Join us for an insightful episode of "The Hang," featuring renowned jazz bassist Reggie Washington. In this in-depth interview, Reggie delves into his rich musical journey, the profound influence of his musically inclined family, and his evolution through various instruments before finding his true calling with the bass.

Highlights:

Family Influence and Musical Beginnings: Reggie shares anecdotes from his upbringing in a musically vibrant family, including early performances with his brother Kenny as "The Washington Brothers," and how sibling dynamics fueled his passion and drive in music.

Evolution as a Bassist: Discover Reggie's transition from playing congas and bongos to studying cello, and eventually embracing both electric and double bass, leading to collaborations with jazz luminaries like Steve Coleman, Branford Marsalis, and Roy Hargrove.

Addressing Systemic Racism Through Music: Reggie discusses his involvement in projects like "Black Lives – from Generation to Generation," a collaborative effort with socially minded Black musicians and vocalists aimed at fighting for equality and addressing systemic racism through music.

The Power of Music in Healing and Connection: Insights into how Reggie views music as a universal language capable of bridging divides, fostering connection, and serving as a form of medicine for the soul.

Legacy and the Importance of Message in Music: Reggie reflects on the significance of leaving a lasting impact through music, the necessity for artists to convey meaningful messages, and his aspirations for how he wants to be remembered in the industry.

Cultural Enrichment Through Travel: Experiences and lessons learned from Reggie's international tours, and how immersing in diverse cultures has enriched his musical perspective and personal growth.

Career Reflections and Industry Insights: Thoughts on the evolution of the music industry, the challenges posed by the era of instant gratification, and the enduring values of punctuality, reliability, and genuine passion in sustaining a successful music career.

Mentorship and Inspiration Across Generations: The reciprocal influence between Reggie and both younger and older musicians, highlighting the continuous cycle of learning and inspiration that fuels artistic growth.

Advocacy for Artist Support Platforms: The vital role of platforms that support and uplift artists, and Reggie's commitment to sharing music as a means of cultural exchange and societal advancement.

This conversation offers a comprehensive look into Reggie Washington's multifaceted career, his dedication to using music as a vehicle for social change, and his unwavering commitment to artistic excellence and legacy.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the intersections between music, culture, and social issues through the experiences and wisdom of Reggie Washington.