Music isn’t just a career to Carl Young; it’s his life
From when he first started playing the drums at age 11 until now—more than 40 years later—he has had a burning desire to create a life focused on playing music and traveling the world. Whether he is learning new instruments, recording and producing music, teaching music lessons, or playing on tour with Michael Franti & Spearhead, he feels fortunate to say that he has made his desire a reality. And, he’s gotten to visit more than 50 countries and traveled extensively throughout the US along the way! While he plans to continue a music-centered life, his dream now is to share his musical skills and love of music with others through teaching and music production and recording.
Carl’s first foray into music started off with the drums. Always one to want to learn more and expand his horizons, he soon moved to piano and woodwinds—clarinet, flute, baritone, tenor, alto, and soprano saxophone—before falling in love with the electric bass, which he has been playing for Michael Franti & Spearhead since 1994.
His love for multiple instruments carries over to his appreciation for and ability to play multiple styles of music, from R&B to classical, hip hop to jazz. Having a diverse background in music styles and instruments has enabled Carl to play with an array of artists both live and in recording settings. A few of the musicians he has played with include Chanté Moore, the late great Don Cherry, Cree Summers, De Barge, Dionne Farris, Zap Mama, John Popper, and Blues Traveler. In addition, Carl has been on tour with The Counting Crows, String Cheese Incident, Santana, John Mayer, Ziggy Marley, Ben Harper, U2 and others.
Professional musician is not Carl’s only musical role. He loves all aspects of music, which is why he is also a music writer, production engineer, recording specialist, and music teacher. Carl co-wrote “Say Hey (I Love You)” and “Sound Of Sunshine,” two hits that can be heard around the world.
Carl’s unique background and skill set make Carl a versatile musician who can bring an entire score to life while helping those with musical interests fulfill their dreams, whether it be in the recording studio or learning a new instrument. With decades of experience under his belt and as he actively pursues a music production and recording degree online from the Berklee College of Music, Carl looks forward to continue sharing his passion with others through touring, teaching, and producing.
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