In every bass player’s story, there’s a moment when something clicks when a sound, an experience, or a challenge sparks something deeper. That’s what we love exploring in these Student Spotlights: the unique paths, passions, and breakthroughs that shape each member of our Bass Lab PLUS community.
This week, we’re thrilled to feature Laurel, a creative force from Chicago whose musical journey took an unexpected and inspiring turn during the pandemic. With a background in flute and piano, Laurel found her way to bass through a twist of fate, and she hasn’t looked back.
Laurel started playing bass during the early days of the pandemic, what she calls a “looong staycation” that called for something fresh and new. She’d been attending an ensemble class on keys at a local music school when, out of nowhere, the instructor announced, “You’re on bass.” Though she’d never played a stringed instrument before, something about the low end struck a powerful chord. Just one week later, the school shut down. But on her way out, she passed through the music store and walked away with a used bass, setting the stage for a whole new chapter.
As time went on, she found herself naturally drawn to the lower octaves of the keyboard, often forgetting about her right hand altogether. It wasn’t long before she realized that those deep, rich notes were what truly resonated with her. Even simple bass clef lines sounded fuller and more meaningful than the chords in the treble clef. That pull toward the low end made the bass guitar feel like home even though it was completely new territory.
Laurel on keys at Rosa’s Lounge — back when she realized those basslines were calling her name all along.
Laurel with James Eager outside the Regent Theatre in Canada during the Celine Dion tour, 2025
While learning entirely on her own, Laurel nearly gave up in 2021. But everything changed when she stumbled upon James Eager’s YouTube videos. Something about the clarity of the instruction and the energy of the community caught her attention that led her to Bass Lab PLUS, where she found the structure and motivation she’d been looking for.
Laurel getting a tech assist from Freddie mid-festival --VIP perks in action!
Canada, 2024
Outside of music, Laurel is a full-time explorer of creativity and curiosity. Now retired, she pours her time into learning Icelandic and travels frequently to Iceland. She also welds as a creative outlet and spends warm months running and reconnecting with nature. Whether she’s picking up a torch or a bass, one thing’s clear, Laurel follows what inspires her. Let’s further get to know Laurel from the interview below…
A view from Laurel’s window in Iceland, 2024, looks like a painting, doesn’t it?
What do you do outside of playing bass (job, hobbies, interests)?
I'm learning Icelandic and travel there often. My favorite creative outlet (besides music) is gardening.
Favorite bassist of all time?
Paul McCartney & James Jamerson
Favorite band of all time?
Steely Dan & Earth, Wind & Fire, Snarky Puppy.
First song you ever learned?
Waylon Jennings' "Good Hearted Woman" Root - 5th - Root - 5th - Root - 5th ... modulate!
Lovely Day - Bill Withers (Cover by Laurel)
What’s your next goal with bass guitar?
I want to play in a blues band, or whatever band will have me.
What kind of music would you like to play if you were in a band?
I live in Chicago, so blues is ever-present.
"Sometimes I lie down on the floor on my back with my bass and try to channel Jamerson."
-Laurel
How do you stay motivated to practice and improve?
If I'm burned out or frustrated, I listen to good basslines and let them soak in. Attending live Zoom calls is always motivating too, as I get energy from other members who are fired up to learn & improve. Practicing has never been difficult for me — I'm very focused — but now that I have some basics skills down, I like to just listen while noodling around the fretboard with my eyes closed. Sometimes I lie down on the floor on my back with my bass and try to channel Jamerson.
How has being a part of Bass Lab PLUS helped shape your bass playing?
It's been absolutely everything. I couldn't have progressed to where I am without taking EBG courses, being in the VIP, and trying to attend as many workshops, masterclasses, and Monthly Song Challenges as humanly possible.
Any message for the Bass Lab PLUS community?
I've so enjoyed getting to know, learning from (and with), and sharing my love for this instrument with you all.
Where can others connect with you online?
I'm not into social media (too distracting!), but I read emails and would love to collaborate on some tunes: laurel2322@me.com.
Until the next note...
A big shoutout to Laurel for sharing her one-of-a-kind journey in this edition of Student Spotlight! Her story reminds us that inspiration can strike at any stage, and that following your curiosity can lead to unexpected and amazing places.
We can’t wait to keep highlighting the diverse voices and creative paths that make the Bass Lab PLUS community so special.
Keep Groovin’!