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How did you first start playing with Willie?

My dear friend David Zepner got picked up to play with Willie, but then he got drafted for the Vietnam War.  I happened to be there when the guys were talking about finding a replacement, and one of the guys said, “Hell, let’s hire Bee.  He doesn’t play worth a crap, but we can teach him what to play, and he won’t come in with any preconceived bullshit!” [Laughs.]

You play a stack-knob ’62 Fender Jazz Bass on studio sessions. What’s the history of that bass?

It belonged to Johnny Paycheck, who played it with Ray Price until Willie took over that gig and bought it off Johnny.  I found it in Willie’s basement one day and asked if he wanted to sell it.  He said, “Yeah—it’ll cost you two dollars.” I took it, and I still haven’t paid up! [Laughs.] It’s a real sweetheart.

Who are the bass players who have influenced you the most?

A lot of my style comes from growing up playing Mexican nightclubs in Helotis, Texas.  Aside from that, I’d say “Junior” Huskey, Paul McCartney, Michael Rhodes, and Ray Brown.

After nearly 40 years with Willie, what’s something you’ve learned about this gig?

Willie is all over the place with his vocal phrasing, so I’ve learned that if you listen to him, you’re dead!  He’ll take you up a creek and dump you in a minute.  My main role in the band is to make sure he n come back to it.