Hey there—I’m REALLY glad you’re here! I’m Takashi (everyone calls me “Tako”), and Skillful Praise Bass is my way of sharing something that’s shaped my life deeply: the intersection of music, worship, and discipleship through the bass guitar.
It’s a place for aspiring bass players to grow—not just in technical skill, but in heart, purpose, and calling. Whether you’re picking up the bass for the first time or looking to deepen your role in worship, you’ll find practical tools, encouragement, and a space to be equipped to serve God and others through music.
Where It All Began
When I became a Christian, I was a high school student in Japan—a total bass addict. I was playing every chance I got, covering all kinds of music, especially funk and jazz fusion. I was obsessed with the greats—Marcus Miller, Louis Johnson, Larry Graham, Victor Bailey—and also drew deep inspiration from Japanese legends like Mitsuru Sutoh of T-Square, Tetsuo Sakurai of Casiopea, and Tomohito Aoki. Let’s just say… I slapped a lot!
But when I made the decision to trust Jesus with my life, everything shifted. I surrendered all of it—my strengths, my weaknesses, and yes, even my music. My prayer ever since has been simple: “God, use me as an instrument of worship. Let me be a resource to build up Your church.”
That’s the heart behind this platform. I’ve never needed a title or paycheck to show up. Wherever I’ve been, I’ve offered what I had—my bass, my time, my heart for worship—to help the Body of Christ thrive in praise.
A Life of Worship and Service
Over the past 30 years, that prayer has carried me through a journey that’s taken me from jam sessions to worship leading, from living rooms to vibrant church communities. Each setting has shaped me—not just as a musician, but as a servant. I’ve learned that the bass isn’t just about holding down the groove; it’s about holding space for others to encounter God.
My love for worship is rooted in the joy of serving. In fact, the one of the words for “worship” in the Bible is latreuo (λατρεύω), which means “to serve”. Playing bass in a worship setting has always felt like a sacred assignment: lifting others up, supporting the sound, and pointing every note back to Him.
Raising Up the Next Generation
This calling hasn’t stayed with just me. My wife and I have four musically gifted kids—on drums, piano, guitar, and bass— and they all grew up in this same rhythm of worship and service. Guiding them, and mentoring other young musicians over the years, has deepened my passion to create a supportive space for others to grow.
That’s why I started Skillful Praise Bass. It’s here to equip worship bassists—not just technically, but spiritually. I share everything from practical tutorials to personal insights, with the goal of helping you find joy, confidence, and purpose in your musical worship journey.
Because worship bassists aren’t just background players—we’re spiritual anchors in the sound of praise. And when your skill is matched with a heart that’s surrendered, God can use you in powerful, beautiful ways.
So wherever you are in your journey, I’m honored to walk alongside you. Let’s grow together, serve faithfully, and make music that moves hearts toward Him.
Soli Deo Gloria,
Takashi “Tako” Koga
Founder of SkilledPraiseBass.com