The Humanity of a Genius: Lee Sklar Reflects on the Artistry of Jackson Browne
In a profound conversation on The Roundtable with Drew, legendary bassist Leland Sklar provided an intimate look into the world of Jackson Browne, an artist he regards as one of the greatest of all time. As one of the most respected and recorded musicians in history, Sklar’s insights carry immense weight, offering a rare perspective on the humanity and creative brilliance that have defined Browne’s decades long career. For Sklar, working with Jackson Browne was never just a job; it was an experience characterized by genuine connection, artistic integrity, and a shared sense of community.
Sklar emphasizes that Browne’s humanity is the foundation of his work. He describes an artist who is always the first in line to help those in need, a quality that translates directly into the honesty of his songwriting and performances. This deep empathy was evident even in their earliest collaborations, such as the recording of “Doctor My Eyes.” Sklar recalls being immediately struck by the brilliance of Browne’s writing on songs like “Jamaica Say You Will,” noting that Browne truly lives every moment of his life through his art.
A significant portion of the discussion centers on the unique atmosphere of the Los Angeles music scene in the early seventies. Sklar describes a vibrant, non possessive community where legendary figures like Carole King, David Crosby, Graham Nash, and Joni Mitchell would frequently cross paths and collaborate spontaneously. This spirit of sharing is perfectly captured on the landmark live album “Running on Empty.” Sklar reveals that unlike many live recordings that are heavily tweaked in the studio later, “Running on Empty” is an honest representation of what happened on stage. The band toured with entirely new songs that the audience had never heard, recording the raw performances exactly as they occurred.
Furthermore, Sklar shares his professional philosophy regarding the recording process, which was heavily influenced by his time with Browne. He advocates for recording every moment in the studio to capture the “vibe” and natural leakage between instruments, rather than relying on heavy isolation or baffles. He believes that the greatest records are often born from these spontaneous, unvarnished moments where the music is allowed to breathe.
Despite the passage of time and physical challenges, including significant back pain, Browne’s passion for his craft remains unshaken. Sklar recounts a recent acoustic performance of “These Days” where Browne’s commitment to the music was palpable, proving that his dedication to his fans and his art is timeless. This conversation between Drew Dempsey and Lee Sklar serves as a beautiful tribute to Jackson Browne, reminding us that his legacy is built not just on hit songs, but on a lifetime of integrity, community, and pure human expression.
Oldies Songs