In this video I talk about how to make an inexpensive bass play better! The luthier from North Hollywood I mentioned in this video is John Wescott www.wescottgui...
You’re a people’s champ Billy! To say that your signature series is expensive and making a video on how to save money on a bass is incredible! You have achieved so much in the industry yet you sound very humble and inspiring. Out of this world! Much respect!
@@BillySheehanOfficial WOW! very grateful for the reply. hey Billy, can I humbly request if you could spend a few minutes checking out some of my videos, would be super cool.
That’s the amazing thing. Everybody has to start somewhere. There are kids out there with the love and the drive but no resources. They’ll do anything to get the sound they want. And Billy loves and respects those kids because he was them once. I mean, think about how much hip hop owes to the ingenuity of musicians who couldn’t afford a single percussion instrument. Geeking out on gear is fun, but it’s no substitute for musicianship.
I will be honest--I bookmarked this based on the title. I didn't know it was my boy (I emailed him a decade ago, and he replied--super sincere, nice celebrity) until I started to watch.
If I hadn’t watched this vid, I’d have probably payed $50 for someone to turn my truss rod 1/4 turn to get rid of a bit of fret buzz. -Thank you Billy!!
*"THA Bass player." Or "THEE bass player" if you would. Lol. But yes I agree with you. Billy Sheehan is goated frfr. I wonder if he, Victor Wooten, Marcus Miller, Pino Palladino, and Anthony (close friend of Victor's) ever hung out. Lol.
Billy has got to be the most Humble of ANY MUSICIAN to grace our Planet....what a class act and He's just a Bass Player.......................LOL🎸What a Gentlemen....Rock on You are an inspiration to all who play Music and to all who don't.................
“In the end, I believe it’s your hands.” Yes. For bass, especially, your hands have such a profound impact on your sound. Billy could play any bass and still sound like Billy. Great video. Thanks.
No, Mr. Sheehan. You are not JUST a bass player. You have gone far beyond that. Your humility in that statement alone, I believe, proves my point. You called the bass your tool. That makes you what's commonly known as a master craftsman, and a heck of a nice guy.
@@BillySheehanOfficial You took the time to respond to me. You don't know how much that means. I have been a huge fan for better than 30 yrs now. Your skills and your style are the stuff of legend. I used to read your column many years ago. Your "Bass Piano" article inspired me to start transcribing Fur Elise, and Peter & the Wolf and playing them with both hands on the fretboard. I vividly remember seeing you live here in Chattanooga, TN with David Lee Roth. You and Vai together... Magic. Not there is no magic with Paul, there is. I just haven't had the good fortune to see that in person. Thanks for all that and for being a good human being, and like I said before, a heck of a nice guy.
I got to hang out for a few hours with Billy at at a local Pub at the London Bass Guitar Show a few years back. All of the kind comments are completely accurate. They say never meet your heroes, you might be disappointed. Billy is the exception to this rule, I hope everyone who is influenced by Billy Sheehan, has the pleasure and honor to hang out with him. He is a wealth of musical knowledge and a really cool guy. His bass playing is musical nourishment, and one of few guitar or bass players who continues push themselves musically. Long, long may it continue. Thanks for posting
Step 1 to being one of the best bass players on the planet...be a genuine nice person. Step 2 be passionate about your craft. Step 3 be willing to share knowledge with others. Bless you Sir! Much respect and appreciation.
I love the fact that a world-class musician knows how to do his own stunts on his gear. It is a very humble approach and helps creating a strong bond with the instrument. When I was a kid my grandfather tought me how after WW2 people would fix and build their own stuff, and that inspired me to take care and improve my instruments by myself. It saved me a lot of money and gave me a lot of satisfaction. I am sure this kind of videos can help a lot of people in the same way. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience!
This! 22:28 I have been looking for that answer for 25+ years. Sometimes the inner ears of your imagination are just playing tricks to your common logic. You might be fighting an issue with the instrument that it's not even there. Step back, cool down and start over when you feel you've got "fresh ears". Thank you Billy! You are awesome!
You must be the hardest working bassist ever and you still take time to give back. You are a true gentleman and that unfortunately is very uncommon nowadays. Thank you for all you do.
When you have a wealth of knowledge and can pass that along to others, thats amazing stuff. We never had that growing up so easily available, let alone from amazing musical heroes directly!
My first Talas concert was 1975. I was 14. Outdoor show. When I approached the stage they were playing White Punks On Dope. It was the first live show I ever saw. Billy was amazing. Played with headphones on then and wore really high platform shoes back then lol. Talk about a major 1st impression. It changed my life. Some years later when I started going to bars throughout the 70s to see bands we would go see Talas every chance we got. (I got in to bars at 15-16 I looked a lot older than I was) It was like a real rock show in a bar every night with them and the place was always packed. Places with names like Stage One, After Dark, Bowinkles, and The Barrel Head etc. They would put on a free outdoor show and 10 or 15 thousand people would show up. After some time Billy joined a band from Rochester called Light Years (what a great band name! Talas AND Light Years) and we would go see them a lot. They were great too. Anyway I’m rambling. The thing is a lot of people always say what a nice guy Billy is. And you know what, that’s real. He’s been that way his whole life. He is just a good guy. In the bars he would hang out between sets and talk to people. Just a nice down to earth guy. Years later when I met my wife in the 80s one thing we had in common was that we were both Talas and Light Years and Billy fans. We both agreed what a great guy he was. Everyone here in Buffalo has been so happy to see his career go like it has. We all knew he was too good for bars. We are all proud of you Billy!
@@BillySheehanOfficial hey Billy quick story. I was a fedex courier. Did that 30 years. I’m semi retired now. I used to deliver to Pepsi on Walden ave in Cheektowaga. There was a really nice woman there I would see everyday and we would talk about everything under the sky. Well one day for some reason your name came up. Probably reminiscing about the good ole’ days, and she said Billy is my brother! Lol. How cool is that. We both agreed what a good guy you are. Say hi to your sister for me!
Years ago i watched a lot of interviews with Billy, and he often says about bass modification that he did by himself. It was a biggest inspiration to me, to build my own version of attitude bass. I thought "if I can't buy it, I can do it" and I did it :) This kind of video is a great support to all, who want to start exploring technical aspect of bass guitar. It simply showing, that there is nothig to afraid :)
the thing i like most about Billy is how he never forgets about beginners or those on a tight budget. not just an incredible player but also a great teacher:)
Hello Billy and thank you for this nice tutorial. One tip though, before filing the frets, make sure to cover the pickups with blue tape to prevent the metal dust sticking to it. When you're done filing, put another layer of tape over the pickups to emprison the dust before removing it all. It won't hurt to so the same with the pots and switch.
OMG. Billy Sheehan, showing people how to set up a bass. You are a legend, you are already making people happy by playing as you do. And you now share your ideas and thoughts. Kudos sir. I'll never get tired of hearing you, Steve Vai and David Lee Roth. You are unique and your playing will be referenced for years. Thank you.
One of the things I love most about Billy is that he never says anything bad about anyone or anything. Even if it is a product he doesn't use or like (the rig rundown when he mentions strings is a good example), he always says they are good for others, just not him. His positivity is such a strength as a musician because he never closes himself off from anything and always looks for the positive. A great lesson for all of us!
There's a local Luthier in my town that posts all his work on fb. Great learning tools check him out and see for yourself. His name is Dean hoffart on fb. His profile pic has him riding some kinda sit down pedal bike.
I agree w/ Sankt -I saw Talas open for Yngwie's Rising force - I couldn't even take pictures I was so in awe of Mr. Sheehan and it led me to go from guitar to bass - just a classy cat - he responds to E-mails and when I lost my big Maine Coone Cat "Tennyson" 2 days before Christmas in 2019 - I got a condolences from Mr. Sheehan and I was floored - If there is one American Musician who young guys should look at about how to act as a human who is gifted - Mr. Billy Sheehan is one of em!! If he hasn't written a book he should because it should be required reading - like "Rotten - No Irish, No Blacks, No dogs" by J. Lydon - by ANYONE who wants to chase their dreams.
I never get tired of saying how much I love and admire you, Billy, as a musician, but mainly as a human being. What a great inspiration. Thank you for everything. Another great video. 😉🤘
I have a mid-70s Ibanez Les Paul copy "lawsuit bass" and these techiques and tips have greatly improved the sound of my 45 year old bass!! Thank you!!!
Billy: "I'm just a bass player." 🤣 I wish I could say that and play like you!!!!! What a fantastic video. So humble. Could easily sit down and have a beer with this guy!!!! Keep these videos coming Billy?
I'll NEVER FORGET HOW YOU WERE HUMBLE AND RESCPECTFUL TO ME AND MY FRIENDS IN BELGRADE(SERBIA) IN 2007. (DEVIL'S SLINGSHOT TOUR). WE MET ALSO TOBY HERO WHO IS ONE OF THE FUNNIEST AND COOLEST DUDES I EVER MET-BESIDES YOU OF COURSE !!!😎 TOBY BRINGS US BEHIND THE PULT AFTER CONCERT AND WE WERE WITH YOU,TONY AND TOBY WHEN YOU WERE SIGNING AUTOGRAPHS, SOLD CD-S , ETC........... WE TOOK A COUPLE OF PICTURES OF US TOGETHER,HANGING OUT....-UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE FOR US-YOUNG MUSICIANS WHO WATCH THEIR IDOLS FOR THE FIRST TIME!!!! THANK YOU MR. BILLY SHEEHAN FOR BEING SO KIND !!!! WISH YOU ALL THE BEST!!! LONG LIVE THE KING!!!!!!!😉
Billy, Paul Gilbert and all the guys members from Mr.Big are amazing and high intelligent, sincere people! Thank you Billy Sheehan for your great videos and musical inspiration! :) We love you!
Billy, I saw you with Steve Vai at a little dive in Connecticut many years ago. You guys were at the top of your game and blew the doors off the place. Thank you for that. I've been a fan of yours ever since! Keep up the good work brother
I’ve been doing set up’s for years but I’ve never levelled the frets before. I can’t believe how easy this was because of this video. And what a difference it’s made to my already awesome Fender ultra jazz. Thanks Billy!! You really are the People’s champ. We don’t deserve you.
I don't know how you managed to stay so grounded when so many of your peers are still squeezing into spandex and poofing up their hair to pretend it's still 1987. Congratulations. I just spent a whopping $108 on a 5-string because I'm not wanting to dive off the deep end and spend 6-700 getting back into playing. I haven't touched a bass in over twenty years. I'm not sure I'll still enjoy it and wasn't sure buying a mid-range bass was the right choice. On the flip side, buying a cheap bass carries the risk of it being so bad I can't possibly enjoy it. So this video was extremely helpful in showing me that I can easily make some tweaks to improve it. I mean, if you can be enthusiastic about a $150 bass even though you can afford, and have played, much more expensive gear then I'm confident I'll be able to enjoy my new junk as well. And I can always make upgrades to the important bits as I gain competence.
Mr Billy Sheehan has got to be the most humble legendary player on RUclips, lol. I love the neck rest with tool holder. This is very entertaining and educational at the same time. The real question is how much do you want for that $100 bass
I had watched several set up videos, but it was an interview with Billy describing leveling his own frets on the road with a regular file that gave me the courage to take a file to a cheap bass. I have leveled frets on over a dozen basses now. I still just use a regular file and a fret crowning file. I also file heavy towards the tail to prevent ramping.
Excellent. That's the idea. It's good to know how to do these things, and of course, as I said in the video at least 2 or 3 times, if you don't feel confident--take it to an expert. Thanks Tim!
Gotta say Billy has an awesome demeanor. You can tell he's really a good guy who really does have a tremendous passion for bass and would probably be a really good teacher and it's funny and cool at the same time that he's so humble about his tech skills and does things to his own basses just bc he's interested in getting what he wants by doing it himself and it's all about his personal preferences to serve his own mechanics and techniques. He has somewhat of a childlike excitement about it, like a big kid enjoying getting into every aspect of what he's trying to get it to do. I bet he'd be great to be in a band with for sure, seems like he would be all about just having fun.
Another excellent Billy Sheehan video. One additional adjustment you can make is filing the nut. I'm also a hack repair man, but I did this to my bass with big results, & I did mine with a utility knife before I realized there are files specifically made for this. If you do it, go slow, & check string frequently, because if you take too much off you'll need a new nut.
Thank you very much, Mr. Sheehan! I really appreciate this video; I have needed my truss rod tweaked for some time now, but haven't gotten up the nerve to do it :). I play an Ibanez SDGR 1000, which I bought brand new in '89...Bella is my main instrument, and I love her :) . You have a wonderful way of explaining things, and give me a little more self-confidence to try this on my own. I'm not gigging, so I don't have a lot of money. Thanks so much, man, you're awesome! Be well, and stay safe
This is extraordinarily cool! I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw it was Billy actually helping people with their basses. I first saw him on Stanley Clarke's "Night School" video where a group of premier bass players doing School Days. It's so nice to see his humility exceeds his incredible skill. Thanks so much for this video! 🎸
I just bought an Indonesian Music Man and it’s crazy how much better a “cheap” bass is these days. Back when I was a kid imported basses were complete garbage but not any more.
Hey Billy I've been playing bass for 10 years and your an amazing bass player and I got introduced to you through Scott's bass lesson shotout to you Billy
From a fellow old man,.....just started learning to play bass in 2019 at the age of 63 and only because I sorta inherited an old Silvertone with the original amp made in 68. I figured out quickly I needed to learn to work on it myself to save money since I'm retired now. This is the first of your videos I've seen and just wanted to say Thanks!......the info about the frets is pricelss and will definitely be used soon......Thank you again so much......Help keep great music alive as another youtuber says!
I recently bought a bass, now I've been a guitarplayer for 16 years now (not semi-consistent practice but I'm happy with where I am), but I've never really played bass before, and I'm really looking forward to your playing tips videos. The humility you have shown is off the charts, man.
You are the reason billy that I am playing 3 fingers fir right hand. I am watching your instructional videos when I was starting playing bass. And you are one of the greatest influence why I am playing bass. Thank you so much billy sheehan. Stay safe always.
Isopropanol 99% evaporates away completely in seconds with no chemical residue, it's handy for instruments and equipment. Plus you can use a 70% dilution ISA on paper towel to sterilize your hands and other surfaces eg. your car etc. COVID-19 safety.
I recently went into business as a guitar setup/repair technician, and this video is part of what made me decide to do it. It removed the mystery and gave me confidence that I could do it myself. Thank you!
I always enjoy listening to you, because you are always genuinely interested in what you are discussing, so there's never a nod off or feeling preoccupied and missing points when you're on. Your beginners bass course from years ago is still great to go through, and all the stuff afterwards of course. Thanks man.
thank you. went for a budget option for my first bass and barely touched it after getting a better one. decided to honor it and give it a good set up and some new parts. this helped me a lot during the process
Always aware of your talent Billy, I can't say I was any fan, but my respect for you has just skyrocketed! Fine video presentation to help any bass player increase their knowledge of the instrument which is a really important part of helping them to make it sing - I knew all this stuff and yet I still come away enlightened - thanks very much Sir and keep up the fine work!
It's so inspiring and important to see a highly esteemed professional take the time and do this work himself. It shows us we don't always need the expensive instruments and pro techs. Thank you Mr Sheehan!
I am not a luthier, or even a Bass player, but I have a trick for tightening truss rods. I rest the neck against my knee, like an archer stringing a bow, and relieve the pressure on the strings when I twist the nut of the truss rod. I also grasp the neck at both ends and shake, pull, and twist it when I finish. To settle the parts.
Mr. Sheehan, I have followed your work for 30 years and you still absolutely amaze me! My wife and I had a chance to see you & Mr. Big in Augusta Georgia at a place called the Post Office club. Y'all were awesome! You, Sir, were absolutely outstanding and given the club, the concert was like a private show. One of, if not the best, but, one of the best shows I've ever been to see! You are my Bass Hero Sir! Thanks for all the memories! Sincerely, Tony. Peace.
Billy, Eat ‘Em And Smile was one of those seminal albums for me. I’d never be a musician if it wasn’t for 1984 and Eat ‘Em And Smile. After decades as a guitarist I’m looking at bass in an emergency situation if the church band doesn’t have a bass player available for any given service. Thank you for this fantastic video. I don’t have the resources for even a $300 bass right now being a single dad. This video is such a great resource. Thank you sir.
@@NikkieRoxxx Exactly!! I find it truly amazing, Someone as busy, as our dear friend, Billy.... Would have the time to learn how to create such incredible cooking skills!!!!! What a great guy, and genuine person!!!!
It's really great to watch someone work on setup and frets from the standpoint of someone who really breaks things down as a player & is really interested in making the whole thing work. This is a problem-solving mentality people should find valuable.
I love how he refers you to people with more technical expertise for the details. Never trust a know it all. Love this guy, l’ve been a fan since, “ High Speed On Ice” came out.
@@BillySheehanOfficial So extremely nice of you to notice my comment, besides getting the COVID vaccine it’s the high point of my year, thank you. Really glad to hear about the new Talas album.
When I was gigging, much more so than I do now, I would change my P-Bass Rotosounds every gig - about once a week. Sound excessive? Not if you won’t settle for anything less than that beautiful, deep, piano quality that Rotosounds deliver. There’s no other string that makes a Bass sing - like Rotosounds! They Truly Rock! To Billy: Thanks for the tutorial, and for your total passion for the instrument!
This is the most humble and knowledge generous bass players I've ever met. I'm currently doing the opposite of his rig: I'm taking an Epiphone EB-0, and routing a split coil Fender P to add some articulation. I love the short scale stuff. Much more comfortable. And I'm 6'2" with large hands. It's still more comfortable. Sir, if you see this: you've saved my back and hands with an interview you gave decades ago and you discussed strap length. That interview has saved my hands and wrists from injury.
1) awesome, unique musician with his own voice 2) super enthusiastic, never jaded 3)personable 4)open minded 5)freely shares info 6) one of the original diy'ers Just a few reasons to dig Billy Sheehan- he could be a clock repairman, and keep you engaged on the subject for hours.
I think this video is definitely a massive amount of very valid information. A lot of people have a misconception that more expensive is better, I’ve been playing a $400 Bass for the past 11 years with over 300 hours of playing and it still holds up really well.
Can't believe that a famous guy like you, a legendary bass player is yet so homely, like an uncle, thanks billy, this was so helpfull 🙏🏼 ( I don't have any cheap basses but even not so cheap basses have these problem right out of the fender factory)
Sheehan is just the nicest dude around.
Very kind of you to say---I'll try to live up to that! : )
@@BillySheehanOfficial you just are. Consistently in all videos I’ve seen. Kudos to you. Your attitude and down to earth-ness is refreshing
One of the nicest guys in all of music, no doubt.
Absolutely one of a kind! NO DOUBT ABOUT IT!
I concur.Billy has a goodness that comes from within.
He has the utmost respect for people and all living creatures.
“I’m just a bassist,” the understatement of the century!
very kind of you
@@BillySheehanOfficial 😚😚😚
That's like jimmy hendricks saying he can strum a tune...
If he’s a wizard on the bass,what can he do on the guitar?
@@thomasfarmer1730 I'm good at New Young songs ; )
You’re a people’s champ Billy! To say that your signature series is expensive and making a video on how to save money on a bass is incredible! You have achieved so much in the industry yet you sound very humble and inspiring. Out of this world! Much respect!
Thx Bro!
@@BillySheehanOfficial WOW! very grateful for the reply. hey Billy, can I humbly request if you could spend a few minutes checking out some of my videos, would be super cool.
Absolutely, so true !
That’s the amazing thing. Everybody has to start somewhere. There are kids out there with the love and the drive but no resources. They’ll do anything to get the sound they want. And Billy loves and respects those kids because he was them once. I mean, think about how much hip hop owes to the ingenuity of musicians who couldn’t afford a single percussion instrument. Geeking out on gear is fun, but it’s no substitute for musicianship.
@@baniraizan3550 Drop me a line on FB or IG
" Hi everybody,- my name is Billy Sheehan."
We know, Billy, we know.
Do we? ehum? Whos THAT GUY!!
Same impression!! He is a humble master! 😁😁😁
I will be honest--I bookmarked this based on the title. I didn't know it was my boy (I emailed him a decade ago, and he replied--super sincere, nice celebrity) until I started to watch.
He’s not trying to b ass, lol
@@PaulMatthewMusic1I C wat U did there. Lol.
Get it? ICU? Because this line took me out?😂
If I hadn’t watched this vid, I’d have probably payed $50 for someone to turn my truss rod 1/4 turn to get rid of a bit of fret buzz.
-Thank you Billy!!
Alright! I saved you 50 bucks! ; )
Now pay him 50 bucks :D
Pay the man, lol
I have never heard a musician more willing to share his knowledge than Billy Sheehan. A true inspiration to the bass community. Thank you Billy!
For me, there are Mr Sheehan and Mr Wooten! both are just an incarnation of the spirit of bass
'You can't work on a bass unless you're a luthier!'
Billy Sheehan : Hold my bastard file
Ha!!
You are not just a Bass Player , you are "The Bass Player"
*"THA Bass player."
Or "THEE bass player" if you would. Lol.
But yes I agree with you. Billy Sheehan is goated frfr.
I wonder if he, Victor Wooten, Marcus Miller, Pino Palladino, and Anthony (close friend of Victor's) ever hung out. Lol.
The most respect to Mr.Billy Sheehan!
I like this guy. He makes me have self confidence again. Its like being reborn.
Glad to hear!
Billy has got to be the most Humble of ANY MUSICIAN to grace our Planet....what a class act
and He's just a Bass Player.......................LOL🎸What a Gentlemen....Rock on You are an inspiration
to all who play Music and to all who don't.................
Thx Jimi---much appreciated
“In the end, I believe it’s your hands.” Yes. For bass, especially, your hands have such a profound impact on your sound. Billy could play any bass and still sound like Billy. Great video. Thanks.
Yeah, some of us should work on our hands first
It is true. after all, however we play bass defines our own style of playing.
Billy is the Bob Ross of the music business. Wholesome, informative and genuine. Immediately subscribed!
Very kind of you!
Adding Some fluffy bass notes right here and and Some hard fluffy pull upps and fluffy hammer on right there 🙃🤘
@@spacesloth6496 Ha! Brilliant
No, Mr. Sheehan. You are not JUST a bass player. You have gone far beyond that. Your humility in that statement alone, I believe, proves my point. You called the bass your tool. That makes you what's commonly known as a master craftsman, and a heck of a nice guy.
Very kind of you to say
@@BillySheehanOfficial You took the time to respond to me. You don't know how much that means. I have been a huge fan for better than 30 yrs now. Your skills and your style are the stuff of legend. I used to read your column many years ago. Your "Bass Piano" article inspired me to start transcribing Fur Elise, and Peter & the Wolf and playing them with both hands on the fretboard. I vividly remember seeing you live here in Chattanooga, TN with David Lee Roth. You and Vai together... Magic. Not there is no magic with Paul, there is. I just haven't had the good fortune to see that in person. Thanks for all that and for being a good human being, and like I said before, a heck of a nice guy.
I got to hang out for a few hours with Billy at at a local Pub at the London Bass Guitar Show a few years back. All of the kind comments are completely accurate. They say never meet your heroes, you might be disappointed. Billy is the exception to this rule, I hope everyone who is influenced by Billy Sheehan, has the pleasure and honor to hang out with him. He is a wealth of musical knowledge and a really cool guy. His bass playing is musical nourishment, and one of few guitar or bass players who continues push themselves musically. Long, long may it continue.
Thanks for posting
I don’t even play bass... But watch these anyways. That’s how cool you are Billy! Thank you.
Billy sheehan is in his most natural habitats. I can sit down and listen to him talk for days
Step 1 to being one of the best bass players on the planet...be a genuine nice person. Step 2 be passionate about your craft. Step 3 be willing to share knowledge with others. Bless you Sir! Much respect and appreciation.
I love the fact that a world-class musician knows how to do his own stunts on his gear. It is a very humble approach and helps creating a strong bond with the instrument.
When I was a kid my grandfather tought me how after WW2 people would fix and build their own stuff, and that inspired me to take care and improve my instruments by myself. It saved me a lot of money and gave me a lot of satisfaction. I am sure this kind of videos can help a lot of people in the same way. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience!
This! 22:28
I have been looking for that answer for 25+ years. Sometimes the inner ears of your imagination are just playing tricks to your common logic. You might be fighting an issue with the instrument that it's not even there. Step back, cool down and start over when you feel you've got "fresh ears".
Thank you Billy! You are awesome!
Thx bro! Glad you found that helpful
You must be the hardest working bassist ever and you still take time to give back. You are a true gentleman and that unfortunately is very uncommon nowadays.
Thank you for all you do.
When you have a wealth of knowledge and can pass that along to others, thats amazing stuff. We never had that growing up so easily available, let alone from amazing musical heroes directly!
My first Talas concert was 1975. I was 14. Outdoor show. When I approached the stage they were playing White Punks On Dope. It was the first live show I ever saw. Billy was amazing. Played with headphones on then and wore really high platform shoes back then lol. Talk about a major 1st impression. It changed my life. Some years later when I started going to bars throughout the 70s to see bands we would go see Talas every chance we got. (I got in to bars at 15-16 I looked a lot older than I was) It was like a real rock show in a bar every night with them and the place was always packed. Places with names like Stage One, After Dark, Bowinkles, and The Barrel Head etc. They would put on a free outdoor show and 10 or 15 thousand people would show up. After some time Billy joined a band from Rochester called Light Years (what a great band name! Talas AND Light Years) and we would go see them a lot. They were great too. Anyway I’m rambling. The thing is a lot of people always say what a nice guy Billy is. And you know what, that’s real. He’s been that way his whole life. He is just a good guy. In the bars he would hang out between sets and talk to people. Just a nice down to earth guy. Years later when I met my wife in the 80s one thing we had in common was that we were both Talas and Light Years and Billy fans. We both agreed what a great guy he was. Everyone here in Buffalo has been so happy to see his career go like it has. We all knew he was too good for bars. We are all proud of you Billy!
Incredibly kind of you to say---much appreciated! Thanks for being there all those years--amazing times & priceless memories!
@@BillySheehanOfficial hey Billy quick story. I was a fedex courier. Did that 30 years. I’m semi retired now. I used to deliver to Pepsi on Walden ave in Cheektowaga. There was a really nice woman there I would see everyday and we would talk about everything under the sky. Well one day for some reason your name came up. Probably reminiscing about the good ole’ days, and she said Billy is my brother! Lol. How cool is that. We both agreed what a good guy you are. Say hi to your sister for me!
Shes very proud of you btw. But you already knew that I’m sure.....
I met him once in Manchester, UK. An absolute gentleman who had time for everyone.
Out of all the useful information in this video, Billy's humility is the most important one. Thank you sir!
Years ago i watched a lot of interviews with Billy, and he often says about bass modification that he did by himself. It was a biggest inspiration to me, to build my own version of attitude bass. I thought "if I can't buy it, I can do it" and I did it :) This kind of video is a great support to all, who want to start exploring technical aspect of bass guitar. It simply showing, that there is nothig to afraid :)
just a bass player!!! man if ever there was an understatement thats it!!!! one of the best of all time
Exactly!
the thing i like most about Billy is how he never forgets about beginners or those on a tight budget. not just an incredible player but also a great teacher:)
Hello Billy and thank you for this nice tutorial.
One tip though, before filing the frets, make sure to cover the pickups with blue tape to prevent the metal dust sticking to it.
When you're done filing, put another layer of tape over the pickups to emprison the dust before removing it all.
It won't hurt to so the same with the pots and switch.
Fast forward to 29.40 to see me doing exactly that---and its only necessary when using steel wool as the fret shavings are non-magnetic
Damn dude…you got a response from Billy himself!!!! What a down to earth guy.👍🏼
Billy Sheehan: "I'm just a bass player". So humble, thats why I love this guy
When someone of his status can speak to the people like this... Billy you are a true man of the people sir! Thanks!
I am amazed at humble you are! "I'm just a bass player". No, mate. You are a bass-playing rock god!
You are too kind
OMG.
Billy Sheehan, showing people how to set up a bass.
You are a legend, you are already making people happy by playing as you do.
And you now share your ideas and thoughts.
Kudos sir.
I'll never get tired of hearing you, Steve Vai and David Lee Roth.
You are unique and your playing will be referenced for years.
Thank you.
One of the things I love most about Billy is that he never says anything bad about anyone or anything. Even if it is a product he doesn't use or like (the rig rundown when he mentions strings is a good example), he always says they are good for others, just not him.
His positivity is such a strength as a musician because he never closes himself off from anything and always looks for the positive.
A great lesson for all of us!
Thank you, Billy. That gives me the confidence to work on my own instruments without the fear of irreparably damaging them.
There's a local Luthier in my town that posts all his work on fb. Great learning tools check him out and see for yourself. His name is Dean hoffart on fb. His profile pic has him riding some kinda sit down pedal bike.
I agree w/ Sankt -I saw Talas open for Yngwie's Rising force - I couldn't even take pictures I was so in awe of Mr. Sheehan and it led me to go from guitar to bass - just a classy cat - he responds to E-mails and when I lost my big Maine Coone Cat "Tennyson" 2 days before Christmas in 2019 - I got a condolences from Mr. Sheehan and I was floored - If there is one American Musician who young guys should look at about how to act as a human who is gifted - Mr. Billy Sheehan is one of em!! If he hasn't written a book he should because it should be required reading - like "Rotten - No Irish, No Blacks, No dogs" by J. Lydon - by ANYONE who wants to chase their dreams.
I never get tired of saying how much I love and admire you, Billy, as a musician, but mainly as a human being. What a great inspiration. Thank you for everything. Another great video. 😉🤘
You are too kind
Love the thumbnail. Exactly the advice I gave someone about trying out pawnshop basses, pick it up and look down it like a firearm.
I have a mid-70s Ibanez Les Paul copy "lawsuit bass" and these techiques and tips have greatly improved the sound of my 45 year old bass!! Thank you!!!
Glad to hear, Dan! Thx
"Just a bass player"?? Billy, you are THE bass player!!
Thanks for the video!!
Billy: "I'm just a bass player." 🤣 I wish I could say that and play like you!!!!! What a fantastic video. So humble. Could easily sit down and have a beer with this guy!!!! Keep these videos coming Billy?
I'll NEVER FORGET HOW YOU WERE HUMBLE AND RESCPECTFUL TO ME AND MY FRIENDS IN BELGRADE(SERBIA) IN 2007. (DEVIL'S SLINGSHOT TOUR).
WE MET ALSO TOBY HERO WHO IS ONE OF THE FUNNIEST AND COOLEST DUDES I EVER MET-BESIDES YOU OF COURSE !!!😎 TOBY BRINGS US BEHIND THE PULT AFTER CONCERT AND WE WERE WITH YOU,TONY AND TOBY WHEN YOU WERE SIGNING AUTOGRAPHS, SOLD CD-S , ETC........... WE TOOK A COUPLE OF PICTURES OF US TOGETHER,HANGING OUT....-UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE FOR US-YOUNG MUSICIANS WHO WATCH THEIR IDOLS FOR THE FIRST TIME!!!!
THANK YOU MR. BILLY SHEEHAN FOR BEING SO KIND !!!! WISH YOU ALL THE BEST!!!
LONG LIVE THE KING!!!!!!!😉
Agreed!! It's you, it's the player that brings out the sound!! You are a good dude encouraging people to be successful!!
Billy, Paul Gilbert and all the guys members from Mr.Big are amazing and high intelligent, sincere people! Thank you Billy Sheehan for your great videos and musical inspiration! :) We love you!
Billy, I saw you with Steve Vai at a little dive in Connecticut many years ago. You guys were at the top of your game and blew the doors off the place. Thank you for that. I've been a fan of yours ever since! Keep up the good work brother
Thanks for being there!
Always appreciate your expert “self deprecating” explanations and tutorials to help us become better at our craft!
Such a smooth video. No pitches, plugs or ads. Just a guy improving a bass. Wow Billy Sheehan love it.
I’ve been doing set up’s for years but I’ve never levelled the frets before. I can’t believe how easy this was because of this video. And what a difference it’s made to my already awesome Fender ultra jazz. Thanks Billy!! You really are the People’s champ. We don’t deserve you.
I don't know how you managed to stay so grounded when so many of your peers are still squeezing into spandex and poofing up their hair to pretend it's still 1987. Congratulations.
I just spent a whopping $108 on a 5-string because I'm not wanting to dive off the deep end and spend 6-700 getting back into playing. I haven't touched a bass in over twenty years. I'm not sure I'll still enjoy it and wasn't sure buying a mid-range bass was the right choice. On the flip side, buying a cheap bass carries the risk of it being so bad I can't possibly enjoy it. So this video was extremely helpful in showing me that I can easily make some tweaks to improve it. I mean, if you can be enthusiastic about a $150 bass even though you can afford, and have played, much more expensive gear then I'm confident I'll be able to enjoy my new junk as well. And I can always make upgrades to the important bits as I gain competence.
Mr Billy Sheehan has got to be the most humble legendary player on RUclips, lol. I love the neck rest with tool holder. This is very entertaining and educational at the same time. The real question is how much do you want for that $100 bass
I had watched several set up videos, but it was an interview with Billy describing leveling his own frets on the road with a regular file that gave me the courage to take a file to a cheap bass. I have leveled frets on over a dozen basses now. I still just use a regular file and a fret crowning file. I also file heavy towards the tail to prevent ramping.
Excellent. That's the idea. It's good to know how to do these things, and of course, as I said in the video at least 2 or 3 times, if you don't feel confident--take it to an expert. Thanks Tim!
Gotta say Billy has an awesome demeanor. You can tell he's really a good guy who really does have a tremendous passion for bass and would probably be a really good teacher and it's funny and cool at the same time that he's so humble about his tech skills and does things to his own basses just bc he's interested in getting what he wants by doing it himself and it's all about his personal preferences to serve his own mechanics and techniques. He has somewhat of a childlike excitement about it, like a big kid enjoying getting into every aspect of what he's trying to get it to do. I bet he'd be great to be in a band with for sure, seems like he would be all about just having fun.
Saw him live 3 times in various bands. He kneeled while on stage to give me a high five! You have to see him live.
You are absolutely one of the most amazing bassist ever. That’s second to you being a genuinely good and humble human. Thanks Billy!
Another excellent Billy Sheehan video. One additional adjustment you can make is filing the nut. I'm also a hack
repair man, but I did this to my bass with big results, & I did mine with a utility knife before I realized there are
files specifically made for this. If you do it, go slow, & check string frequently, because if you take too much off
you'll need a new nut.
Thank you very much, Mr. Sheehan! I really appreciate this video; I have needed my truss rod tweaked for some time now, but haven't gotten up the nerve to do it :). I play an Ibanez SDGR 1000, which I bought brand new in '89...Bella is my main instrument, and I love her :) . You have a wonderful way of explaining things, and give me a little more self-confidence to try this on my own. I'm not gigging, so I don't have a lot of money. Thanks so much, man, you're awesome!
Be well, and stay safe
Good luck with it, Robert!
This man is AMAZING!! YOU GUYS WHIO HAVEN'T SEEN HIM LIVE. YOUR MISSING THE SHOW OF A LIFE TIME.
Very kind f you to say
"Sometimes you can't always afford a nice bass." More than the duration of his incredible career, this statement proves this man is truly a bassist 😅
Great video...you always learn more from the older bass players...thanks.
This is extraordinarily cool! I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw it was Billy actually helping people with their basses. I first saw him on Stanley Clarke's "Night School" video where a group of premier bass players doing School Days. It's so nice to see his humility exceeds his incredible skill. Thanks so much for this video! 🎸
I just bought an Indonesian Music Man and it’s crazy how much better a “cheap” bass is these days.
Back when I was a kid imported basses were complete garbage but not any more.
Hey Billy I've been playing bass for 10 years and your an amazing bass player and I got introduced to you through Scott's bass lesson shotout to you Billy
Thanks Gabriel!
@@BillySheehanOfficial your welcome billy btw I also have a yt channel were I do bass videos too
And Gabriel Walker is the best bass player in his house.
Soon to be replaced by a better version of YOU.
@@carpediemarts705 wait your subed to my RUclips channel
@@gabrielwalker4411 "You're". Jeez
From a fellow old man,.....just started learning to play bass in 2019 at the age of 63 and only because I sorta inherited an old Silvertone with the original amp made in 68. I figured out quickly I needed to learn to work on it myself to save money since I'm retired now. This is the first of your videos I've seen and just wanted to say Thanks!......the info about the frets is pricelss and will definitely be used soon......Thank you again so much......Help keep great music alive as another youtuber says!
Thank you, James!
@@BillySheehanOfficial You are quite welcome.....
I always loved the grandma story about after her passing you got your first real bass with the insurance money. Grandma would be proud son
True!
i always appreciate how honest and humble Billy is.
I recently bought a bass, now I've been a guitarplayer for 16 years now (not semi-consistent practice but I'm happy with where I am), but I've never really played bass before, and I'm really looking forward to your playing tips videos. The humility you have shown is off the charts, man.
You are the reason billy that I am playing 3 fingers fir right hand. I am watching your instructional videos when I was starting playing bass. And you are one of the greatest influence why I am playing bass. Thank you so much billy sheehan. Stay safe always.
Thanks Ian!
Just a recomendation: If you miss the sharpie on the fretboard, Isopropyl Alcohol can take it out without residues!
Many things take it off---thanks!
Isopropanol 99% evaporates away completely in seconds with no chemical residue, it's handy for instruments and equipment.
Plus you can use a 70% dilution ISA on paper towel to sterilize your hands and other surfaces eg. your car etc. COVID-19 safety.
I recently went into business as a guitar setup/repair technician, and this video is part of what made me decide to do it. It removed the mystery and gave me confidence that I could do it myself. Thank you!
I always enjoy listening to you, because you are always genuinely interested in what you are discussing, so there's never a nod off or feeling preoccupied and missing points when you're on. Your beginners bass course from years ago is still great to go through, and all the stuff afterwards of course. Thanks man.
Thank YOU!
thank you. went for a budget option for my first bass and barely touched it after getting a better one. decided to honor it and give it a good set up and some new parts. this helped me a lot during the process
Glad to hear, Jude!
Always aware of your talent Billy, I can't say I was any fan, but my respect for you has just skyrocketed!
Fine video presentation to help any bass player increase their knowledge of the instrument which is a really important part of helping them to make it sing - I knew all this stuff and yet I still come away enlightened - thanks very much Sir and keep up the fine work!
Very kind of you, Jimbo
It's so inspiring and important to see a highly esteemed professional take the time and do this work himself. It shows us we don't always need the expensive instruments and pro techs. Thank you Mr Sheehan!
at first I was like "this guy should get his videos sponsored by StewMac"
but then I remembered it's freakin Billy Sheehan, he don't need that
; )
Thanx dude. You're prolly the reason why I had a great career in the biz. Saw Talas in 1984 and never looked back :)
Glad to hear, Chris!
Hey Billy you Rock man! I would love to see David Lee Roth's original good time band back together again for a new tour or Mr. Big .
I am not a luthier, or even a Bass player, but I have a trick for tightening truss rods. I rest the neck against my knee, like an archer stringing a bow, and relieve the pressure on the strings when I twist the nut of the truss rod. I also grasp the neck at both ends and shake, pull, and twist it when I finish. To settle the parts.
I've done that as well : )
Mr. Sheehan is a National Treasure.
Mr. Sheehan, I have followed your work for 30 years and you still absolutely amaze me! My wife and I had a chance to see you & Mr. Big in Augusta Georgia at a place called the Post Office club. Y'all were awesome! You, Sir, were absolutely outstanding and given the club, the concert was like a private show. One of, if not the best, but, one of the best shows I've ever been to see! You are my Bass Hero Sir! Thanks for all the memories! Sincerely, Tony. Peace.
Billy, Eat ‘Em And Smile was one of those seminal albums for me. I’d never be a musician if it wasn’t for 1984 and Eat ‘Em And Smile. After decades as a guitarist I’m looking at bass in an emergency situation if the church band doesn’t have a bass player available for any given service. Thank you for this fantastic video. I don’t have the resources for even a $300 bass right now being a single dad. This video is such a great resource. Thank you sir.
Thanks Eric!
Billy is coolest , Geddy and Billy are my favorite bass and humans
Thank you! I'm a beginning bass player and this helps me understand the instrument and its dynamics.
You’re such an entertaining person to watch. You could teach me how to make a sandwich and I’d be all ears.
Ha! Thx bro!
I'm sure you must see some of the great food he makes on his Facebook page . Give it time , I think he should start a cooking channel . :)
@@basstimenonfish4031 yes!!
I keep telling Billy, to do cooking class/ videos!!
"How to Cook Like a Rock Star!!"
@@topcturvee1 'how to cook like a rock star that eats well' (...no fast food and excesses)
@@NikkieRoxxx
Exactly!!
I find it truly amazing,
Someone as busy, as our dear friend, Billy....
Would have the time to learn how to create such incredible cooking skills!!!!!
What a great guy, and genuine person!!!!
It's really great to watch someone work on setup and frets from the standpoint of someone who really breaks things down as a player & is really interested in making the whole thing work.
This is a problem-solving mentality people should find valuable.
Very well said and very much appreciated
Billy Sheehan - thanks for everything you do!
Awesome! I didn't knew the great Billy Sheehan had a RUclips channel! You Sir, have a new subscriber! (:
Welcome aboard!
Thank you so much Billy, I saw you years ago at a Bass clinic when you visited Australia… my full respect to you 👍🙏🙂
if you can play like him you can make a rubber band sound good
I love how he refers you to people with more technical expertise for the details. Never trust a know it all. Love this guy, l’ve been a fan since, “ High Speed On Ice” came out.
Thanks James! New Talas record coming soon!
@@BillySheehanOfficial So extremely nice of you to notice my comment, besides getting the COVID vaccine it’s the high point of my year, thank you. Really glad to hear about the new Talas album.
Put his Rotosound endorsed strings on a couple of basses - they are cool
Glad you like them!
When I was gigging, much more so than I do now, I would change my P-Bass Rotosounds every gig - about once a week. Sound excessive? Not if you won’t settle for anything less than that beautiful, deep, piano quality that Rotosounds deliver. There’s no other string that makes a Bass sing - like Rotosounds! They Truly Rock! To Billy: Thanks for the tutorial, and for your total passion for the instrument!
This is the most humble and knowledge generous bass players I've ever met.
I'm currently doing the opposite of his rig: I'm taking an Epiphone EB-0, and routing a split coil Fender P to add some articulation.
I love the short scale stuff. Much more comfortable. And I'm 6'2" with large hands. It's still more comfortable.
Sir, if you see this: you've saved my back and hands with an interview you gave decades ago and you discussed strap length. That interview has saved my hands and wrists from injury.
Billy is world class #1 guy. Super dude. Real deal.
1) awesome, unique musician with his own voice 2) super enthusiastic, never jaded 3)personable 4)open minded 5)freely shares info 6) one of the original diy'ers
Just a few reasons to dig Billy Sheehan- he could be a clock repairman, and keep you engaged on the subject for hours.
Watching this while crowning frets on a Tokai custom editon PJ.
Billy comes off like the coolest, most genuine dude around. Loving his content!
"I'm just a bass player."
No. No you're not.
That was going to be my comment ... of all the people to say this about themselves, well, Mr Sheehan you have gone up in my estimation
Yeah... I heard that, too. That's like saying Neil Armstrong, first man to walk on the moon, was just a pilot.
You areSO humble...! and down to earth! thanks for the tips, based on an eternity of experience! Greetings, blessings, and stay safe!
Bit like Phil Collins when he said he was just a drummer..
Right? He's a fucking incredible bass player at the very least.
I think this video is definitely a massive amount of very valid information. A lot of people have a misconception that more expensive is better, I’ve been playing a $400 Bass for the past 11 years with over 300 hours of playing and it still holds up really well.
- "I'm not a Luthier"
Billy the Luthier.
I made my first adjustment on the bass because of this video. Everything went well, no more pain to touch! Thanks for the lesson, Mr Sheehan!
So glad to hear!
you should giveaway this bass, with your signature in the headstock
Can't believe that a famous guy like you, a legendary bass player is yet so homely, like an uncle, thanks billy, this was so helpfull 🙏🏼
( I don't have any cheap basses but even not so cheap basses have these problem right out of the fender factory)