Nathan East, born on December 8, 1955, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a world-renowned bassist, composer, and producer whose career has spanned decades and genres. Raised in San Diego from the age of four, East’s musical journey began with the cello, which he played in his junior high school orchestra. At 14, he discovered the bass guitar, performing in church groups and school ensembles, and drawing inspiration from jazz legends like Ron Carter, Ray Brown, and Charles Mingus. His early influences also included iconic musicians such as Wes Montgomery, Quincy Jones, and Jimi Hendrix, as well as groups like Earth, Wind & Fire and Sly and the Family Stone.
East’s versatility and talent have made him one of the most sought-after bassists in the music industry. He has recorded, performed, and co-written songs with a stellar roster of artists, including Eric Clapton, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Elton John, and Phil Collins. Notably, he co-wrote the chart-topping hit “Easy Lover” with Collins and Philip Bailey. East is also a founding member of the contemporary jazz supergroup Fourplay, whose Grammy-nominated albums have achieved gold status and dominated the Billboard Contemporary Jazz charts.
East’s connection to Eurythmics came through his work on their 1985 album Be Yourself Tonight. He played bass on the hit singles “Would I Lie to You?” and “Sisters Are Doin’ It for Themselves,” the latter featuring Aretha Franklin. His contributions to these tracks added a dynamic and soulful groove, complementing the duo’s shift toward a more Motown-inspired sound. East’s collaboration with Dave Stewart extended beyond Eurythmics, as the two maintained a strong musical relationship over the years.
In addition to his work as a session musician, East has developed his own Yamaha Signature Series bass guitar and earned numerous accolades, including the Most Valuable Player award in the bass category at the International Rock Awards. His passion for music is matched by his love for flying, skiing, tennis, and performing magic. East holds a private pilot’s license and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from the University of California, San Diego.
Nathan East’s remarkable career is a testament to his adaptability, creativity, and dedication to his craft. From his groundbreaking work with Eurythmics to his collaborations with some of the biggest names in music, East continues to inspire and elevate the art of bass playing.
