Introduction
Behind the Scenes with Dwight Yoakam: A Bassist’s Honest Reflection
In this candid interview, veteran bassist Dave Roe shares his personal experience working with country legend Dwight Yoakam. Roe joined Yoakam’s band after being recruited by Keith Gaddis, who helped reshape Yoakam’s sound in the early 2000s. Inspired in part by Johnny Cash, Dwight aimed for a stripped-down, rockabilly-style setup—just a four-piece band with upright bass, guitars, and drums. Roe was brought in specifically for his slap bass skills and did not even need to audition.
Despite being known for electric bass in his earlier work, Yoakam told Roe to “give me the Johnny Cash,” embracing a more roots-driven arrangement. This new sound was dynamic and well-received, even attracting attention from actors like Vince Vaughn, Jeff Bridges, and Tommy Lee Jones, who once personally complimented Roe after a show.
Though Yoakam was sometimes tough to work with, Roe emphasized that he was also one of the smartest and most generous artists he’d ever toured with. Yoakam’s passion for perfection and music arrangement set a high bar, but it came with rewards—top-notch accommodations, fair pay, and a deep respect for the craft. Roe also spoke highly of Dwight’s vocal ability, calling him the best singer he ever harmonized with—never off-pitch, always flawless.
In terms of performance, Roe noted the sheer volume of the band’s setup, especially Dwight’s unusually loud acoustic guitar, and the band’s commitment to tightly arranged, punchy performances. Although Roe compared Yoakam’s structured approach to Cash’s more free-form style, he praised both.
The conversation also touched on the involvement of Buck Owens, the transition from guitarist Keith Gaddis to Eddie Perez (from The Mavericks), and Dwight’s unexpected love for private jets and aviation.
Ultimately, Roe called Dwight “the last great country artist”, combining talent, intelligence, generosity, and a deep reverence for the traditions of country music.