What Bass Guitar Did John Entwistle Play

John Entwistle, the legendary bassist of The Who, was renowned for his furious playing style and innovative sound. A true pioneer, his choice of bass guitars played a significant role in shaping the music that defined an era. Each bass in his collection brought its unique flavor to the mix, leaving an indelible mark on rock history. Explore the instruments that became integral to his sonic arsenal.

Fender Precision Bass: The Foundation Of Entwistle’s Sound

The Fender Precision Bass, often referred to as the “P-Bass,” was among Entwistle’s first loves in the bass world. Known for its rich, full tone and incredible versatility, the Precision Bass was a pivotal factor in the early sound of The Who. John used its split single-coil pickups to deliver his signature punch and growl that cut through the band’s explosive dynamics.

Alembic Explorer: A Custom-made Marvel

The Alembic Explorer was a custom-made masterpiece that showcased Entwistle’s pursuit of technical perfection and sonic power. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this bass featured state-of-the-art electronics and exotic wood combinations, yielding a visually stunning instrument with a sound that could range from warm and mellow to aggressively edgy. It represented Entwistle’s ever-evolving musicianship and his forward-thinking approach to bass guitar design.

Rickenbacker 4001: The Classic Entwistle Choice

Synonymous with the ‘70s rock era, the Rickenbacker 4001 carved its niche in The Who’s sonic backdrop with its ringing sustain and trebly punch. Its dual truss rods and dual pickups offered Entwistle the ability to sculpt his sound with a unique blend of warmth, clarity, and bite. The Rickenbacker’s distinctive shape and tone made it an instant classic in John’s repertoire, capturing the rebellious spirit of the time.

Warwick Buzzard: The Later Years’ Signature Axe

The Warwick Buzzard signaled a new era in Entwistle’s bass playing journey. Designed in collaboration with John himself, the Buzzard was built for power and precision. Known for its deep, growling lows and articulate mids, the Buzzard became John’s weapon of choice in his later years. With its striking aesthetics and unyielding performance, this bass guitar stood as a testament to Entwistle’s legacy as a bass pioneer.

Techniques and Styles That Defined Entwistle’s Bass Play

John Entwistle, the bassist of the legendary rock band The Who, revolutionized the way the bass guitar was played and perceived in rock music. His innovative approach and mastery of the instrument contributed to distinct sounds that became a hallmark of The Who’s identity. Entwistle’s style combined a melodic sensibility with an unprecedented aggressiveness, setting a new standard for bass guitarists. Explore the techniques and styles that not only defined the sound of one of rock’s most formidable bassists but also created a blueprint for generations to follow.

Aggressive Playing Style And Finger Techniques

Entwistle’s approach to bass was notably aggressive and powerful. Eschewing the traditional role of the bass as merely a background instrument, he brought it to the forefront with a mix of rhythmic ferocity and melodic inventiveness. His finger technique was exceptional; rather than using a pick, Entwistle applied a ‘typewriter’ style that involved tapping the strings with his fingertips, creating a percussive and clear tone that cut through the mix of The Who’s high-energy performances.

Furthermore, his rapid-fire assaults on the strings, known as ‘lead bass playing’, coupled with his virtuosic runs, trills, and grace notes, paved the way for future bassists to experiment with a more prominent role in a band’s sound. The result was a bass line that delivered not just rhythm, but also counter-melodies that complemented Pete Townshend’s guitar work.

Entwistle’s Pioneering Use Of Bi-amplification

A significant innovation that Entwistle introduced to the world of bass was the concept of bi-amplification. This involved using two separate amplifiers, one for the high frequencies and the other for the low, allowing him to achieve a dynamic range of sounds and control that was unheard of at the time. This setup not only allowed for a cleaner and more defined bass sound but also enabled Entwistle to push the volume without losing clarity, ensuring his intricate play was always audible, even in the loudest of venues.

Solo Work And Extended Range Basses

Entwistle’s exploratory spirit wasn’t confined to his work with The Who. In his solo career, he ventured further into the realm of extended range basses. Utilizing six and eight-string basses, he expanded the harmonic possibilities of his music. These instruments allowed Entwistle to cover a broader tonal spectrum and experiment with chordal playing and solo performances, clearly evident in his solo albums where he pushed the boundaries of the traditional bass sound. His choice of extended range basses showcased not only his technical proficiency but also his desire to continuously innovate his sound.

John Entwistle, famously known as “The Ox,” carved an indelible mark in the annals of rock with his thundering bass lines and groundbreaking technique. His arsenal of bass guitars became as legendary as the man himself, shaping the sound of The Who and influencing countless musicians. Entwistle’s preference for Alembic, Fender, and Gibson models, among others, left a lasting legacy that continues to resonate with the music world today.

Collectability And Auctions Of Entwistle’s Basses

The allure of John Entwistle’s bass guitars has only grown since his passing, with collectors and aficionados eager to own a piece of music history. These instruments, once cradled in the hands of a bass virtuoso, fetch commanding prices at auctions and serve as treasured pieces for those who acquire them. High-profile auctions have seen Entwistle’s basses find new homes, each sale a testament to their enduring collectability.

Influence On Subsequent Generations Of Bassists

Entwistle’s innovative playing style and iconic sound have inspired generations of bassists, from the punk rockers of the 70s to modern-day musicians. His technical prowess and melodic approach to the bass guitar laid a foundation that continues to influence the musical landscape. Aspiring bass players study his solos, dissect his riffs, and strive to emulate his fearless exploration of the instrument’s capabilities.

Preservation Of John Entwistle’s Instruments In Museums

Several of Entwistle’s bass guitars now reside in the protective embrace of museums, serving as relics of rock history. These shrines of music artfully display his instruments, from the custom-made Alembic explorers to the classic Fender Precisions. The preservation of these basses ensures that John Entwistle’s musical legacy is celebrated and shared with audiences for generations to come, immortalizing his impact on rock and roll.