Bassist • Composer • Performer
The Artist
Five decades of groundbreaking bass work. From The Band to The Blues Project, from session legend to bandleader.
Biography
A Life in Music
Born and raised in Kingston, NY, Scott Petito spent his formative teenage years soaking up the incredible music scene in and around Woodstock from 1974-1978. He studied jazz composition and arranging at Berklee College of Music, where his classmates included Steve Vai and Makoto Ozoni.
With over 1,000 recording credits spanning five decades, Scott has become one of the most in-demand session bassists in jazz, folk, and rock. His work ranges from intimate duo recordings to massive productions with legends like Keith Richards, who once told him during a session: "I don't know! That's what the f*ck you're here for!"
As a bandleader, Scott leads Modern Times, a jazz/world fusion sextet featuring Omar Hakim, Rachel Z, Jay Collins, Joe Locke, and Mino Cinelu. His solo albums showcase his compositional voice and virtuosic bass playing.
Currently Active
Current Bands
The Blues Project
Current bassist and producer. Reformed 2021 with original members Steve Katz and Roy Blumenfeld. Recorded Evolution (2023) — first new album in 50 years.
The Fugs
Bass and keyboards since 1984 — over 40 years with the seminal 1960s political/poetic rock band. Joined by sending Ed Sanders a tape of Bach's Cello Suites on fuzztone electric bass.
Modern Times
Bandleader of this jazz/world fusion sextet featuring Omar Hakim, Rachel Z, Jay Collins, Joe Locke, and Mino Cinelu.
Leslie Ritter & Scott Petito
40+ year vocal/instrumental duo partnership since 1984.
Instruments
The Bass Gallery
Scott is endorsed by Sadowsky Basses, Taylor Guitars, Collings Guitars, and Elixir Strings.
Sadowsky
Primary bass endorsement
Taylor
Acoustic guitars
Collings
Fine guitars
Dingwall
Extended range basses
Parker Fly
Modern basses
Elixir
Strings
Collaborators
Artists Worked With
As Leader
Solo Discography
Many Worlds
2023Planet Arts Records
Bass Magazine feature. All-star ensemble exploring multiple musical worlds.
Rainbow Gravity
2018Planet Arts Records
JazzTimes featured review. "Murderer's row of fusioneers."
Sbass Music
2002Hudson Valley Records
#1 NAV Charts debut. 450+ radio stations. Solo bass explorations.
Book Scott for Your Session
Available for sessions, live performances, and collaborations.
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