Tony Franklin on playing “Running Up That Hill” with Kate Bush, David Gilmour + his Playing Approach

[@colemandevils]

what a lovely man

[@MartijnVos]

I've got to admit I'd never heard of you. I've always been a massive fan of Kate Bush and Pink Floyd, and in that performance, there's Kate, Dave Gilmour, and some unknown bass player with a ridiculous hairdo absolutely killing it. You were amazing! On bass as well as the backing vocals. Absolutely the equal of Kate and Dave there. I'm glad to have finally discovered you.

[@FretlessMonster]

I take this as a huge compliment. Thank you. It’s very meaningful. 👍🏻😊

[@JoeGarchar1960]

The Firm with Jimmy Page and Outrider LPs, saw Tony on tour in the 80's and then Roy Harper and Blue Murder! Absolutely unmistakable fretless bass sound that is Tony! Give those a listen. Thank you Tony Franklin.

[@cosmicmauve]

Check him out on "Radioactive" the Firm.

[@EgoShredder]

Wait until you hear Tony on the brilliant debut album of Blue Murder! That album should have been BIG but the timing of the release was out of step with the times I guess.

[@Kwheel21]

Not just another pretty bass!! Another Fab bass line of a stellar career! Keep rocking monster!!✌🏼💜

[@blackfishgaming7145]

Your bass playing is awesome.. but your sense of humor and humility/humbleness displayed here is all-time. Thanks for the inspirations. 🙏🏻

[@FretlessMonster]

Much appreciated. I give myself plenty to laugh about. 🤷‍♂️😂

[@eddardmulligan]

This is the version. David and Tony make it. I mean the studio is great, but this is heavier. And the back up vocals. Fantastic.

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks. I love that we made it heavier. I think the lyric and mood warrants it. 🤷‍♂️😊🔥

[@craigpatchett3508]

Hi Tony…I was in the audience that night and of all the performances, that’s the one I remember all these years later. Fantastic performance by all of you; thanks for the memory!

[@FretlessMonster]

Wow. That’s great! A truly memorable evening.

[@Willo7863]

Very jealous of you..

[@jonathanyeong324]

I'm jealous

[@SaS-Music]

I could listen all day. As a full-time drummer, I just love everything about this video. Kate Bush, awesome bass playing, great humour, story telling…all while being ‘real’. Much love and respect, Tony. 🙏🏻

[@FretlessMonster]

Thank you so much!! 🙏🏻🤩

[@maksymcherniavskyi]

My comment might seem cheesy to some, but I've never dreamt that I could say thanks to one of the musicians, whose masterpieces an intangible part of my life and myself. Thank you, Mr. Franklin - you can't believe how much your and your colleagues' work means to someone like me, some guy from Kyiv, and, I'm sure, for hundred thousands more, all over the world. Thank you.

[@FretlessMonster]

Wow. That is amazing to hear. I truly appreciate that. All the very best to you. 👍🏻🤩

[@maksymcherniavskyi]

@@FretlessMonster The same to you! It's the least I can express how I feel about what you do.

[@mArc01H1]

Not only the playing was great, but also you and David provided for Kate some fantastic backing vocals

[@FretlessMonster]

Thank you. It was an unforgettable moment for me. 🤩🙏🏻

[@jawhitten]

"Out of the Blue" - points for that reference

[@FretlessMonster]

👍🏻🤪🤷‍♂️

[@danguee1]

Also, Tony: your bass on that live performance was fantastic.

[@twogruden9943]

Comparing this to the original, I really think the male background vocals from Tony & Dave really add needed contrast to Kate's vocals, they work together so well and provide a bit more depth. Occasionally live versions are better than the studio recordings, and I really think that's true for this song. The 5 of you took this song to the next level.

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks for that. I personally really like where we took the song. I think it suits the song and lyrics.

[@grutfrut5817]

Everybody understands the concept of humbleness. This guy is on another level.

[@FretlessMonster]

🙌🏻🤩 Thanks!

[@kjek1]

Honestly one of the best performances of any song ever. Absolutely killing it on the fretless bass! And Gilmour doing the riff on an electric guitar was just so cool. Thanks for sharing the story mate!

[@FretlessMonster]

Cheers mate! MUCH appreciated!

[@johngregory7329]

Hello Tony, In my opinion to me you are one of the very best fretless bass players of our generation. When I listen to your playing you can hear your heart & soul that goes into your work. Your the best . Stay safe and well and keep Rocking. Signed John Gregory ( Zepbass) from Munster Indiana. U.S.A.

[@FretlessMonster]

I truly appreciate that. I do pour my heart and soul into my playing. The fretless allows me to express that. 🤩🙏🏻

[@michaelcalderone7722]

@@FretlessMonster David’s pretty competent at the fretless too, yes?

[@evanjazzista]

@@michaelcalderone7722 Guy Pratt told me so, I suppose his confirmation should suffice! ^^ And yet, Gilmour will hire Guy or Pino Palladino instead of recording the fretless himself. He obviously did play it sometimes, but not always. Go figure. Space here to mention the *amazing* work that a few fretless players did on Kate's early albums: Percy Jones and John Giblin of Brand X fame, and the GREAT late Mick Karn. Giblin's basslines on _Breathing_ and _Babooshka_ are from outer space.

[@rztricky]

@@FretlessMonster He’s not the only one my man. I just really wish Sykes was excited to push more music forward. With the trio my friend, you truly were representing the very best of what 89’ could ever have brought rock driven music. Cheers upon high my friend.

[@ryans9029]

Hobart here 👍

[@walterbelibastederii6391]

Tony Franklin's fretless bass sound on this piece of music is simply world class. I love his humorous, easygoing manner and his movement as he plays the bundless bass. Unique and absolutely terrific... The hairstyle is also so cool... Jaa jaa.. that's how this crazy "new" music time was That's the way it has to be. Wonderful. It pulls your shoelaces off with this statement I could watch and listen to this 5 minutes 1000 times. This time was one of the best and it will never come back. This is what a rock musician says, a drummer who has also been on stage for many years. By the way: We are the same age = 60 years. Thanks to Tony, thanks to David, thanks to Kate and Co. Warm regards from Switzerland - Lake Constance Freiherr von & zu Schenkenberg

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks for your really great message. That was a great era for creativity and unique music. I’m happy that this performance happened. It captured some magic I believe. 🌟🙏🏻🤩

[@cramletram]

Must admit, I, too, have been (re)mesmerized by this song. Can’t get it out of my head. Had no idea that was you in the video! I love how you guys drove it a little harder with the live performance-as it should be. Amazing stuff, Tony!

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks Marc. It’s an amazing song for sure. I think the lyric and content warrants the heavier approach.

[@jamesbond4633]

Hey Marc I just clicked on your name that took me to your channel. The U2 Song Bad is one of my all time favourite songs that has so much meaning and you just nailed it. With all the emotion and the delayed guitar riffs. Wowser!! Just add in Tony's Bass playing and some drums and keyboards and I am there front row to watch!!! lol Hello from Canada to all!!!

[@ramosel]

@@FretlessMonster I agree with Marc... and I just love the way the fretless bass with your rig setup just GROWLS in the fills. I liked Kate's song. I love this version. My opinion, this is the best version of that song. I wish this had been released.

[@dommarston23]

You smashed it 👍👊 and great backing vocals too. All the best !

[@FretlessMonster]

Thank you thank you.

[@airgreek]

Your vocals were GREAT. I was trying to find out who you were and not your hair dresser ;)

[@shizzledizzle4317]

Man when i watched that performance I was like "damn! that bass player is killing it", great performance and it was awesome to learn about you and your involvement!

[@FretlessMonster]

Much appreciated 👍🏻👍🏻

[@yoannhappe9281]

Have been a long time fan of Kate Bush and as a bassist myself, I'd like to say you did some killing fills on that one perf. Such great now I want to get a fretless one, such smooth and rich song. Pino and you are both models I like to hear and be inspired. Greetings from France and kudos to you.

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks so much. I hope you get to try out a fretless. They take bass to another level. Yes Pino is amazing. Greetings to you in France!

[@Geotubest]

Tony, you're awesome. Not only as a player, but you're amazing as a person. You are so clearly a good guy. You don't get to play with all these great musicians by being an ass. Part of being in a band or being called upon to play in one involves being a guy people can get along with. You're that guy. Thank you for being such an inspiration.

[@FretlessMonster]

Thank you so much. I truly appreciate that!! 🤩🙏🏻

[@CristiNeagu]

It's so weird to see these people that have taken part in, frankly, historic events and see just how humble they all are.

[@peterbellwood5412]

lovely , isn't it ?

[@NorthernKitty]

Honestly... if they are people WORTHY of being historic, they will be humble at heart. 😊

[@jameswhite-aldworth2804]

That's the British before the toxic influence of American culture

[@NorthernKitty]

@@jameswhite-aldworth2804 Ironically, your comment is toxic. It also doesn't give much credit to the British as having any kind of willpower to be so easily influenced.

[@jameswhite-aldworth2804]

@@NorthernKitty It's not toxic at all just a statement of fact

[@Cloxxki]

You sang with Kate. Glad for you 💜

[@FretlessMonster]

Pretty crazy when I think of it. 🤷‍♂️🤩

[@8359s]

I listen to this version for 12 years and wasn't expecting that others will find this gem.

[@FretlessMonster]

It’s so good that it’s getting more recognition

[@AA-yd4lh]

Tony, what a wonderful 13:56 of story telling! Imagine being able to talk personally about Kate Bush, Dave Gilmour, Jimmy Page and Roy Harper. As a 62yo lover of all those musicians I'm seriously jealous. Great stuff, love your work!

[@FretlessMonster]

Aww thanks so much. I’ve been very fortunate indeed.

[@scottsinclair3263]

You got it 👍

[@vinny-lp5qv]

Don't forget Paul Rogers

[@jonathanyeong324]

Your basslines for this song is just insanely good. You truly are a world class musician

[@FretlessMonster]

That means so much. Thank you!!!

[@nenadcekrlic1670]

I was blown away by your bass fills in that video. Great song, great structure, substance... and you've made it better without chaning it.

[@FretlessMonster]

Thank you so much!

[@Al_Mac125]

Just watched that yesterday. Great playing Tony. Love the hair too )

[@FretlessMonster]

Haha. Thanks 😊 👍🏻🤩

[@NeglectedField]

That little fill you did before the vocals came in on that live video is just mint! Just gets me like "COME OOON! YEAH!" It just adds to the magic of that heavier rendition.

[@FretlessMonster]

Ha. That’s great. I love that we heavied it up. I made sure of that!! 😂😂🤷‍♂️ I think the song warrants the heaviness.

[@chrisau1067]

Until about half an hour ago i wasn't aware this performance existed. Having been a fan of Kate Bush forever I was of course aware of her connection with David Gilmour. So when I saw that there was a live version of 'Running Up That Hill' with Gilmour on guitar on I immediately clicked on it. I quickly noticed that Gilmour was playing the synth parts. Cool. Then I noticed the bass player and I thought, 'Damn that looks a lot like Tony Franklin'. But as far as i knew you had never played with Kate Bush. So I looked closer. Really looks like Tony Franklin. And that bass looks like the bass I saw Tony Franklin playing with when I saw 'The Firm'. Turns out it is you in the video. Epic! I'm embarrassed that for the past 35 years I was unaware that this video existed.

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks for this!! No need to feel bad. The performance has been somewhat of a hidden gem - until the recent surge of interest (because of Stranger Things) in Kate and RUTH. A lot of people are discovering this performance for the first time, which is great. Considering when it was made I think it holds up really well and is a valid historical performance. Thanks again. I truly appreciate it.

[@HDYaqui]

Loved the Firm and Blue Murder!!! Love hearing from Musical Artist about recording and live performances! 😉🎶👍🏽

[@FretlessMonster]

Thank you. I enjoy sharing this stuff 👍🏻👍🏻

[@grzegorzstepniewski61]

Fantastic bass line in this live performance

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks so much.

[@WimRijksen]

Thanks for the story Tony. Yes, Kate Bush is a unique artist who created exquisite albums. I'm one month younger than you Tony so she had the same effect on me when she burst on to the scene haha. I still have all her albums. Happy to see she's introduced to a younger generation now because of Stranger Things.

[@FretlessMonster]

Haha yes indeed. She was the full package!! Such an amazing talent. And agreed, it’s great she’s being exposed to a new younger audience

[@jonbongjovi1869]

FUN FACT: Kate would never tour, like most musical artists do (cuz that was where they made money back in the day), and she said something funny like "what? i spent all that time making a record......and you want me to go out every night....and recreate it? That makes no sense!" (That's partly why all my bands are improv, or structured improv! Instant Music! No two shows are alike! Sooo much fun!)

[@bombharassedkitkat2death13]

Tony, you are still as handsome today. I am from the states and became a fan after Hounds of Love came out, I own everything album she has made. She is so talented. Your song with the Firm called Radioactive was a big hit over here. Thank you for making this video, I am so happy seeing Kate get her due over here, even if it’s 37 years late.

[@FretlessMonster]

Oh you’re very kind. Thank you. Yeah Kate is incredible. Radioactive! 37 years ago!! Wow.

[@TheVanarion]

You kicked ass so much on this one. Its so good, thank you very much.

[@FretlessMonster]

I truly appreciate that. It was a memorable occasion. Fun to relive it.

[@cymro6537]

5:00 Yep, totally agree 'The man with the child in his eyes ' so ethereal . I understand that Kate wrote and composed the song when she was only 13! Amazing. Thanks for sharing your story -and knowledge. 😊🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿👍

[@FretlessMonster]

Yes you are correct. She’s amazing. Wow wow wow… 🤩😂

[@cymro6537]

@@FretlessMonster The penny's dropped - quoting lyrics in a chorus from one of Kate's songs😀 😃😄 Very droll, Sir !👏 👍✨

[@TanyaW42]

Oh, and not only did you play bass with Kate Bush, you also sang with her! Your BV's were awesome!

[@FretlessMonster]

Thank you. It was an incredible honor. 🤩

[@Frontdesk99]

And he played with the God of Guitar Himself. Which would, for me, be an even greater honor.

[@marcchrys]

Tony, remember you're English.."honour" ;-)

[@fretlessfender]

@@marcchrys 🤣🤣

[@bartoni79]

What’s bV?

[@joachimvanzoelen4236]

That performance was epic, mate!!!

[@ronbo11]

Truth!

[@FretlessMonster]

Cheers!! Thanks

[@ACshinealight]

Absolutely legendary bassist and the trio of you Gilmour and Kate was just sublime. The best version ever. Incredible

[@FretlessMonster]

Wow. That means so much. Thank you. I love that we made this version our own. Heavier than the original. I think it suited the vibe and the lyric nicely.

[@mmklassen]

You are ADORABLE!! Have loved your bass playing since the 80s. The Firm, Blue Murder, so many other projects, love it. Thank you for sharing these wonderful memories with us. Cheers!!

[@FretlessMonster]

Aww. Thank you so much.

[@cindylevingston64]

Hi Tony!!! I had never heard of Kate Bush, but I came across that song on You Tube with you & David Gilmore, so I listened to it & immediately fell in love with that song!!! I am a big fan of yours & David Gilmore!!! You guys are all great musicians & singers!!!😊❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@FretlessMonster]

Thank you so much. It was a big hit for Kate back in the UK in the 80’s. She was more popular in the UK. I’m happy you found it. 👏🏻🤩

[@deusdadojf]

I'm a guitar wannabe, self-taught for more than 30 years, and I started approaching the bass for the last 2 years. When you did those runs on the fills for this music, I understand how much road I still need to travel... Great video, absolutely loved your charisma! And hats off for the hairdressing, solid gold for that era! Cheers

[@XZONSTAR]

As an aspiring artist, you are an inspiration and truly an underrated 80s legend in my book.

[@FretlessMonster]

That means the world. Thank you so much.

[@po679]

Hear I am at 5am with my first cup of tea listening to this, what a great story and fretless demo, loved it.

[@FretlessMonster]

Great! Thanks for that. And good morning!

[@johnnymoorf5628]

Absolutely love this heavier version. Ive watched this clip so so many times, never get sick of it! Great playing Tony😍

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks so much. I love the heavier version too. I think it suits the lyric and the vibe of the song nicely. 👍🏻🤩

[@its7amm]

Hey Tony, I'm not a big bass person, and don't really pay as much attention to skillful bass players as I do to guitarists. But when I watched your performance with Kate and Dave several months ago I was totally astonished. And the fact that you were using a fretless bass made it even more amazing. You killed it. IMO this live version was even better than the original studio version and the 12" version, and you played a huge part in that. Thank you for your legendary performance!

[@frose1]

Outstanding bassist.

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks so much

[@vinesauce]

Loved this

[@MsCpcheats]

random vinny appearance

[@MetteC5]

What a gem, huge thank you Tony! ❤

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks so much. That means a lot 🙌🏻🤩

[@MetteC5]

@@FretlessMonster With true pleasure! Thank _you_ for sharing such a shining diamond (wink to DG 💕) and showing the current generation what fine wine is - both back then (fine wine with a fantastic hairdo, who already knew how to serve a song) and now (fine wine with boundless experience, authenticity, humility AND edge)! Love you! ❤️🥰🎶

[@bAgRiMoIrEsS.4]

Love Kate Bush!! "Running Up That Hill", is one of the best 80's songs ever. You look epic Tony! Your hair was fresh and new back then. You were sharp dressed for the times...

[@FretlessMonster]

Thank you so much!!

[@paultraynorbsc627]

Excellent Tony 🎸🎸🎵🎶

[@maxpower5261]

What a legend!!!

[@markplatts5096]

Thank you Tony. I appreciate you, your music, and your story telling. ❤️

[@FretlessMonster]

Thank you. I appreciate THAT!!

[@PabloskyS84]

What an incredible story! So cool and exciting times for musicians those days and totally agree about your comments on Kate Bush!!

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks so much. It was an unforgettable occasion.

[@PabloskyS84]

@@FretlessMonster yeah!! The bass was killer forgot to Say! 👏🏻🙌🏼

[@kristoff_silva]

Fantastic! The bass line is really awesome!

[@FretlessMonster]

Truly appreciate that. 👍🏻🤩

[@scottwhite2757]

Man child that plays incredible Bass 🤘🏻looking forward to your Book Tony..

[@FretlessMonster]

Haha. That’s me. Thanks as always

[@Goatpimp]

Brilliant , really great colour . This song was an anthem to us and that bass and beat drive the emotion.

[@FretlessMonster]

Great. Thanks for that. Yes the driving steady bass line is a big foundation of the song. 👏🏻

[@parkerhatcher224]

Hi Tony!! I’m SO glad you made this video! I’m a musician and composer, and my wife is an artist, and a musician as well. She plays bass. I showed her the video of this performance a couple of weeks ago. She straight away said “Wow that bass! He sounds incredible! Is that fretless?” She was absolutely in love with your performance, your playing, tone, etc. As am I! She’s at work right now but I’ll save this video to show her when she’s back home. She’ll be absolutely ecstatic to see that you’ve made a video regarding your incredible performance with Kate, David, Stuart, and Kevin! You all owned the stage equally during this amazing gig! What a pleasure it is to hear the story of your experience that night, and the magic that brought you all together. Talk about stars aligning! I was born in 1990, but if I could travel back through time, I’d go back to see this show 🌟. All my best! Coming to you from Canada’s East Coast 🇨🇦- Parker PS! Looking forward to that book you mentioned! Take care 😄

[@FretlessMonster]

That’s really great. Thanks for sharing that. I hope your wife enjoyed it. Yes the book is well underway. 👍🏻😊

[@escargotomy]

Cool commentary on Kate's song, which was so great. I still can't believe she's not a bigger name than she is. BTW, the Firm Mean Business album still gets regular play in my car CD player...Live In Peace still gives me chills! You rock, sir!!

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks so much. She’s probably a bigger star in the UK. She didn’t tour too much so that may have “held her back”. 🤷‍♂️😊 Cool on Mean Business! I love Live In Peace too. It went to another level live also. 🙌🏻

[@espenstorm737]

Love your bass work here. It runs like a steam train through the song. Impressive!

[@andyhbassman]

Just beautiful - everything

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks so much. I’m so fortunate to have been part of this!

[@christophermorrisseystudios]

Great story and thanks for the insight to your bass playing on the song! 🎵🔥

[@FretlessMonster]

You’re welcome. Thanks so much.

[@ThomasBrunkard]

Hats off to Tony Franklin! I love hearing stories like this. Thanks Tony.

[@FretlessMonster]

Thank you so much!! 🎩 🤩

[@redlabel69]

DAMN!!! How the hell did I not realize that was you playing? I love your work with Blue Murder, The Firm, and others. But as a lifelong fan of Kate (and YOU!), I am disappointed in myself for not realizing you played on that. KUDOS to you Mr Franklin... you are a big part of the soundtrack of my life. Rock on!!! P.S. I was just driving around in the sun today in my convertible, cranking the entire first Blue Murder album so that others could enjoy it as well! :D

[@FretlessMonster]

Ahh it’s all good. It’s like a hidden surprise at the end of a journey. 😊👍🏻 Nice one cranking BM!!

[@thomasmorrison3279]

Great video. Thank you for sharing the story.

[@vincentsimon4037]

My absolute favorite fretless Rock bass monster!!

[@FretlessMonster]

Wow. Thank you

[@arbiforumnow]

Looking forward to the book!

[@FretlessMonster]

👍🏻👍🏻🤩🤩

[@KristiWhiteRocks]

My husband (the musician in the family) spotted you in a clip from this performance in another video and then your video popped up as a suggestion. We are big fans of you Tony! We love all of your work. Thank you for sharing this story, it’s really awesome fans to hear your recollection of your experience. We are crossing our fingers that we will someday get to scream Blue Murder live again though!

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks so much Kristi. I truly appreciate it all. I love sharing this stuff. Never say never with BM though my hopes aren’t high. 🤷‍♂️🙃

[@gadois8674]

I too as 17rr old fell head over heels for Kate and her music. I play the concert video every few months, I was lucky enough to be there on the night many years ago.... it was great to come across this from Tony and get the back story and insight. Great stuff.

[@FretlessMonster]

Wow. Great. You were there. An unforgettable night for sure.

[@lilmelvin11]

Thanks for the story and explanation and describing the Approach! Sounds like a very Creative atmosphere and so fun to make. You can tell by the constant grin on your face, recalling it. Thanks!

[@FretlessMonster]

Happy positive a d fun memories for sure.

[@janmuenther]

Well Tony - I knew you as a phenomenal musician, but I had no idea what a great storyteller and how amiable you are. Thanks for sharing this with us. Glad I came across your channel!

[@FretlessMonster]

That’s super cool. I truly appreciate that

[@JoseBenitez-rj2dl]

Love this update, Tony! I bought Blue Murder’s eponymous album and instantly got hooked by your bass lines. It’s only justified more people are discovering your talent!!

[@FretlessMonster]

I truly appreciate that! I’m not done yet 🤷‍♂️😂😂

[@dieterkrause8964]

Tony, legendary performance and legendary Mullet!!

[@mrnelsonius5631]

I love hearing you tell these stories. As a musician currently blessed to get to do it for a living, I hear the gratitude of this gift in your voice. Where would we be without the joy of music? Sending love and low frequencies your way 🌞🙏

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks so much. I truly appreciate that. Yes I am blessed and very fortunate. It is privilege to do what we do. I don’t take any of it for granted 🙏🏻🤩

[@peterbellwood5412]

Profound thoughts sir . "being blessed" , and " the gratitude of this gift " . Is that you , Bill ? Pete

[@peterbellwood5412]

@@FretlessMonster Nice one , Tony . I've always found that 'luck' or 'lucky' completely random and impersonal . Just happened . Whereas blessings mean so much more individual and purposeful . Love your craft , and video . Thank you very much . Pete

[@mrnelsonius5631]

@@peterbellwood5412 you might be on to something there…. 😉🙏

[@rickdeckard4348]

Thanks, Tony...Love ya brother

[@paulsimmons5726]

Great story… Yeah, any time you pick up the phone and it’s David Gilmore asking for your help on a gig, you’ve arrived! I enjoyed seeing the JD again, one of the coolest basses I’ve heard on any record. That instrument, simply put, has its own soul! Your version of the Chattanooga Choo Choo off your first instructional video demonstrated every tone a fretless should possess. It was too cool for colored TV! Anyways, great backstory, thanks for posting! Take care!

[@FretlessMonster]

Ah thanks for that. Haha yes indeed with DG! Great that you recall the original instructional course. The tone is everything. (Well a few other things too!)… 🤷‍♂️😂

[@evanjazzista]

Well it wasn't David Gilmore, who is a jazz-fusion monster guitarist that played with no less than Wayne Shorter, but David Gilmour! :-) #spelling

[@sodthelotayou3712]

Great story, really interesting and informative, thank you

[@Yes-gz9qs]

Your one of the best Tony. I still play Blue Murder loud in my car. The riffing instrumental bit in the middle of Billy is mind blowing, So much power. CHEERS! and God bless you.

[@FretlessMonster]

Thank you so much!!!!

[@redlabel69]

I named my cat "Billy" way back when the Blue Murder album came out. He lived to be 18 years old. I miss him. :(

[@song8777]

Fantastic, fretless bass player AND one of Edward Scissorhand's first clients!! 😉 ✂️🎸🎶 Loved the hair, the jumping from side to side, and of course, most of all, the wonderful fretless bass playing! Thanks for all the years of music!!

[@FretlessMonster]

Haha. Thanks so much. Truly appreciated

[@jmgcg]

This stories are PURE GOLD. We all love the songs, the gigs but, the stories told by the musicians that play them,what happen, how they done it,is so goooood. Thank you

[@FretlessMonster]

Truly appreciate that. I have lots of stories. 🙃🤩

[@MochaDaisy8645]

Hello from California, Tony! I’ll never forget seeing you with The Firm. You are among the most gifted and technically brilliant on your instrument but what was so impressive about that particular evening was your professional composure in those settings. You looked like you very much belonged among legendary veteran talents that had recorded some of the greatest, most treasured albums in rock history. Now for the purposes of staying on topic, I happen to be a huge fan of Kate Bush (The Firm debut album and Hounds Of Love are my 2 favorite albums from that year). Her live performances were rare and she was deserving of no less than the finest in accompaniment, on stage or in the studio. You, sir, were brilliant as always and certainly made the most of that opportunity

[@FretlessMonster]

Thank you. That means a lot. The Firm was a rare and special moment. It was always very relaxed and organic from day one. I didn’t realize how precious that was until later.

[@FretlessMonster]

And I’m so thrilled I could be part of this special performance with Kate.. and DG! Who would have thought all these years later. 🤷‍♂️🙏🏻

[@bretthines1020]

Since we’re talking about Kate, I saw and heard the video for “Wuthering Heights” for the first time the other day. My wife being formerly an English Lit. Major, I knew the story. But the poignant, vivid and somewhat despairing art of it brought me to tears. It is truly Haunting. I was into KISS and AC/DC as a kid in the late Seventies but really wish I’d explored Kate Bush also. All’s Well That Ends Well! Love your channel and your music!

[@FretlessMonster]

Better late than never. You probably appreciate it more now. There’s a wealth of beautiful music in her catalog.

[@Bat_Rag]

Dude you were the highlight of that performance! I'm practicing my bass more because of it 🤘🤘🤘🤘

[@FretlessMonster]

That’s great to hear!!! Thanks for that.

[@rogandbectattersall434]

Ah Tony. You great guy. I love your infectious passion, energy, humour and talent!

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks!! I truly appreciate that. I like to have fun. And I give myself plenty to laugh at! 😂🤷‍♂️🤪

[@peterforrest6682]

Hi Tony. Came across that video after watching a recent clip done by Warren Hewitt. I remarked to Warren that the bassist is brilliant...and he replied ' that's my friend Tony Franklin'. You and the drummer drive the song along like a freight train. Doesn't get better. Thanks for the video...look forward to more. Pleased to subscribe to your channel.

[@FretlessMonster]

Great. Thanks. Love Warren. And welcome aboard 🤩👍🏻

[@blessedheavyelements8544]

Gilmour with hair AND a Steinberg! What a treat! Thank you for posting this! Best Regards and Best Wishes!

[@FretlessMonster]

Great! Thanks so much

[@dannyh5937]

Tony, the bass sounds incredible on that performance. You really made it your own and did a great job keeping time with the drummer.

[@CaptainMazi]

Thank You Tony for sharing that piece of history. Hope everybody discovers more about The Fretless Monster Legend, like Kate and David as well !

[@FretlessMonster]

I truly appreciate that 🤩😊

[@alanip]

Amazing story! Sorry just knew you from this “Running up that hill” came back. You are an amazing bassist, love your interpretation of the song and added your own flavour. Incredible live version.

[@FretlessMonster]

That’s cool. Much appreciated

[@johnglynhughes4239]

Tony had a huge influence on me in the 80's and turned me into unmarked fretless at the time. Thanks Tony!!! Must have been surreal playing with Kate (and Dave of course!)

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks so much. Unlined Fretless is the way to go. It felt pretty natural (but amazing!) playing with Kate and Dave at the time, but now it’s quite surreal. 🤷‍♂️🤩

[@TGormania]

Been a Kate fan for a long time. This live version of the song is my fav! I keep telling everyone to watch that live video for the best version of the song. Also love The Firm and Blue Murder. Plus the ba'zillion other sessions you have done. All the best.

[@FretlessMonster]

Cheers. Thanks so much Tim!

[@Chronicblessings]

Tony...the YT algo just pushed that song to me. Never heard that version before today. I played it and was zoned out UNTIL I heard that bass play. Found the headphones. Plugged in. Listened to that song 5 times just for the bass. Thank you.

[@FretlessMonster]

Wow. That’s amazing to hear. Thanks so much. 🙃🙌🏻

[@MackeyWilliams]

Mate, one of my favorite parts of the video is the way Kate exchanges smiles with everyone in the band at one point or another. Or at least it seems that way. You can clearly see her do it with David and Stuart. Not sure if you got a smile, too, but she is so lovely in this video it would have melted me to receive one from her.

[@FretlessMonster]

I love that part too. I got a kiss on the cheek from Kate at the end of the night. Precious memories

[@davidjloveland3673]

As a teenager I grew up listening to and buying albums and posters aplenty. I have just stumbled across the video with yourself lovely Kate and the one and only Mr Gilmour. This version has such energy and passion going on. Thanks so much for your little insight in the making of this track. 👍

[@FretlessMonster]

👍🏻🤩 Thank you!

[@Locutus911]

Fantastic story Tony - I get chills every time I see this version. And your hair was epic - competing for the first place with Scott Page :)

[@family-accountemail9111]

Will we see hair like that ever again?

[@FretlessMonster]

Haha. True. I’ve seen the pictures of Scott though we never met back then. We’ve done a lot more in recent years.

[@FretlessMonster]

Not from me!! 😂😂

[@abrarahmed1888]

Almost on a par with Nick Beggs ;-)

[@Locutus911]

@@abrarahmed1888 Nick Beggs was in different league. Uncanny, different, bizarre - yes, but not as epic :)

[@goforit7595]

Loved, loved, loved, the bass in this song! Everything was just perfect with that performance!

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks so much. I love that we made it our own. I think it suits the lyric and spirit of the song. They let me rock out. 👍🏻🤩😂

[@frankjodouin720]

Kate is one of my all time favourite artists, particularly “the kick inside “ album is beyond brilliant, u should talk her into one more live performance Tony

[@FretlessMonster]

I’m not sure that she’ll listen to me. 🤷‍♂️🤩

[@covatembelmusic]

@@FretlessMonster never hurts to try, Tony

[@VintageGuitarClubSP]

I'm ashamed to say I didn't know you and I saw you in this revival video. I am happy to hear that you are an excellent bass player with a long career and continue to play your bass with mastery. Very good and fun channel here. Live long and prosper Tony Franklin.

[@FretlessMonster]

Nothing to be ashamed of. Good to meet you. That means a lot. Thanks 😊👍🏻

[@old_Taki]

Thanks for posting this! It's always a pleasure to hear your stories but more than that, to hear you playing.

[@FretlessMonster]

Thank you!! 🤩👍🏻

[@Glokas7]

Thanks for sharing this with us Tony. People sometimes forget the rhythm section, especially when you have people like Kate and Dave on stage. You added so much to that magical moment. You’re a legend man!

[@FretlessMonster]

Thanks so much. That really means a lot.

[@KavianiOfficial]

Loved this video, thanks for taking the time to create this. You come across very well! It is such an awesome version. Can't tell you how many times I've listened to your live version in the last few weeks!

[@FretlessMonster]

Wow great! Thank you!