Our top 3 bassists of all time  

 To spare you scrolling through all 31 bass icons, here are our top three:

1. Jaco Pastorius (1951 – 1987)

The fretless fanatic who took the bass and shaped it into a wholly unique melodic instrument, Jaco Pastorius’ innovative basslines span a range of styles. From fast-paced funk to harmonic-infused dissonant melodies, there are tonnes to explore with Jaco’s playing.  

He stands as one of the most revered bassists to date, not only succeeding as an incredibly talented musician in his own right but also as an amazing sideman. Endorsement by other legendary musicians only cements Jaco’s place as the best bassist of all time, appearing on Joni Mitchell’s Mingus (1979) and the odd Herbie Hancock number.  

2. Kim Deal (1961 – )

Proof that less is more, Kim Deal’s punchy basslines and haunting vocals form a huge part of the Pixies’ unmistakable raw sound. Tracks like “Hey” and “Gigantic” are made by Kim’s driving bass. We’ve placed her in the top three because of her unwavering resourcefulness when it comes to stretching simple basslines as far as they’ll go, inspiring generations of wannabe indie rockstars and bassists to pick up and play! 

3. Charles Mingus (1922 – 1979)

Charles Mingus wasn’t just a bassist – he was a master innovator of jazz music. His approach to the double bass – and his complex walking basslines – pushed the instrument beyond its traditional role in jazz. Blending bebop, blues, and avant-garde elements positioned his bass playing as something new to be heard in jazz music. Few bassists have matched the way that Mingus makes the instrument sing with such passion. 

The greatest bassists of all time 

1. Jaco Pastorius (1951 – 1987)

Jaco Pastorius revolutionised the electric bass, redefining its role in modern music with his fluid technique and fearless creativity. Born in 1951 in Florida, Pastorius first gained recognition with his self-titled debut album in 1976, showing his signature fretless bass playing, harmonics, and lightning-fast runs.

Pastorius is best known for his time with Weather Report. His melodic bass lines became an essential part of their sound, particularly on albums like Heavy Weather (1977). Beyond the jazz fusion band, he also collaborated with artists like Joni Mitchell, Pat Metheny, and Herbie Hancock, bringing a fresh, expressive voice to every project.  

Listening to Pastorius play is enough to make you pick up a bass, and if you really want to match his sound then go the extra mile and pick up a fretless bass. Fender Custom Shop have created a tribute jazz bass to commemorate Pastorius’ brilliance.

Recommended listening: “Portrait of Tracy” (1976)   

2. Kim Deal (1961 – )

Kim Deal’s impact on music is huge and extends far beyond her bass playing. Deal first gained fame as the bassist and backing vocalist for the Pixies, driving their raw, dynamic sound. 

After the Pixies, Deal formed The Breeders, a band that became a defining act of ‘90s alternative rock. Their 1993 album Last Splash, featuring the hit “Cannonball”, cemented her status as an indie rock icon, which was particularly groundbreaking in a male-dominated scene.

Deal’s influence is undeniable. Her simple but powerful bass playing proved that technical wizardry isn’t always necessary. Kim mainly used a Fender Precision bass, which was heard on iconic albums such as Doolittle.

Recommended listening: “Gigantic” (1988) 

3. Charles Mingus  (1922 – 1979)

Charles Mingus was a jazz bassist and composer whose influence can still be witnessed in jazz music today. Raised in LA, he studied classical music before moving to jazz, where he developed his signature blend of swing, blues, and avant-garde experimentation. 

Mingus played with legends like Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Charlie Parker, and Dizzy Gillespie, but it was his work as a bandleader that cemented his legacy. His groups featured top musicians, including Eric Dolphy and Dannie Richmond, creating highly acclaimed albums like Mingus Ah Um and The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady. 

Mingus’ ingenious approach to composition and improvisation makes him one of the greatest bassists of all time, refusing to be reserved to the background of the band like most bassists of his day. His playing was dynamic, expressive, and rhythmically adventurous, redefining the instrument’s role in jazz while maintaining a close command over other instruments in his role as a bandleader.  

Recommended listening: “Take the ‘A’ Train”

4. Geezer Butler (1949 – )

If there’s one bassist who shaped the ethos of an entire genre like no other, it’s Geezer Butler. The Black Sabbath co-founder laid the foundation for metal with his wah-laden basslines. His playing was more than just rhythm – it was dark, melodic, and full of movement, complementing Tony Iommi’s lashing guitar parts. 

As Sabbath’s primary lyricist, Butler was integral in defining the band’s identity. Not only that, his bass work gave metal its signature low-end power, influencing metalheads and their approach to bass playing to this day. 

His influence spans decades, with metal giants like Steve Harris and Cliff Burton citing him as an inspiration. If you’re looking for a quick and affordable way to get the iconic Geezer Butler bass tone, the EMG Geezer Butler PJHZ Pickup Set is a great place to start. 

Recommended listening: “N.I.B.” (1970) 

5. Cliff Burton (1962 – 1986)

Leaving a permanent mark on heavy metal bass playing, Cliff Burton was the second bassist of Metallica, crafting some of the most brutal basslines of all time. Burton picked up the bass at age 13 and quickly developed a style that fused thrash aggression and psychedelic textures. He joined Metallica in 1982, just as the band was on the brink of reshaping the metal scene.

Across Kill ’Em All, Ride the Lightning, and Master of Puppets, Burton redefined the metal bass landscape – conjuring wah-drenched solos and distorted leads that stood shoulder to shoulder with guitar riffs.

Though his life was tragically cut short in 1986, his influence continues to shake the foundations of metal to this day. His pure and powerful bass solo – “(Anaesthesia) – Pulling Teeth” is an example of Burton’s unparalleled control over the bass, boasting an epic four-minute bass solo.

Recommended listening: “(Anaesthesia) – Pulling Teeth” (1983)

6. Noel Redding  (1945 – 2003)

A quiet yet quintessential part of the Jimi Hendrix Experience, Noel Redding provided the backbone for one of the biggest bands of all time. While he started as a guitarist, his transition to the bass landed him the responsibility of laying down some of the best basslines for Hendrix’s explosive guitar work 

Beyond the Experience, Redding formed Fat Mattress and later played with various acts, leaving a lasting influence on rock and blues-based bass playing. While he often lived in the shadow of Hendrix, his contributions helped define one of the greatest power trios in history.  

Recommended listening: “Purple Haze” (1967)

7. Flea (1962 – )

Few bassists have redefined the instrument’s role in rock music quite like Flea. The Red Hot Chilli Peppers co-founder fuses punk, funk, and psychedelic rock into a signature sound, with an explosive slap bass technique, making him one of the most recognisable and influential bassists in modern music. 

Beyond the Chili Peppers, Flea has collaborated with artists like Thom Yorke, Johnny Cash, and The Mars Volta. His playing is powerful and aggressive yet strikingly accurate… and his stage presence is practically untameable. To add a touch of Flea’s energy to your bass playing, try his signature bass strings. 

 Recommended listening: “Can’t Stop” (2002) 

8. Sting (1951 – )

Sting actually started out as an English teacher before becoming the iconic frontman and bassist of The Police. His blending of rock, reggae, and jazz has crafted his signature sound; even in his early days as a teacher, Sting played jazz in his spare time. 

Beyond his role in The Police, Sting’s solo career makes use of world music and classical and jazz influences – his NPR Tiny Desk Concert with Shaggy shows this off.

Recommended listening: “Englishman in New York” (1987) 

9. Bootsy Collins (1951 – )

Bootsy Collins is by far one of the funkiest bassists in music history. He got his big break as a teenager when he joined James Brown’s band, The J.B.’s, and it was from here onwards that his innovative style helped define the future of funk.

In the mid-’70s, he became a core member of George Clinton’s Parliament-Funkadelic, where his rubbery, effects-laden basslines essentially ushered in a new form of funk. In his later career, he formed Bootsy’s Rubber Band, cementing his bass legacy with even more infectious grooves. 

His love for funk and his outlandish style make him not only one of the greatest bass players of all time but also one of the most memorable – funk is a way of life for Bootsy Collins. 

Recommended listening: “Stretchin’ Out (In a Rubber Band)” (1976)

10.  Paul McCartney (1942 – )

Rising to global fame as a founding member of The Beatles, Paul McCartney is without a doubt one of the biggest names to ever pick up the bass. While he initially joined the band as a guitarist, he switched to bass after Stuart Sutcliffe’s departure – transforming its role in pop music.

After The Beatles split in 1970, McCartney formed Wings, continuing to shape rock and pop with hits like “Band on the Run” and “Live and Let Die”. His solo career further cemented his place as one of the most prolific songwriters and performers of all time.

McCartney is one of the greatest bassists of all time because of his crucial involvement in The Beatles – their music just wouldn’t be the same without him.  On tracks like “Come Together”, his bassline provides the catchy backbone of the song. As soon as you hear that introductory slide to the 12th, you know what’s coming.

You can get your hands on a McCartney-esque bass with Hofner’s range of Violin basses, a model that’s closely associated with McCartney.

Recommended listening: “Don’t Let Me Down” (1970)

11. Geddy Lee (1953 – )

If you’re into a bit of prog-rock, you can’t go far wrong with Geddy Lee’s bass playing. Making use of his voice, bass, and keyboard, Lee became the driving force behind Rush, one of the most influential rock bands of all time. Joining the band in 1968, he helped define Rush’s sound with his intricate bass lines, classic rock vocals, and multi-instrumental prowess. 

Lee’s approach to the bass revolutionised rock music. Drawing influence from jazz and hard rock, he pioneered a highly technical yet melodic style, often playing complex bass parts while handling lead vocals and keyboards. His use of Rickenbacker and Fender Jazz basses, along with effects like chorus and overdrive, gave his playing a distinctive and somewhat futuristic character. 

Beyond Rush, Lee has collaborated with various artists and released a solo album, My Favourite Headache (2000). His influence on rock and metal bassists is massive, inspiring legends like Les Claypool and John Myung. With skill, creativity, and a signature prog-rock sound, Lee remains one of the greatest bassists.

 Recommended listening: “Tom Sawyer” (1981) 

12. Peter Hook (1956 – )

Hailing from Salford, Peter Hook became a pivotal figure in the post-punk and alternative scenes as the bassist for two of the most influential bands of the late 20th century: Joy Division and New Order. Rather than anchoring the rhythm section in the traditional sense, Hook pushed the bass to the forefront, creating haunting basslines that were central in songs like “Love Will Tear Us Apart” and “Blue Monday”.

His distinct chorus-drenched tone influenced generations of bassists across rock, indie, and electronic music. With Joy Division, Hook helped shape their raw, new wave sound with bass as a main ingredient.

After frontman Ian Curtis’s tragic death, New Order emerged, blending post-punk with synthpop and dance music – again with Hook’s bass lines driving the sound. He made the bass an expressive lead instrument and left an indelible mark on modern music. With such strong and recognisable basslines, Hook has to be included on the list of the greatest bass players of all time.

Recommended listening: “Love Will Tear Us Apart” (1980)

13. Mark Hoppus (1972 – )

When you think of pop-punk bass, Mark Hoppus immediately comes to mind. Co-founding Blink-182 in the early ’90s, he helped shape a generation with his upbeat bass lines and vocals, perfectly complementing Tom DeLonge’s higher-pitched singing and guitar playing. Hoppus’ energetic playing ensured that the bass maintained a driving force throughout Blink’s music. 

Beyond Blink-182, Hoppus played in +44 and collaborated with artists like Simple Plan and All Time Low. But his influence extends beyond his music; his production and radio work have made him a beloved figure in the alt-rock scene. Hoppus is an icon for any ’90s kids out there, while also appealing to fans across generations.

Redefining the bass in punk rock, proving it can be more than just a supporting instrument is no small feat, earning Hoppus on our list of the greatest bass players of all time. If you think bassists can (and should) be front and centre, then check out the Blink legend’s signature Jag bass.

 Recommended listening: “All the Small Things” (1999) 

14.  Carol Kaye (1935 – )

Tucked away in the shadows of the recording studio, Carol Kaye is one of the most recorded bassists in history, shaping the sound of popular music with her impeccable precision. Starting out as a jazz guitarist before transitioning to bass, Kaye became a key member of the Wrecking Crew – a group of session musicians behind countless hit records of the 1960s and ’70s. 

Kaye’s basslines featured on songs by The Beach Boys, Simon & Garfunkel, The Monkees, and countless Motown and rock artists. Her playing can be heard on tracks like “Good Vibrations” (The Beach Boys) and “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’” (Nancy Sinatra). Being featured on so many timeless tracks is a one-way ticket to our list. 

Her contributions to music are immeasurable. As the only female member of the Wrecking Crew, Kaye’s one of the greatest unsung heroes of the bass world. She’s spent the twilight of her career focusing on musical  education 

 Recommended listening: “I’m Not Gonna Miss You” (2014) 

15. Kim Gordon (1953 – )

Best known for her role in Sonic Youth, Kim Gordon led the charge on the alt-rock front. Her raw approach to bass and vocals shaped the sound of underground music. Every single Sonic Youth performance struts the uncompromising personality of the band, with each member rocking their own little quirks. 

Gordon’s role in the ‘90s alternative rock scene is what makes her one of the greatest bassists of all time, punching out raw unadulterated bass tones that elevated the instrument to a new level of cool. Her image, attitude, artistic vision and playing style all amount to the undeniably original band that is Sonic Youth – there’s still nothing quite like them.  

 Recommended listening: “Kool Thing” (1990)  

 16. Krist Novoselic (1965 – )

One of my personal faves, Chris Novoselic really brought the energy to one of the most influential grunge rock bands of all time – Nirvana. Co-founding the band with Kurt Cobain in the late ‘80s, Novoselic played a huge role in shaping the grunge movement.

Albums like Nevermind and In Utero set a new standard for rock bass, balancing simplicity with impact. After Nirvana’s tragic end in 1994, Novoselic continued exploring music, playing with bands like Sweet 75, Eyes Adrift, and Giants in the Trees. 

His playing embodied the raw, unfiltered spirit of grunge. Looking back on old live footage of Nirvana, he’s often playing barefoot with a low-hanging bass that only someone of his height could tame. While Nirvana always had a political edge, Novoselic now spends much of his time involved in American political affairs… 

 Recommended listening: “Lounge Act” (1991) 

17.  Marcus Miller (1959 – ) 

If you’re interested in sprucing up your slap technique, Marcus Miller is someone you should check out. Before becoming the technical wizard that he is, Miller established himself as a session musician in the late ’70s, cultivating the signature slap bass style that he’s known for today. 

Playing jazz with legends like Miles Davis and contributing heavily to Tutu (1986), Miller helped redefine modern jazz fusion. As a bassist, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, he’s worked with other legends like Luther Vandross, David Sanborn, and Herbie Hancock, shaping the sound of contemporary jazz, R&B, and funk. Imagine being able to casually name-drop these musical giants as part of your portfolio.

Miller’s huge involvement in the jazz scene, providing basslines for some of the biggest names in the industry, elevates him to the status of one of the all-time greats when it comes to bass. That’s even before you consider his insanely impressive slap technique.

You can take your shot at getting a hefty slap tone with the Markbass Marcus Miller CMD 101 Micro 60 Combo amp – although you might want to sharpen up your technique first.  

  Recommended listening: “Detroit” (2012) 

18. James Jamerson (1936 – 1983)  

A hidden hero of Motown, James Jamerson shaped the sound of popular music with his smooth, hook-focused bass playing. He became the backbone of Motown’s house band, The Funk Brothers, laying down basslines for countless hits by legends like Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, and Stevie Wonder.

He revolutionised the bass with his melodic and catchy hooks – providing a solid underpinning that moved beyond simple root notes to more intricate, flowing grooves. His syncopated, improvisational style, often played with just one finger, can be heard on classics like “My Girl”, “What’s Going On”, and “Bernadette”.

Despite rarely being credited during his lifetime, his influence mustn’t be understated. He set the blueprint for modern bassists, from rock to funk and beyond. Jamerson redefined the role of the bass. His playing on Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” is a great example of his smooth, catchy playing.

Recommended listening: “What’s Going On” (1971)

 19. Lemmy (1945 – 2015)

The ‘Ace of Bass’, Lemmy made the bass into a rock ‘n’ roll machine. Starting out as a roadie for Jimi Hendrix before joining space-rock pioneers Hawkwind in the early ‘70s, from early on it was clear that Lemmy was bound to live a life of rock ’n’ roll. It was with Motörhead, the band he formed in 1975, that Lemmy got the ball rolling.  

His aggressive bass playing, distorted tone, and signature growling vocals helped define heavy metal and punk music. Motörhead’s no-nonsense approach and relentless energy have influenced countless bands, from Metallica to Foo Fighters, further cementing Lemmy’s status as one of the greatest bassists of all time.  

Playing the bass like a six-string guitar is enough to get you kicked out of any rehearsal, so it’s pretty impressive that Lemmy managed to make it work. He lived and breathed rock ‘n’ roll, staying true to his “louder, faster, harder” ethos until his passing in 2015. You can bless your bass with Lemmy’s signature strings if you crave that piledriving hard rock bass punch.

 Recommended listening: “Ace of Spades” (1980) 

20. Pino Palladino (1957 – )

Pino Palladino’s influence stretches across multiple genres, from rock and pop to R&B and jazz. Born in Cardiff, Wales, he first gained attention in the early ‘80s with his fretless bass work on Paul Young’s No Parlez. His fluid style redefined bass playing, blending a deep groove with expressive phrasing. 

Palladino’s legacy derives from his seamless adaptability to any musical setting. He’s played with legends like The Who, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, D’Angelo, and John Mayer. His work with The Who following John Entwistle’s passing cemented his status as a rock icon, while his neo-soul contributions to D’Angelo’s Voodoo shine a light on his more expressive, out-of-the-box playing style. 

Palladino is one of the greatest bassists of all time because of his potential to play across multiple genres while maintaining a distinct melodic approach to the bass. His touch, tone, and impeccable sense of rhythm have made him one of the most in-demand bassists of all time, blending expression with a willingness to match the vibe of any track.

 Recommended listening: “Ekute” (2021) 

21. Chris Wolstenholme (1978 – )

If there’s one bassline you’ll have seen plastered all over social media in recent years, it’s Chris Wolstenholme’s “Hysteria”. It’s a good thing he switched from drums to bass in the early days of Muse’s road to success, without his thumping bass, Muse’s spacey sound wouldn’t be the same.

His basslines are instantly recognisable, often blending distortion, complex rhythms, and speed. He seamlessly fuses rock, electronic, and orchestral influences, pushing the boundaries of what can be done on the bass.

Beyond his technical skill, Wolstenholme’s presence in Muse is irreplaceable. Locking in with drummer Dominic Howard while complementing Matt Bellamy’s vocals and guitar work cements him as one of the greatest modern bassists. “Hysteria” continues to be a track that every bassist tries to learn at least once, it’s a real crowd-pleaser.

Recommended listening: “Hysteria” (2003)

 22. John Deacon (1951 – )

He may have been the most reserved member of Queen, but John Deacon’s contributions to the band’s sound were nothing short of legendary. Deacon joined Queen in 1971, bringing a rock-solid approach to the bass. His playing was never flashy, but it was always essential.  

Beyond his basslines, Deacon was a gifted songwriter, penning hits like “Another One Bites the Dust”, “You’re My Best Friend”, and “I Want to Break Free”. His knack for grounding Queen with his solid basslines while writing some of the band’s most iconic songs is a huge factor in their success – he’s a classic example of bass players going underappreciated. 

Deacon’s legacy is one of subtle genius. His playing always served the song, elevating Queen’s sound without overshadowing it. Though he retired from music after Freddie Mercury’s passing, his influence remains undeniable. With such memorable basslines and some pretty all-time epic tracks to his name, Deacon is without a doubt one of the greatest bassists of all time.  

Recommended listening: “Another One Bites the Dust” (1980) 

23. Les Claypool (1963 – )

Les Claypool is one of the most unconventional and innovative bassists in modern music. He rose to fame as the frontman and bassist of Primus, a band known for its quirky style, odd time signatures, and wild fusion of funk, rock, and metal – it’s an acquired taste, to say the least…  

Claypool’s distinct slap-heavy technique, off-the-wall stage presence, and unconventional playing style make him a key figure in the bass world. Plus, his choice of axe – Carl Thompson basses (handmade basses with original swirling body designs) – aligns with his eccentric demeanour.

Over the years, Claypool has collaborated with a range of experimental projects, including Oysterhead (with Stewart Copeland and Trey Anastasio), Colonel Claypool’s Bucket of Bernie Brains, and The Claypool Lennon Delirium. His willingness to break rules and blur genre lines has cemented his place as a true original. 

Like others on this list, Claypool treats the bass as a lead instrument, adding a crazy spin to his playing. Trying to learn anything by Primus feels impossible not least because of the intense slapping technique. You’ve got to embrace the weird if you wanna match the energy of Primus.  

 Recommended listening: “My Name is Mud” (1993) 

 24. Joe Dart (1991 – )

Nobody embodies modern funk quite like Joe Dart, playing with thunder-fast fretting and groove-inflicted head nodding. Dart picked up the bass at a young age and quickly developed a natural sense of rhythm that defines his playing.  

He rose to fame as the bassist for Vulfpeck, a band known for its tight, minimalist funk sound and DIY ethos. Dart’s basslines are the backbone of Vulfpeck’s signature feel, blending vintage tone with the ultimate precision and flair. 

Beyond Vulfpeck, Dart has collaborated with other acts like Fearless Flyers and Theo Katzman, always bringing the same pocket-focused energy and tasteful musicianship. His legacy lies in the way he’s brought bass playing back to the spotlight in the modern era, inspiring the next generation of funk fanatics.

 His beastly solos and fast-paced funk set him apart as one of the greatest bass players of the modern day.

Recommended listening: “Dean Town” (2016)

 25. Adam Devonshire 

Known as the powerhouse bassist for British punk juggernauts IDLES, Adam Devonshire delivers crushing basslines that don’t need all the bells and whistles seen among flashier playing styles. He co-founded the band with frontman Joe Talbot in the early 2000s, and together they’ve become one of the most powerful voices in modern music. His bass playing is raw, unapologetic, and simply brutal. 

With a gritty and unrelenting tone, Devonshire’s bass cuts through walls of guitar noise with purpose and intent. He doesn’t rely on flashy technique or solos. Instead, he delivers perfectly weighted lines that make each track bellow with pure punk noise.  

Albums like Brutalism, Joy as an Act of Resistance, and Ultra Mono see his basslines balance chaos with control, anchoring the band’s political fury and emotional intensity. Devonshire’s bass is about conviction and getting your point across. It shows how this humble instrument can portray the tone of a whole band, especially when it comes to punk.  

 Recommended listening: “Never Fight a Man With a Perm” (2018) 

26. Tina Weymouth (1950 – )  

‘This must be the place’ for Tina Weymouth, earning her spot as one of the greatest bass players ever thanks to her role in the Talking Heads. Anchoring the band’s experimental blend of punk, funk, and pop, her bass is iconic on tracks like “Psycho Killer” and “This Must Be the Place”, providing simple, steady basslines. 

After Talking Heads, she and her husband Chris Frantz formed Tom Tom Club, where she flexed her meaty basslines even more. Songs like “Genius of Love” became iconic in their own right, sampled by countless hip-hop and pop artists. 

Weymouth’s legacy is built on her skill to serve songs with precision, crafting basslines that set the tone of the whole song. That introductory rushing bassline in “Psycho Killer” is a testament to this, setting the tone for the whole track.  

 Recommended listening: “Psycho Killer” (1977) 

 27. MonoNeon (1990 – )

Known for his vibrant fashion and experimental approach to funk, jazz, and hip-hop, MonoNeon is a bassist who definitely leaves a lasting impression. His early exposure to gospel, soul, and blues shaped his distinctive playing style – melding deep-pocket grooves with an impeccable sense of timing. His unconventional upside-down playing style only adds to his originality.

MonoNeon gained recognition through viral solo bedroom performances. Working his way up from his humble ‘home-concert’ beginnings, he later collaborated with icons like Prince, Ghost-Note, and Nas. His time with Prince in the late icon’s final band cemented his reputation as a bassist who can hold his own with the best of the best.

What makes MonoNeon one of the greatest bassists of all time is the chilled manner in which he executes technical mastery, often looking super relaxed while pulling off some difficult basslines. His left-handed, upside-down playing style solidifies his place as one of the most original artists today.

To achieve MonoNeon’s whacky alternative sound for yourself, check out the DigiTech Whammy V MonoNeon Edition.

Recommended listening: “Fallin'” Instrumental cover (2021)

28. Thundercat  (1984 – )

With a name like “Thundercat” you’ve got to be a great bass player. Born out of musical roots, Thundercat first gained recognition as a teenager playing with crossover thrash legends Suicidal Tendencies. His genre-defying style – fusing jazz, funk, soul, electronic, and hip-hop – takes the bass into a world of its own. 

Thundercat’s six-string hollowbody bass playing is virtuosic and fluid, with lightning-fast runs and dreamy chords that walk the line between bass and lead instrument. His solo records, like Drunk and It Is What It Is really show what he can do on the bass.  

Artists like Kendrick Lamar (To Pimp a Butterfly), Flying Lotus, Erykah Badu, and Childish Gambino have all collaborated with Thundercat, letting him leave his stamp on some of the most innovative music of the last decade. With such widespread acclaim, he’s set in stone as one of the greatest bassists of all time. 

 Recommended listening: “Them Changes” (2017) 

29. Esperanza Spalding (1984 – )

If you’re looking to get your ears into some of the most innovative and influential bass playing on the scene today, Esperanza Spalding is your best bet. From a young age, she mastered both upright and electric bass while seamlessly blending jazz, R&B, classical, and experimental sounds. Her breakthrough came in 2011 when she won the Grammy for Best New Artist.

Spalding has worked with legendary artists like Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, and Prince, while also leading her own musical projects. Albums like Radio Music Society and Emily’s D+Evolution feature her strangely captivating compositions, fluid bass playing, and smooth R&B vocals. “Cinnamon Tree”, for example, fuses orchestral strings with modern bass grooves.

Like Pastorius, Spalding often uses a fretless bass to capture the melodic side of her playing.

Recommended listening: “I Know You Know” (2008)

30. Blu DeTiger (1998 – )

Bringing the bass into the digital age, we have Blue DeTiger. She picked up the bass at age seven and quickly developed a signature style that blends funk, disco, and pop. Through the power of social media, she showcased this unique style through online viral videos.

Her career skyrocketed when she joined Caroline Polachek’s band, which led to her playing with artists like Bleachers and FLETCHER. In 2021, she released her debut EP, How Did We Get Here?, becoming a fully-fledged solo artist.

In essence, Blu DeTiger is redefining modern notions of what it means to be a bass player. Her legacy is still unfolding, but there’s no doubt that she’s up there among the greats already.

Recommended listening: “Figure it Out” (2021)

31. Bakithi Kumalo (1956 – )

With an unmistakable fretless bass, Bakithi Kumalo helped redefine the sound of world music in the 1980s. He began his musical journey playing traditional South African styles before transitioning into jazz and pop, fusing the two into a beautiful blend of modernity and tradition.  

His big break came when he was recruited to play on Paul Simon’s Graceland, where his fluid, lyrical bass lines – particularly the iconic solo on “You Can Call Me Al” – became a cornerstone of the album’s sound and success. 

Kumalo’s career skyrocketed from there, leading to collaborations with the likes of Herbie Hancock, Cyndi Lauper, Josh Groban, and the Tedeschi Trucks Band. He brought the rhythms of township jive and mbaqanga to a global audience, weaving African grooves into Western pop with effortless precision. 

What makes Kumalo one of the greatest bassists is his merging of South African roots with typical technical bass playing. He brings a joyful energy to the bass, brimming with character that you can feel from simply listening. His passion and love for music extends beyond his awesome playing – he’s also involved with some great music education initiatives such as Playing for Change! 

Recommended listening: “You Can Call Me Al” (1986) 

FAQs  

Is Cliff Burton the greatest bassist of all time?  

While Cliff Burton was posthumously added to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Metallica in 2009 among other musical accolades, deciding if he’s the ‘greatest of all time’ is really a subjective matter.   His playing is powerful and unique, inspiring tonnes of metal bassists to push boundaries. While he might not be the greatest bassist of all time, Burton is up there among the greats, which is why he’s included in our list. 

Who invented slap bass?  

The invention of slap bass is attributed to Larry Graham, a major figure in the development of funk music throughout the ‘70s. He played with the band Sly and the Family Stone, although due to tensions, Larry left the band in 1972. The slap technique is still used widely on bass today – it’s one of the grooviest ways you can play your instrument. 

Is bass easier than guitar?  

It’s a common misconception that bass is ‘easier’ than guitar. While bass initially seems easier as a beginner as it often has fewer strings and more fret space to play around with, it can quickly become just as hard if not harder than guitar.  

Final thoughts

From the smooth finesse of Jaco Pastorius to the raw grit of Lemmy and the genre-pushing innovation of Thundercat, the bass world is packed with talent that deserves recognition The greatest bassists of all time aren’t just technical masters – they’re storytellers, groove-makers, and the glue that holds music together.  

If you’ve been inspired by the legends in this article and want to get grooving, our 13 best bass guitars will have something for you. 

If you’ve already got yourself a bass and need some accessories to spruce up your playing, check out the top bass accessories to add a little more comfort and control over your playing. Just like guitars, basses come in a range of shapes and sizes – luckily, our guide to bass guitar bodies explains everything you’ll need to know about the mighty bass!