Ken 'Spider' Sinnaeve is a renowned bassist from Winnipeg, Canada, famous for playing with legendary bands such as Streetheart, Loverboy, and The Guess Who. Not to mention a 15-year stint with Tom Cochrane. Over his decades-long career, he's contributed to countless hit recordings and snagged multiple awards, including two Junos. He's also been inducted into the Western Canadian Music Hall of Fame with both Streetheart and Loverboy. Spider’s talents extend beyond the stage with TV, film, and radio work, plus songwriting and studio sessions. He’s still rocking the tour circuit with Loverboy, captivating audiences across North America. Want to know more about his epic journey? Check out our exclusive Q&A with him!
What initially inspired you to pursue a career in music?
Music has always called me. But I can’t honestly say I’ve ever pursued a career in it. Music was big in our house growing up. From my dad’s collection of big band and classical records to my sister Judy having all the Beatles and Motown 45’s I just soaked it up. I originally wanted to play drums and had a complete set of cardboard boxes that I would bash on learning I Fought the Law from my sisters collection. But later on I knew I wanted to play bass and jam with others. It was never about the biz. I was lucky to fall in with guys that were usually more experienced than me and I guess they must have seen something in my playing.
Can you share a memorable moment from your musical journey that has had a significant impact on you?
Getting a record deal and recording our first album with Streetheart would have to be right up there. For a kid from Regina to hear songs we had created being played on the radio….well that was really something for me. Another one was playing live again after Covid. To really feel how therapeutic music is and how much we all appreciated getting together and celebrating playing in front of people again.
What influences have shaped your style of music?
I mentioned we had a lot of music in the house growing up. My dad built a home stereo with these huge sand filled speaker boxes. One of the records he got was Switched On Bach by Wendy Carlos that blew my mind as a kid. Then pretty much everything I heard influenced me. The only genre of music that I don’t really get is opera. All the usual suspects on bass were influencers even when I didn’t know who they were till later. Carol Kaye, Jamerson, the 2 Paul’s from the Beatles and Led Zep , Joe Osbourne, Larry Graham, Ray Brown, Jack Bruce. Then less well know guys like Dee Murray, Walter Becker, Tiran Porter to name a few. Prakash John mentored me when Streetheart first went to Toronto and got me the BC Rich which was a big part of my sound in those days.
If you could create a soundtrack for any historical event, which one would it be and why?
Interesting question. I’d have to say maybe in the future when we’ve solved the climate problem and found world peace. That would certainly be inspiring. I’m a dreamer.
If you could teleport to any concert in history, which one would you attend and why?
To any of the clubs in Harlem back in the day. To see Duke or Satchmo. Benny Goodman. Cab Calloway. Oh man!
If you could collaborate with any artist, living or deceased, who would it be and why?
Maybe Jimi Hendrix. Such a groundbreaking musician.
What's the most memorable feedback or reaction you've received from a fan?
When someone says to me “you inspired me to pick up the bass” that’s the ultimate compliment.
What made you choose Plunge Audio IEMs for your performances?
I met Simon years ago in his little shop. I didn’t have great luck with IEM’s and he made me a pair of customs with yin/yang bass clefs on them. They sounded great but after a few years my ears changed and we were doing a lot of incredibly hot and sweaty gigs. I kept losing the seal. Now I have the Unity universals which to me are the answer. Just amazing!
What specific features do you look for when choosing IEMs for your performances?
The Plunge IEM’s have it all. Full range, very light, comfortable fit. With the foamies I don’t lose the seal. I can crank the bass and kick up. Punchy as hell. Overhead mics on the cymbals are crystal. Keys panned out stereo. It’s all there, vocals on top.
What advice would you give to other musicians who are considering using IEMs for the first time?
Panning things is the key for me. Instead of stacking everything up the middle, make it sound like a recording. A soundstage where things all have their place. With a good seal I don’t have to turn them up as much as well.
Follow Ken Sinnaeve's journey online:
Website
Which IEMs does Ken Sinnaeve use?
Unity IEMs
