Biography
Often recognized as one of the few left-handed acoustic bassists in the country, Doug Walker expresses his love of music by passionately exploring its many genres. He can be seen performing at San Diego’s local hot-spots, heard on a growing number of records, and felt through his original compositions.
“As an acoustic and electric bassist, my interest spans across many genres, giving me the opportunity to play Classical, Bluegrass, Blues, Country, Folk, Americana, Rock, Soul, Funk, World Music, and all styles of Jazz & Original Compositions. Browse my Media Library to learn more.”
Doug Walker
“The creation of original music has been a major focus of mine for many years now. Browse my Compositions page to stream audio clips & download charts.”
Doug Walker
“Based in my home studio in North Park, San Diego, I can offer my resources & experience to help you improve your overall musicianship and put you on the path to becoming a solid bassist.”
Doug Walker
Full Biography
Doug Walker (b.1979) is one of the few left-handed acoustic bassists in the country. Born and raised in Sacramento, CA, his interest in music began as far back as he can remember. Although he first studied the alto saxophone from ages ten through twelve, he discovered the electric bass at age fourteen. Inspired by the creative funk bass lines of Les Claypool and Flea, he quickly became serious about the craft that would soon lead to their predecessors Larry Graham, Bootsy Collins, and Jaco Pastorius.
Doug’s interest in jazz and the acoustic bass flourished while studying with Dr. Joe Gilman at American River Community College, where he immersed himself in numerous academic and professional ensembles, and sought after the sound of a new line of heros– Ron Carter, Dave Holland, Scott LaFaro, and Charlie Haden. In 2001, Doug pursued higher education at San Diego State University on full scholarship, studying with bassists Bob Magnusson and Gunnar Biggs, as well as pianist/composers Rick Helzer and Richard Thompson. For years, Doug performed in orchestra, big band, and some top-level jazz combos, ultimately earning the M.M. degree in jazz performance by 2007.
Based in San Diego, Doug continues to teach, compose, perform and record within a circle of exceptional musicians. He endeavors to play an integral role in a wide range of creative projects, spanning the entire spectrum of jazz and beyond. Recent highlights include his original music outlet Frame of Reference, the Zapf Dingbats 2010 SDMA nomination for Best Blues Album of the Year, as well as the debut jazz-theatre performance of The Lady & the Queen, backing musical director Anthony Smith. This project also resulted in the 2011-released CD of the same title, featuring 12 of Anthony’s original compositions from the show. Doug can also be heard on the latest albums by Berkley Hart, Chris Clarke, Christy Bruneau, Tim Flannery, The Lovebirds, Josh Damigo, Rosebud & Scott Ireland, Podunk Nowhere, Carl Johnson, and Warm Earth.
