session victim

The Groovy History of Session Musicians: The Unsung Heroes of Music

They’re the backbone of the industry, the invisible hands shaping countless hits, the unsung heroes of the music world. They are the **Session Musicians**. These talented individuals, often hidden behind the curtain of fame, are the masters of their instruments, lending their skills to countless recording artists and shaping the sound of entire genres.

A History of Session Musicians

The concept of session musicians dates back to the early days of recorded music. In the 1920s and 1930s, studios relied on small groups of skilled musicians to provide backing for singers and instrumentalists. These musicians were often highly versatile, able to play a variety of instruments and adapt to different musical styles. As recording technology advanced and music production became more complex, the role of session musicians evolved, giving rise to the legendary **studio musicians** of the 1960s and 1970s.

During this golden age, studios in cities like Los Angeles and London became hubs of musical talent. These studios housed a pool of elite musicians, many of whom went on to become household names in their own right. From the legendary Wrecking Crew in L.A. to the **”A Team”** in London, these session players contributed to countless hits, shaping the sound of rock, pop, soul, and jazz.

The Unsung Heroes: A Roster of Talent

The list of notable session musicians is long and impressive. Here are a few examples:

• **Hal Blaine**, the legendary drummer of the Wrecking Crew, played on over 500 hits, including the Beach Boys’ “Good Vibrations” and Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Sound of Silence.”
• **James Burton**, a virtuoso guitarist, played with Elvis Presley, Ricky Nelson, and countless others. He even taught young guitarists like Stevie Ray Vaughan.
• **Carole King**, a prolific songwriter, was also a sought-after session pianist, working with artists like The Drifters and The Shirelles.
• **Klaus Voormann**, a bassist who played with the Beatles, was a renowned session musician in the UK, contributing to albums by John Lennon, Ringo Starr, and many others.

The Funny Side of Session Work

Session musicians have their share of hilarious tales to tell. Here are some fun facts about these unsung heroes:

• Hal Blaine famously played the drums on the iconic “Wipe Out” by The Surfaris, but he didn’t know how to surf!
• The legendary bassist Carol Kaye, a member of the Wrecking Crew, claims to have played on over 10,000 recordings! Her session credits include songs by Frank Sinatra, The Beach Boys, and even The Monkees.
• Legendary saxophonist Steve Douglas, known for his work on “The House of the Rising Sun,” was a session musician who often played under assumed names, including “The Singing Saxman” and “Big Daddy.”

A Legacy of Talent

The work of session musicians is often overlooked, but their contributions to music are undeniable. These talented individuals have shaped the soundscape of popular music, influencing generations of artists and listeners. So next time you hear a song you love, take a moment to appreciate the unsung heroes behind the music: the session musicians.