Keith Moseley, American bass player and songwriter

Keith Moseley, born on February 5, 1965, is a distinguished American musician and songwriter, best known as the versatile bassist and a founding member of the acclaimed jamband, The String Cheese Incident. Hailing from Boulder, Colorado, Moseley is an integral part of the band's unique sound, contributing not only on bass guitar but also through his songwriting and vocal talents.

As a pivotal member of The String Cheese Incident, a band synonymous with the modern jamband scene, Moseley's contributions extend beyond his instrumental prowess. He has penned and provided vocals for numerous fan-favorite songs, showcasing his lyrical depth and melodic sensibility. Notable examples include the introspective "Resume Man," the uplifting "Joyful Sound," and the evocative "Sometimes a River," all of which highlight his significant role in shaping the band's diverse catalog and engaging live performances. The String Cheese Incident, formed in 1993, is celebrated for its eclectic blend of genres, including bluegrass, rock, funk, jazz, and even electronic elements, all woven together through extensive improvisation during their captivating live shows.

Before co-founding The String Cheese Incident, Moseley honed his musical skills playing guitar in Whiskey Creek Warriors. This band was a fixture in the vibrant Colorado ski scene, a breeding ground for many talented musicians drawn to the region's unique blend of outdoor culture and live music. The experience gained in this circuit likely contributed to his adaptability and stage presence, qualities essential for a dynamic performer in a band known for its spontaneous and extensive improvisational jams.

Keith Moseley's Musical Equipment

Keith Moseley's distinctive bass tone is largely attributed to his carefully selected arsenal of instruments and amplification. His primary instrument since 1999 has been a Lakland 55-94 bass. This five-string instrument is highly regarded for its exceptional versatility, offering a wide range of tonal options and extended low-end capabilities crucial for the complex harmonic structures often explored in jamband music. In addition to his Lakland, Moseley also frequently utilizes various Fender Precision Basses, which are celebrated for their iconic, powerful, and fundamental tone, providing a classic sonic foundation for the band's diverse musical explorations.

For amplification, Moseley relies exclusively on Aguilar, a reputable brand known for producing high-fidelity, professional-grade bass amplification. His current setup is robust, featuring a pair of Aguilar DB751 heads, which are acclaimed for their powerful, warm, and articulate sound. These are coupled with a pair of Aguilar DB412 speaker cabinets, a combination that ensures a formidable sonic presence on stage, capable of delivering immense volume and clarity while maintaining tonal integrity even in large venues and during extended improvisational passages.

Beyond his work with The String Cheese Incident, Moseley occasionally performs solo acoustic sets. These intimate gigs offer fans a different perspective on his musicality, featuring stripped-down acoustic versions of String Cheese Incident songs and a selection of covers. For these performances, he plays a Martin Dreadnaught acoustic guitar, a model renowned for its rich, resonant tone and robust projection, making it an ideal choice for captivating solo renditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Keith Moseley

When was Keith Moseley born?

Keith Moseley was born on February 5, 1965.

What is Keith Moseley's primary role in The String Cheese Incident?

Keith Moseley is the bassist and a founding member of The String Cheese Incident. He also contributes as a songwriter and vocalist for the band.

What instruments does Keith Moseley play?

While primarily known for playing bass guitar, Keith Moseley also plays guitar (as seen in his earlier band Whiskey Creek Warriors and in solo acoustic performances) and provides vocals for The String Cheese Incident.

What specific bass guitars does Keith Moseley use?

Keith Moseley primarily uses a Lakland 55-94 bass, which he acquired in 1999. He also frequently incorporates various Fender Precision Basses into his setup.

What amplification brand does Keith Moseley favor?

Keith Moseley exclusively uses Aguilar amplification, specifically a pair of Aguilar DB751 heads and a pair of DB412 speaker cabinets, for his live performances.