Jason Tate is a bassist, multi-instrumentalist, singer and songwriter based out of Portland, OR.

After a decades-long career playing bass for top tier original music acts, including Lisa Valentine, the Hanging by a String Band, Audiotherapy, and Potluck, Jason Tate reinvented himself as a songwriter and artist capable of coaxing sound out of any instrument. Jason distills his lifetime love and exploration of music into his own unique and instantly recognizable brand of Alt Americana, or “Y’Allternative” music. Even so, he can still be found holding down the bass for Portland’s premiere tribute band honoring the work of The Cure: Kiss Me Kiss Me Kiss Me (KM3!)

As a Y’allternative musician, Jason puts his lyrical focus on love, loss, and vulnerability. His songs explore the challenges of modern love and existence using metaphor and humor - but just beneath the surface of his lyrics often lies a layer of meaning and insight that many find relatable - whether exploring ideas about community, masculinity, or heartbreak.

Jason is pleased to announce his newest album Songs About Trucks, planned for release in early 2026. Featuring the hit sensation “My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend's Truck,” Songs About Trucks transports the listener to a simpler time, when hearts were pure and melodies true. This release will join Jason’s 2021 album The Year of the Rat, as well as his 2023 single “Song for Thay” in sharing his unique and diverse perspective with the world.

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Jason performs: Voice, electric and upright bass, electric and acoustic guitar, piano, keys, synth, banjo, ukulele, mandolin, conga, agogo, bells, percussion, tambourine, and dolphin tongue drum. 

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St John's 2025 photos by Paige Woodhouse. Insta: @trnthepaigee