A few weeks ago, Doug Fuller (drummer for Retroflection & CopyPaste), asked me if I had heard the latest from [Natalie](https://www.instagram.com/_natalie.elena/), one of the singers who performed with [Retroflection](https://retroflection.band).  I had not.

![Retroflection with Natalie](https://media.mcbass.band/4_E796488_61_B9_48_C5_A0_A3_3_D6_ABB_66_D3_AB_1_bef81cbb8e.jpg#center)

Natalie (top center) left the band in 2022.  She was 21 years old and moved to Austin to pursue a career in music.  We turned our last gig with her into a fundraiser for her relocation.

Doug mentioned that she had joined a band, [Tokyo Vinyl](https://www.instagram.com/tokyo.vinyl/) and that I should give one of her songs, ["Broken Toys"](https://open.spotify.com/track/6ovZSSWbBkNeX5P5jGB0Q8?si=7ba62562d2aa414e), a listen.  I was blown away.  Our little Natalie sounded amazing!  I clearly remember she was a super talented singer in our band, but the recording really captured her maturing, pro-level vocal skill.

Then I realized if Natalie becomes the next Gwen Stefani, at least I've got a photo with her.  

But I do not have her autograph. 

That inspired me to turn my main [gigging bass](/gear/2021-harley-benton-pb-20-sbk/) into a "signature bass".  I now carry some [metallic sharpies](https://www.amazon.com/Sharpie-Metallic-Permanent-Assorted-2029678/dp/B07DPLQJVN/ref=asc_df_B07DPLQJVN?mcid=320442aa07293349b8c92591106d6889&hvocijid=16148452818087229269-B07DPLQJVN-&hvexpln=73&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=721245378154&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16148452818087229269&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9032054&hvtargid=pla-2281435176658&th=1) in the gig bag and invite every musician to sign my bass after a gig.

![IMG_3421.jpg](https://media.mcbass.band/IMG_3421_840f55c4c0.jpg#center)

![IMG_3422.jpg](https://media.mcbass.band/IMG_3422_b75cd0e1e8.jpg#center)

![IMG_3423.jpg](https://media.mcbass.band/IMG_3423_eedb84a7b0.jpg#center)

The signatures pop on the matte black finish and create a distinctive look.  It's also a nice way to honor the talented musicians that have shared the stage with me.

PS: Natalie, if you ever make it back to the bay area, let me know so I can get your signature added.  You were the inspiration for this!

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