Tommy Stinson, known for his role in the legendary Minneapolis rock band The Replacements, has made a significant mark with his solo work and other projects. In addition to his solo releases, he’s played in bands like Perfect and Bash & Pop, and spent nearly 20 years as the bass player for Guns N’ Roses. With such a prolific career, Stinson has a wealth of material to choose from when it comes to crafting a setlist, and he’s set to perform in Providence on April 11.
The concert will take place at the Emporium of Popular Culture (POP), located at 219 W. Park Street. Stinson will be joined by the up-and-coming New York City rock band, Freedom Rockets, as his backing band. The show kicks off at 8 p.m., with singer-songwriter Karla Rose and Steve DelMonico of local rock band The Quahogs opening.
Stinson’s collaboration with Freedom Rockets began during the production of their debut album, American Trash, released in August 2024. He recalls how the band, led by 17-year-old Jimy Bishop, reached out to him to produce their record. Stinson had one condition: he needed to get permission from Jimy’s father first, given the band members’ young age. “They’re all honor students,” Stinson says, “and that was my only prerequisite.”
He explains that his goal as a producer was to offer guidance without overshadowing the band’s creative process. “I didn’t want to influence them into thinking that I was the answer to all their musical ideas. It was about using my experience to help them achieve their goals.” The collaboration, according to Stinson, worked out well for both parties, and he enjoyed working with the band. “They’re really fun kids,” he adds.
POP is a unique venue in Providence, blending a vintage store, art gallery, and music venue in one space. Stinson has a personal connection to the venue through its owner, Darren Hill, a longtime friend. Stinson appreciates the charm of venues like POP, which are off the beaten path and offer a different experience compared to typical music clubs.
“I’ve been preferring these kinds of places for a while now,” Stinson says. “The guy who owns POP, Darren Hill, is a good friend, and you can’t walk in there without feeling nostalgic about all the vintage stuff. It takes you back to your childhood, and it’s a pretty cool place. I’ve done events there before, and they’ve all been a lot of fun.”
Looking ahead, Stinson is working on a new album with a collaborative approach. He plans to involve musicians he’s worked with in the past, hoping to create something fresh and engaging for his audience. “My goal is to have the bands I’m working with on their records play a few songs of mine,” Stinson explains. “It’s a way to connect my audience with theirs and create something that feels genuine for everyone involved.”
As Stinson grows older, he finds himself more drawn to collaboration, enjoying the process of working with musicians across different age groups. “I’m having fun with the musical community,” he says. “I want to make my work feel more meaningful, both for me and for the people I’m working with.”
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