Dream Theater's bassist John Myung is a man of few words. He rarely gives interviews, preferring to let his six-string do the talking. But when he found out that he won MusicRadar's Greatest Bassist Of All Time poll, beating such legends as Paul McCartney, James Jamerson, John Entwhistle, and even some of his personal heroes (Chris Squire, Geddy Lee, Steve Harris), the soft-spoken musician described the accolade thusly: "This is very heavy!"

Heavy, indeed: Myung walked away with the title handily, racking up a staggering 42 percent of your votes. Clearly, you like him. You really like him!

Such good news comes at a welcome time for Myung and the millions of Dream Theater fans across the globe who are still reeling from the sudden (and most unexpected) departure of founding member and drummer Mike Portnoy.

In the following interview with MusicRadar, a most humbled and gracious John Myung talks about his huge bass poll win, his relationship with fans and his practice routine. He also discusses the future of Dream Theater without Mike Portnoy.

The 'Greatest Bassist Of All Time.' That's quite an honor - and a stunning testament to the devotion of your fans. But how do you even respond to such a title? Is it all too overwhelming?

"It definitely an honor. I view it as a social endorsement that reflects on a lot of different things, from the band I'm in to the records we've put out to the basses I play. But it's quite an honor, absolutely, one which tells me I'm on the right path. My gratitude goes out to everyone who voted.

"But I, in no way, feel that it's true in the sense of the title of the award, because there's so many great players all over the world who contribute amazing music. So, even tough I'm deeply flattered and appreciative, let's say that it's taken with a bit of objectivity."

Is that your way of saying, "I'm not worthy"?

"Exactly. [laughs] You have to keep these things in perspective."