Every great bass journey starts with a leap of faith—and for Shaun Lyon, that leap began when a friend at college asked him to join their band after the bassist left. With no prior musical experience and not a clue what he was doing, Shaun said yes anyway. A few notes in, he was hooked. Over 30 years later (on and off), he’s still laying down grooves with the same sense of curiosity and drive that started it all.
Originally from Lincolnshire, UK, and now living in Dubai, Shaun balances a high-flying day job in pilot training management with a grounded love for groove-based music. After years of sticking mostly to rock, he’s since broadened his musical tastes, exploring funk, soul, and everything in between. That openness has sparked new growth, new collaborations, and new musical goals — including pushing his theory knowledge and stepping up to more advanced musical settings.
Shaun currently plays with The Californicators, a Red Hot Chili Peppers tribute band, and is also part of a project that covers tunes by Scary Pockets and other funk-influenced artists. With regular rehearsals, jams, and gigs in the mix, he’s made bass practice part of his daily routine — the same way some people hit the gym. And that consistency is paying off in both confidence and capability.
Inside Bass Lab PLUS, Shaun found the structure and focus he’d been craving. The lessons have helped him identify technique tweaks and zero in on specific areas of growth. More importantly, they’ve given him the confidence to jam with pro-level players — something that might’ve felt out of reach not too long ago. It’s a testament to what happens when experience meets fresh motivation.
Shaun with The Californicators, laying down grooves at Rugby Rocks 2024 in Dubai
Holding down the groove indoors at Rugby Rocks 2024 — Shaun Lyon playing with The Californicators bringing the RHCP heat to the Dubai stage! 2024
Whether he’s warming up with songs for an upcoming show, learning new techniques, or simply locking into a new groove, Shaun is proof that bass playing is a lifelong journey. One that’s built not just on talent, but on showing up consistently, trying new things, and being open to what’s next.
Blue Angels (Cover by Shaun Lyon)
How do you stay motivated to practice and improve?
I try to practice 30 minutes to an hour a day. It has become a habit, like going to the gym. I usually warm up by playing a couple of songs I need to practice for the next jam or gig. Then I move on to new material — either new songs or a fresh exercise.
Favorite bassist of all time?
Flea
Favorite band of all time?
RHCP
First song you ever learned?
Whole Lotta Love - Led Zepellin
What’s your next goal with bass guitar?
To understand more theory and how to apply it.
Do you have a band?
The Californicators - a RHCP cover band.
Also in a project that plays Scary Pockets songs and other funky covers.
"...the lessons have helped boost my confidence and I am now jamming with more pro musicians that I would not have tempted to do previously.
-Shaun Lyon
Why did you choose the bass guitar?
After picking up the bass and being tought a few notes I was hooked. I didnt like the lead stuff of guitars and keyboards and felt at home sitting at the back supporting the drums.
How has being a part of Bass Lab PLUS helped shape your bass playing?
The lessons have helped spot a couple of technique issues which is already helping me play better.
They also give me more direction and focus on particular excersies or theory. Help me to start explorering and trying songs that I would have thought beyond my capabilities previously.
Addition to that, the lessons have helped boost my confidence and I am now jamming with more pro musicians that I would not have tempted to do previously.
Any message for the Bass Lab PLUS community?
Keep listening to as much music and styles as possible. For many years I would only listen to rock music, I realise how much I have missed and now trying to catch up!
Where can others connect with you online?
Instagram: @thecalifornicators
Stay in touch
Big thanks to Shaun for sharing his story in this edition of Student Spotlight! From college bands to the Dubai music scene, Shaun reminds us that saying “yes” to a new challenge — even with no experience — can lead to decades of groove, growth, and global jamming.
We love celebrating the diverse voices inside Bass Lab PLUS and can’t wait to feature more. See you next time... who's up in the next Student Spotlight? Could it be you?
Keep Groovin’!