3 Classic Rock Bands Known for Their Bass Players

In Little League baseball, coaches often stick the less talented players in right field. And when it comes to rock bands, the group often sticks the less charismatic players with bass guitars. Or at least, that’s how it seems from afar. But that’s not always the case. Sometimes the bass player is the most charismatic on the roster, the most important amongst the bunch.

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That’s what we wanted to explore below. We wanted to dive into three iconic classic rock bands that were bolstered by their bass players. Three groups that were somehow even more memorable because of their bass players. Remarkable but true! Indeed, these are three classic rock bands known for their bass players.

The Beatles

Growing up in the 1950s, everyone wanted to be a guitar player. But when the Liverpool youngsters first formed their band, there were too many guitar players. So, Paul McCartney left the six-string behind for George Harrison and John Lennon, and he picked up the four-string bass. McCartney played the instrument melodically and even wrote songs on it, as you can see above. Given who he is, McCartney has done more for the bass than just about anyone.

Red Hot Chili Peppers

Where would the Red Hot Chili Peppers be without their bass player, Flea? In many ways, he is the heart and soul of the legendary band—its driving force, its mysticism amongst its rock DNA. Flea is so charismatic and personable that he’s even acted in some major movies. And he brings that same magnetism to the stage and other RHCP outlets. He is nimble in the songs, dancing on the melodies. And very recognizable all the while. Indeed, Flea is essential.

Primus

Les Claypool, who founded the experimental rock band Primus, is your favorite bass player’s favorite bass player. The artist is dynamic and wild with his instrument. And he’s used it to become one of the most notable musicians of the past five decades. For those who play bass, he is an undeniable hero. Talented on the four-string but also supremely imaginative with his riffs, Claypool is someone many who pick up the instrument aspire to be like. Just listen to a few minutes of the Primus song above—it’s like a fever dream in the best of ways!

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