From Guitar World · · 1m 20s
Rhonda Smith's Unforgettable Bass
Rhonda Smith's unique bass sound, borrowed from Gary Grainger, defines her new supergroup The Power of 3.
In brief
Rhonda Smith's unique bass sound, borrowed from Gary Grainger, defines her new supergroup The Power of 3. Rhonda Smith borrowed Gary Grainger's PRS bass, which she never returned, for her new supergroup The Power of 3 with Orianthi and Cindy Blackman Santana. Originally reported by Guitar World.
Quick answers
- Why This Bass?
- Smith says the borrowed bass has a sound none of her other basses have, making it unique.
- What is the key takeaway from Rhonda Smith's Unforgettable Bass?
- Rhonda Smith borrowed Gary Grainger's PRS bass, which she never returned, for her new supergroup The Power of 3 with Orianthi and Cindy Blackman Santana.
Rhonda Smith's Bass Collection
Rhonda Smith owns 26 or 27 bass guitars, including Fenders and acoustics.
“I own 26 or 27 bass guitars, everything from Fenders to 6-strings and acoustics.”
Borrowed Bass Connection
Smith borrowed Gary Grainger's PRS bass, which she never returned, for its unique sound.
“It wasn't actually made for me. The first one, my baby, Tequila Sunrise, was Gary Grainger's personal bass.”
Bass History
Smith borrowed the bass from PRS in Burbank, where they had a showroom at Center Staging.
“At the time, I went to Burbank because PRS had a showroom at Center Staging.”
The Power of 3
Smith formed a supergroup with Orianthi and Cindy Blackman Santana for their December 11 album release.
“Now, that unmistakable bass tone has played a key role in shaping the sound of The Power of 3.”
Studio Recording Process
The group recorded everything live with minimal overdubbing, using vintage equipment and analog recording.
“We cut everything live, all three of us together, and did minimal overdubbing.”
Live Experience
The group's live shows are powerful, with a focus on inspiring younger women through rock and roll.
“Live, it's powerful. I think it's a one-of-a-kind thing to see. People follow by example.”
Prince's Influence
Prince taught Smith about music ownership, business, and respecting the music.
“Prince was a great teacher. He was a hard teacher, but he believed in perfection in a world where perfection doesn't always exist.”
Future Plans
The group will release their self-titled album on December 11 and tour globally.
“We're having a great time. Our self-titled album is coming out December 11.”
Why This Bass?
Smith says the borrowed bass has a sound none of her other basses have, making it unique.
“This one bass has a sound that none of my other basses have.”
The short version
Rhonda Smith borrowed Gary Grainger's PRS bass, which she never returned, for her new supergroup The Power of 3 with Orianthi and Cindy Blackman Santana.
