Although Geddy Lee may dominate conversations about legendary bassists, he isn’t the only bass maestro.
Lee’s unique charisma elevated the instrument far beyond its traditional role, but many great players came before, during, and after his reign, each contributing something exceptional.
Lee’s genius lay in his ability to bring the bass to the forefront of music. Before Rush, the bass was often seen as a background element, but Lee’s finger-picking precision and musical intuition gave it a starring role.
His playing turned the bass from an accompaniment into a showpiece, demanding attention and admiration.
One of Lee’s secrets to success was his authenticity. Unlike some musicians who try to appear entirely original, Lee embraced his influences.
He honored legendary players like John Paul Jones, Paul McCartney, and Jaco Pastorius while also bringing something new to the table. This balance of tradition and innovation is what made Lee’s style stand out.
Lee’s appreciation for these bass pioneers stems from their groundbreaking work, both in music history and in pushing the boundaries of what the bass could do.
These musicians weren’t just technical masters; they were brave innovators who took the bass to new heights, much like Lee himself.
One bass player who embodies this same fearless spirit is Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Known for his dynamic style, Flea’s approach to minimalism is anything but simple.
He fuses various genres and techniques to create something both technically impressive and rhythmically unique.
In Lee’s eyes, Flea’s brilliance comes from his dedication to the craft and his love for the bass.
“His solos are insane from a technical point of view,” Lee said in an interview with MusicRadar. He also noted how Flea’s rhythmic style is distinct from his own generation, blending elements in a way that sets him apart.
Lee admires how Flea’s passion for playing shines through in every performance. That joy creates a special connection between the player and the audience, turning every bass line into a powerful experience.
Flea’s enthusiasm for his craft has also made him one of the most prolific bassists in the industry, something Lee values deeply in a fellow musician.
As Lee summed up, “He never takes for granted the opportunity to get out there and wind it up. Any bass player that’s allowed to play too much has the best gig in the world.”
