Yolanda Charles on Music, Identity, Breaking the Mold and Innovation on The Hang!

Join  us on The Hang as Scott Saldinger sits down with the incredible Yolanda Charles, a renowned bass player, composer, and MBE recipient. In this captivating 1:1 interview, Yolanda shares her musical journey, revealing how her childhood love for music and the diverse genres she was exposed to have shaped her unique playing style.

Yolanda discusses her influences, from iconic bassists like Marcus Miller to the rich sounds of soul, funk, and R&B that filled her home growing up. She emphasizes the importance of intention and originality in music creation, urging fellow musicians to break away from the homogenization of pop music that often dominates the industry today.

As a powerhouse session musician, Yolanda has collaborated with notable artists like Paul Weller, Robbie Williams, Mick Jagger, and many more. She recounts the challenges she faced during the lockdown, which led her to start her own band, Project PH, and the importance of supporting independent artists in a rapidly changing music landscape.

Yolanda's insights into the impact of technology and the internet on the music industry are both enlightening and thought-provoking. She shares her experiences as a bass teacher, focusing on how she helps students identify areas for improvement and develop their unique voice on the instrument.

With an upcoming album on the horizon, Yolanda invites listeners to support independent artists and seize opportunities in their musical journey. Reflecting on her recent MBE award, she shares her mixed feelings but chooses gratitude and inspiration over self-doubt.

Tune in to hear Yolanda's powerful sound bites, such as, "Eighth notes pay for homes," and "The power that the bass player has to really shape the music," and gain invaluable advice for young musicians looking to make their mark in the industry.