Danny Knapp | SoCal Session & Touring Bass Guitarist - News

on December 30, 2025March 26, 2026 by Danny Knapp

2025 Year in Review

A Standout Year for a Professional Bassist on the Live Stage

Danny Knapp, musician and bass guitarist

In 2025, professional bassist and vocalist Danny Knapp delivered one of his most active and consistent years to date, reinforcing his reputation as a versatile, in-demand performer and session bassist across Southern California and beyond. With a schedule spanning tribute productions, corporate and private events, and original music projects, the year reflected both artistic range and professional reliability.

Over 100 live performances in 2025 across tribute, corporate, and original projects marked a milestone year—one defined not just by volume, but by adaptability. From high-energy tribute shows and casino stages to polished corporate events and creative original collaborations, each performance required a different approach, musical mindset, and level of precision.

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on November 12, 2025November 22, 2025 by Danny Knapp

Danny Knapp Joins the Sandberg Guitars Artist Family

Artist Overview Sandberg Guitars, including Danny Knapp

California musician and professional bass player Danny Knapp — known to fans as The Melonhead — has officially joined the Sandberg Guitars artist roster. This endorsement recognizes Knapp’s long-standing relationship with the brand and his reputation as one of Southern California’s most dedicated and versatile bassists.

For years, Sandberg basses have been an essential part of Knapp’s tone and stage presence. His primary instrument, the Sandberg California VM5, has become a defining element of his sound both live and in the studio. “The first time I plugged in a Sandberg, it just clicked,” Knapp explains. “The tone, the feel, the response — it felt like the instrument already knew what I wanted to say.”

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on October 31, 2025November 25, 2025 by Danny Knapp

Maiden United Rocks Garden Amp on Halloween Night

Halloween night brought thunder, theatrics, and pure heavy metal energy as Maiden United, Southern California’s renowned Iron Maiden tribute band, delivered a powerhouse performance at Garden Amp in Garden Grove, CA.

Fans packed the amphitheater for a night of galloping bass lines, dual-guitar harmonies, and classic Iron Maiden anthems performed with precision and passion. From the opening riffs of “Murders in the Rue Morgue” to the epic finale of “Hallowed Be Thy Name,” the crowd was on its feet, singing every word.

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on September 30, 2025November 22, 2025 by Danny Knapp

Danny Knapp Joins the Official S.I.T. Strings Artist Roster

Southern California–based bassist Danny “The Melonhead” Knapp has officially joined the S.I.T. Strings artist family, marking another milestone in his growing list of professional endorsements. Known for his energetic stage presence and versatile musicianship, Knapp has built a national reputation performing with top original and tribute acts, including We’re No Gentlemen, The Goodwin Club, VK Lynne, Maiden United, and L.A. Sound Machine.

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on August 30, 2025November 26, 2025 by Danny Knapp

Danny Knapp Lends His Bass Groove to Bryn Ryan Van-Dyke’s “It’s OK (Special Edition)”

Southern California bassist Danny “The Melonhead” Knapp has added another exciting collaboration to his growing list of recording credits, contributing bass to the newly released “It’s OK (Special Edition)” by Bryn Ryan Van-Dyke. The track, which debuted on YouTube on August 29, 2025, showcases Knapp’s dynamic low-end presence and intuitive musicality that have made him a sought-after session player across genres.

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on July 30, 2025March 30, 2026 by Danny Knapp

The Goodwin Club Featured on History of L.A. Ska Podcast

The Goodwin Club sat down with the History of L.A. Ska podcast for Episode 105 of their One On One Sessions, with singer Tami Demaree, saxophonist Dean Medford, and guitarist Jesse Wilder sharing stories about the band’s history and reunion.

Host Eric Kohler noted that despite only being together for a few years in the ’90s, the band built a dedicated following — largely thanks to their reputation for unique and high-energy live shows.

Watch the full episode on YouTube

on July 22, 2025November 25, 2025 by Danny Knapp

Maiden United Featured in Voyage LA Magazine

The Los Angeles-based Iron Maiden tribute band Maiden United was recently featured in Voyage LA Magazine. The spotlight came through an interview with vocalist Rich Abronson, who discussed the band’s origins, mission, and growth.Bass guitarist Danny Knapp, known in the band as ‘Steve Hairless’, was also mentioned as a key contributor to the group’s authenticity and thunderous sound.

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on June 27, 2025July 23, 2025 by Danny Knapp

Whirlwind trip to the East

In just five days, Danny Knapp had 6 flights, 5 hours of van rides, performed two high-energy tribute concerts in Cincinnati OH and Buffalo NY, and experienced one of North America’s greatest natural wonders, Niagara Falls. His journey wasn’t just about musicianship—it was a celebration of diversity and an unforgettable travel tale.

on May 23, 2025October 14, 2025 by Danny Knapp

Danny Knapp performed with new project ‘Back To 11’

Three Clubs in Los Angeles marked the location of the electrifying debut of bassist Danny “Melonhead” Knapp’s performing with anew project, Back to 11. The intimate venue buzzed as the ensemble offered a high‑octane blend of rock-fueled grooves and melodic experimentation. Fans at the gig were treated to the tight interplay among the band members commanding stage presence.“Back to 11” aims to push beyond traditional genre boundaries—infusing rock, funk, and soulful color into a fresh sonic palette.

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on April 22, 2025November 26, 2025 by Danny Knapp

Studio Session with Bryn Ryan-VanDyke

Singer/songwriter Bryn Ryan-VanDyke was back in the studio, working on her heartfelt single, “It’s OK.” Known for her emotional vocal delivery and lyrical vulnerability, Bryn brought her signature depth to this track, which is being produced by acclaimed musician and producer Michael Parlett.

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