(December 12, 2021) She is one of the most respected bass guitarists working today, acknowledged by such magazines as Bass Musician and Bassics. Growing up around music in her household, Rhonda Smith learned how to play baritone horn, keyboards and more. Yet her primary choice of bass would distinguish a respected career of over two decades - graduating in jazz performance at McGill University in Montreal and perfecting those intricate and funky bass chops alongside fellow musicians in her native Canada.
(December 12, 2021) She is one of the most respected bass guitarists working today, acknowledged by such magazines as Bass Musician and Bassics. Growing up around music in her household, Rhonda Smith learned how to play baritone horn, keyboards and more. Yet her primary choice of bass would distinguish a respected career of over two decades - graduating in jazz performance at McGill University in Montreal and perfecting those intricate and funky bass chops alongside fellow musicians in her native Canada.
Once she moved to Minneapolis in 1996, the singer/songwriter/musician’s ultimate breakthrough had finally arrived, beginning with a ten plus years backing musician extraordinaire, Prince. Smith’s focused work ethic opened even more doors, playing with Chaka (Khan), Najee and an extended gig of a dozen years currently with blues/rock guitar giant, Jeff Beck. When not in the background, Smith highlighted her artistry in jazz, R&B, and rock with Intellipop (2000) and RS2(2007).
After previous supporting contributions to First Listen in 2016, we introduce Smith to her initial solo First Listen stage on the smooth R&B slow jam, “Won’t Come Back” (Slow Wine). Producers Joey ‘Papa J’ Sommerville and drummer Lil’ John Roberts exquisitely shape an intimate setting for Smith to express her heart and soul in the name of a troubled relationship filled with too many secrets. But it is Smith’s sweet sultry voice and moving fretless bass guitar that effectively connect to the poignant narrative behind “Won’t Come Back.” With this winning performance and proven history with music royalty, Smith will be back for more listening pleasures.
By Peggy Oliver
Rhonda Smith - "Won't Come Back"