Award-winning bassist, composer and arranger Colin Sankey has built a reputation for pushing the limits of what's possible on the bass guitar. Winner of the 2022 Phil Jones Solo Bass Competition and creator of viral bass arrangements with over 15 million views, Colin has become one of Canada's most recognizable modern bass players, performing everywhere from jazz festivals to concert stages across the country.

In this episode, we dive into the pursuit of mastering an instrument, balancing technical ability with musicality, arranging music for solo bass and full band, navigating the highs and lows of social media, and what it really takes to build a career as a professional musician. Colin also shares stories from the road, lessons learned from difficult gigs, and the mindset that's helped shape his career.

• Colin Sankey – https://www.colinsankeybass.com
• Relive the Music – https://relivethemusic.ca
• Canadian Musicians Co-operative – https://canadianmusicians.coop
• Charles Berthound – https://www.charlesberthoud.com
• Victor Wooten – https://www.victorwooten.com

Hosted by Big Red Records

Singer-songwriter Jacob Diamond is an emerging folk artist, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and music educator based in Toronto. After graduating from York University, Jacob set off on a three-month solo trip across Europe—a journey that challenged the way he thinks about creativity, success, and building a life in music.

In this episode, we dive into Jacob's songwriting process, his approach to creating meaningful music, and the lessons he's learned while navigating the early stages of a creative career. We also explore inspiration, production, teaching, life after university, and what it really means to find your own path as an artist—without feeling like you have everything figured out.

Links & Mentions:

• Jacob Diamond – Linktree

Adam O'Connor has built a career playing drums across Canada and the United States, performing with country artist Kelsi Mayne and internationally recognized Oasis tribute band Supersonic. From Calgary Stampede and CMA Fest to packed theatres and clubs, Adam has learned what it takes to stay busy in the music industry.

In this episode, we talk about getting gigs through word-of-mouth, what makes a great session player, balancing multiple bands, touring, learning songs on the fly, life as a full-time musician, and why being a good hang is often more important than being the best player in the room.

Whether you're a musician looking for more gigs, a drummer trying to level up, or just curious about life on the road, Adam shares practical advice and plenty of stories from behind the kit.

Links & Mentions:
• Adam O'Connor – https://www.instagram.com/ibangstuff
• Kelsi Mayne – https://www.instagram.com/kelsimayne
• Supersonic (Oasis Tribute) – https://www.instagram.com/supersonicoasistribute
• Sean Steinhardt – https://www.instagram.com/seansteinhardtmusic
• CMA Fest – https://cmafest.com
• Calgary Stampede – https://www.calgarystampede.com