MonoNeon, the innovative bassist and experimental musician from Memphis, blends funk, soul, jazz, and hip-hop into a vibrant sound that has captivated audiences worldwide. Known for his unique playing style and collaborations with legends like Prince and Nas, he continues to push musical boundaries with his eclectic solo work and engaging online presence.
MonoNeon, born Dywane Thomas Jr. on August 6, 1990, in Memphis, Tennessee, is an American bassist, experimental musician, singer, and songwriter. Known for his innovative musical style and vibrant online presence, MonoNeon has made substantial contributions to various musical genres. His unique approach to bass playing and collaborations with renowned artists have solidified his reputation as a remarkable musician.
MonoNeon was born into a musical family, with his father, Dywane Thomas Sr., being a bass guitarist. He picked up the bass guitar at the tender age of four and was self-taught. By the age of 13, he had already performed with the Bar-Kays, showcasing his prodigious talent early on. MonoNeon's education included a brief stint at Berklee College of Music from 2008 to 2010, where he studied microtonal music under the guidance of David Fiuczynski.
MonoNeon is renowned for his distinctive playing style. He plays left-handed upside down on a right-handed bass guitar and is particularly noted for his unique slapping technique, which he executes upside-down. Beyond traditional techniques, MonoNeon employs finger and palm muting to create a warm, muffled timbre. His improvisational work is enriched by Indian melodic inflections and embellishments, offering what can be described as a "funky with unusual characteristics" style.
A major highlight of MonoNeon's career was being the last bassist hired by Prince before his untimely death in 2016. He recorded at Paisley Park with Prince and has also collaborated with numerous artists including Ne-Yo, Mac Miller, Nas, George Clinton, and Mavis Staples. Notably, he played bass on Nas' Grammy-winning album "King's Disease."
MonoNeon has released over 20 solo albums since 2010 under his colorful and avant-garde persona. His experimental sound blends elements of funk, soul, jazz, and hip-hop, offering a distinct musical experience. His solo works have continued to push the boundaries of traditional music genres, earning him critical acclaim.
MonoNeon gained viral fame through his YouTube and social media videos, where he plays bass along to spoken clips, showcasing both his musical prowess and his sense of humor. His engaging content has amassed over 345,000 followers on Instagram and 115,000 followers on Facebook, solidifying his status as an influential online creator.
In addition to his collaboration on Nas' "King's Disease," which won a Grammy Award, MonoNeon has received high praise from peers. Flea, the bassist for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, once hailed him as "the greatest fucking electric bass player."
Continuing to evolve as an artist, MonoNeon released the albums "Quilted Stereo" and "MonoNeon on Synthesizer" in 2024. He remains active in the music scene, frequently touring, performing live shows, and collaborating on new projects, including an upcoming album featuring artists like Ledisi.
MonoNeon is celebrated for his inventive approach to music, blending various influences into a single, colorful canvas. His work continues to inspire musicians and fans alike, underscoring his legacy as a pioneering force in contemporary music.
