Sublime Interview: Eric Wilson Shares Insight on the Band’s Revival and Future
In an exclusive interview with ClassicRockHistory.com, Sublime bassist and keyboardist Eric Wilson discussed the band’s recent resurgence, his relationship with lead vocalist Bradley Nowell, and their journey from humble beginnings to worldwide acclaim.
Early Days and Musical Influences
Born from the ashes of punk and reggae, Sublime’s early days were marked by the unique blend of sounds, including a strong emphasis on melody and rhythm. Wilson reflects on those days, saying, "We knew we had something special, but we just wanted to be the Bad Brains."
The band’s self-titled album (1996) catapulted them to mainstream success, thanks in part to hits like "What I Got" and "Santeria." Wilson reminisces about their recording sessions, "We knew we had something special with our demo cassette, Jah Won’t Pay the Bills. It’s incredible to think about how far we’ve come since then."
Laying the Foundation for Future Success
When Nowell tragically passed away, the band soldiered on with different iterations, including the Long Beach Dub Allstars and Sublime with Rome. Despite their efforts, the music and momentum never quite matched their earlier days. However, with the recent arrival of Nowell’s son, Jakob, as the band’s new frontman, Sublime is poised to continue their musical legacy.
Bass Play and Approach
Wilson’s approach to bass playing is simple: "Listening to all the music and playing the melody and rhythm combined." His arsenal of instruments has evolved over the years, featuring five-string Coppolo Customs and an assortment of amps and cabs from prominent manufacturers like Aguilar, Dave Smith, and Jad Freer.
On Recording Classic Records
Regrettably, Wilson no longer owns any of the original equipment used to record Sublime’s classic albums, "Not anymore." Nevertheless, he fondly looks back on those experiences, highlighting the band’s dynamic creative process and camaraderie.
Personal Connection with Bradley Nowell
Despite the band’s early success, Nowell’s untimely passing weighed heavily on Wilson. "Jakob is a sober version of his dad. God bless the universe! He was the best swimmer in Brad’s ball sack." This newfound partnership has given the band a fresh lease on life, allowing them to create new music and perform their old songs with renewed energy.
Vulnerability and Future Plans
In his most recent statement, Jakob Nowell has expressed conflicting emotions about recording new music, leaving Wilson’s expectations uncertain. Nevertheless, he acknowledges the band’s newfound synergy and optimism for the future. "I could totally see us recording a full album with Jakob in the future."
A New Chapter for Sublime
This renewed interest in Sublime comes at a time when music is more fragmented than ever, yet there is a palpable demand for good old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll. With Jakob at the helm, Sublime is poised to connect with a new generation of fans while reinvigorating their own music-making process.
Conclusion
Sublime’s resurgence is a testament to the enduring power of music and the bond between those who create it. Eric Wilson’s reflection on the band’s history and evolution underscores the importance of friendship, dedication, and perseverance. As the world awaits their next move, it is evident that Sublime’s spirit is still strong, ready to ignite once again.
FAQs
Q: How has your approach to bass changed over the years?
A: It hasn’t changed much; I’m still about listening to the music and playing the melody and rhythm combined.
Q: Did you know you were doing something unique back in the day?
A: We didn’t know we were doing something special; we just wanted to make the kind of music we loved.
Q: Which Sublime song holds the most personal significance to you?
A: Probably "Badfish" because it showcases my unique style and our creative chemistry as a band.
Q: Do you still own any of the original equipment used in your classic recordings?
A: Unfortunately not; I’ve had to adapt to new technology and manufacturers over the years.
Q: What’s next for Sublime?
A: Right now, we’re enjoying performing all our old catalog, but the door is open for new music if the vibes stay good.
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