World renowned bassist JUAN NELSON passed away on WEDNESDAY, JUNE 9th. Performing with BEN HARPER AND THE INNOCENT CRIMINALS for nearly three decades, NELSON was also a record producer, composer, and songwriter. Born AUGUST 24th, 1958 in CINCINNATI, OH, JUAN moved to CALIFORNIA in the late 60s. “My first bass was a K bass and it cost $70,” JUAN told BASS PLAYER MAGAZINE. “I saved up to buy it, took it home to play it and then found out that I need an amp to hear .