The popularity of left-handed Rickenbacker basses in different genres of music

Left-handed Rickenbacker basses have been used in a wide range of genres of music, from rock and pop to punk, new wave, and heavy metal. In this article, we'll explore the popularity of left-handed Rickenbacker basses in different genres of music.

 

Rock and Pop

Left-handed Rickenbacker basses have been used extensively in rock and pop music, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s. Paul McCartney of The Beatles famously used a left-handed Rickenbacker 4001S bass, which helped to establish the bass as a staple of the British Invasion sound. Other notable left-handed Rickenbacker bass players in rock and pop music include John Entwistle of The Who, Andy Rourke of The Smiths, and Mike Mills of R.E.M.

 

Punk and New Wave

Left-handed Rickenbacker basses have also been used in punk and new wave music, particularly in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Peter Hook of Joy Division and New Order used a left-handed Rickenbacker 4001 bass on many of the band's most famous recordings, including Love Will Tear Us Apart and Blue Monday. Other notable left-handed Rickenbacker bass players in punk and new wave music include Bruce Foxton of The Jam and Steve Strange of Visage.

 

Heavy Metal

Left-handed Rickenbacker basses have also been used in heavy metal music, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. Cliff Burton of Metallica used a left-handed Rickenbacker 4001 bass on many of the band's classic albums, including Ride the Lightning and Master of Puppets. Other notable left-handed Rickenbacker bass players in heavy metal music include Geezer Butler of Black Sabbath and David Ellefson of Megadeth.

 

Alternative and Indie

Left-handed Rickenbacker basses have also been popular in alternative and indie music, particularly in the 1990s and 2000s. Kim Deal of The Pixies and The Breeders used a left-handed Rickenbacker 4001 bass on many of the band's recordings, which helped to establish the bass as a favorite in the alternative music scene. Other notable left-handed Rickenbacker bass players in alternative and indie music include Justin Meldal-Johnsen of Beck and Nine Inch Nails, and Nick Harmer of Death Cab for Cutie.

 

Jazz and Fusion

Left-handed Rickenbacker basses have also been used in jazz and fusion music, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s. Jaco Pastorius used a left-handed Rickenbacker 4001 bass on many of his most famous recordings, including Birdland and The Chicken. Other notable left-handed Rickenbacker bass players in jazz and fusion music include Alphonso Johnson and Michael Manring.

 

What to look out for when buying Rickenbacker bass?

Buying a Rickenbacker bass guitar is a significant investment, so it's important to know what to look out for to ensure you get a high-quality instrument. Here are some things to consider when buying a Rickenbacker bass guitar:

 

Authenticity: Rickenbacker bass guitars are highly sought after by collectors, so it's important to ensure you're getting an authentic instrument. Look for serial numbers, logos, and other identifying marks to ensure the guitar is genuine.

 

Condition: Check the condition of the guitar, including the body, neck, and hardware. Look for any signs of damage or wear, such as cracks, scratches, or dents.

 

Playability: Play the guitar to ensure it feels comfortable in your hands and has good playability. Check the frets, neck, and intonation to ensure the guitar is set up correctly and plays in tune.

 

Sound: Test the sound of the guitar to ensure it has the distinctive Rickenbacker tone you're looking for. Listen for any buzzing or unwanted noise that could indicate issues with the guitar's pickups or wiring.

 

Price: Rickenbacker bass guitars are high-quality instruments, and they come with a premium price tag. While it's important to consider the cost, it's equally important to ensure you're getting a quality instrument that will last for many years.

 

By considering these factors when buying a Rickenbacker bass guitar, you can ensure you get a high-quality instrument that meets your needs and expectations.