EPK

Biography

A life in music.

Michael Bilotta is a bassist, vocalist, and music instructor based in Central Massachusetts. He attended Berklee College of Music from 1987 to 1991, majoring in songwriting with an emphasis on performing as a bassist, singer, and guitarist.

With four decades of playing experience and six years of teaching in Central Massachusetts, Michael connects practical musicianship with a deep interest in how music works. He currently performs throughout New England as bassist and vocalist with the Below Deck Tribute Band.

He is also the author of The Autonomous Musician, including its bass and guitar modules. The same philosophy runs through his playing and teaching: understand the music, develop your own voice, and put that understanding into practice.

The player

Bass with its own identity.

My playing is rooted in funk, disco, pop, reggae, and world music, with a particular love for dance music. Groove, pocket, and rhythmic feel are at the center of my approach.

I’m drawn to bass lines that lock in with the drums, move the song forward, and bring melodic and rhythmic interest to the arrangement. My influences include Bernard Edwards, John Taylor, Paul Denman, Tony Levin, and Dan K. Brown—players whose distinctive voices serve and elevate the song.

Working together

Prepared. Attentive. Adaptable.

I learn primarily by ear and prepare my own charts and reference notes, working independently from the material provided. A strong ear and experience filling in on gigs help me adapt when plans change.

Advance setlists, recordings, and rehearsal time are always welcome. They give us the best opportunity to develop a tight, confident performance. Backing vocals are available with sufficient preparation time.