MonoNeon

Frequently Asked Questions

Did MonoNeon play with Prince?

Yes, MonoNeon did play with Prince. The innovative bassist, known for his unique funk and R&B sound, was one of the last musicians to collaborate with Prince before the legendary artist's passing. MonoNeon joined Prince at Paisley Park, his iconic studio complex, and contributed to several jam sessions and live performances in 2015 and early 2016. Their collaboration was notable for its experimental edge, blending Prince's genre-defying style with MonoNeon's inventive bass techniques and vibrant stage presence. Fans and critics alike praised their synergy, with MonoNeon's distinctive playing complementing Prince's visionary approach to music. This partnership not only elevated MonoNeon's profile in the music industry but also cemented his reputation as a boundary-pushing artist capable of holding his own with one of music's greatest legends. For those interested in experiencing this historic collaboration, some recordings and videos from their Paisley Park performances can still be found online, showcasing MonoNeon's undeniable influence on the late stages of Prince's career.

How did MonoNeon learn bass?

MonoNeon, born Dywane Thomas Jr., learned bass at a young age, influenced by a rich musical upbringing. Growing up in Memphis, Tennessee, he was surrounded by the sounds of soul, blues, and gospel, which inspired his early passion for music. His father, Dywane Thomas Sr., is a notable bass player himself, and played a significant role in MonoNeon's musical development. Watching and listening to his father perform, MonoNeon picked up the fundamentals and nuances of bass playing. He further honed his craft by practicing along with records from funk, R&B, and jazz greats, absorbing diverse styles and techniques. MonoNeon is largely self-taught, developing his own unconventional methods, including his signature upside-down playing style. His relentless experimentation, commitment to practicing, and willingness to embrace his quirks set him apart and contributed to his mastery of the instrument. Today, MonoNeon is celebrated for his virtuosic skill and innovative approach to bass, rooted in a lifelong dedication to learning and musical exploration.

Why does MonoNeon play his bass upside down?

MonoNeon plays his bass upside down as a reflection of his unique musical identity and personal comfort. When he first started playing, MonoNeon was drawn to left-handed bass playing, despite being right-handed. Instead of restringing the instrument to suit a left-handed orientation, he chose to keep the strings in their original order, resulting in an upside-down configuration. This unconventional approach allowed him to create a distinct sound and playing style that set him apart from other bassists. The upside-down technique challenges traditional fingerings and chord shapes, enabling MonoNeon to explore new sonic textures and rhythms. His choice also pays homage to legendary musicians like Albert King and Jimmy Haslip, who similarly played their instruments upside down. MonoNeon's upside-down bass playing has become a signature element of his artistry, contributing to his reputation as a trailblazer in the funk and R&B genres and inspiring musicians who seek to break free from conventional playing methods.

Who is in the MonoNeon band?

The MonoNeon band is an ever-evolving collective of talented musicians assembled by MonoNeon himself. While the lineup can vary depending on the tour or recording project, it typically features some of the most skilled and innovative players in the contemporary funk and R&B scenes. MonoNeon, as the bandleader, is always at the forefront on bass and vocals, bringing his unmistakable sound and energy to every performance. Notable collaborators have included keyboardists like Anomaly and Xavier Taplin, drummers such as JD Beck and Mike Mitchell, and guitarists with strong backgrounds in jazz, soul, and experimental music. The band's chemistry is rooted in improvisation, musical spontaneity, and a shared passion for pushing creative boundaries. This rotating cast allows the MonoNeon band to remain fresh and dynamic, delivering unforgettable live shows that captivate audiences. For fans eager to experience MonoNeon live, each concert promises a unique blend of grooves, improvisation, and high-level musicianship from a handpicked ensemble of top-tier artists.

Why does MonoNeon play bass upside down?

MonoNeon plays bass upside down because it reflects his unconventional approach to music and allows him to express his creativity more freely. When he began learning the instrument, MonoNeon chose to play left-handed on a standard right-handed bass without restringing it. This resulted in the thickest string being on the bottom and the thinnest on top, the opposite of traditional bass setups. This unique orientation forced MonoNeon to develop his own fingering techniques and musical vocabulary, leading to his signature sound that blends deep funk grooves with avant-garde phrasing. Playing upside down also pays tribute to other legendary musicians who broke the mold, such as Jimi Hendrix (on guitar) and Albert King. MonoNeon's choice is not just about technical novelty