Tuesday, May 25, 2010 Freebo with Dan Navarro "Something To Believe"
Freebo. The name says all kinds of things, just on its own, and about the legend that it belongs to. We are not talking freebo.com, as that is one of those newfangled free car advertisement sites. We are talking Freebo on the WIKI...
Freebo is a bass and tuba player, guitarist, singer, songwriter, and producer noted primarily for his work with Bonnie Raitt. He is also a respected session musician who has recorded and performed with Ringo Starr, John Mayall, John Hall, Aaron Neville, Dr. John, Willy DeVille, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Maria Muldaur, Kate & Anna McGarrigle, and many others.
His long collaboration with Raitt began when he attracted Raitt's attention as a member of Philadelphia's Edison Electric Band in the 1960s. Freebo was soon in great demand for studio work and touring.
In recent years, he has recorded three solo albums: The End Of The Beginning (1999), Dog People (2002), and Before The Separation (2006).
Wow, what a career! Now Freebo has embarked on a deeper exploration, which manifests in his songwriting and beyond. He is working on a brand new album, which we are hoping to see in the near future. His love of all earthy, real, roots music and rock 'n roll will make it a treat, I am sure. When he was up on our bus in February he contributed to the Keep The Light Alive recording for Eric Lowen, and then he asked to lay down one of his brand new songs. He wrote this with Eric Lowen, and performed it for us with Dan Navarro.
- Jessie Scott
Reader Comments (2)
Jeez, what a talent! What is it in some people that can look at an instrument, know that music should come out of it and then make music. Amazing.
Having watched Freebo from the time he first started with Bonnie, and becoming friends with him in the Bluesbusters days, and ever since, I can say that Freebo is a rare musician, amazingly talented and yet humble, with an insight into the human condition and human potential that few can match. Every performance is always fresh and new, stirring something noble in my head and my heart, astounding me with the depth of his commitment to making a difference with his music. If all that wasn't enough, Freebo generously gives of his time and energy for many worthy causes and benefits. Twice he's answered my call and played for the Veterans at the West LA VA Facility in Los Angeles. He teaches kids to play and to reach for their own voice and potential. Freebo, you da man!