5 Of Classic Rock History’s Greatest Bass Lines
Roger Waters with Pink Floyd - Cool Coyote / Youtube
Let’s be honest: a great bassline in a song is often overlooked. But sometimes the bass guitarist, who is usually the least praised member of the band, steals the show with their remarkable bass tones. We all know a handful of fantastic bassists in several rock bands, but for this case, we’ll take a look at rock’s greatest bass lines ever; both the instrument’s adaptability and the players’ ingenuity are on full display in the following list, which features a variety of musical style.
Pink Floyd – “Money” (1973)
With this world-class bass part, composed primarily in 7/4, Roger Waters, who never settles for less, distinguished himself as a songwriter. This line is an absolute must-learn for any prog-loving bassist, thanks to its crystal-clear presentation against the infernal noise of cash machines that surrounds it.
The Beatles – “Come Together” (1969)
By 1969, Paul McCartney had mastered the bass guitar to an extent that most people would never achieve, thanks in large part to his concentration on composition rather than the bass’s adequacy. It’s not hard, quick, or flashy. Instead, the song’s forward momentum is established by the bass line, which is prominent and has a function throughout “Come Together.”
Led Zeppelin – “Ramble On” (1969)
When he came up with the bassline for Ramble On, John Paul Jones exhibited a lot of guts. A lot of credit to him for putting his mark on one of classic rock’s most recognizable bass tones.
Yes – “Roundabout” (1972)
After a lengthy, hazy buildup, Chris Squire finally gets down to business and lays down the rhythm. The song’s opening half is propelled by this bass line’s powerful, funky groove, as he blasts with the guitarist in the second half. The song has been covered by various bassists and remains a popular choice for beginners.
Queen and David Bowie – “Under Pressure” (1981)
Just those two notes in the bassline convey so much. Indeed “Under Pressure” is an all-time great single for both artists. The bassline is the song’s signature; the notes don’t vary even when the chords do during the descending patterns of the verse.
