Fender introduced the Jazz Bass in 1960 as a “deluxe” model to augment the Precision Bass. Since its debut, the Jazz has stayed remarkably similar to its original design. There have, however, been many smaller changes over the years that are important not only to Fender Jazz bass history in general, but also as valuable year indicators for vintage Fender bass buffs.
The Fender Precision Bass Timeline: 1951-1982
When Leo Fender invented the first mass-produced electric bass, no one could have guessed that it would have such a massive impact on music. The first Precision basses looked liked over-sized Telecaster guitars. But by the late 1950s, the Fender Precision Bass became the definitive electric bass in modern music. So
How to Ship a Fender Bass Guitar
You’ve just sold your Fender (or other) bass guitar online, and now you have to ship it. For many people, packing and shipping such a large and precious object can seem like a daunting task. However, it doesn’t need to be. Keep reading, and we’ll explain the ins and outs of how to ship a bass guitar.
I’ve personally shipped dozens of basses over the years with no issues at all.
If you follow these simple steps, you can easily and safely pack and ship that bass to its
Willie Weeks: Bass Legend, King of Tone & Taste
Some bass players impress us with their chops, their speed, and their fancy playing. Willie Weeks does it with great tone, perfect time, and an uncanny ability to know exactly what to play, and when to play it, for any given tune. Of course, Willie has the chops to play virtually anything, but it’s how … Read more
Poly vs. Nitro Guitar Finish – Does It Matter?
Ask any two bass players about nitrocellulose versus polyurethane finishes and you’ll often get a heated argument. The debate over which finish is better has been raging for over 40 years now. Fender, and other manufacturers, have used both over the years. And, as vintage collectors clash with modern techniques and sensibilities, we’re left asking if the poly vs. nitro guitar finish debate is even worth fighting anymore.
Jazz Bass vs Precision Bass: The Ultimate Fender Fight
Probably one of the most argued and passionate dilemmas in bass history centers around the Fender Jazz Bass vs Precision Bass debate. For many bass players, once you decide on a Fender, the decision over which
Both instruments are legends in the music world. Over the years, musical legends themselves have created their specific sound playing these amazing instruments. And, both basses have been
The Jazz and the P Bass are both used by amateurs and pros alike. And, for a lot of people, myself included, the decision is so difficult that you have to have both. However, many bass players, especially beginners, can only afford to choose one. And, we get it, the choice is not easy.
Fender Bass Setup Tips
One of the most important things you can do for your Fender Bass is a general setup. Unfortunately it’s also one of the most neglected things for many bassists.
If you have a serious set up issue or a major mechanical problem you should take your bass to a professional, but minor adjustments to your bass can help avoid a serious issue later on and make your bass sound and play better.
Donald Duck Dunn: The Groove Master
Donald “Duck” Dunn is one of my all time favorite bass players. There’s a deep, soulful feel to his deceptively simple bass lines.
Best known for his impeccable, rock solid bass playing with Booker T. & the M.G.’s, the house band for Stax Records all through the 1960’s.
The Fender Bass Player Gift Guide
Buying a bass player a gift can be a tricky thing. That’s why we put together this bass player gift guide. The first thing to consider is the level of the player. Buying a gift for a beginner is the most straightforward because you most likely will be looking at budget basses and accessories. For more experienced players it can get a little more involved but I put together some bass gift ideas that hopefully will help.
James Jamerson: Bass Genius
There’s so much myth and mystery around the brilliant Motown bassist James Jamerson that it’s sometimes hard to know who he really was. Thankfully though, we have his amazing basslines to listen to, and for many bass players, these recordings are a sort of sacred archive. They represent the beginnings of modern bass playing and … Read more