Pioneers of the Pocket: Legendary 1970s Funk Bassists

The cosmic architect of funk bass with George Clinton's Parliament-Funkadelic collective. Known for his slap techniques, wah-wah pedal usage, and flamboyant stage presence, he helped create the 'P-Funk' sound that influenced generations of musicians.

Although primarily a keyboardist, Worrell’s bass lines on tracks like 'Flash Light' were revolutionary. He utilized the Minimoog to create synthetic bass frequencies that became iconic in the early electronic funk movement.

The inventor of the two-hand tapping technique and 'slap bass' while playing with Sly & the Family Stone. His percussive style on songs like 'Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)' redefined what a bassist could do technically.

Before becoming a disco and pop production powerhouse, Rodgers was the rhythm guitarist for Chic, but his bassist Chic Smith laid the groundwork. However, Rodgers' own rhythmic precision and chordal bass playing in his solo career and productions are legendary.

As the primary bassist and co-founder of Chic, Edwards crafted some of the most sampled bass lines in history. His interlocking rhythm with drummer Tony Thompson created the 'chic' groove that defined late 70s disco and modern hip-hop.

A key member of the legendary session group The Wrecking Crew, Kaye played on countless hits in the 60s and early 70s. Her melodic, precise bass lines on tracks by The Ronettes and Frank Sinatra showcase the sophistication of session playing.

Led Zeppelin’s bassist who brought a rock-oriented, heavy approach to the instrument. His use of Mellotron and bass pedals on songs like 'Kashmir' and 'D'yer Mak'er demonstrated the versatility of bass in progressive and hard rock contexts.

Post-Sly, Graham continued to push the boundaries of slap bass in his solo work and with Graham Central Station. His album 'Vodka, Tobacco and Grass' remains a staple of the funk bass genre, showcasing his continued innovation.

The brothers from Ohio were integral to the Ohio Players' heavy funk sound. Their driving, distorted bass lines provided the backbone for hits like 'Fire,' blending rock intensity with funk rhythms.

A staple of the New York City session scene in the 70s, Lee played with Lou Reed and John Lennon. His versatility allowed him to seamlessly transition between rock, funk, and jazz, making him a sought-after player for diverse genres.

A jazz virtuoso who brought acoustic and electric bass complexity to rock and funk contexts. His work with Return to Forever and solo albums like 'School Days' showcased technical prowess and melodic invention that expanded the instrument's role.

While his major solo fame came in the 80s and 90s, Wooten began his career in the 70s as a child prodigy. His early influences and appearances set the stage for a career dedicated to pushing the technical limits of funk and jazz fusion.

Guitarist and bassist for Parliament-Funkadelic, Shider co-wrote many of the group's biggest hits. His rhythmic guitar work often mimicked bass lines, contributing to the dense, layered 'G-Funk' aesthetic that emerged from the collective.

Known later as The Rolling Stones' bassist, Jones started in the 70s as a session musician in Chicago. His ability to lock in with drummers and provide a solid, melodic foundation made him a favorite for jazz and R&B sessions early in his career.

A versatile player who worked with King Crimson and Peter Gabriel in the 70s. He pioneered the use of the Chapman Stick and bass pedals, adding unique textures to progressive rock and pop that influenced funk and alternative music alike.

Beginning his career in the mid-70s as a teenager, Miller became a prodigy in jazz and funk. His later work with Miles Davis defined the 80s, but his 70s origins in New Orleans laid the groundwork for his revolutionary slap style.

Though his biggest impact was in the late 70s with Weather Report, his 1976 debut album 'Jaco Pastorius' was a landmark. His fretless bass technique and harmonic knowledge influenced almost every bassist who followed in the funk and jazz genres.

A premier session bassist in New York and Los Angeles during the 70s. His work with Aretha Franklin, Billy Paul, and John Scofield showcases a deep pocket and melodic sensibility that became the standard for soul and funk recordings.

A member of the Road Warriors and a prolific session player since the 60s, Sklar’s bass lines on 70s hits with Carole King and James Taylor brought a smooth, melodic funk sensibility to pop and rock records.

A New York session legend who played with Miles Davis, Steely Dan, and Eric Clapton in the 70s. His ability to add complex harmonic textures to simple rock and funk arrangements made him indispensable in the studio.

The original bassist for Bad Company and King Crimson, Burrell brought a raw, rock-funk energy to his playing. His groove on Bad Company's self-titled debut and King Crimson's early albums highlighted the intersection of hard rock and funk rhythms.