Discourse on Music: Episode 3 of Season 18 featomizing interview with Benny Rietveld, musician and composer
In a recent interview at the Hideout Studios in Las Vegas, renowned bassist Benny Rietveld opened up about his illustrious career, his experiences, and future plans. Born in Utrecht but raised in Hawaii, Rietveld has made a significant impact on the music industry, particularly in the realms of jazz, funk, and rock.
Rietveld's career took off when he joined The Miles Davis Band in the late 1980s, contributing to the groove and overall vibe of Davis's music during that period. His time with the legendary jazz ensemble remains a key highlight of his career, demonstrating his versatility and musical prowess.
Another significant collaboration in Rietveld's career is with Sheila E., a prominent percussionist and singer known for her work in funk and pop music. Although details are less specified, Rietveld's work with Sheila E. is widely recognised and adds another layer to his diverse musical resume.
However, it is Rietveld's long-standing tenure as Santana's bassist that has truly solidified his status as a musical icon. Playing alongside drummer Cindy Blackman Santana, Rietveld's contributions to the band's tight, in-time, and well-tuned sound continue to impress audiences over decades.
Rietveld has been Santana's musical director, playing a crucial role in the creative process of the band's recent work. He shared insights about this role and discussed the band's future plans and upcoming projects.
As Rietveld reflects on his musical journey, he also reminisces about his experiences playing with Miles Davis, a collaboration that he considers a significant milestone in his career. The interview at Hideout Studios was a chance for Rietveld to share his experiences, thoughts, and perspectives on the music industry today, offering a unique and insightful perspective from a musician with a rich and varied career.
[1] Miles Davis Band: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_Davis_Band [2] Santana: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santana_(band) [3] Sheila E.: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sheila_E.
In the interview, Rietveld discussed his long-standing role as Santana's musical director, contributing to their tight and well-tuned sound in the studio, which has solidified his status as a musical icon. He also reminisced about his experiences playing with Miles Davis, a collaboration that significantly impacted his career and has left a permanent mark on the world of sound and entertainment.
