Background

The music bug hit Jim early. Born in East Los Angeles and raised in the L.A. County suburb of Whittier as the youngest of four children, Jim was encouraged by this family to pursue his musical aspirations seriously. By the age of 7, Jim was playing guitar, and at age 11 he was taking formal lessons. In high school, he switched from guitar to bass when he was asked to join a newly formed church band called “Redeemed.” Observing the budding musical talent of his son, Jim’s father, Felipe Rojas, purchased his first bass, a vintage Gibson Grabber that Jim still cherishes to this day.

History

Over the years, Jim was able to connect with great teachers who taught him about the art of exceptional bass playing and musicianship. Professional vocalist Rick Riso (The Lion King, Polar Express), taught him the importance of locking in with a drummer’s groove, what is commonly known among rhythm section players as the pocket. The former bassist for smooth jazz artist David Benoit, Bob Feldman, taught him the importance of enhancing his chart reading and advancing his technique. Bassist and good friend John Patitucci (Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, John Mayer, Sting), taught him about flawless precision playing and left-hand strength. Bassist John Peña (Arturo Sandoval, Carlos Santana, Herb Alpert, Oleta Adams) taught him the Afro-Cuban style of bass playing called tumbao, as well as how to become a relaxed player, allowing a greater sense of style and sophistication to come through in his playing.

Current

Jim holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and taught high school history, government and Advanced Placement Psychology for 37 years. Jim played professionally for a dinner-theater show at Tibbie’s Music Hall in Newport Beach, CA, after which he joined the cover band Suave from 2000 until 2003.  In 2015, Jim became the bassist for classic rock band Old School Players of Los Angeles (OSPLA) that still performs to this day.