After receiving criticism for his bass playing, Gene Simmons responded by saying, “I don’t care”
During a recent interview with the Zak Kuhn Show, Gene Simmons responded to criticism that was leveled at his bass playing abilities. Simmons said, “I’m comfortable in my own skin,” in reference to his playing of the bass. “I am aware of how good I am ” Because I am aware of my inadequacies. And what other people have to say about it is, well, they are not competent to have an opinion on the matter they are discussing. The musician who played rock and roll elaborated, “They haven’t been there, and they haven’t done that.” I pay attention to what other people have to say and I value their perspectives, but it does not penetrate my thick skin. Does not have any significance.”
During an interview with Guitar World, Simmons disclosed that he does not appreciate “show-offs” in the music industry. He made the observation, “I do not consider myself to be a bass virtuoso, and I have never really been interested in becoming one.” When it comes to music, I dislike show-offs. Things that are unforgettable are considerably more appealing to me than other things. My enjoyment of music is enhanced by this aspect of it.
Continuing, the musician stated, “You can be a jazz player and be respected by other musicians, but the rest of the world does not care about these things.” We are going to play a game in which you have to name a jazz player who has a significant meaning.
Why don’t we consider John McLaughlin? He is an outstanding player. However, I have a question for you: are you able to hum any chord progression that he has ever performed on a solo? Obviously, that is not the case. I have the utmost respect for you, but that song is designed to showcase how talented you are as a musician, and I cannot care less about that. Being able to compose a nice simple tune or riff is the most difficult thing to achieve. “That is a very challenging task,” Gene continued to tell.
Rather than merely criticizing jazz guitarists, Simmons also brought up concerns that were more directly related to his own genre. He made the following statement: “There are a great many incredible bass players, such as Jaco Pastorius and the jazz bands.” Or players such as Flea, who is quite talented on his instrument, but I am unable to recall anything that he plays, and I do not like the sound of a bass being slapped.
It was recently reported that Simmons and his solo band, the Gene Simmons Band, will go on a tour in the spring of 2025. The five-date tour will begin on April 28 in Tallahassee and will include a stop in Red Bank, New Jersey, on May 5. The trip will conclude on May 24 in Houston.