As the world continues to recover from the Coronavirus, we’re all finding ourselves in unfamiliar territory given the subsequent lockdown that is keeping us off of stages and confined to our homes. Luckily, there’s comfort in the fact that we’re all in this together, and that there are still many outlets for us musicians to keep us active and sane throughout this quarantine. We’re checking in with bass players from all over the world to see what they’re doing to stay entertained, healthy, productive, and safe during this trying time. 

Bass Player: Bubby Lewis

Bands & Artists: Snoop Dogg, Lupe Fiasco, Solo artist

Home: Los Angeles, CA

How have you been passing time during the lockdown?

I’ve been writing new music for my next album and chillin’ out watching anime. Spending time with the family has been the best.

What have you been working on in terms of your bass practice routine?

I got back to practicing blindfolded, like when I was younger. I don’t look at my bass often, but years ago I realized this method is very effective for getting familiar with the fingerboard and focusing on listening more.

What music, songs, recordings, artists, bass players have you been listening to as a source of comfort and inspiration that you can recommend?

I listen to as many new releases as I can; that’s a ton of records, but I try to go through everything—from my homie, Thundercat, to Dynamite to DaBaby. I also listen to ’80s music, Stevie Wonder, Tears for Fears, all the top artists from the era, it relaxes me. In addition, I’ve been listening to a lot of video game music: Pokémon, Final Fantasy—stuff really inspires me.

What bass gear have you been playing and trying out?

I got the new Gallien-Krueger Neo 112-II and I’m completely floored by it—so much power, it sounds great, and it looks cool.

What non-music activities books, shows, movies or workout recommendations do you have?

I’ve been watching a lot of anime and reading manga; watching a ton of nerd stuff, like Star Wars; taking walks with the wife and daughter; and making sure we eat right. I’ve also started dishing out these protective masks that I’ve been wearing for years. I never imagined it would be mandatory in most places around the world. It makes me happy, honestly; it’s a common courtesy and respect for others. That’s why I started wearing them all those years ago—thanks Japan!

What projects do you have coming up when the world gets going again?

I’ll have new music out for the world and I’ll be ready to perform again. These are harsh times but beneficial depending on your prospective and how you handle it. It’s a valuable time to catch up and do projects we’ve wanted always to do.

What advice can you offer fellow bassists for staying positive and keeping morale high?

If you are fortunate to have a home and the essentials, you have a lot to be thankful for. It’s difficult for people who don’t have that, and our thoughts and prayers should go out to them. So when you feel down about being locked up in the house, imagine the person that doesn’t have a roof over their head. If they can smile and grateful for being alive then we don’t really have room to complain. That’s the way I look at it; yes, it’s hard but it could be harder.

For more visit: Bubby Lewis

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Read all 180+ Bass Magazine Check-in Features: Here

All check-ins compiled and edited by Jon D’Auria & Chris Jisi