James Lee Jamerson, born on January 29, 1936, was a pioneering bass genius whose melodic fills, string-raked walking lines, chromatic passing tones, and dizzying syncopations forged the template for modern electric bass playing. His innovations had a profound impact on the music industry, influencing countless bassists and shaping the sound of countless iconic recordings. Despite his immense talent, recognition for Jamerson only came after his untimely death in 1983 at the age of 47.
Motown legend Smokey Robinson fondly recalls his debut live performance at the iconic Apollo Theater in 1959, where he witnessed the legendary Ray Charles perform. Despite not achieving immediate success that night, Robinson’s career soared, spanning generations with timeless hits like “Shop Around,” “My Girl,” and “Tears of a Clown.” As a prolific songwriter, he has penned countless classics for other Motown stars. At 84, Robinson remains an active performer, showcasing his greatest hits and continuing to inspire audiences. His impact extends beyond his own performances, as he has mentored and supported up-and-coming artists like Human Nature.
