Martin Mendez!

 

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Heh I was wondering if anyone would say Mendez.


I'm not sure who i'd pick though.

 

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Fine, Roger Walters of Pink Floyd. Even though I don't consider base guitar skill that high of a accomadation as its so much easier to play than other instruments.

 

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I would say Flea.

"In that vein, when I think of the best rock bassist, I think he should be one who leads a rhythm section while providing other members the freedom for musical development and experimentation."


Heh you just described what could be several outstanding bass players over the years... Geddy Lee among them.


And with all due respect Paul McCartney has no place on any list of best anything (favourite I can see, but greatest?) He is a solid musician, but mentioning him in the company of many bassists listed in the post, is like saying Charlie Watts is a "great" drummer.


Anyhow, these "who is the best <insert instrument here>" are silly when you think about it. There have been many GREAT bass players over the years, some better than others overall, some more proficient at slapping or on fretless instruments.


And unless I missed it, no one mentioned Chris Squire, Gary Peacock or Jeff Berlin (incredible bassist).

 

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For the "best" bassist (obviously objective) I believe there should be a balance of technical ability and knowing when to hold the groove. I've always liked Billy Sheehan, Stanley Clarke, Chris Squire and Geddy Lee in this regard (plus the fact that they get monster tone).

Def. Billy Sheehan...saw him live...wow.

I love these "best" threads. Even though, there never really is a "best".


For me, I like Squire, Entwhistle, Dave Schools, Tony Levin, Rocco Prestia (Tower of Power), and George Porter Jr.

 

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Les Claypool puts them all to shame.

Krist Novoselic