Eric Fortaleza is someone who thinks big. Whether it’s his playing, his bass collection, his bass IQ, or his ambitions and goals as a performer and sideman, Fortaleza likes to shoot for the stars, and so far it has worked out nicely for him. Reigning in Sydney, Australia, the 29-year-old low ender has played over 500 festivals, concerts, and television performances in his 10-year career. He’s played alongside artists such as Glenn Lumanta, Michael David, Jasmine Rae, David Ryan Harris (John Mayer), Vivian Sessoms (Pink/Christina Aguilera), and even Vulfpeck’s own Cory Wong. He also gets regular calls to serve as a musical director, which he’s currently doing for pop artists Jess & Matt. He has endorsements from companies like Fender, Aguilar, Mono, and Dunlop. And when he’s not in the spotlight on the stage himself, he even manages the careers of other artists. That’s a lot for anyone, but Fortaleza is someone who likes to remain busy. Sculpted early on by the playing of Pino Palladino, Flea, Jaco Pastorius, and James Jamerson, Fortaleza is always expanding his skill set on bass, which is why he avidly studies the work of the next wave of bass icons in Joe Dart, Tim Lefebvre, Sean Hurley, Bobby Vega, and Michael League. He’s also knows how to utilize social media, as his gorgeous photography of his basses get shared by thousands of followers with each post. We caught up with Fortaleza amidst his busy schedule to chat about his favorite basses of his extensive collection, how the music scene of Australia has helped shape him, and why no one should take social media too seriously. How and when did you first start playing bass? I picked up the bass pretty late at the age of 17 in 2007. I formed a band with high school friends and the last instrument that needed to be filled was the bass guitar. I’m sure this is a very common start for most bass players, but regardless of this coincidence, sticking with it has been the best decision I’ve ever made in my life. Why bass? What drew you towards this instrument in particular? Other than being the last instrument needed in my high school band, it stuck with me because of the power of the bass – the power to lead and define sections and movements during songs, during jams, and during performances. Harmonically, it’s hard not to gravitate towards a strong bass player. Other than that, Flea is massive reason. That guy just looks like he is having the time of his life every time he plays. Being from Sydney, Australia, how does the unique music of that region influence your playing? American music, be it modern or traditional, has had massive impact on Australian musicians. I think the beautiful thing about that is, in Sydney you don’t have to travel to far to hear all the melting pots of genres spread across the United States. This has helped me significantly as the work on offer requires a session musician to be as close to the different genres as possible. With the help of