A renowned bassist and producer who has worked with iconic artists like Bob Dylan and Bonnie Raitt, and has won multiple Grammy Awards for his production work.
As a multi-talented musician, record producer, music director, film composer, documentary filmmaker, and radio host, Don Was is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. With six Grammy Awards under his belt, including Album of the Year and Producer of the Year, he has made an indelible mark on the world of music.
Born Don Edward Fagenson on September 13, 1952, in Detroit, Michigan, Was grew up surrounded by the vibrant sounds of the Detroit blues scene and the jazz greats of the time, including John Coltrane and Miles Davis. As a teenager, he was drawn to the 1960s counterculture movement, particularly the poetry and activism of John Sinclair.
In high school, Was formed the rock band the Saturns, taking on the roles of lead singer and guitar player. It was during this time that he adopted the stage name Don Was. Later, he teamed up with school friend David Weiss (David Was) to form the eclectic band Was Not Was, which gained commercial success in the 1980s.
As a record producer, Was has worked with a diverse range of artists, including Bonnie Raitt, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, John Mayer, and Elton John, among many others. His productions have sold close to 100 million albums worldwide. He has also collaborated with legendary musicians such as Brian Wilson, Wayne Shorter, and Kris Kristofferson.
Was's talents extend beyond music production to film composition and documentary filmmaking. He won the 1994 British Academy Award (BAFTA) for Best Original Score for his work on the film Backbeat. In 1995, he produced and directed the documentary I Just Wasn't Made for These Times, which won the San Francisco Film Festival's Golden Gate Award.
Throughout his illustrious career, Was has received numerous awards and honors, including:
In 2011, Was became the president of the iconic American jazz label Blue Note Records. He continues to tour as a member of Bob Weir and The Wolf Bros, showcasing his skills as a bassist.
Don Was's impact on the music industry is undeniable. He has inspired generations of musicians and producers with his innovative approach to music and his dedication to his craft. As a true Renaissance man, Was continues to push the boundaries of music, film, and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.
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