The electric bass guitar is 70 years old this year - at least in respect of the first production made - assembly line - model; namely the Fender Precision bass c/o Leo Fender. From 1951 onwards, it was destined to replace the string bass in the field of popular music; although the string bass still has a definitive role in Jazz, Folk music and anything that is more acoustic-based.
Once it was regarded as the simple man's job not requiring much beyond hitting roots and 5ths. But over time, notable players have raised the bar in regard to expectations; in terms of what it can do, what it can be and the techniques that enable it to happen. Along the way, virtuoso players have shown what can be done with the instrument. It is no longer regarded as the 'goalie' in the football team.
Despite that, the bass player is more often than not a fairly inauspicious person stood at the back somewhere near the drummer in their role as part of the rhythm section and foundation. To the bass player, it is more about the overall sound - a team effort; not a chance to grab the limelight and show off. Bass players rarely get to show off in an obvious way. Yet, without the bass, a lot of music would not have the feel that it does. The bass guitar leads to outbreaks of dancing more than any other instrument!
