Alison Prestwood: Building a Career One Groove at a Time

Journey to Nashville & Early Success

• 🚀 Alison Prestwood, an elite bassist, singer, songwriter, and bandleader, transitioned from Atlanta to Nashville in 1993, embracing the unknown after a full career in Atlanta.
• 💡 Her five to six nights a week in clubs were crucial for developing her musical "chops" and confidence, especially playing with drummer Scott Meter.
• 🎯 An early Nashville highlight was overdubbing on a Ronnie Milsap master, which significantly boosted her confidence and provided an unexpected entry into the session world.

Influences and Musical Philosophy

• 🧠 Her musical "north stars" include Paul McCartney, James Jamerson, Willie Weeks, and Lee Sklar, with a special emphasis on Carol Kaye.
• 🔬 Alison spent a weekend with Carol Kaye learning her pick technique and soaking up wisdom, an experience she cherishes.
• 📈 She maintains a "forever climbing" mindset, constantly striving for improvement, inspired by hearing top bassists like Glenn Worf and Michael Rhodes.

Mastering Diverse Styles & New Ventures

• 🎶 Alison discusses the distinct differences between R&B and country music feel, focusing on note length, subdivisions, and Nashville's "rules" for bass playing.
• 🛠️ She highlights the importance of understanding these rules, like the "CCF" progression in country, but also knowing when to break them, as seen in Merle Haggard's Bakersfield sound.
• 🎤 Alison is launching a new Merle Haggard tribute band, "We Are the Merle," featuring a lineup of accomplished musicians.

High-Profile Tours & Industry Recognition

• 🎸 She joined Peter Frampton's band after a recommendation from Glenn Worf, appreciating the opportunity to play with him despite his health challenges.
• ✨ A career highlight was performing with Frampton at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, an experience she described as "very special" and a "great time."
• 🏆 Alison was honored as a "Nashville Cat" by the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015, a significant and "mind-blowing" recognition she shared with her family and early bandmates.

"Hey, Good For You" Podcast & Musical Connections

• 💬 Co-hosting the podcast "Hey, Good For You" with Rachel Ly and Harmony, Alison explores the experiences of successful women bass players.
• 😂 The podcast's title originated from a patronizing comment made to Rachel, reflecting the absurd things women musicians sometimes hear.
• 🤝 She emphasizes the special chemistry between drummers and bass players, valuing the unique relationships formed with musicians like Dan Wjahowski, Greg Morrow, and Nick Buuda.