Originally aired March 21, 2026.<\/i>
Bassist William B. Hart brought his electric bass into the studio\u2014and with it, decades of stories, humor, and fearless musical exploration.
Hart opened with Charlie Parker\u2019s bebop classic \u201cScrapple from the Apple,\u201d celebrating not just Parker\u2019s legendary playing but his gift for writing unforgettable melodies. From there, the conversation traced Hart\u2019s musical journey: inspired by The Beatles and local garage bands in his hometown of Virden, shaped by mentors at Lincoln Land Community College, and broadened by 20 years performing in the U.S. Navy Band from 1976 to 1996. Along the way, he lived in New Orleans, arranged for big bands, and built a life rooted in constant musical curiosity.
Today, Hart performs solo\u2014what he calls \u201cbass and spoken word\u201d\u2014at open mics, including Wednesday nights at Harvest Market beginning April 1. His sets blend Hendrix, Bach, jazz standards, fusion, poetry, and playful twists that often leave audiences laughing. \u201cI take what I do very seriously,\u201d he says. \u201cMyself, not so much.\u201d
The conversation also turned to the future of music, where Hart shared candid concerns about artificial intelligence and its impact on working musicians. Still, his outlook remains grounded: real musicians will keep making real music.
For Hart, there\u2019s no grand plan\u2014just the joy of continuing to play, arrange, and connect. And for listeners, that passion rings out in every note.
Song list Live from NPR Illinois:<\/u><\/p>\n
Transcript pending.<\/i><\/p>\n