Pino Palladino, one of the most versatile and celebrated bassists of his generation, has made his mark across multiple genres, from rock to soul, jazz, and beyond. Born on October 17, 1957, in Cardiff, Wales, to an Italian father and Welsh mother, Palladino’s musical journey began with a love for various genres, which shaped his career and signature style.
Early Career and Breakthrough with Paul Young
Palladino first gained international recognition in the early 1980s with his distinctive fretless bass work on Paul Young’s 1983 hit “Wherever I Lay My Hat (That’s My Home).” His unique tone, achieved through a combination of a fretless Music Man StingRay Bass and octave effects, became a hallmark of the era. This sound, along with his intricate and melodic bass lines, made him a sought-after session musician during this period.
Expanding Horizons: Collaborations and Session Work
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Palladino collaborated with a variety of artists, including David Gilmour, Elton John, and Eric Clapton. His work on Clapton’s Journeyman (1989) and Reptile (2001) albums showcased his ability to blend seamlessly into the rock and blues genres, adding depth and sophistication to every track.
He also worked with Elton John on The One (1992), recorded in Paris. Palladino’s contributions, marked by his signature fretless bass sound, were highlighted by his creative freedom in shaping the basslines for the record. He fondly recalls Elton John’s speed and skill in composing songs, making the experience both challenging and inspiring.
A Key Member of the Soulquarians and Work with D’Angelo
Palladino’s influence expanded even further in the late 1990s and early 2000s when he became a member of the Soulquarians, a collective of musicians that included Questlove, D’Angelo, and J Dilla. His work with D’Angelo on the Voodoo album (2000) is considered groundbreaking. He contributed deeply rhythmic and groove-oriented bass lines, which became the backbone of tracks like “Send It On” and “Spanish Joint.” This period was marked by a creative synergy among the members, leading to iconic albums such as Erykah Badu’s Mama’s Gun (2000).
Filling the Shoes of a Legend: The Who
In 2002, following the sudden death of bassist John Entwistle, Palladino joined The Who. He stepped into the role with respect for the band’s legacy while adding his own flavor to their sound. He toured extensively with them and recorded several albums, including Endless Wire (2006) and Quadrophenia Live in London (2014). Palladino’s mastery of the bass enabled him to perform even the most complex bass solos, such as the iconic solo in “My Generation,” to the delight of fans worldwide.
Recent Work and Solo Album
In recent years, Palladino has continued to collaborate with a diverse array of artists, from Adele on her acclaimed 21 album (2011) to Nine Inch Nails on Hesitation Marks (2013). He has also worked with pop and R&B stars such as John Legend, Ed Sheeran, and Harry Styles.
In 2021, after decades of enriching others’ music, Palladino released his own album, Notes with Attachments, in collaboration with guitarist Blake Mills. The album showcases his compositional abilities and draws on his love for jazz, film scores, and atmospheric soundscapes. It is a testament to his lifelong dedication to pushing musical boundaries and his continued relevance as an artist.
Legacy and Influence
Pino Palladino’s contributions to music are immeasurable. His innovative use of the fretless bass and his ability to adapt to various musical contexts have solidified his reputation as one of the greatest bass players of all time. His style has influenced countless bassists and continues to shape the sound of contemporary music.
Today, Palladino remains active in the music industry, revered for his decades-long career and contributions to some of the most memorable recordings across multiple genres.
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