Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Tad Kinchla, bassist and vocalist of Blues Traveler, who highlights their upcoming performances on May 5 at the Graceland Soundstage in Memphis and June 12 at Bonnaroo in Manchester, Tennessee. Tad shares how his older brother and guitarist, Chan Kinchla, was one of the original members of the band in high school, and how he grew up with the band and was a fan before having the opportunity to join them full-time in 2000. He shares his circuitous route to joining the band, including attending college, playing lacrosse, and playing in different bands, before joining Blues Traveler after the tragic loss of original bass player Bobby Sheehan. Tad shares how he initially learned to play the electric bass without an amp, then transitioned to the upright bass before switching back to the electric bass for convenience with shows. Tad shares his experience playing with his brother and what it was like stepping in to perform with Blues Traveler for the first time since Bobby’s passing, describing it as surreal and emotionally charged. He reveals that he was one of five bass players auditioned for the position, and mentions that Oteil Burbridge, who was also considered for the role, ultimately joined Allman Brothers Band, which kicked off his 15-year tenure with that band.
Tad describes the welcoming environment where he was immediately encouraged to contribute songs, with one of his compositions becoming their first single on his debut album with Blues Traveler. He explains his approach to fitting into the band’s sound by positioning himself with the drums and apart from the mid-range frequency space between other instruments like guitar, keyboard, and harmonica. He discusses Blues Traveler’s musical style and the live performance experience. Tad explains how his approach has evolved from filling notes to playing with more restraint, describing his favorite aspect of playing live as interacting with the audience, particularly at outdoor venues.
Tad wraps up discussing the VIP experience and information about upcoming shows at Graceland Soundstage in Memphis on May 5th and at Bonnaroo on June 12th.
Visit https://bluestraveler.com to learn more about Blues Traveler.
