About Me
Todd Parks is a Nashville, Tennessee based acoustic and electric bassist. He
earned his undergraduate and Master’s degrees in String Performance and Jazz Studies from the University of Tennessee (Knoxville) and studied with bassist Rusty Holloway, pianist Donald Brown, and drummer Keith Brown. While residing in Knoxville, Todd performed with acts such as Gran Torino, Robinella, JT and Saltines, and the Superfly Soundtrip. Upon completion of his Master’s degree in 2003, Todd moved to Nashville.
Since relocating to Nashville, Todd has become an in-demand sideman performing with artists from all over the musical map including Jack Pearson, pianist Jody Nardone, James Matchack, the Nashville Jazz Orchestra, Justin Thompson, Bee Gee Adair, Steve Kovalcheck, and Shane Roberts to name a few. Todd’s main gig is with dobro master Jerry Douglas. Playing with the Jerry Douglas Band has afforded Todd opportunities to play with acoustic music luminaries such as Sam Bush, Bela Fleck, Russ Barenberg, Stuart Duncan, and Casey Driessen. Some highlight performances with Douglas include Bonnaroo, Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Merlefest, Vancouver Island Folk Festival, A Prairie Home Companion, and a summer and fall tour supporting legendary singer/songwriter Paul Simon.
In the spring of 2007, Todd traveled to Scotland to serve as house bassist and assistant to musical director Jerry Douglas for Pelicula Films acclaimed Transatlantic Session 3 series that aired on BBC and RTE Television. Featured artists on the program also include Aly Bain, Phil Cunningham, Tim O’Brien, Darrell Scott, Bruce Molsky, Paul Brady, Eddi Reader, Karen Matheson, Donald Shaw, Mike McGoldrick, Julie Fowlis, Jenna Reid, Sharon Shannon and Cara Dillon. 2008 will bring new recordings with Jerry Douglas and trio recording with guitarist Frank Vignola and mandolin player Matt Flinner, tracks for Computer vs. Banjo, and a heavy tour schedule with Douglas. Todd endorses SWR Amplification and Rick Reeve bows.
