Chip Shearin is an acclaimed bassist, producer, and composer, celebrated for his legendary bass line on The Sugarhill Gang’s iconic 1979 hit “Rapper’s Delight”, which helped launch the era of hip-hop . He’s both a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Nominated and held in high esteem by institutions like the Smithsonian and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where his bass has been on display.
Career Highlights
Session Musician & Collaborator
Shearin’s bass work has featured alongside jazz giants such as Dizzy Gillespie and Donald Byrd, Marion Meadows, Norman Brown, Bob, Baldwin .. many others …Soul legends like Aretha Franklin, OJays, and The Temptations, pop stars including Janet Jackson, Christina Aguilera, Mikki Howard, as well as rap icons like Grandmaster Flash, Big Daddy Kane, and Tupac.
Composer for Media
Beyond performance, he’s composed for commercials (e.g., Ford, General Motors), TV (including OWN network shows like Iyanla Fix My Life), and films such as the Blade trilogy, Iron Man 2, and Daddy Day Camp .
Solo Work & Band Projects
In 2015, Shearin released his debut solo album “How I Live” on Innervision Records, blending smooth jazz originals with creative reinterpretations like “Cissy Strut” and “Who Is He” . The album officially launched on January 20, 2015 . He also formed a band called The Avengers with fellow bassist Ethan Farmer, featuring a robust lineup of horns and groove-driven energy.
Shearin also started a major record Label , Keo Music.
Releasing critically acclaimed Yahzarah and Lil Brother.
Leadership & Community Work
Shearin serves as President of the National Black Musicians Coalition, advocating for musicians of diverse backgrounds and providing industry mentorship.
Spotify: Freedom