Why I Stopped Playing a $15,000 Signature Bass

In this video, I'll share my journey from a $15,000 Fodera signature bass to where I am now. Hear the story of why I made the switch and what I'm playing now in this exclusive behind-the-scenes look into my instrument evolution.
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[@janekgwizdala]

WOW! I cannot believe the number of comments here, and in the first week of the video being live I've done my best to read 100% of them, and reply to all the comments that included a question. I think I completely overextended myself by saying I would be able to reply to every comment in the first TWO WEEKS the video was live. I've realized it's a full time job in itself, and am way behind on making the next video for the channel. I'll keep checking back in on this one regularly as I very much respect the amount of time you all took to watch the video and then leave me a comment. It has done incredible things for the growth of the channel in just one week! But from here on out I think it's way more realistic to commit answering questions in the comments in the first 48 hours of the video being live. I love the conversation, it has become a real feature of my day this week, and this channel is already starting to become a fantastic way to be in touch with you all, and to open doors for more opportunities to play live music. As always, your support is very much appreciated, and I can't wait to launch another video for you all this week.

[@CharlieBass5]

Do the best you can, we will survive. We can demand all we want, which some of us will, you will do what I have a hard time doing, ACCEPT THAT WE ARE NOT PERFECT!!! LOL!!!

[@xh4r744]

Here's my take on this. I'll try to make it a short answer but I personally believe Fodera should've never let two artists get into this type of behaviour. Its unprofessional on their part.Obviously Matt was upset but he's attacking the wrong party and I understand you needed to defend yourself but the only people that need to apologize is Fodera (the owners) for allowing this to get out of control against both artists. They could've simply suggested what they could design for you etc before the instrument was delivered and keep it behind closed doors and not letting another artist blast the other online. The company owners need to stop hiding and make a public video about how they fucked up

[@liamgaliano]

Love this approach. Keep up the great content, man!

[@MarcoRomaBass]

Hi Janek, while Foderas are extremely well built instruments with great playability, IMHO soundwise they lack personality. Listening to a recording you can recognise a Fender, a MusicMan and definitely…… a Wal; you can’t with a Fodera! Go for a Wal; a personal musical language as your deserves a bass with personality 😊

[@jazzad]

I like the video. Now of all people you're the last one I'd have expected to ditch his Fodera. Well maybe Anthony Jackson would surprise me more but other than that.

[@WillGamache]

I finally gave up the “a good bass player can play anything” flex and did the work to find my own perfect bass. It was an expensive process, but I’m happy to play Warwick Infinity basses now, everything perfectly in place for my hands and heart.

[@HiImSeanIPlayBass]

Are we supposed to know who you are?

[@jakubgiernatowski2885]

@@HiImSeanIPlayBass woah that is a hurtful thing to ask an artist. Find his portfolio and like it or not. We're all just music enthusiasts talking gear and passion. You need to chill man.

[@HiImSeanIPlayBass]

@@jakubgiernatowski2885 will gamache doesn’t have a “portfolio”. He has two videos of his kid at a Christmas pageant or something

[@evenseb7574]

@@HiImSeanIPlayBass KZbin is for everyone. You are not supposed to know me either, but it really doesn't matter

[@WillGamache]

@@HiImSeanIPlayBass no, not unless youre awesome dude. Keep scrolling champ.

[@guillemmcbass6331]

Wow, this levels of disclosure are almost never seen. Very respectful but straight to the point. Cheers Janek.

[@janekgwizdala]

I don't think there's any harm in honesty. I'm happy to go that route always. Maybe redact some names here and there, but always tell it like it is.

[@hahabass]

@@janekgwizdala Don't worry, hun. Garrison was always well and truly up his own bottom :-)))))))

[@seanpyrtle5603]

Matt Garrison couldn't carry your case JG.

[@BassStevie]

The quest for the perfect instrument is lifelong (for me…) - and it’s great hearing yours. Heard you play the F-bass in London and it’s lovely. As for calling old friends and building bridges - the time is now. Tomorrow is always a day away. ;-)

[@janekgwizdala]

Totally agree. With the kiddo "today" is a very different concept from what it used to be, but this week I'm reaching out for sure.

[@charlesmcgehee3227]

I think, for me, I reached a point where I could get an acceptable tone out of any of the 30 or more basses I've owned and tried out. I've settled on a stock 75 Fender J bass. I have an EB sterling I like and a bass I built myself. So many great basses in the World now to choose from. I repair, build and restore basses as a side hobby. I Love bass guitars. The F bass is a very fine and flexible instrument. Once I got decent at playing, most any properly set up bass will give me an acceptable sound.

[@lovelakland]

Sir. I've been watching you on KZbin for years, years. I've admired your playing style, your buttery tone and your rhythmic and melodic expression. I love how your express melodies. My favourite video of you playing is the one that has been taken down. Sigh. I truly miss that video. But this. This video is better than any video of you playing. This is you showing an expression better than your expression of your music. This is you showing your character. Which sounds better than any music you've ever played. Here you show humility. A lost branch of the human tree. Definitely a lost branch in many areas of the music community. Sir, I thank you. I face difficult paths that require expressing a heart of humility and reconciling. You've become an inspiration. God bless you Mr. Gizwdala.

[@michaelanthony9068]

Gorgeous F bass. Very humble of you to put out this explanation and apologies. Please call them, I’m 65 yrs old, and I’m so sorry about things I didn’t say or do when I had the chance, that I can’t do anymore cuz some people are gone now. Btw, I have your II-V-I book. Wonderful !!!

[@BourdeoixEterno]

Have always been a fan of your playing and had no idea you were such a well spoken, down to earth guy. Imo, the best basses are within the $2000 range, that’s when the player can truly make their sound come out

[@kevinterruption]

This quiet, biography style video takes me back 5ish years to when I first found you channel and you were grinding every day with tour vlogs. This was a cool story and you told it well! Good luck on growing your channel again, Janek.

[@janekgwizdala]

Appreciate you being around since the days of VLOG!

[@micindir4213]

@@janekgwizdala Yeah! Those were the days! You really hit something then. At least with me, it resonated. You talked about stuff and it was a hang more than anything else. For some strange reason, I've stumbled on it right when stuff went bad personally and carrier-wise. But with these long-form stories its very hard to tell what happened. Probably one of the seeds did grew. I finished my previous band that brought 20 people to the show and started much more adventurous journey with new band that can gather 200 or more. It doesn't seem like much, be we're already into planning euro tour along with LP coming out and I see people getting buzz from the music (which I haven't seen in a long while, actually). I think its the part, where you just drop what's fragile and go fearlessly deeper that I got from your vlog days. So you might be the part I'm still grinding my music carrier hehe You really should come up with OC2 memes

[@beastehful]

Janek, I discovered you back in the vlog days and I was hooked on those videos. They gave me a window into this world I could never be a part of yet fascinated me. Your honesty, passion, thoughtfulness and hard work really shine through and I believe you have everything it takes to achieve a high level of success with the channel. Thanks for sharing what you do!

[@janekgwizdala]

Appreciate you being on the journey with me. 👍

[@malcolmmacdonald4745]

Glad to hear you've hooked up with F-bass, I live in Hamilton and have known George for many years, and admire the direction he's taking his instruments.

[@_B_E_A_D_G_C]

Thanks for sharing those intimate stories with us. You’re a HUGE influence, both from a creative and a technical/knowledge aspect. We need more people like you in the world, championing education along with creative exploration.

[@dopeybrew7006]

I always wanted a Rickenbacker 4003 as soon as I started playing bass and I was able to get one in my senior year of high school 2014 and it’s still my absolute favorite bass. I just love everything about the way it feels and sounds! Thanks for the video!

[@IamMagPie]

It is indeed a great bass, both with respect to looks, playability, sound and history. Don't ever sell it. And If you havent't tried Rotosound flatwounds on it, I recommend you give it a whirl next time you change strings.

[@DeanMarksessionbassplayer]

I remember you coming down to Ronnie Scott’s back in 1999/2000 when I was playing with Roy Ayers. Frank Tontoh, myself and you hung out. Then in 2002 in New York City you hung out with us for the day when we were over on tour with Craig David. You played me some of your music and I was blown away. It’s been wonderful watching your journey in real time all these years. I’m so proud of you. Wishing you more success and continued blessings to come my friend ❤️🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾❤️

[@ironxmike83]

Man, I can’t believe it’s been that long already. I still remember watching that video you put out with your Fodera Bass. Time flies!

[@billkirbymusic]

I always appreciate your honesty. Some people are big on endorsements and if they do well with that, that's great. I've always appreciated the freedom to create without being tied to someone else's name. Good luck on the quest to 100,000! Been here since 09, it's been an incredible journey. Thank you for everything!

[@MrCasetanner]

Love your work it’s always great to hang with you.

[@wmburgess]

Thank you for your transparency. I really appreciate all the effort you took in putting this video together. As a small time builder, it was insightful to know how things look from the other side of the production.

[@antonharms]

Hi I am also a small time builder; not a player; and wonder what makes a good Bass? I guess it depends on what each player wants; but besides frets that feel good; and string height; what else it there? Thanks Janek for the video.

[@DomPalombiMusic]

Love your attention to detail, and seeing where you’ve come from to where you are now through your basses is inspiring! Hope to catch you in person one of these days Janek!!!

[@Thepipehunter]

Janek, even though I am a guitarist, you are my biggest living inspiration. You’re year long (kinda) daily vlogs showed me what it was like to be a serious musician and take your art as seriously as you can with no apologies. Thank you for showing me how to put it in overdrive!

[@janekgwizdala]

May you enjoy the overdrive! Always on 💯

[@AvormW]

Janek, I am grateful to you for opening up my world in the direction of the high C string. Exactly two years ago, I got my Ibanez BTB that comes stock with an E-C setup, 33" scale, active electronics, Bartolini pickups, finger ramp, etc. It still surprises me that such a unique instrument is available from a big company and is actually affordable (a reason why I really like Ibanez). Thank you for the inspiration!

[@Sagizor]

btb 33 right? Got the exact same one years ago just a month after ibanez started selling them. would never have thought of it without Janek's great influence over what I wanted to achieve with my instrument

[@AvormW]

No, mine is the BTB845V. But the 33 looks very similar, maybe it's the predecessor?

[@Sagizor]

@@AvormW Reading about it now it is in fact part of the same "volo" series as the btb33. the 845 looks much better I think

[@seanstiller7202]

@@Sagizor Did you guys end up replacing the nut?

[@AvormW]

@@seanstiller7202 Not yet, I didn't have any issues with the nut. I'd rather replace the pickups at some point, the Bartolinis lack some clarity imho.

[@felixweber6593]

Hi Janek, I remember you Mattison bass from the Drum Fantasy Camp 2019 in Chicago where I asked you about the tuning of your instrument. I had the huge privilege to jam for three minutes with you and the other top level musicians there and it is still a mind blowing experience and a huge source of motivation. During these three (too) short minutes I had the strong feeling that I was a good drummer... Thank you for this and for all the rest. Your story about the basses is very interesting and tells a lot about "endorsing relations" with companies. Thanks for sharing.

[@janekgwizdala]

Thanks for your comment, and yes! Chicago was fun. I think that's the job of any musician, to support everyone else onstage around them. I'm glad you felt good in the short time we were able to play together. 👍

[@StuartJrBarrett]

Great video, Janek! More people should take a page out of your book and forget the hype of endorsements and just PLAY WHAT YOU LOVE. Also, you’ll make your goal by April because of your content and your eagerness to respond to comments. I’m not even a bass player, but I enjoy your playing!

[@michaelmarler7016]

Janek, your tone is sublime. Thank you for being such an excellent bassist, and for sharing your experiences. I too have a penchant for custom basses. If we run into one another somewhere you may pleased to hear my sorry tale! Peace and Prosperity brother!

[@carlozgraggen1086]

Nice to see your channel growing that much, don't think it will take till April to get to 100k. All the best from freezing Switzerland

[@janekgwizdala]

Hopp Schwiiz!!

[@mikewolfe9458]

Thanks for sharing, Janek. I hope you’ll keep us posted as the journey continues with these instruments. Best of luck to you as things unfold!

[@antontuxen426]

Love this new energy and format - I played 15 min with you a few months ago at the Amsterdam Conservatory and it was one of the most nerve wracking and amazing moments of my bass playing history. All love

[@janekgwizdala]

Hey! Good to hear from you. That was a fun masterclass in Amsterdam. Lots of respect of volunteering to get up and play onstage. 👍

[@blakebranchbass]

Congrats on the new bass, Janek! I just started playing an F-Bass myself and they are incredible instruments!

[@chadwilliams8583]

I'm a guitarist of 30 plus years,I don't watch much guitar channels ,I enjoy listening to the bass players and their equipment choices.my young mind wasn't able to comprehend Sting playing a fretless and singing at the same time was easily on par with what anyone on guitar was doing....and then came Sheehan,Myung,. Great video and amazing playing

[@yourbassplayer]

Aww man this is good! As a huge fan of yours, and someone who had the chance to work with you (a smidgeon) in the Mattisson booth, I wondered about how your storyline was woven. Thanks for your being yourself always and sharing it with us. Love what you do, have done and are reaching to accomplish, brother! Here’s to a million!

[@janekgwizdala]

🛫 ➡️ 1,000,000 🤷‍♂️ 🤞🏻

[@Dimka267]

Good luck with that goal! The way you speak about music, the way you do music -- more people have and need to hear you.

[@gcvrsa]

F Bass makes some of the most gorgeous instruments I've ever seen. I myself have a Warwick Custom Shop Corvette Proline, and I think everyone should give a Warwick a try, if they haven't. Also, lately some of my favorite artists are playing Mayones basses.

[@raichoo]

I love that you are posting more on YT again. When I started out playing bass your VLOG was the first thing that showed up when I was researching "right hand technique" and I was hooked on that format. Keep em coming. Just leaving this comment to generate some more engagement to appease to the algorithm overlord😄 Keep em coming!

[@noeespinosa1929]

Great content as always and thank you for all the inspiration over the years. Keep it up! Btw...loving the new F bass 💪🏼 Cheers

[@janekgwizdala]

I appreciate that. And yes, the F Bass is super nice to play. I'm very lucky it worked out the way it did.

[@sdb5852]

Canada for the win! Marcel & George (and the F Bass team) are incredible, down to earth, great builders and great people. I’m nothing special (certainly not on the level of their regular players) and they still gave me the factory tour, and talked about build options with genuine excitement. Love that both you and Chelsea have joined the F Bass family! 🤘🤘

[@mrufino1]

I was lucky to see the Michel Camilo big band at SOB’s, and it was one of the best shows I’ve ever seen. Anthony Jackson was brilliant as always.

[@doubledecker1094]

That is my absolute dream gig!

[@JOnSixela]

Thanks Janek! It's Jon from MMF again here, still enjoying these videos and finally got myself in gear to try out for the London Guitar Orchestra so fingers crossed this year with the Jazz guitar lessons I'm taking I can get my playing up a level or two. Will dig through your older videos for inspiration on actually pushing myself as an amateur to try and get beyond noodling in my free time. All the best.

[@janekgwizdala]

MMF in the house! Was having lunch with an old MMF friend from 30 years ago yesterday!

[@emergencydrummer]

Hey Janek, really enjoyed the video. It was fascinating to hear your story about your signatures basses. Your candor ad humility so impresses me. Best of luck getting to 100K subscribers. You got mine on all seven of my channels here! Cheers -Forrest

[@janekgwizdala]

7 Channels!!! incredible.

[@ClubYachty]

So much respect for your straight forward honesty and opinions.

[@WeDOTHISprods]

Bardzo ciekawa historia, powodzenia z subami i czekamy na kolejne klipy!

[@janekgwizdala]

Dziękuję Ci. Nie mogę się doczekać gry w Polsce w tym roku!

[@WeDOTHISprods]

@@janekgwizdala ja akurat od lat w uk mieszkam wiec jak bedziesz gral na wyspie to jakos sie wybierzemy na koncercik... pozdrowki!

[@JaQba91]

Ja się chętnie bym wybrał w Polsce :D

[@giorgimiqaberidze7146]

Thank you for this story Janek. Was pleasure to listen it.

[@MR-we5mk]

There's quite a few differences between the signature strats that you used as an example! Pickups, hardware (well mainly the SRV one with the flipped trem and shorter trem arm), neck shapes, etc! Not getting hung up on it, just thought I'd point it out. I appreciate this very candid and transparent video! You got a new sub. Also, the fact you played with Jojo Mayer is amazing. That dude inspired me to pick up the drums.

[@janekgwizdala]

Great that Jojo was an inspiration to pick up the drums! He's one of my closest friends and a constant inspiration also. I totally hear you on the Strat thing. It was one of the things I regretted not digging slightly deeper into in the video. It's always a tough balance to strike when the audience is getting so wide, and time is short in what I can say. I totally agree that there were more differences besides the color, but I hope that didn't cloud the overall picture of what I was trying to highlight in how similar the fundamentals of those guitars are.

[@AnthonyCucch]

Enjoyed this video immensely and really love you're playing.. All the best continued success and health.

[@pavstudiosoriginal]

Hey man. I caught a set of yours at Namm in 2017. Was blown away by your playing and you were nice enough to say g'day after the show. I always say to students you don't choose your instrument. It chooses you.

[@janekgwizdala]

Big time. I always thought I wanted to be a drummer right up until the moment the bass came into view....

[@TittiPotestaBP]

Hi Janek. I just want to thank you for your honesty, this video is really a great lesson. I'm by no means a world class bassist like you, just a working man with his instrument, and I've learned to customize my basses to fit my playing needs. As you say, your instrument needs to be an extensión of you that catalyzes your musical expression, so there definitely needs to be a connection between the player and the bass. I've made in the past the mistake, more than once actually, of buying an instrument based on what others are using or what is trendy; but I've learned my lesson and I'm actually just keeping what fits my needs. Now I can go to an audition or rehearsal with my not boutique nor fancy modded Jazz or P-bass, play comfortably with it and demonstrate my art, because I can really express myself through them because of that connection. Thank you once again.

[@bongosock]

Thanks so much for making this video! It was even more than I had hoped - that F bass is absolutely gorgeous! Of course, the most important relationship we have, as musicians, is with our creativity; and then with our music: it's expression. But, for me, I really value the relationships I have with my various instruments - it's not just Gear Addiction Syndrome. I have also been somewhat obsessed with Wals recently - they have such a unique voice. This has been partly fueled by finding out that most of Flea's parts on Blood Sugar Sex Magic were played on a Wal - and that was a BIG album for me when I was just getting started on bass :)

[@janekgwizdala]

There are so many people who casually played a Wal and people don't really realize. Mick Karn from the band Japan, Paul McCartney had one, Percy Jones, and yes... the mighty Flea!

[@richardwoodhouse9678]

Hi there. It's a lifelong journey searching for the ideal bass, amp and sound. When I started out nobody wanted to play the bass in a band we were starting, I jumped up and said I'll play the bass. It's the best decision I have ever made. I bought a cheap bass to start with then one day saw an unloved Aria SB 700 through neck and just had to have it. It was my first proper professional bass. The custom bass market was out of reach due to price so I built my own custom built bass. I've now built and sold a few now and also the guitar s for the guys in the band. It's a passion and an endless journey. Keep up the great work you do.

[@janekgwizdala]

It's amazing how many times we hear that story of the bass being the last wanted position in a band, and then the bassist ends up loving music more than the rest of them! I was a classical guitarist first, so not a lot of options for bands. I always thought I was going to be a drummer until I heard Laurence Cottle when I was 15.

[@NeilRaouf]

I feel connected to you. Eventhough we never met. Go Janek! You're a fantastic musician and a top notch content producer. We all need wisdom. The internets is full of garbage. So goooooooo!!!!

[@ringthane69]

Janek, I'm returning to bass after a 10+ year absence. Coming back, I discovered your "Janeksphere" and treated myself to your Chordal Harmony Vol 1. What a game changer. Now have a custom 5str high C on order. Thank you for the continued inspiration.

[@janekgwizdala]

Nice!!! Chords and bass really do go well together. Welcome back to the world of bass, and good luck!

[@67NewEngland]

- Then Joe Dart shows up with a $500 Mexican made Fender Jazz.

[@Peter-ff1tp]

Joe Dart slings Music Man stuff at full price with none of the Music Man features you want. 😂

[@keithkenyon3845]

this was a fantastic video. thanks for being super sincere and open regarding your journey so far. i really hope you're able to mend your relationships with the Fodera crew. it was your singlecut fodera that eventually led me to get an Imperial Elite for myself. i don't regret it for a second. you're absolutely right. playing a boutique instrument is something very special. i didn't get mine for bragging rights, i got it for the way it felt, sounded, looked, what it allowed me to do that my other instruments wouldn't. it sounds like the F Bass is doing just that for you now which is awesome! i wish you nothing but the best! keep the amazing content coming!!!

[@janekgwizdala]

I reached out to Vinnie and Joey today, told them about the video, and explained my side of the story. I hope they can accept the apology, it would be nice to be in touch with them again.

[@NelsonMontana1234]

I had a Fodera. The most expensive dud I ever owned. A toneless wonder. Tried three different sets of pickups and it just never sounded good. Didn't cut live and recorded like crap. Total hype. I sold it and never regretted it.

[@janekgwizdala]

It's all subjective. Everyone isn't going to love the same thing. Glad you were able to move on and have no regrets, that's a positive outcome.

[@NelsonMontana1234]

@@janekgwizdala I wanted to love it. But even the engineers and musicians I worked with preferred most anything else I used. Jazz, P , Ibanez, Musicman, even a Squier). That settled it for me.

[@zuddie1921]

My issue is I’m not a fuss. Pot or complainer. I purchased a mini mg . Upon unboxing and tried to put a strap on I couldn’t the strap studs were so far driven into the body I couldn’t get a strap on, called the sales person and he sends me some control diagram that was totally unrelated to the build failure, said sorry you feel that way. Then cracks started appearing. It actually looked like they painted it with a brush . Not happy , not happy.

[@ultimatebasses]

Very interesting video Janek. I got in as a dealer with Fodera back in 2003. Joey, Vinnie and Laura were like family to me. I loved being a Fodera dealer, having sold close to 100 of their basses to customers all over the world. Then a new management team stepped in and all of a sudden, the push to go direct was initiated. The support for dealers seemed to go by the wayside. And then Covid happened throwing the economy into a tailspin. Who's going to spend $10K or $15K on a bass when jobs are at risk. I do applaud your decision to partner with F Bass. Marcel and George are crafting beautiful instruments, I have a lovely passive VF4. My first exposure to their basses was through UZEB. Having Alain on your Artist roster is pretty impressive I must say. Having Janek Gwizdala on there too gets my vote as well .

[@patrickthompson3216]

Hey Janek! Slightly unrelated to this specific video, but you talked about making a point of reading all the comments, so: Really wanted to thank you for all the educational materials you've put out over the years. Your books on Chordal Harmony and the 2/5/1 structure really helped me level up both my songwriting and improvising chops, and were an extremely useful tool in helping me figure out some of the "tricks" on how to recognize song structures and really speed up the process of transcribing songs that seemed much more complex. Cheers! Hope all's well.

[@janekgwizdala]

Appreciate you taking the time to give feedback. Always nice to hear the material is out there working for people! 👍

[@ansonstiles]

You’re the man, a huge inspiration for me going from 5 to 6 string for the upper register. Always love your takes on music and your approach to playing the bass! Great pedals videos you’ve done too

[@kchang8977]

Thank you for your transparency, Janek. I have often romanticized the working musician life that I wish I was a part of. But it is hard work, there are difficult situations and individuals that are a part of everyone's life. Even having a signature bass isn't all that it's cracked up to be. I heard you talk before about the $ you got for each signature bass sold and the numbers it actually sold. It was very enlightening. Lastly, it's very big of you to admit when you're wrong, and it shows an amazing level of self reflection.

[@janekgwizdala]

It's a commitment to be a musician, and I agree with you that there are lots of hurdles along the way. But people are generally good to one another, and most of my career, although very hard work at times, has rewarded me 100's of times over. I'm very lucky to do what I do, and to be so in love with the work that goes into the process.

[@gregmoore2875]

Bless you abundantly Janek!! This video is a pure example of such an amazing bass hero and human being that you are! You changed my live a few years ago through the genesis of your vlogs, the gems you shared over the years is something i'll carry with me as long as I live! Keep inspiring us! The journey is healthier and brighter here on out for you. We all believe that for you! God bless you man!

[@janekgwizdala]

Appreciate the kind words Greg, always happy to hear the information I put out there is being used in a positive way. 👍

[@tameromari2102]

Man you seem like you've had such a great journey following those magical low notes. Love from Palestine ✌️

[@thepartimemusician65]

Yeah let’s go Janek, always love your vibe on here, good luck with everything

[@TheAamott12]

I am semi new to the bass world and have a legitimate question. What makes a bass worth 15k? This is an honest question no disrespect intended just genuinely curious.

[@janekgwizdala]

It's a very valid question and a really hard one to answer. I think it's probably important to understand the heritage behind the, instrument (the electric bass is a relatively young instrument), the brand, and the builder first. Take Vinny Fodera for instance: he's in a very exclusive club of innovators of which there are maybe less than ten members. That alone can be a massive part of the value you might find in the instrument. Then there are so many other factors that go into the process of deciding what you value in a bass. It's very subjective on a lot of levels, and you're going to take into account how difficult it was to source the woods and materials for the instrument, how many hours went into making it, where it was made, the overhead costs of running the company, the amount of instruments they're able to produce per year at that level. All of those things create scarcity, and in turn, value. Take watches for instance (I happen to be a huge fan and a bit of a nerd when it comes to time pieces). A maker like Roger Smith has only made around 100 pieces in 20 years, so there's a reason one sold for almost $3M at Bonhams last month I think it was. That is an extreme example, but I make it that way to really make the point. There are so few people like Vinny Fodera in the world who operate at that level, and are original (very important here because Fodera as a brand has been ripped off by so many small builders for over 30 years now), so I totally understand why there is so much value placed in the craftsmanship and the innovation they bring to a player in their instruments. I think it's also interesting to look at Upright/Acoustic basses, and the kinds of prices they go for. The really high-end instruments (admittedly mostly vintage rather than new) can fetch prices you could buy a house with. This Lorenzo Carcassi for instance is on sale for $175,000 kolstein.com/products/lorenzo-carcassi-bass. I'm not 100% sure off the top of my head, but I believe that instrument will be around 250 years old. And even a decent new build can easily go for $15k-$30k without anyone batting an eyelid in that world. I guess what I'm trying to say is that context is also important.

[@MadMagicPaul]

A huge amount of any asking price is the overhead. If you put the makers in a workshop in Manhattan their rent, taxes, power bills, insurance etc are hundreds of times more than if those same makers were making the same product in the middle of the Welsh valleys. Then there is order control by price. All business increase their prices to what customers will pay, but if the amount of orders are too much to handle then the options are to just turn them down, or increase production (potentially watering down the desire of the product), or putting prices up until there is a balance between order numbers and capacity. This applies to the item itself but also the time value of the maker. It's why people from every area of work charge different amounts for basically the same service. But people will pay more for a burger made by a 3 star Michelin chef than by a guy who has a food truck - even if the food truck burger tastes better. There are many many factors - and the wood / pickups etc really are the smallest elements of how a sale price is calculated.

[@PlonBass]

I think is not worth it. Maybe you can have a bass made of gold, but the only thing that you can do with it is play notes to make music, nothing more. I’ve learned that after playing a non adjusted Matt Garrison fodera at samash in NYC (btw)

[@theomitrentsis]

@@MadMagicPaul Great answer ! @TheAamott12 A better question is if anyone needs a 15K bass, and the answer to that question is: No - You don't.

[@mojoemurphy]

If Alembic makes it, it's a work of art and the greatest sounding instrument made. Fender invented the electric bass, alembic perfected it. Everyone else that sells basses for that kinda price point is just separating people from their money

[@rwebiscool]

Good luck on the quest to 100K! I'm super excited to see you play with Steve Smith in Bellingham, WA. I'm primarily a drummer but have been watching your channel since the daily vlog years ago and your personality and musicianship are immeasurably motivating to anyone who plays an instrument. Kinda crazy to think about how much your life seems to have changed since the daily vlogs - new gigs, new lady, new house, new baby...same unstoppable Janek spirit! Thank you for sharing your life with us through the videos & podcasts, you are an inspiration indeed. If you hear someone clapping along on the off-beat, it'll be me haha

[@janekgwizdala]

Great to hear from a bunch of people in the comments on this video that are coming out to the Steve Smith shows in a couple of months. I'm really looking forward to that tour. And yes! Lots of changes here, but all good and positive ones since the daily vlog days of 2017.

[@ryannicholl9054]

Call Fodera and Matt and put it all to rest. You will 100% feel better and so will they. Apologize, forgive and move on with less emotional weight.

[@janekgwizdala]

Less emotional weight is always good. I feel it, and have felt it, way more for Vinnie and Joey. I know I screwed that one up.

[@ChazJazzNY]

Great post and thanks for sharing. I started out with a P bass... Played it for years. Then wanted a 5 and bought a few good ones, A NYC Sadowsky and a MTD. Then a 6. I tried to love it. A Classic Tobias. Went back to a 5. Now I bought 2 4 string fenders a P and a Jazz. Went back to the beginning... Love the sound, the thoughts and the feel. It's great to buy with your ears and feelings rather than price. Great luck with you journeys and many thank You's for making a bass that can and will fall into more hands. You have done an amazing job for many to experience such a joy of playing a quality instrument. You should be extremely proud.

[@TenFalconsMusic]

What would be truly amazing? A content provider actually getting to the point at the start of their videos. I know...the more time you yap, the more money you get. 🙄👎

[@janekgwizdala]

The format of my videos, in fact just posting content to KZbin, has nothing to do with money. I was not only incredibly succinct with the title and the thumbnail for the video, but I delivered on both of those elements within 9 seconds of the start of the video. This is a story, and it has a beginning, a middle, and an end. What part of the video you think I should have started with other than the beginning, I have no idea. 🤷‍♂ You're also well within your rights to simply click away from it if it doesn't appeal to you.

[@TenFalconsMusic]

@Janek Gwizdala My apologies for getting your knickers in a twist. I don't give video editing advice for free. Though, if you keep your videos longer than 8 minutes... You are (or are hoping for) achieving some level of revenue. Ergo: You could possibly afford my services on your current trajectory. Honesty, you'd be thick to not realize KZbin's monetary algorithms. As for the story? It seemed more of a rant than anything else. I sincerely hope you consume this as constructive criticism. I don't know you (personally) but I wish you all the best with your future endeavours. Kindest regards, Likely on your Spotify list😁👍

[@alexm.3098]

Nice to have you back on KZbin and reaching for more exposure. We’ve been missing the stories since the vlog days ! Nice trajectory about the basses, it’s interesting to hear about choices made firstly about the instrument itself but supported also by human connections as well as potential business opportunities. It speaks volume about our instruments being tools to make music on multiple dimensions, in themselves as basses but also as means of communication. The choice to go to F Bass is a good move. And maybe from a personal standpoint, you already knew what they were doing from Chelsea’s basses ? I remember a few episodes of vlog about her receiving her own Fs ?

[@janekgwizdala]

I definitely got a great feel for the instruments and the company through my wife's involvement with playing them. That was a luxury that isn't lost on me.

[@jonathanbrittain4681]

Have always loved your music, Janek! Can't wait for more. Congrats on F Bass

[@mitchkahle314]

All the best with the new F-bass, Janek. George and Marcel are the greatest!

[@Bassgroover]

Love hearing these stories, you’re a great musician.

[@petercole8096]

Love your videos Janek. Good luck with your channel goals!

[@jwvcchess]

Thank Janek for this video. Makes a lot clear. Nice to see the footage of the Rotterdam concerts. I was at the front row. I enjoy your books, videos and concerts. And give the guys a simple call. Before you know it is too late. I play the flat B now.

[@janekgwizdala]

I reached out to them today. I'm hoping we can talk again, it would be nice to see them after all this time.

[@Sagizor]

Been following you for many many years, and you're probably the musician/bass player that has affected me the most. If in the way I play, the way I approach music and the way I practice. Thinking about it now as an adult of 28 years, you were a role model for me in ways that are not even music related through the years. Thank you for everything and I hope you reach your goals and exceed them as I'm sure you would.

[@janekgwizdala]

Appreciate you sharing. That's really great to hear. And now we go onwards to the next phase...

[@chrisdohertybass]

Hope you reach 100k soon Janek. I've been watching you on youtube since your daily vlogs, saw you play with Bob Reynolds in Dublin in 2018, and started listening to the podcast last year. You've had a huge impact on my own music career and your honest journey over the last 6 or so years has been great to follow.

[@janekgwizdala]

Appreciate the support! 2018 at the Sugar Club was a super fun gig!

[@EdgarSolorzanoBass]

I ordered a F bass this year too, my bass should be arriving in July, to see that a bassist like you that has inspired me so much is playing a F bass too makes me so happy!

[@_B_E_A_D_G_C]

That’s super exciting man, congrats! I just got my first F Bass last month. It was an excruciating 18 month wait for me 😂

[@janekgwizdala]

Awesome! Congrats!

[@EdgarSolorzanoBass]

@@_B_E_A_D_G_C yes! I ordered mine in April last year. I’m running out of f bass videos on KZbin to watch while I wait 😂

[@_B_E_A_D_G_C]

@@EdgarSolorzanoBass 😂😂 I feel ya man! I watched all the F Bass vids I could find lol . Check out “Musicforce11” on YT if you haven’t already. South Korean music store that has great F Bass vids ! What are you having built ?

[@juansecar2]

You know, I bought me a Yamaha Trb6, the Patitucci model, in a Sam Ash store in Miami back in 95. I remember it was february and so, everything pretty much was on sale. The bass cost me some 2.2k usd when it's real price was i belive, 2.7 k or so. Some years later, i bought a couple more elite basses, I had first a Pedulla and then I bought me a Fodera. 28 years later, I still have and play and record mostly with my Yamaha... as well as with my american Fender Jazzbass. I still got the fodera, I play it every now and then and mostly throughout the 2000's I tried a couple more elite basses. From what I know, they are awesome pieces of art, and they do sound great and are fun to play. But, everytime I kept going back to my Yamaha, and now, today, I wouldn't change that 2.2k Yamaha Trb6 for nothing, and guess what, it cost me at least five times less than any average fodera, and it sounds just as good and even better, offering more versatile tones... 🤷‍♂️ for just a fraction of the dough..., just my personal opinion and experience. Cheers.

[@B3L13V3R]

As many have said, thanks for sharing this. I was really curious about the change when you made it. At that time I was teaching bass and really stufying your work and subbed to your online lessons as well. In the end, it doesnt really matter as long as your able to produce what you want with the instrument of choice while instigating a few suprises with it on a consistent enough basis and F Bass is absolutly in the realm of allowing an artist to do just that.

[@waynematthews8165]

Thank you for such transparency. I don't recall the rift with Matt Garrison, but I remember the Fodera factory clips like they were yesterday. You are the epitome of consistency in all you do, and it's been constantly inspiring. I loved the Matisson bass; I had the honour of trying Henrik's bass at one of the London Bass Shows. Very tempting but still pricey. It's a shame the infrastructure wasn't there to make the standard basses. The F bass looks exquisite and most importantly, sounds like YOU. We all have our quest for our ideal instrument; I'm glad you have found yours.

[@WonderBoxer]

Your new signature bass video made me try a 6 string for the first time and I fell in love. I have been playing the riff you just showed a quick clip of on my 6 string bass for the last 10 years and its still my favorite thing to play with a high C

[@Mr.N3cro]

I have a Yamaha BBN5A and I turned it into my signature bass and sound, you can modify the tone in the back behind the tone knobs. There are smaller knobs in a cavity of the bass you can use to modify the output of the bass, treble and mid section. Think of them as a second set of knobs. Awesome videos.

[@scottm7720]

Very interesting. I really enjoyed this video, it was nice to hear you talk about your journey with your various basses.

[@Nugmania1]

Cool vid, your an excellent player, nice that it’s about the playing and not the hype. Stand proud and play whatever bass you want

[@paulwouterse6117]

Hi Janek, I have followed you for years by now and it feels for me that you have become such a more loving and nicer person♥️ Thank you for your energy and how this comes trew to your music, lessons and talks. I have subcribed and hope too learn much more music lessons🎶🥳

[@paulwouterse6117]

Have you ever played on 432hz and what do you feel en think about it?

[@doubledecker1094]

Great video Janek, really interesting story. I too have memories of getting some of my best early basses from the Bass Centre in Wapping in the 1990s!

[@declancotter7388]

I thought i imagined that video when you were showing your signature Fodera. Id love to see that video again. That jam lives in my head rent free.

[@yaj5662]

A well told story, Janek. Very entertaining. Thank you.

[@cameronlesley2428]

Thank you for the insight into you career and bass journey , you have been my guide when it comes to fx pedals. I hope you hit the target by April . Hopefully you can bring the family on tour in Australia soon. all the best

[@janekgwizdala]

Australia is definitely in the planning. I have to dig into it asap and trying work on something around a year from now in the beginning of 2024. It's been way too long!

[@JackiesJohn]

Thanks, Janet, for sharing your journey, the story of these remarkable instruments, and where you want to go from here. I grew up in Boston and remember when Berklee got started, and I study with Scott Devine, et al., at SBL and love that he, too, plays an F Bass now. Here’s to success with your latest goal and more of your contributions to the art and practice of the bass. Blessings. John(m), Topanga, CA

[@21Rushisaband12]

My Wal bass order is almost complete! can't wait!

[@Oscaraha]

Good luck maestro! Im very glad youre pushing out videos on youtube again:)

[@GaryBouch]

Been waiting for this story! No idea of the ups-and-downs of it... Thanks for sharing.

[@alfierocardona3731]

I am a proud owner a Wal - currently with Paul! Best instrument I ever came across. That bass does not play - it literally sings. It inspired me in so many ways.

[@danielkoopmans79]

You continue to be an inspiration, Janek. "Keep your face always towards he sunshine- and shadows will fall behind you" Walt Whitman

[@IgorOdaryuk]

Thank you so much for sharing your bass brands journey! Been listen your music and podcasts since it was in audio format :) thanks for inspiring Janek!

[@Rafatheman]

I love all the "behind the scenes" information you have shared in this and other posts/videos. It shows clearly that being talented or famous is not enough, and that different decisions (including more "mundane"/business ones) need to be made in order to reach your vision. Subscribed.

[@alexhernandezmusic9915]

Hey Janek, that's great news! I've always really dug the F bass stuff. I'm really enjoying the channel, you're a great story teller as well as an educator. All the best bro, hope to cross paths soon.

[@janekgwizdala]

¡Gracias mi amigo!

[@rolandrowe6894]

Hi Janek ! I bought your Fender 3-bass road case from you at Namm several years back . I was the guitar tech for the TV show “ Nashville “ . I still have it and I’m up in Santa Barbara if you do any shows up this way , I’ll be looking to say hello again . All the best !

[@janekgwizdala]

I remember! Nothing in Santa Barbara in the books right now, but that doesn't mean it won't happen sooner than later. 👍

[@BlackRootsAcademyOfSoul]

JG! Greetings from Uganda 🇺🇬. We used to chat on MySpace years ago, while I was still in the UK 😎 Ditching your Fodera, ouch, that must have been painful. But, better days ahead. The F Bass sounds so you 👌🏿 Very nice. Thanks for mentioning my favorite Electric Bass G.O.A.T, Anthony Jackson 👌🏿 Wishing you all the best Bass Brother 👊🏿🖤🤍

[@lougaru2445]

I can't believe KZbin never suggested Janek's channel before, even when I've watched him on other channels.

[@horacioortizdeora7330]

Janek your video playing at the bass day in the UK changed my life, it defined the moment in which i took the decition to play bass as my main instrument. All my suport for you to get to your goal. warm hugs from Mexico City

[@janekgwizdala]

!Muchas gracias jefe! Seguiré trabajando hasta los 100k

[@alexanderevtushenko8438]

Janek, you are remarkable narrator as much as great player. Love your music and videos. Thanks for that!

[@sahinkayag]

happy for your new instrument and your love for the instrument. wish best for you and your family

[@oscarvera3077]

Thanks for your honesty.