Joe Hedley

 Born in Newcastle what seems a long time ago I began playing bass at the age of 12 years. My dad bought my brother and I a bass and an electric guitar for christmas and let us fight it out between the two of us. Being the youngest I lost! But I never looked back and love playing such a great instrument. Most of my musical education has come from my dad and various good teachers around the Newcastle area over the years. Up until the age of about 18 I played in mainly local original bands, then I managed to get a gig in rock covers band which really did a lot for my playing. Since I have progressed to playing in various different types of bands from rock and blues to folk and funk, all of which I enjoy a lot. I have been fortunate to work with some fantastic musicians in my short career such as Pete Dodd’s, Lyndon Anderson, Tony McNally, George Shovlin and of course my dad John Hedley all of which I have learned a lot from and thoroughly enjoyed their company.

 After I finished my degree I decided to move to Canada for a year which was a fantastic experience both in terms of playing and life. Now I am back studying for my MSc at Newcastle and loving being part of the North East music scene again. I was fortunate to come across Jo’s advert for a bass player on Riff’s and everything has progressed from there. I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of such a good band and playing with such nice people.

 My musical taste varies as to what I am listening for. For relaxing I enjoy bands, any Mowtown tunes, Rolling Stones, ACDC, Sting, Dave Matthews Band and many more. For improving my playing I love listening to the likes of Abe Laboriel, James Jamerson, Marcus Miller, Donald “Duck” Dunn and Anthony Jackson.

 I play a Yamaha trb II 6-string bass through an EVO 300 watt 2 x 12 combo.