Interview With Tiran Porter

[@TwoTickets100]

Tiran Porter is unquestionably one of the greatest bass players in rock and roll history. His chord work is amazing. His vocals, sultry. He made the rhythm section of the Doobies. But most importantly, his demeanor and positive attitude is so inspiring.

[@frontagulus]

What a funny thing to say. How do you measure the greatness? What you might have meant is that you really like his playing

[@Jamestele1]

This was three years ago, and still I can't put it any better. He really combines the rhythm section to the guitars and vocals - he was the engine that could!

[@TwoTickets100]

@@frontagulus What I meant to say? Not sure I understand your comment. There are bass players and there are great bass players. He is great so it means he must be one of the greatest. If Jeff Baxter thinks he is one of the best, which he does, I will take that to the bank any day.

[@rayculversr3285]

This guy Tiran should be narrating for PBS. What a great speaking voice.

[@maureenjohnson2886]

I completely agree. He has an amazing singing voice as well.

[@asianguy6174]

He sounds like he plays, cool. So LA.

[@markpmar0356]

Mr. Porter is a personable gentleman, I imagine he enjoyed fine relationships with the members of the Doobies back in the day. Talented, self-effacing, and modest, that's a good combination. Thank you for this video, the Doobies are still one of my favorites bands and Mr. Porter was an integral part of the band.

[@cathieporter168]

As with any band there were good times and there were bad times!

[@whoiskcwhat]

He wrote one of my favorite Doobie songs: For Someone Special

[@shekharsathaye]

Mine too!

[@popal7408]

I listen to that masterpiece every week.

[@jamesangelo7740]

Excellent song and really an unknown one.

[@arthurbrown2567]

My fave Doobie song too

[@billhughes5638]

Simple words cannot express my appreciation and respect for Tiran Porter. It's best expressed as his influence on my own bass playing, so just "listen to the music". Love ya Tiran!

[@MichaelSimmons.]

Tiran Porter is an awesome bass player. One of my all time favorites.

[@Buelligan88]

Always loved his work with the Doobies. He had a great style with really melodic bass lines. He all about melody, not rhythm. After all these years, this is the first time I've ever heard him speak. He comes across as a very well spoken, eloquent gentleman. Thanks for all the great music, Tiran.

[@Buelligan88]

Jas Bataille They're styles aren't similar, but I always thought Porter's approach to the bass was like Berry Oakley's. If you listen to the bass separately, it's like a different party in a bigger party.

[@hudentdw2]

Bless him He was the best early Dobbies bassist they ever had I hope He is doing well and full of health Go Tiran!

[@syvsinger1]

Loved Tiran's song with the Doobie's 'For Someone Special'. Great voice and great bassist.

[@rachelflair4835]

No Doobie Brothers without him !

[@75tm400]

He plays some amazing bass lines in the song Another Park Another Sunday.

[@bassiclogic]

I as a Bassist always have like and respected Tiran. He knew what tasteful notes to play on the Doobie songs. I have heard other bassist with the Doobies, some probably better technically but not as good as Tiran. He is the best bass player I have heard with the Doobies.

[@bassiclogic]

Agree with you on that. Also I would like to add he played with a pick to get that percussive sound that none of the replacement players used the way he did. I personally don't play with a pick these days but did back in the day and can if needed for the situation.

[@jameswood3977]

+Michael C you've taken the words right out of my mouth (or should I say head) he had a great influence on me in the 1970's of what Paul McCartney did for me in the 1960's

[@Vinnybrain]

Micheal C I triple your great comment as well...I started bass in '72 at 12 and between Steely Dan Cant Buy A thrill, and The Doobies- The Captain and Me and Tolouse St I'd say Tiran Porter was my biggest influence on bass....China Grove, Rockin Down The highway and who can ever forget the bassline to Long Train A Runnin..... Thanks Tiran!!!...for the influence to practice practice and practice to get those fantastic riffs of yours as close as can be !! :)

[@johnwoods1922]

@@Vinnybrain The current touring bass player for the Doobie Brothers is John Cowan (not sure if he played on their last studio album). John Cowan is a great bass player and singer in his own right but is full of praise for Tiran and said that he couldn't improve on the bass parts for the early Doobies songs.

[@loriodom1637]

Tiran is so cool. I have been a fan for years and I just love him. He is known best for his bass playing but he's an awesome vocalist, too.

[@idolivercampos]

Happy, happy person, a good people, SIR..TIRAN PORTER... and respect for Tiran Porter...!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@astrosjer822]

Should have asked him about the doobie’s songs he wrote like “Flying Cloud”, “For Someone Special”, and “Need A Lady”.

[@musicplateau1]

Tiran is one of those musicians who is so down to earth but at the same time out in the stratosphere with his pure talent, he's in the Jack Bruce, Andy Fraser category. Did anyone else notice the bizarre audio 'skips' in this vid during the live 87' shots .....?

[@3wsportfishing311]

One of my favorite bass players , the Doobies would never have had that unique sound without Tiran on the bass.

[@sherrykoch1245]

[e-mail]

[@lionheartroar3104]

The most underrated bass player ever. Listen to those records. He is brilliant.

[@asianguy6174]

One of the best bass players of all time. His playing always stood out to me.

[@TheAfarensis]

Cool guy, fantastic musician. He deserves nothing but respect. Talk about a survivor! Best wishes for continued success.

[@jerryattwooll4864]

He comes over as such a cool, polite and nice guy. Well deserving of the success he has had in his career.

[@susangray5318]

So fun to see this! My favorite Doobie Brothers song…For Someone Special. What a great voice Tiran has.

[@timtravasos2742]

Such a nice guy. I learned a lot playing his bass parts.

[@sammys70]

One of my all time favorite bassists..Tiran is awesome..

[@euanelliott3613]

What a gentleman. Very friendly and humble, and very talented. I saw some footage of The Doobies from 1972 playing Jesus Is Just Alright, and he looked so cool in the coolest hat I've ever seen. Toulouse Street is a great album and he plays great on that and everything else.

[@DonDixit]

Friendly, humble & talented. Trademark Doobie Brothers. Countless Doob tracks got an excredible pounding & melodic groundswell thanks to mr Porter.

[@peshewa0529]

Great Bass Player. Ebjoyed you with the Doobie's Best of luck to you.

[@Metaphysiz7]

My brother-in-law Tiran has always better so cool and collective through out the years and such a love-able guy. He can play that bass like it ain't nobodies business, but his own. Hanging out with the band when they were in the Los Angeles area was always a treat. Me and Michael McDonald had some fantastic conversations that I can't not remember to this day what they were about, but we did love to talk. Patrick Simmons and Jeff (Skunk) Baxter were always jive talking and were tight as thieves. Cornelius Bumpus was a superman when it came to playing music, he played that sax like the second coming of Coltrane. I was heartbroken when told that Cornelius had died while on a airplane returning to L.A, I fondly look back on those years (1973-1981) as fun and exciting when it came to keeping track of how the Doobies were doing. Tiran appeared to kept in touch with them especially Patrick who lived nearby in the hills above San Jose. We are blessed to still be "listening to the music" this great band made so many years ago that continues to sound forever fresh. Mel Taylor, Publisher - Reflections Publishing House, Inglewood, CA

[@Metaphysiz7]

***** My brother-in-law (not uncle) Tiran is indeed all you mentioned in your reply. I'm glad you had quality time in the early 2000's still fresh in your memory. He has helped many musicians over the years, some known and plenty unknown. His style is now legendary and being utilized countless times which is good, cause he was a pioneer. Back in the days when he played with the Wilson's (pre-Beach Boys days), he played & practiced like a man possessed his sister and brother told me.

[@vleevision7787]

I am so appreciative of your sharing here Mel . I came here specifically to find out more about Tiran Porter . I am glad to see a fam member here that is representing what I already suspected about him . humble and talented and smart . Thank YOU so MUCH !!!

[@someFLman]

Hell yeah

[@Iambriangregory]

@Kevin Prima kind of a dumb question because how would you know whether he was or wasn't? How do you know if he wasn't wasn't you going to send you a photograph of of him from the past together with him? You almost just got to decide for yourself whether you going to take his word for it that's up to you he could tell you anything.

[@pohakumana]

De Ja Vu, I hosted a BD Party for Tiran at my house in Boulder Creek in Sept. 81' when he was playing with a local band out of Campbell, The Press. I was dating their band manager, Jet. Been to his house he had in the area at the time too, I forget what for. He's a good guy.

[@clydebermingham121]

Wow …. My First time ever hearing him speak ….He’s real cool temperament… He’s got a great speaking voice . Seems very sensible guy & person … Though he was in the background a lot … and in a supportive role , yet his vibe just always distinct & significant to me …. Just his presence alone 💥🙏🏽✊🏾🙏🏽💥

[@walterc.charlescampbelllll8485]

I was in high school in the 70 s and love the Doobie Brothers Tiran was the cool one for me I want to be just like him I love the hat too cool rock on

[@jameswood3977]

+walter campbell same for me but here in the UK unfortunate they didn't tour much over here :(

[@pamnichols7877]

I love Tiran Porter!!!!! Saw him several times!!!!!!

[@dougpeters1625]

I'm such a fan of Tirans I just love this guy. I wish he would've continued on with the Doobie Brothers.. I wish him all the health and happiness in the world. such an immense talent and such a classy gentleman.

[@crustafari]

I LOVE his bass playing! Great lines, groove, and tone!! Totally underrated and deserves far more recognition. (-:

[@thefool2007]

Tiran is an awesome musician and bassist. I am still using his palm mute sound which is my favorite. His lines are melodic and supportive.

[@billmeriwether605]

Tiran was my hero when I was growing up

[@BEATDOWNBANKER]

I met Tiran in Starkville Ms.in the lobby of the Ramada Inn after a concert at Mississippi State University.He was such a nice personable gentleman.I was honored.

[@pohakumana]

De Ja Vu, I hosted a BD Party for Tiran at my house in Boulder Creek in Sept. 81' when he was playing with a local band out of Campbell, The Press. I was dating their band manager, Jet. Been to his house he had in the area at the time too, I forget what for. He's a good guy.

[@theprettycitykitty9302]

Cool. Saw a few great bands there in Starkville.

[@umami0247]

Truly one of the best bass players in rock.

[@tbc1809]

Would see Tiran walking down pacific garden mall in Santa Cruz

[@ACLTony]

So good seeing Tiran in an interview. I enjoyed listening to the Doobies during my teen and young adult years. Although Minute by Minute is my favorite song, my favorite album is "One Step Closer". Very cool and well arranged classic. Those were good days.

[@MaySecond07]

Tiran and Keith always were my favorites

[@markblue5375]

Great bass player 👍

[@dalesmith1823]

Tiran is also an inredible singer as well. He sang "Need A Lady" on the Doobies "Living On The Faultline" album.......and his harmonys were incredible....

[@spg126]

one of the coolest guys to ever play

[@MissNolver]

He sounds so nice...!

[@MrSaulobeer]

Man, this guy is awesome. His unique way of playing is one of the best I`ve ever heard...where can I find info about his actual works? Thanks for posting!

[@MegaSammy70]

Wikipedia

[@pamnichols7877]

Lord, I love Tiran Porter!

[@gillesbourgeois5348]

What a cool man! He's on the rock and Roll hall of fame but looks like a sane and humble daddy...why not? On the Take Me In Your Arms single sleeve, seing this afro-american among this bunch of long haired white hippies stroke my teenage french mind, back in 75 /76. Seing him now, the same smiling and open face, this soft voice, makes me think there's still human people in the musical bizness.

[@cmarie6157]

I love his voice

[@ChrisBeyerMedia]

Tirhan rocks! His bass lines are always captivating and hard driving. Great show! Thanks!

[@ryan49er1]

Great bassist....I had a feeling he was influenced by Paul McCartney.

[@RobinLull]

dontcha just LOVE little tidbits of info like that?! So cool...

[@jameswood3977]

+ryan49er1 I thought that & so was I so now I know why I picked up on he's style in the 1970's

[@pohakumana]

De Ja Vu, I hosted a BD Party for Tiran at my house in Boulder Creek in Sept. 81' when he was playing with a local band out of Campbell, The Press. I was dating their band manager, Jet. Been to his house he had in the area at the time too, I forget what for. He's a good guy. Great Bassist.

[@steveanderson7557]

I as a bass player love Mr Porter he is one of my Bass player heros

[@clarencejones2397]

Super bad bassist extraordinaire and I glad I finally caught up with you and Thanx for you contributions 🤜❤️🤛🏼

[@theprettycitykitty9302]

Excellent!! Legend!

[@demongene]

One of the best bassists in rock music. Bar NONE. Anyone know the exact web link to the full interview?

[@MrAndrith]

An amazing bass player, one of the all time greats.

[@gooniegoogoo8673]

Love that very short anecdote about Saturday Night Live. I wish he would have been able to expand on it. Man, the stories he must have. His reaction says it all. 6:03

[@frankstared]

He was the Doobie brother. Incredible skill.

[@pamnichols3511]

I love Tiran Porter!!!!!!!!

[@paulapodaca7090]

Mr. Porter's work was exceptional.. particularly "Dark eyed Cajun Woman" and "It keeps you Running".. love this Talented Man!!

[@MrAndrith]

@MrSaulobeer Some on wikipedia. You should check out his solo album Playing to an empty house. Great stuff.

[@kemaxiu]

This guy's a great bass original! - but almost unrecognized.

[@Sandra-sy8fs]

I Love you Tiran Porter

[@TheTubification]

This is great. It's shame the video jumps. It's like the edits were made with duct tape.

[@GAIJINMAN]

Had the GREAT pleasure of meeting Tiran in late 1987 or early 1988 in Santa Cruz at a car dealership! Such an amazing, kind, and approachable super star! He was kind to invite my brother and me to see him perform with the Cyclones at The Crow's Nest in Capitola and it was a GREAT show, and joined us at our table between sets!

[@pohakumana]

De Ja Vu, we hosted a BD Party for Tiran at my house in Boulder Creek in Sept. 81' when he was playing with a local band out of Campbell, The Press. I was dating their band manager, Jet. Been to his house he had in the area at the time too, I forget what for. He's a good guy.

[@tonycanabal1659]

His bass groove was awesome on the song, "How Do Those Fools Survive?".

[@eldonsleight]

ive known dan for 92 years.....hes a a friend of mine.....bought my first guitar from GS when they were in that house down the street.....1974..?...always very...very cool service and friendship......i made wide 4 inch leather guitar straps back then.....Tiran....if you remember the 2 you bought at showcase xmas...?...fake grey fur on the back...and tooled sunsets and a really fancy tree one....only one i ever made....i was 16....it said "Dirty Dinky"...i remember your cloud song man..cool voice

[@pohakumana]

De Ja Vu, I hosted a BD Party for Tiran at my house in Boulder Creek in Sept. 81' when he was playing with a local band out of Campbell, The Press. I was dating their band manager, Jet. Been to his house he had in the area at the time too, I forget what for. He's a good guy.

[@brooksrountree2709]

Great interview , loved his voice , For Sombody Special, a fav, They are easily on a par with , Eagles, CSN,,

[@BassGuyGG]

"A doobie-ous distinction!" LOL

[@Giessen-cr6gn]

First saw them at the Iowa jam 75 Then at the Bally grand AC NJ I watched from the limo lot grandstand under the stars One night Springsteen jumped onstage with Jackson brown

[@codiestrauss8132]

Tiran was so sexy when he was younger good to see he aging well

[@gordonvolkert2304]

Tiran you made the bass, and the best the Doobies had!

[@MrSaulobeer]

Thanks!

[@billyshears921]

A Great Doobie Brother!

[@eldonsleight]

i bought my first guitar at guitar showcase from Jack....thanks Jack for being such a cool dude....you matter..i'll always remember you...its been along time....anyway i did a video for an amp i was selling...check it out when you can....i remember sitting on a speaker in your first store...guitar trailor..?..playing 'house of the rising sun' with the chords written on my hand on that lyle guitar you sold me....now im sitting on a speaker...in my trailor...smoking a fatty....what a difference..?

[@bretturner3178]

Hi Tiran. Bret Turner here. Just saying hello.

[@margaretjefton8842]

I love you fool..

[@jamesfarrington9030]

2Tickets, I agree. He is NEVER mentioned in anyones top 5/10 list.

[@ClearYourMindTravel]

He looks exactly the same.

[@177coc]

oh my god !!!!!!

[@cmarie6157]

He should sang more lead.

[@cbgreely]

And Double Dealin Four Flusher

[@cbgreely]

Nope his greatest was Neals Fandango :)

[@popal7408]

That....Is my Favorite Doobies song. I love to play along on that piece.

[@annetter0bison179]

He got a well Education voice soft black men

[@harrisongelles685]

What?

[@cathieporter168]

He is highly intelligent!!

[@TheBlockDog]

allmusic.com/artist/tiran-porter-p115316/credits

[@cbgreely]

Nope..his greatest was Rainy Day Crossroad Blues :)

[@brodocbetty4856]

Great bass player, I like Willie Weeks style better for the Doobies.

[@rossbrowning5201]

What???????

[@billbixby3666]

This guy doing the interview does not listen to the response.

[@frontagulus]

Good man wearing shorts

[@ThePimperor]

don't insult Tiran like that, lol

[@MostDear]

Worst intro music I have ever heard

[@keithfitzgerald876]

This hardly qualifies as an interview. The guy asking the questions seems to know nearly nothing and to be most interested in Tiran and the band's TV appearances. He repeatedly asks the same pointless questions, but, gee, what a swell fella, so I guess he got away with that.

[@mrbongo]

Great to see Tiran after all these years! But the interviewer is horrible, ill-prepared and has his facts backward. And what a shame the set and choreography are so shoddy. A typical high school TV production looks better than this mess. But I still appreciate seeing Tiran again.

[@humphreygruntwhistle3946]

This interviewer is clueless.

[@glen7589]

This guy interviewing Mr Porter is terrible 🙄 Let the man speak.

[@margaretjefton8842]

Y. Y. Y. The. Face. Offul

[@bladey1010]

I swear he reminds me of Ted Nugent for some reason!

[@davehallock3656]

Loge to see Tiran. Sorry the interviewer is not that good.

[@cbgreely]

And Double Dealin Four Flusher

[@popal7408]

And Clear as the Driven snow...