Tuesday 15 January 2013

Interview with GRACE JONES Bass player MALCOLM JOSEPH


Malcolm Joseph, a skilled bass player who has worked alongside many recognisable artists such as THE diva herself... the one and only Miss Grace Jones. Later last year Malcolm supported Miss Jones at the London, Hackney LoveBox festival where other artists such as Emeli Sandè, Kelis, Rita Ora, Lana Del Rey, Little Dragon, Ms Dynamite and many more amazing acts performed. Malcolm has a raw passion for his music and has a CV which I'm sure many would be envious of!

I was lucky enough to catch up with Malcolm and discuss his career and musical inspirations...


So Malcolm, when did you first pick up a guitar?

The first time I picked up a guitar was when I was 13  ...it was a six string guitar then i butchered it and turned it into a Bass.

Who knew a butchered guitar would help you to become who you are today ey! So what are your musical influences?

Thats a tough one....George clinton(Parliament Funkedelic) Punk,Soul,Reggae,Dance music,etc,etc...lol


It seems you have had many successes such as your album ‘The unquiet peace’ how would you describe the album and what inspirations were behind it?

My first ever solo album was an eye opener,It was an adventure for me wanting to produce an eclectic downtempo creation...just as Massive had done on there first album.inspirations behind my album were my close friends.


You have worked with lots of artists such as Massive Attack, Des’ree, Neneh Cherry, A man called Adam, Shit Disco and many more. Many would be jealous- including me! How was your experience working with all these incredible artists?

I am blessed to play and work with such great people who became really good friends...they have broadened my musical ears and feel....really great time.

It's great to hear that you seem very down to earth and appreciate both the music you make AND the people who you meet on the way. But how did you manage to do what many have tried and got to be involved with the music industry?

Grafted like the next man or woman.A strong faith in yourself...played all the time got involved in new and up and coming projects and never feared the unknown.

And of course… I have to ask about the amazing, the talented, the beautiful and my idol Grace Jones.  How did you get to work with the legend that is Miss Jones? 

I got to work with Grace through her producer Ivor Guest and RnB star Don E.I have known both for over twenty years and before Grace we hadnt seen each other for 12 years.The good vibe brought us together again...I had also worked with Ivor many years ago with the late Sean Oliver (rip rig and panic)Got in touch with him on Myspace...thats another story.


And I have to ask…Are the rumours true - Is Miss Jones really a diva, diva with a capital D?   
                                                                                                                          
   Yes...With a massive capital D!!

I'm sure that's the answer we all expected from the last question! Are you currently working on any projects at the moment or have any musical projects that your wish to do in the future?

Im working and producing with a band from Cornwall called Harry Munk. Its going  really well with the new album out 2013.I also intend to do my solo album and some gigs in 2013 as well,watch this space...

We'll be sure to check that out! And lastly, what advice would you give any aspiring musicians/ artists trying to get involved in the music industry?

Be strong when the going is tough,play well enjoy Life and have fun.



Be sure to check out Harry Munk's album ! But for now here is their soundcloud page where you can check out their new tracks https://soundcloud.com/harry-munk

And also dont forget to keep your eyes peeled for Malcolm's solo album this year!!! In the words of Malcolm.... 'Watch this space'....

Check out Malcolm doing his thing at Hackney...(6.45) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zv9uWzhCWMc