Since we have a 'greatest rock vocalist' and 'greatest rock guitarist' of all time thread, why not have one for the bassist. (If someone doesn't start one for the 'greatest drummer', I guess I'll do that too when the urge strikes. Anyway, this thread could be rather short. I make no secret of the fact that I think Iron Maiden is the best rock act of all time, mainly because of bassist and lead song writer Steve Harris. If you've ever listened to Maiden, especially the older stuff, you know that dude plays the bass like a lead guitar' all without the benefit of a pick. (He plucks it with his fingers and looks cool doing it, unlike some bassists). Therefore IMO, the best bassist of all time starts and ends with Steve Harris. Here is a VERY small sample.
Keep in mind that the two rock'n'bassists that started all of this were The Who's John Entwistle, the first R'N'R lead bassist, and Chris Squire of Yes, with his inimitable style.
A few that stand out Flea - Amazing But I think the best has to be Les Claypool of Primus Go to 1:20 of the video - Sick
Have to agree on Les Claypool. Too bad this is limited to rock, because I'd be remiss in not being able to talk about Jaco Pastorius and Victor Wooten. Jaco: Victor Wooten
That he is. So is Geddy Lee. Just, IMHO, Steve Harris is better. He revolutionized the instrument as it pertains to heavy metal.
