10 Interesting Facts about Dave Holland

A Self-Taught Approach. Holland first taught himself to play the ukulele before switching to guitar and bass guitar, and then to the double bass.

He Traded His Bass Guitar for a Double Bass. Inspired by Ray Brown’s playing style and victory as the Best Bassist, Holland also decided to explore his potential as a bass player. 

Left School For Music. At the age of 15, Dave quit school to pursue his goal to become a part of the pop band. However, his interest in jazz led him in a different direction. 

Studied at the Guildhall School of Music. Dave Holland attended the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, where he studied classical music while playing a double bass in clubs.

Learning Music by Immersing in the Jazz Scene. After his move to London in 1964, Dave Holland actively engaged in performing in local clubs, which provided him with a clear glimpse of musical diversity and various influences. 

Unexpected Breakthrough. His career started to develop rapidly after Miles Davis asked him to join his band in 1968. 

An Active Part of the Miles Davis Band. Dave Holland's role wasn’t limited to only recording with a famous trumpeter in the studio. He became a significant part of its live rhythm section. 

Played on Legendary Records. Holland became a part of legendary Davis discography by appearing on albums like "Filles de Kilimanjaro" (1968) and "Bitches Brew" (1970).

An Experimental Jazz Innovator. After leaving Miles’s band in 1970, Holland started exploring avant-garde jazz, collaborating with Chick Corea, Anthony Braxton, and Sam Rivers.

Founded an Independent Label. In the 2000s, Dave established his own record label, Dare2.