Garrett Sayers is the extremely talented bassist behind Colorado-based funk powerhouse The Motet. His musical knowledge is hardly something to doubt, so we’re excited to have him school us on some must-know bass players! Here are Garrett Sayers’ Top 10 Bassists of All Time.

Francis “Rocco” Prestia

Rocco is a master of crafting and executing bass lines full of punchy, muted 16th notes. Listen to the Tower of Power song “Oakland Stroke”:

Verdine White

Verdine White drives the Earth, Wind & Fire train. For some amazing live footage, check out EWF’s 1981 release “In Concert”, the VHS version was a big hit in my home as a kid. Here’s a clip from the video:

Jaco Pastorius

Jaco opened many musical doors. He showed the world what is possible on a bass guitar. Everyone has been trying to catch up ever since. Listen to his entire self titled debut album. Here is a video of rare clips of Jaco:

Paul Chambers

There are so many great upright bass players, and in the history of jazz, one of them stands out more than any other. Paul Chambers had great time, perfect intonation, and a huge tone. He is famous though for his mastery of accompaniment, and soloing. P.C. is still one of the most influential bass soloists. Listen to him accompany Miles (with no piano, just drums):

Oteil Burbridge

Oteil is so musical. He has a great singing voice and is well known for scat-singing with his bass solos. But more significantly, he sings through his instrument, which is every instrumental soloist’s goal. He takes some great solos on Col. Bruce Hampton and the Aquarium Rescue Unit’s album “Mirrors of Embarrassment”. Here is Oteil playing a solo live:

Louis Johnson

Louis Johnson’s bass playing on Michael Jackson’s albums “Off The Wall” and “Thriller” is legendary. As was his work with The Brothers Johnson. Check out this awesome bass solo from ’79:

 

Aston “Family Man” Barrett

Family Man is the king of reggae bass. His roll in Bob Marley’s band as arranger, musical director, and co-producer of albums makes it clear that Bob would not have had the same impact without him. It’s hard to pick just one track, but “Burnin’ and Lootin'” is a great place to start.

Stuart Zender

Stuart Zender has a way of placing notes in time that force the listener to make the “stink face”. Jamiroquai’s first three albums feature his insane pocket. Here’s a live version of “Too Young To Die”:

Paul Jackson

Paul’s greasy, unique style is the secret ingredient in Herbie Hancock’s Headhunters band. Check out this cool video of Paul and Mike Clark:

Stephen “Thundercat” Bruner

Thundercat is making bass guitar solos and chords cool again. His playing and songwriting are featured on several Flying Lotus records as well as Kendrick Lamar‘s latest release. But his own records really showcase his multiple talents. Here is his trio live: