Brad

Brad Babinski, the lone southern California native of the group, was born in Long Beach and grew up in Fullerton, California. While in high school he took up the bass guitar and immersed himself in funk, jazz, and rock music, listening to and emulating a diverse variety of musicians such as Sly and the Family Stone, Curtis Mayfield, Miles Davis, Return to Forever, and Rush. While at Cal State University Long Beach, studying upright bass and working towards a degree in jazz studies, Brad joined Upstart – bringing his unique fresh funky sound and a wicked stage presence to every Upstart show. In addition to his integral role within Upstart, Brad continues to work as a freelance bassist and music teacher, while also lending his talent to numerous other bands and side projects, including his experimental jazz quartet "BADJ" and indie rock band "Big Japan."