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I first came across the name Pino Palladino while I was engrossed in listening to this 'little' project that John Mayer had put together - The John Mayer Trio. The fact that it was a live album that seemed to come right out of the blue and that the sound was so tight - pure Amazement! I am one of those people who, when they get into something, they play it to death. I loved that album - still do. The bass part really spoke to me though - it was electric and was used as much for a melodic line then to keep the bass notes going.
Now picture me falling down a metaphorical well of music of every genre you could think of - this is the beauty of a Pina Palladino deep dive.
In this post, I am going to give you a overview of everything that I know and, through writing this, have found out about the bass playing legend and, if you are interested, try and provide some help if you are trying to get a sound close to his.
Contents
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Who is Pino Palladino?
Pino Palladino, or Giuseppe Henry Palladino when he was born in 1957, grew up in Wales. When he was young he started by playing the guitar but move to bass in his mid to late teens.
As Pino started his full time career in music and played in bands and in sessions during the early 80s. At this time he was mostly using a fretless base - talk about putting yourself on hard mode!
In 1982 he joined Gary Numan on his 4th Solo Album (Gary was previously in a band called Tubeway Army) using his fretless bass which Gary had asked him to play.
Pino was recruited by Paul Young () to play fretless bass on a cover of an old Marvin Gaye B-Side called "Wherever I Lay My Hat (That's My Home)" which became a UK number 1. The fretless bass is a real stand out when you listen to this song.
From that point, Pino received offers to record with some of the biggest names in music and it would seem that he was well and truly established as a go to, and talented bassist. As his career continued to go forward, he would switch between the fretless bass and fretted (be it 4, 5 or 6 string). Â think he his a genre chameleon as he seems to put himself in any song and instantly provide basslines that suit the song.Â
Pino Paladino can continue to be heard on tracks to this day across genres - In 2024 alone he was featured on Michael Kiwanuka, Lizzy McAlpine & Elton John songs.
One final highlight I think would be amiss if I didn't add it - in the unfortunate event of John Entwistles of The Who's death 1 night before the band first concert in 2002, Pino was selected as the replacement for the tour. Over the years, including the 2010 Super bowl, Pino has stepped back in the band.
What Bands Has Pino Played With?
Apart from the bands I mentioned above (Gary Numan, Paul Young, Michael Kiwanuka, Lizzy McAlpine, Elton John & The Who) there are really too many to list.
Some highlight from my own music tastes that stood out are:
Here is the list that I was looking at if you want to delve a little deeper:
Harry Styles on Harrys House
Track 6 -"Little Freak" and Track 9 - "Daydreaming"
Ed Sheeran's "Castle on the Hill"
Tears for Fears on The Seeds of Love
On Tracks "Woman in Chains", "Badman's Song" and "Standing on the Corner of the Third World"
David Gilmour on 'About Face'
Try! John Mayer Trio Live in Concert
Pino Palladino's Time with John Mayer
As I talked about in the intro, my first introduction to Pino Palladino was through his work playing with John Mayer in the John Mayer Trio. A great 3 piece along with Steve Jordan and real great, well executed blue rock.
I think the chemistry on the Trios live album led to Pino being called up again to perform on the continuum album. He appeared on all but 2 songs (I think... I know that Charlie Hunter played that crazy 8 stringed instrument on 'In Repair') which I have seen countless lessons on YouTube on how to play them.
They teamed up again for 2009s 'Battle Studies' on all but 3 songs. John Mayer spoke to guitar world and noted that "Without Steve and Pino underneath, I think most of my songs would completely float away"
Pino Palladino's Style of Playing
Pino Palladino's playing style is instantly recognizable - he has a really melodic style to his playing. With his perfect timing, solid grooves and an ability to add complexity exactly where it is needed - he plays for the benefit of the song, not himself.
His years of experience in all genres of music are really reflected in his playing style. You can hear mixtures of soul, R&B, Rock, jazz and also his own particular takes on music.
5 Points of Famous Pino Palladino Trivia
Pino played bass on the famous Christmas charity song, "Do They Know It's Christmas?" in 1984.
He was a big force in the start of the neo-soul sound especially when he worked with D'Angelo.
Pino rarely uses effect pedals on his bass - he likes the natural sound of the instrument and amp- although he does when it is called for.
He was the the touring bass player for Nine Inch Nails!
He has contributed to movie soundtracks including Spike Lee's Mo’ Better Blues.
In Summary - The Pino Palladino deep dive
I think you might understand why Pino Palladino was the first musician to feature in my 'Musician Deep Dive' Series. I love the guy. Not only for his playing but because he is a quintessential bass player - He is amazingly talented, offers his skill up to a lot of people and doesn't mind standing to the side out of the spotlight :)
Here is a quick summary of the post:
Pino Palladino's has been playing bass since the 70s and is still going - he is at legend status.
He has influenced so many style and genres of music including rock, soul, jazz & blues.
He started off his career with a really unique fretless bass sound.
Palladino has collaborated with so many music house hold names that it is really hard to count - believe me I tried.
He has an approach to the bass which blends the rhythmic with melody and finds the pocket to put his notes into.
If you want a master class in playing the bass - as a beginner or pro - just listen to Pino's work and you will learn instantly.
Emulate Pino Palladino's Sound With Basses & Gear
It would be impossible to exactly replicate Pino's personal sound - we all know that your actual playing technique goes a lot into the sound that you create (and that part is up to you and your practice).
In saying that, I can try and give some suggestions on some of the products that he has used or, at least, close to what he has used - I assume most of the readers can't just go out and afford a bass from the 1960's.
So here is my interpretation and suggestions for products to take you down the Pino Palladino sound path.
Let me know in the comments if you agree/disagree OR even own some of the equipment and can offer feedback. Oh! Any other suggestions most welcome and I will even update the post with some of them next time.
Stingray Bass
While I have included the fretted bass above because, well I think it will be suitable for the majority of readers, it is still the model that was used. If you want the fretless model, the link to Amazon should also have that version.
Classic Music Man Ceramic pickup and a 2-band Active preamp.
Precision Bass
A precision bass was in Pino's line up - particularly in the 90s. It is really a staple for bass players everywhere - a real workhorse. Simple and all that you would need, it has a one Series split-coil precision bass pickup with just a volume and tone controls.
Jazz Bass
1961 Fender Jazz Bass
This version is a reissue but still holds the key elements of the 60's sound - it has two ‘60s jazz bass single-coil pickups.
Ampeg Amp
As the name implies, this is a classic. It's a tube amp that has a great tone and delivers some real power - great for a big live performance. Really nice tone which would be great for both rock and funk - Just like Pino needs.
Bass Strings
La Bella 760FS Deep Talkin' Flat Wounds
When I started with the bass, I had not much idea but eventually found out about the different strings. Flatwound or 'Flats' have a smooth surface and a different feel to roundwound strings. These are perfect for a more vintage tone and a comfort when playing with your fingers.
Bass Pedal
This pedal helps players create a funky sound - a bit like a Wah but an auto version. It is pretty crazy as it responds to the intensity of how you are playing.
Tab Book
Pino Palladino Style Grooves For Bass Guitar
I came across this book in my travels on Amazon. To be honest, I have not purchased it but it could be useful to any bass player starting out and needing something to refer to. I know that tabs are on the internet but these books will be edited unlike what you can find.
Do you have a favourite Pino Palladino song that he has been on? Have you used any of the same gear that he does? Let the community know in the comments!
About The Author
Matt A, Founder and Head Writer @ Music Thought House

I have had a lifelong passion for music. I picked up my first guitar when I was 10 and it's been there, most of the time haha, ever since. I have played and studied music ever since that time, always trying to learn more and get better. There is not one aspect of music that I am still not in awe of.
I have gathered a lot of information over time and now, with Music Thought House, I have decided to release it on the world.
I know that music can be daunting and seemingly complex and I am not a complicated person. The blog posts I write am to keep things simple and straightforward so everyone can get a better understanding of music
Sources
I would like to thank the below sources that provided me with some additional information in order to write my article:
Photos:
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