Gene Simmons Names Top Bass Players, Hails McCartney’s Genius
KISS co-founder and bass legend Gene Simmons recently shared his top picks for bassists, placing Paul McCartney at the very top of his list. In a recent interview, Simmons openly expressed his views on “bass virtuosos,” whom he described as “show-offs in music.” However, the celebrated bassist made it clear that certain players, especially McCartney, excel for all the right reasons.
Simmons Praises McCartney’s Unique Bass Lines
“The biggest compliment I can give Paul McCartney is that you can pick the vast majority of Beatles songs, and you’ll remember what the bass was playing,” Simmons said, highlighting McCartney’s remarkable ability to create memorable bass lines. Simmons further described McCartney as “a triple threat—he wrote songs that were unmatched, became the most successful songwriter of all time, and he wrote them by himself.”
By placing McCartney at the pinnacle of his list, Simmons joins a chorus of musicians and critics who regard McCartney’s skill, innovation, and influence as exceptional in rock bass history. Relive the classic bass line from “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.”
Other Rock Bass Icons in Simmons’ Lineup
In addition to McCartney, Simmons recognized several other bass heavyweights in the world of rock. He mentioned Ronnie Wood, who originally played bass for The Rolling Stones in their early years before transitioning to guitar. Simmons also gave a nod to Felix Pappalardi of Mountain, whose gritty, melodic style helped define the band’s sound.
Simmons also cited Chris Squire of Yes, known for his precision and groundbreaking technique, which became a staple in progressive rock. Another mention went to Michael Anthony, whose explosive bass lines fueled Van Halen’s powerful and hard-hitting sound.
Honoring Carol Kaye and Other Influential Bassists
Besides these rock legends, Simmons acknowledged other notable players who left an indelible mark on bass guitar history, including Mountain’s Felix Pappalardi, Yes’s Chris Squire, and the legendary Carol Kaye.
And yet another classic McCartney bassline in “Taxman.”
What’s your favorite Paul McCartney bassline? Or who’s your favorite bassist. Let us know! Mine is the largely uncredited Motown bassist James Jamerson.
Read more about Gene Simmon’s in his interview with Guitar World.