Ellen's Story

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[@lindseyjohn4789]

Hi Ellen, My name is John. I've been playing bass for 30 plus years up until 3 years ago. I decided to stop playing because i had a terrible tragedy in my family. I lost my only son to Chciago gun violence. I tried many of times to pick my bass back up and play again, but there was no more music in me, no more love for the bass. I couldn't even remember any songs that i use to play, not a one. Until i saw you video's i've got back enspired to play again. So now i'm back in the shed learning all over again. Thank you for you enspiration. John from Chicago.

[@sharpeidad1055]

She played Tom Sawyer so well, I admit it, I teared up. I apologize for your tragic loss. This wonderful young lady inspired me today, to pick up my own bass. Signed up for Ultimate Guitar app, became a lifetime 'prescription', then played for 2 hours. There's healing powers in music, and I firmly believe that this young lady, is a blessing that many of us, are seeking. She clearly, has been touched by the hand of God himself. Vaya con Dios, amigo.

[@liecht]

This is a tragedy and I'm really sorry for your loss.However,this is not a story to be told to a child

[@jblah1]

I don’t have anything wise to say that can help with your unimaginable loss but I do know the love you have for your son can be expressed through music in a way that words cannot and that love will inspire others the way she inspires you.

[@Maranatha1968]

God bless you Mister, I feel deep sorrow for you and your son. Jesus Christ is alive.

[@firewallsistemas]

Hello João, my name is Leonardo, I'm from Brazil and living here is not easy due to urban violence and corruption, I lost my father and what gives me strength in the first place is God and second that I play the drums, wow that makes me forget of the evil that is our planet. I'm sorry about your son, I wish that God and the music give you a lot of strength and stay firm on the bass friend big hug.

[@finbarputt4003]

I am the opposite of this amazing young lady, I picked up the bass at 59. And while I love it and am (slowly) improving, I can only hope I will someday be 1/10th as good and as cool as she is. A real inspiration and a feel-good story. Keep it up Ellen and Dad.

[@studiokpg]

Same here! Ellen is so inspiring!

[@liecht]

@@studiokpgcannot agree more! Ellen is a natural born master of bass! An inspitation for everyone in music regardless the instrument or style.You don't see this very often,and wait some more years ti witness something very special to blossom

[@JessicaThompsonBassGuitar]

I began to learning music I was aged 41

[@lauraowl9931]

Same with the guitar….do you think she gives lesson?

[@MAILLADY2010]

She makes it so easy. It isn't. Keep it going.

[@jmmanley]

Ellen may be a musical prodigy but her dad is a parenting prodigy. Well done sir.

[@jmmanley]

He is truly bass-ed

[@larrytolson4135]

This is why dads are so important.

[@tesianeubrand2770]

X 10000000

[@swordchild0013]

Good father make an incredible difference

[@riffmania5321]

I am 49 and after I saw her Tom Sawyer cover she inspired me to learn the Bass and I'm really enjoying it. Thank you Ellen!!

[@jackgilreath3113]

I've been alive for 61 years, and that has to be the most adorable kid I've ever seen. And credit to you and your wife for allowing her to flourish. Absolutely touches me and makes my heart happy when I watch her videos. Amazing.💫

[@jp.1543]

Her smile and laughter is as infectious as her bass playing. She is a phenomenal young woman and the sky is the limit for her in the music industry!

[@rje66]

Who can watch her play and not get the biggest smile on their face?? I sure loved seeing her talent and enthusiasm!!

[@WeFrost62]

@ 4:48 "Allow the student to keep the freedom." Greater words have never been said. I was a musical prodigy, and I distinctly recall my 1st piano teacher saying "And this is your assignment for next time", playing the piece I was to learn. I played it right back to her. She would admonish me for not using the correct fingering, instead of going, "Wow! That was almost completely accurate! Let's move forward, then!" or something like that. Children's dreams can, and usually are, squashed as we move through life. What an excellent Dad you are, and I'm so excited to see Ellen's journey captured here. (The next Tal Wilkenfeld?) :)

[@bassboy8910]

I’m a 74 y/o bass player that has played with many world-class bands and I must say I am a fan of yours! you are special and my highest praise to you and your awesome father for your kindness, patience and wisdom. You can google me to verify. You inspire so many people of all ages from all over the world - thank you Bass Buddy🎸 Sincerely, Ron Foos

[@TheListeningParty_TLP]

She’s PURE SUNSHINE !!! That smile can change anyone’s day… groovy on that bass too. God bless you kid !

[@darrenlhank1]

She warms my heart every time I watch her play. As a working musician with 2 girls of my own..I took the same approach by letting them experiment with different instruments and exposing them to different types of music. They are in there 30s now and loving music..talented and well adjusted adults who I am so proud of.

[@pmanzano4474]

I’m in my late 50s and decided to learn the bass. Ellen is an inspiration!!!

[@FTulumello]

Ellen is amazing ! She's having so much fun and is so talented. You did a great job raising this little angel. I wish you and Ellen the best always.

[@dukebacher1216]

Dad- You did it right. Everything. Ellen doesn't just feel the music, She and her bass own the music.... they ARE the music. We are watching a legend growing up.

[@cdstoc]

The absolute unfiltered joy she exudes! It's so heartwarming.

[@petermopp2639]

I wish more children have a father like him. ❤

[@maggierivera5510]

I just picked up my first bass at 60, this child is an inspiration to both young and not so young amazing God bless you Ellen 👍❤️

[@tomk4590]

The part where Ellen first sees her personalized software is one of the most touching moments I've ever seen. Every child should have a dad like you! I can only imagine how proud you must be.

[@gratefuldude65]

I'm 59 and have been a bass player since I was 15! Ellen, you are amazing! Keep working hard and keep being the terrific person you are ✌️🎼🎼🎼🎼

[@kirkpatticalma7911]

Great father. Kudos to Ellen's success. My 17 year old daughter picked up the guitar about 3 years ago and immediately began playing and singing her favorite songs. I gave her my Martin acoustic and said, here, you're better than I am.

[@robert2400]

THATS HOW ITS SUPPOSED TO BE AINT IT...I KNOW IF I HAD A KID OR KIDS I WOULD WANT THEM TO BE ABLE TO WHEN HE SHE OR THEY WALKED OUT STAGE... EVERYBODY WOULD GO WITH RINGIN EARS AND HEAD ACHES BECAUSE HE SHE OR THEY BLEW THEM UP LIKE EDDIE V AND WOLFGANG I SAW THEM IN DALLAS FIRST AND SECOND GENERATION KICK ASS ROCKERS SAW VH IN SHREVEPORT LA. TOO KICK ASS SHOW...DALLAS TOO 🤘🎸🤘🎸🤘🎸🤘🎸🤘🎸🤘🎸

[@robert2400]

AND I COULD SAY... YEAH THOSE ARE MY KIDS GOOD AINT THEY

[@JamesHale-mj2rd]

Hi Ellen. My real name is James Junior, but my Dad started started calling me Johnny when I was a baby because he didn't really like the name "James". Everyone called him "Roy"....go figure....but he was from Texas, so that probably explains that quirk of his. I mention this to forestall confusion when I say I have "John's Corner Music Shop" in Prescott Valley, Arizona, USA (& on face book, too, if you ever want to see some of my impossible guitar repairs & goofy home made instruments). I am 82 years old & have NEVER subscribed to any social media before, but I cannot resist subscribing to yours. Your amazing talent & absolutely irresistible personality compel me to do so. I wish great good fortune & especially, good health for you & for your family, from John, the shade-tree guitar mechanic.

[@nathanielranney3546]

There's a great message in Ellen's story here. Music is more about feelings than technique. Yes, Ellen's technique is great, her fingering is superb, her sense of rhythm is spot-on, and the music makes you wanna dance, move, sing, wonder, and, most of, celebrate life. She has inspired me to only play the music that matters and feel it to the core! Thank you Ellen for giving a 73 yr old lifetime musician a better understanding of what matters when I play. Your pure joy in music has made me laugh as well as cry and commit myself to everything I play! THANK YOU, KEEP IT UP; YOU INSPIRE THE WORLD. p.s. - way to go dad!!!

[@mrbill121059]

I just love watching her play. You have raised her well by just letting her have fun. It blows my mind watching her, and her smile and laugh is contagious. She is a pro already and there will no stopping her. Thank you for being a great dad and even better teacher.

[@scottamolinari]

It's amazing how much happiness she can share, even through the video. I hope Ellen can keep this gift her whole life. If more people would be like her, OMG how this world would be such a nicer place to be.

[@kevinrezendes7722]

This message is for you, Ellens, dad! As a father of three myself, I wish I had the insight to follow your protocol of teaching the language of music to your daughter. She is an inspiration to me, and so are you!

[@scotttittle6701]

I've been playing, and later teaching, bass and guitar since 1973. The joy coming from this young lady fills me with such happiness. Dad - you are a special man. And Ellen, you are an absolute treasure. I wish you both the same contentment I receive watching your videos.

[@angeloflemings5994]

You're a great father for supporting and inspiring with love!!!

[@WassPogoreloff]

Молодчинка и красавица! Так держать. Папа умница и большой профессионал.

[@juanpallautapulido200]

You can tell that this is the labor of a good loving father, Ellen face shines with happiness while Playing her Sterling bass. Greetings from Chile

[@jiminnorthdallas1227]

My eyes watering with a smile. She has so much joy to give and chose the bass to do it with. Bravo!

[@anneej1]

I love music but not a bass player myself. It is fun to listen to Ellen play & the best part is her joy, smile, & giggle at the end. She is having fun!

[@Defenze]

As I have said before it is a complete joy to watch Ellen play Bass. May she never lose that little girl smile and her love for music. Grateful for Dad, and I assume Mom, for show casing her talent. Will continue to follow and watch with great anticipation.

[@EllenPlaysBass]

Thank you very much ❤️

[@redeemedandreadytofly1423]

She just melts my heart!! ❤️❤️

[@MarcoAntonio-yr6zk]

I'm impressed with the technique and ease that Ellen has... congratulations kitten .. you are extraordinary.

[@stephenspringer2692]

Ellen!!...I am a bass player myself..Your wonderful story brought tears of joy to my heart!!...Your smile is like a healing medicine and you have a natural feel and talent for Bass!!! ...You are a new and bright shining star and I can't wait to see the awesome progress you make in making great music!!...And, finally!!!...You have the "COOLEST DAD, EVER!!"...and he is a great teacher, as well!!...You are so Blessed!!

[@martinbreeson9637]

Beautiful happy kid. Keep that happiness flowing into the music. Your Dad is the best!

[@flyonbyya]

At the end dad says….”so proud of her”…how could he not be! But we all should be soooo proud of him…WHAT A DAD!!!!!

[@lawrencelymanii6943]

After watching her play bass a bunch of times, impressively so, but, I just saw this one, and I just have to say this , Ellen is Amazing, but YOU, good Sir, are Amazing, and Dad-ing at 1000%, really, your interaction and obvious adoration of your daughter fills me with hope, and joy.

[@DrummClem]

"She would meet my other musician friends" Sees Victor Wooten. Okay, that's a good start.

[@kevinharris7722]

She is so adorable, and you have every right to be very proud of her. Not only because she's your daughter, but her early exposure to music and the ability to groove like that! She is a super talent, and you guys have great bond, she's lucky to have you for a dad, and I'm sure you feel blessed to have her as a daughter. Beautiful story. I hope to see her on a big stage one day, and I'm sure she will be on one, soon! God bless you both.

[@RonnieMinh]

What an awesome father.

[@kayokk-]

Everything, as you can see here, grows out of freedom and an excellent upbringing. Realise that life follows its own course and that, if you don't confine the plant in a predetermined pot of frameworks, dogma, and intervention, its roots will spread widely and deeply. This is a good illustration of how one might gradually uncover something wonderful and run with it in a home that allows the freedom to enquire while attempting to gradually bring awareness and rediscover one thing at a time. It goes without saying how much I admire Ellen and her father's musicianship, but what's more important is that Ellen exhibits the curiosity that most kids have about the world. Let the Akon develop into that magnificent oak tree. Amen.🙏

[@denningmp37]

Daddy makes a buck of his daughter

[@deea6053]

I got here from Twitter, after watching her viral video. (Thx Dad for sharing this KZbin link) Watching Ellen play is magical. Its an experience we are so lucky to see, and I can imagine how much better she'll get as she grows up. I was so blown away to discover she only started playing bass last year!!!!!!🙌🏼😱😳😱😳🙌🏼 Still the most magical thing is her smile and ABSOLUTELY contagious joy she feels when she's playing. 🤗🤩🤗🤩 I know very little about guitars and basses. I didn't even know (until now) they're not referred to both as guitars!🙈Nway, after watching Ellen play, I wanna enjoy more bass. But only when Ellen is playing. So ill be checking in on her channel to watch this talented delightful amazing heartwarming bass playing cutie with that wonderful contagious smile. 💖👌🏾👏🏾👍🏾🙌🏼 Rock on Ellen👸🏼, rock on! 🤟🏽💃🏻🎸🎚🤙🏽You're a true wonder and inspiration for all of us. Thank you for sharing her with us all Dad. I can see her playing at Children's hospitals even, to spread this joy and inspiration she radiates to other lil gals and boys who are unwell. She would make their day!! 🙏🏾🙏

[@hugoguzman9590]

To be this talented, this young, and so humble!! Please keep it at that level, and when you are way up there receiving Grammys, never forget this beautiful beginning, and that wonderful smile.

[@robbranco]

That beautiful child was born into the most nourishing environment that anyone could possibly dream of.

[@jesusdanielperezperez7818]

Brother, may GOD ALWAYS BLESS your cute and talented daughter and you for being a great father. 👍🏻 🎸

[@superdragons111andwolfgame7]

What a great little girl and what a great dad ❤

[@williemacon30]

Amazing father because music prevents kids from going down bad paths

[@clairebbx9796]

The world definitely needs more smiles like yours Ellen! You rock!

[@noname-rm8sj]

Ellen is the product of a totally loving and supporting family. Hats off to you dad and you too mom!!!

[@Bill_Woo]

3:25 look at that focus. _Look at the eyes and focus._ That's very telling. And 3:50 there's the bass legend Victor Wooten there! Dude!

[@jankopiano577]

"..she would meet my other musician friends.." musician friend is Victor Wooten. I was like: what!? ok.. lol

[@johnstilwell9462]

In a world filled with so much strife and sadness, this is pure joy. THANK YOU!

[@ericgorder1]

Ellen's smile is very contagious and inspiring! 😊

[@TractorMan104]

She is precious and you are a great dad!

[@watcher63034]

I see SO many young people forced into music, but this is not the case here. Its amazing how you allowed her to grow (musically), in any/every way she wanted to! Her happiness and passion is so inspiring. She literally is in love with playing the bass. I may not be around to see her grow into the musician she may become, but nonetheless, it is important to do what you love, and stick with it as long as you find it enjoyable. Love this video, and the Rush~Tom Sawyer one too!

[@chrislira3574]

Well said. I’ve never got the ‘tiger mom’ vibe, or “frustrated parent makes child fulfill their dream for them” vibe at all from Ellen. She clearly loves it, and as shown in this video and others, she has the natural ability, and her dad the ability to bring it out. I love their dynamic.

[@pascalfragnoud2846]

Damn dude, her reaction made me tear up ! I have a 10 months old daughter, her name is Eileen, and I also play guitar for her in the hope she picks up my love of music. I really hope she gets as passionate as Ellen seems to be.

[@stephenlyons6526]

She exudes joy!.. what a child. Great parenting!..Yo!..

[@anzhelash412]

Ellen is not only wonderful bass player, but she is really good and positive young person! Wish her to keep this mood through the years for all times! Thank you for sharing your story, it must be inspiring and making others to start!

[@khagindratri6781]

That smile - priceless !!! Ellen is so precious !!!

[@maximinolaboy7222]

🎸 Wow, Ellen, you've blown my mind. I am 67 years young and started the bass around the same time you did in 2020 but I still have typewriters fingers. LOL, I fall in love with the bass after trying a few other instruments. I've taken a few online lessons, and maybe I need to try Yousician, Dad you must be very proud, I have granddaughters her age. Bless her and thank you for sharing.

[@alasdair7450]

Видеть счастливые глаза ребёнка... это дорогого стоит! 🥰💗👍👋💥

[@BaseCampWV]

whenever i'm having a bad day, i only need to watch this video, and joy is restored.

[@smokeymirror6550]

Me too!

[@jonathand.terrell3419]

I love this father and daughter duo and their story!! My eyes well up with tears at the love they have for music and each other!! Here's to wishing them the best in life!!! Respect and admiration!!!

[@charliepatterson6528]

Ellen is just adorable and such a talented bass player. She definitely has a bright future ahead of her and I wish her all the best. I'm an old man trying to learn 3 chords on a Fender Strat that my best friend built for me. I'm not that flexible, but still trying! Go Ellen, you rock!

[@glennrosa234]

What a joy watching her, i dont even have the words to explain how well her skill as well as her awesome demeanor is, also shows what a great Dad you are, and for that I commend you. I'm gonna be 65 soon ( boy does time fly) anyway I've been playing playing bass & guitar & still giging for over 40 yrs here in Hawaii doing all kinds of Genres but I think I still can't come near the level you & your wonderful student are at but just a joyus, good feeling following your Vlogs.... Take Care guys Aloha fr Hawaii...

[@bassanup]

The proudest dad and the most adorable bass player... best wishes for Ellen, always

[@MichaelStephenson51]

She seems like she is having a blast and that is the best part.

[@pocopico7409]

Man, this makes me kind of tear up just watching it! Just the wonder of it all, her cute/happy face when she’s playing, and the fact she’s soooo good! Truly amazing! I wish Paul McCartney could hear her. I’d love to hear what he would say to her. I would also love to hear her do a famous Beatles song with a challenging bass line! 😃

[@piscesman54]

The expression of sheer joy on Ellen's face when she's playing is priceless. It's obvious she's having the time of her life. When you play with that much joy, there's no way you can't get better, and better, and better. Congratulations. Loved the story, love Ellen's spark. She's destined to turn it into a bonfire of musical talent.

[@ceilingunlimited2430]

When our daughter was very young, we realized that....well, to be very blunt, that she's way smarter than us. I don't mean college at age 10, I just mean it was obvious that her brain was working at a level that ours were not. I'll spare you details this is already too long, but I mention all that because it can be both a joy and a bane to raise a kid who excels so much. You've got to find ways to put them in right circumstances to excel, without pressuring them; expand their boundary without sucking the joy out of what they're doing. You have to expose them to higher level stuff when you are already over your own depth. And you have to do it in a way that allows your child to remain a humble and decent person. Oh, and all along the way, people notice how special the kid is and comment on it, which makes it difficult to maintain an attitude of humility. Its a good problem to have, but it is difficult. I give my wife and I about a 85-90% score overall in how we did. Ellen's parents are obviously facing that kind of situation, and doing great. She's a fantastic musician, brimming over with joy, her smile is absolutely infectious, and best of all, she is loved. As parents, you guys are first rate. I can't wait to see what Ellen is doing in ten years. Good luck during the teenage years. That's a long haul.

[@geraldarena5983]

She is an absolute joy to watch. I love the way her eyes move around as she gets excited about the music she is playing. You can't fake that kind of joy and passion. I am a drummer and I would love to jam with her, even though I am 50 years older..lol

[@taukhouse44]

This beautiful girl brings me such joy each time I see her.Im 69 and just picked up the bass & she is my inspiration & my favorite Bass player you da Bomb 💣 Ellen

[@jolaharvel7852]

She's amazing! And the most important thing is that she's having fun doing it!

[@dennispasch9538]

What an infectious smile and laugh… May God Bless you and keep you safe..

[@krein7951]

You are a great father and she is a cool adorable daughter. God Bless You both.

[@EG-1969]

What a glorious child. She's going to be a monster when her hands get bigger! But she obviously got her ear and sense of time from somewhere... Nice job Dad!

[@jonathandunnemann4155]

Ellen's pure happiness is medicine to my soul!

[@michaelmcdermott209]

Such an amazing story and the makers of that app are also to be congratulated. Her excitement when she saw the song is so adorable.

[@MetaTaro]

Great teacher. Great dad.

[@jaredwalpole3148]

Just stumbled upon this. I honestly teared up watching this. It is amazing to see the joy on her face. As a musician, I know the struggle learning a new instrument and I am glad she is taking it head on and enjoying it. Also, Father of The Year award for your love and encouragement. I wish my kids took up music like me. They can do it, they are just too shy. Maybe this will inspire them to work at it.

[@allanrobichaud6872]

It makes my day every time I see Ellen play. She's going to have a great career!

[@outofcompliance1639]

She has so much fun playing. I think that is the key! I have a seven-year-old granddaughter, it would be amazing to show her Ellen's work and get her excited about music. Thank you for the fun you spread.

[@czarpaul01]

What better gift could you give your child than the gift of music? This whole story is amazing. Ellen is 5x the bass player I am, and I’ve been at it 35 years haha. Looking forward to watching her skills expand. Her smile and laughter are so infectious! Cheers to you both.

[@hilarytoussaint3359]

You are never giving the gift of music to the child you are merely helping her to unrap/unbox that which already there within her. M o d e r n education keep evading this age old fact for greed of money in the form music lesson fees etc. The youth come into this world well equiped to fulfill their mission. GOD HELP US, MAKE THIS TRUE.

[@nova2fly209]

Pop's deserves a lot of credit too! A big ThanX to him..and all the luck in this mad world to her...🎸

[@guitarxy1948]

Just became aware of this amazing kid this morning while looking at some Steve Harvey videos. Harvey set it up so that she could interact via live streaming with Bootsy Collins and three members of Earth, Wind and Fire. Then, I came across her KZbin channel . . . my head 🤯! What a great father/daughter combo. It goes without saying (but I am saying) that this kid has a great musical future ahead of her. And hats off to dad for being such a positive influence in the life of his daughter, and my gut tells me that his positive influence goes well beyond the musical aspect.

[@markpell8979]

Hovak, such a proud father you must be. Ellen makes me smile, laugh and cry tears of joy! I've been playing guitar for 50yrs and she gets me dancing, tapping feet and wanting to go play and get in the groove. No way sadness can exist when we see and hear her go. Another commenter mentioned Tal Wilkenfeld, who I saw with Jeff Beck. Tal always gives me that same feeling of joy as your lovely, wonderful daughter. I think Ellen could already hold her own on the same stage.

[@gayle4s383]

I was feeling horrible today; the invasion of Ukraine, etc. Ellen, your smile and laugh...You are the cutest little girl I have ever seen! AND....you rock the bass!!

[@badmantai4349]

A truly inspirational young lady...playing for the right reasons & enjoying every moment...a joy & a privilege to watch

[@susanallen1115]

What a beautiful and talented Armenian-American family! 🇦🇲

[@aljanet1514]

Precious gift to humanity... dedicated parents make the difference ❤

[@rafbass]

I cry every time I watch this video! It's so joyful !

[@arnlmndza]

The way her eyes light up with good music, man that's priceless! She rocks! Thank you for getting her in that journey.

[@laynelucia5111]

I've never smiled soo much, thank you for your joy

[@LiloUkulele]

Wish more kids had the opportunity to start studying music so young. Music is magic...and little Ellen is certainly a budding magician💕

[@alanthomas8706]

Dad, just beautiful. Thank you Hi Ellen you are a joy. Keep having fun.

[@alangriggs4420]

Your love of music shows, please do not lose it. You have a beautiful smile that lights up a room, and a personality that is awesome. Keep doing what you do, and enjoy life as you get older. I look forward to the day you are the headliner at a concert. Hope it is soon.

[@virgiljones4808]

The best part of this video is the pure innocense of your little girl - no clue as to how remarkable it is- no clue as to how eceptional it is just having fun with her dad! Keep it there as long as you can dad you never get this stuff back....you must be so proud!

[@airflow64]

This lil girl happiness is so infectious as she plays, good job Pops

[@themusicloft6303]

I love that she loves music so much!!!

[@JustinAllen-di7tb]

Every time she smiles I do. She is so so cute and brings so much happiness to all im sure. Dad you are doing a great job and allowing her to explorer is such a good thing. Thanks for sharing her days on the bass. Keep on keeping on you rock!!! Oh and dad you should be proud. You got your self a rock star for sure.

[@markmcmahon6354]

I'm not even a Bassist but I'm following this amazing young lady and her career. I was captivated by her huge smile and pure joy when she plays. You rock Ellen!