TUESDAY, August 9 — Dr. Walter Kittle, known to other musicians as “Dr. Bass” was just 5 when his love for music started. But his journey to playing music full time has taken decades. The bassist/composer is releasing his second album, “Full Circle” Friday at the Cadillac Room in Riverview Church’s REO Town venue.
“I think music has always been in my genes,” Kittle said. “After practicing as a chiropractor for 35 years, my wife finally told me to go back into music. She knew that was my first passion.”
Kittle started as a music major at Michigan State University and gigged frequently in the area.“I did a lot of volunteer work, playing at churches or for friends,” Kittle said. “I’ve always loved music and thought I’d be a performer,”
Shortly after starting college, facing pressure from his parents and a serious relationship with his girlfriend, Kittle reconsidered his choice of degree.
“I realized that I wouldn’t have a job if I had stayed in that major,” Kittle said. “Life on the road as a musician isn’t stable, and I realized I needed to switch to the medical field.”
Kittle went into chiropractic medicine, which he practiced in Holt for 35 years. After retiring, he returned to performing music, which is the meaning behind the album’s title.
“It’s a statement of my life,” Kittle said. “It really hits home for me, as it’s all about the transition from giving up my first love and now coming back to it — full circle.”
Friday’s event also features smooth jazz group Horn & Holland, which is also releasing a new album, “Steps of a Good Man.” NuEra will open the show.
While bass players generally hang out in the back of the ensemble, Kittle uses a piccolo bass guitar that puts his sound out in front..
“It sounds like a jazz guitar,” Kittle said. “It might come as a shock to many, but it’s a bass. It’s unknown and unique for a jazz artist.”
Kittle encourages everyone to come out, noting that the night is a perfect setup for a date night. It even includes discounted admission for couples.
“It’s going to be an awesome night,” Kittle said. “With the three bands playing and buffet-style food, it’s sure to be a fun time.”
Dual CD Release
With Horn & Holland, Walter Kittle and NuEra
7 p.m. Friday, August 12
$30/$50 couples
The Cadillac Room
1115 S. Washington Ave., Lansing
(517) 482-8910, epworship.com
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