more.Benjamin also leads his own group showcasing his original compositions as well as co-leads a duo based group called "Benjamin and The Deva with singer/songwriter Terra Deva.He currently endorses Ibanez Basses, Aguilar Amplification, Accugroove Cabinets, Gruv Gear Accessories, GHS Strings and Xotic Pedals.Instagram / Twitter / Youtube / Website / BSA/ View More Episodes