Dino Villanueva Thumps the Bass for Tanya Tucker

Dino Villanueva grew up in Texas, playing music with his guitarist father and other musical influences. At the age of 13, Dino played the second lead guitar spot in his dad’s band. Today Dino is a session bass player in Nashville and also plays in the touring band for Country Music superstar and legend, Tanya Tucker.

In 2001, while attending Texas Christian University, a group of friends needed a bass player and asked him to fill in. He immediately fell in love with the bass guitar. Like many aspiring musicians, he began playing the Texas college circuit with his new band. One opportunity led to another as he worked his way up the touring ladder. He came home from an exhausting road trip and found a message. A fellow musician wanted to see if the young bassist had an interest in touring with an established Country Music artist.

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Dino returned the call, and the following morning met with the new bandleader for Tanya Tucker. After having coffee and discussing the gig, Dino was hired on the spot. The only condition being, his playing style had to mesh with the band and Tanya. Needless to say, everything worked out just fine.

I sat down with Dino on the patio of Moo Country boutique in Leiper’s Fork, TN, in early May of 2020. Musical tours were canceling or rescheduling because of the coronavirus pandemic. The time off has allowed this versatile musician to spend valuable time with his family. In addition, it provided the opportunity to practice and even record his original material. He also recently released a version of “Danny’s Song,” in memory of his dad.

Listen to this episode, as Dino discusses growing up in a musical upbringing, his Filipino heritage, and life as a touring musician. He plays and is sponsored by Godin guitars.