JOHN MOLE 1949 - 2006

The bass world lost one of it's finest to cancer on 1st August 2006. John Mole, born Stratford, London on the 25th April 1949 was known and loved by many; he was a true gentleman and his unassuming nature belied the fact that he was a fantastic bassist with an incredible CV to his name.

Throughout his career John's playing graced the albums and stage of acts and artists such as Coliseum2, Gary Moore, Morrisey Mullen, Don Airey, Barbara Streisand and John Dankworth & Cleo Lane to name but a few.

John was also a legend in theatreland; he was at one point the first-call bassist for Andrew Lloyd Webber, laying down the bass on the 'Variations' album; he was the first bassist in the pit for London's 'Cats' musical, moving from there to 'Starlight Express', holding down the bass chair for much of the 80s and 90s.

He was as hip as he was experienced; always experimenting with new instruments and keeping abreast of all the latest artists and gear. He had a beautifully disarming nature and would regale you with hilarious tales from his career at the drop of a hat.

He will be greatly missed by all.

He leaves behind his wife Diana and son Charlie.

Nick Owen (London session bass player, www.myspace.com/nickytwister)
(The above dedication is as published in The Bass PLayer Magazine 2006)

I would just like to add that John had all the admiration from his fellow musicians and friends, he had the best 'ears' in the business (he knew the bass part to every song ever written!) and was one of life's lovely guys.We will miss you John.

Dave and all your mates.