For the last three decades, Dave Swift has been the main bass man for Jools Holland. In this interview, we hear about how Dave got started, his journey to becoming a well-rounded musician, his early years with Jools, countless experiences with the band, and a whole lot about music education.
Above all, there’s one core message I took away from this conversation—and it’s hinted at right at the beginning of the podcast. Too often, the study of music—whether formal or self-directed—can become overly academic. In other words, our efforts to analyze and intellectualize music can actually distance us from it.
In this brilliant interview, Dave reminds us of the importance of going to the source. Don’t get lost in theory or endless books—listen, transcribe, assimilate, and then go do your own thing. It’s deceptively simple advice, but incredibly powerful.
I was genuinely inspired by this conversation, and I hope you will be too. Dave’s a great man with a wonderful approach to both music and life. It’s a long episode, but if you can stick with it, there are gems all the way through. 😊
