I was talking to a friend today and he asked me what I thought were the five best bass performances in Rock N’ Roll. Hmmm… hard  question but I’ll give my opinion on it and see what happens. I love the bass and the weight that it gives to Rock music. So let’s check it out. Keep in mind these are in no particular order they are just the five that stand above the others.

1. Cliff Burton (METALLICA) “FOR WHOM THE BELL TOLLS”  (LIVE) [CLIFF ‘EM  ALL]

The aggressiveness of Cliff’s playing style in the intro to this song amazes me to this day. I will always remain in awe of him and wonder what more he would have given to us. Enjoy and remember:

2. JOHN ENTWISTLE (THE WHO) “BABA O’RILEY” (LIVE) 1978

The way John carries the song’s intro is magnificent. John’s solid performance style and coolness when he was laying down massive bass lines will forever influence bass players for years to come. Look at his hands, watch and listen:

3. GEEZER BUTLER (BLACK SABBATH) BASSICALLY/N.I.B.

What can I say, utter brilliance here. The riff is as iconic as any guitar riff. Geezer carries this song with majesty, a lot of bass players learn this bass line and try to honor it. I have seen Geezer play it live and it is just as magnificent as it is on record. Listen and get lost:

4. BILLY COX (JIMI HENDRIX) “DOLLY DAGGER” 

Just listen to the bass line and you’ll hear why it is included. Billy was an amazing player period. If you’ve never heard of him look up his stuff and prepare to get blown away.:

5. STEVE HARRIS (IRON MAIDEN) “PHANTOM OF THE OPERA”  (LIVE) 1980

Steve Harris and his monster bass runs make him one the most inspiring bassists in rock history. (Besides if I didn’t include Steve Eddie’s Mates would lynch me). I have always been inspired by Steve’s playing style. This is for you Eddie’s Mates:

By no means is this a complete list. There are so many more to list. These five however, jumped into my mind immediately. Please give me YOUR input!

the Hellion