Session bassist Pops Magellan transitions from stadium shows to solo work
Having made a name for herself as a session bassist with high-profile artists like Adam Lambert and Avril Lavigne, Pops Magellan decided it was time to step into the spotlight with her own material. The Brazilian-born musician, known for her versatile and tasteful bass lines, felt the urge to take control of her music and focus on her personal artistic vision.
Magellan’s upcoming solo EP, titled “Damage,” showcases her lyrical approach to bass playing and emphasizes collective creativity over technical prowess. Collaborating with talents she has worked with in the past, Magellan’s new project aims to meld different influences and experiences to create a cohesive musical statement that reflects her growth as an artist.
While Magellan acknowledges the importance of her bass guitar in her music, she sees it as a tool to enhance the overall sound rather than the sole focus of her compositions. With a strategic approach to bass playing, Magellan uses her instrument to tie different elements of a song together and create a cohesive musical landscape.
The bassist draws inspiration from a wide range of sources, including the people she has met, worked with, and been influenced by throughout her career. Her music is a reflection of the diverse experiences and lessons she has absorbed from various individuals, highlighting the interconnectedness of her creative process with the world around her.
Transitioning from a session musician to a bandleader has presented Magellan with new challenges and opportunities for growth. While she was accustomed to learning and playing music written by others, stepping into a leadership role required her to think more holistically about her artistic vision and musical direction. Despite the initial challenges, Magellan embraced the chance to push herself and explore new ways of expressing her creativity.
In terms of practice, Magellan admits that her busy schedule often limits the time she can dedicate to honing her craft. However, she makes it a point to spend at least an hour each day in her studio, experimenting with her bass and exploring new ideas. By staying connected to her instrument and allowing herself time for exploration, Magellan maintains her artistic integrity and continues to grow as a musician.
Reflecting on her experiences filming at EastWest Studios, Magellan recalls feeling underprepared and overwhelmed by the last-minute nature of the session. Despite the chaos and uncertainty, she embraced the challenge and dove headfirst into the creative process, leading the band, working with the engineer, and guiding the overall production.
As Magellan continues to push boundaries and explore new musical territories, her journey from session bassist to bandleader serves as a testament to her evolving identity as an artist. With “Damage” on the horizon, Pops Magellan is poised to make a significant impact on the music scene, armed with her unique voice and unwavering commitment to artistic growth.