EP 303 | Bassist Ron Carter turns 87

Mulligan Stew

When Ron Carter's name comes up, one of the first things people write or say is – he’s played bass and cello on over 2500 albums.

That’s impressive and awe-inspiring. Totally agree.

When I hear the name Ron Carter I think of the bassist who played in Miles Davis’ second band, alongside Herbie Hancock, Tony Williams & George Coleman.

“The List” of bands and recordings would include Wayne Shorter, Blue Note recordings with Freddie Hubbard, Lee Morgan, McCoy Tyner, Horace Silver, and 100’s of others.

I talked to Ron about his recordings in popular music. Roberta Flack, Eddie Harris, Aretha, Billy Joel, Bette Midler, Erykah Badu, A tribe called Quest, Phoebe Snow, The Rascals, Gil Scott-Heron, Carlos Santana.

Ron has taught music for many years at esteemed colleges and schools, his current documentary is Finding the Right Notes, also the name of his bio book.

Ron Carter turns 87 years old today – Saturday, May 4 !! we wish him WELL.

Enjoy the conversation – I sure did.