Name:  Gerald Richardson
Native:  Baltimore, MD, USA
Stage Name:  “Fingas”
High School:  Mergenthaler Vocational High School
College:  Morgan State University
Influences:  Jaco Pastorius, Victor Wooten, Thaddeus Tribbett
Accomplishments:  Written over 300 songs with M&TT in 10 years
Music Contributions to M&TT:  Wrote bassline music for entire album - Symbols
Time with M&TT:  Aug 99’ – present 
 

Marcell's Thoughts on Gerald

Gerald is probably the most naturally gifted in the band with his instrument.  In my opinion, kinda like Kobe Bryant or Lebron James, he just has “it”.  Gerald is a natural star on many levels.  He has the charm, the domineer, and the raw talent to become a superstar!  Gerald has an easy-going nature that makes him a joy to work with.  Musically, this cat’s approach to notes is great.  He has a way of playing notes that can often go under the radar until you hear what he's playing.  When playing, he is rarely flashy but his notes are so well-placed.  Early on in the band it was clear he was a stand-out talent but I think what elevated him even more was when he became a student of Jaco Pastorius & Victor Wooten.  He started sounding less like a "bass player" and more like a “bass singer”.  Gerald’s lines have become so melodic.  The funny thing is, many of the songs that he comes in and writes a bass line for received a bass line after the song was written, and folks sometimes ask, “…did Gerald write that song with you?"  I think many people feel that because he is so flexible. Gerald is easy, musically; no pressure, he can just find a place for himself in a song. He has rare talent that is so underrated in my opinion.  If he chooses, I see him playing with some of the greatest talents in the world.

 

Jesus, thank you for blessing me with the ability to play an instrument and allowing me to be a part of such a great group of guys. CJ, Mike, Austin,Crystal, Kissi and Marcell, I am honored to work with you guys. Thank you for having me. Taylor, you are the best Daughter a Father could ask for. Your recent interest in music has me smiling from ear to ear! I will always do everything I can to make you proud; I Love you!!! Mom and Dad what can I say? You guys have always believed in me and expressed pride in whatever I find to do. Thank you! My twin brother, Daryl, you always tell me how proud you are of me; I can't began to tell you how much that encourages me to constantly strive on. To my little bro, Marcus, I enjoy everytime we get to jam together. Thanks for thinking enough of me to follow my lead. To Elder Leroy and Mother Flossie Cannon, I miss you two more than I could ever say! You were more than grandparents to me. Your wisdom and compassion was immeasurable. I'll always remember the lessons you taught me. To my Uncle Charles and Aunt Barber Bennett, thank you for giving me my first Bass Guitar. To all of my family, there is way too many of you to name, I Love and appreciate each and everyone of you. A special thanks to Micah Smith, Cornell Showell, Michael Simon, Nicole Lee, Marcus Grey, Earl Grey, Jason Nelson, Thaddeus Tribbett (Terry), Tyrone Tribbett, Jr., Mary Sidelko, Judah, Jonathan Ball, Bilal Salaam, Carinia Taylor, William Bagwell (Bags), Teddy and Jay (Basement Boys), Moreno Farmer, Brittany Watson, Charrisse Davis, Erica Davis, Shawn Coleman, Jaco Pastorious, Victor Wooten, Christian Mcbride, Dytanya Orr and so many more. If I didn't mention your name, please forgive me.