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A Guide to the Fender Jazz Bass

A Guide to the Fender Jazz Bass
George Van Wagner

The Fender Jazz Bass has been the instrument of choice for some of the most influential bassists in pop, funk, jazz and rock, and the featured bass in countless recording sessions. One of the most interesting facts about the J Bass is that there is no other Fender instrument that has had more signature models over the years—not the Strat, not the Tele, nor the Precision Bass.

In this article, we're going to take a quick look at the history of the Jazz Bass and touch on some of the players who have relied on it as their principal instrument. We'll also take a look at what it is that makes the Jazz Bass so unique and provide a guide to the current selection of J Bass models you can find here at Guitar Center.

Table of Contents

The Early History of the Fender Jazz Bass
How Does the Fender Jazz Bass Compare to Other Popular Basses?
A Guide to Fender and Squier Jazz Bass Models
   Squier Affinity Series Limited-Edition PJ Bass
   Squier Affinity Series Active Jazz Bass V
   Squier Classic Vibe '70s Jazz Bass
   Fender Vintera II '60s Jazz Bass
   Fender Player II Jazz Bass
   Fender American Performer Jazz Bass
   Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass V
   Fender American Ultra II Jazz Bass
   Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass
   Fender Flea Signature Road Worn Jazz Bass
   Fender USA Geddy Lee Signature Jazz Bass
   Fender Jaco Pastorius Fretless Jazz Bass
   Fender Limited-Edition Blu DeTiger Player Plus Jazz Bass
   Fender Custom Shop 1960 Jazz Bass Time Machine
   Fender Custom Shop '68 Jazz Journeyman Relic Aged
Famous Fender Jazz Bass Players and Featured Tracks
Getting Down With the Jazz Bass

The Early History of the Fender Jazz Bass

Unlike many of the earlier Fender products, the Jazz Bass didn't spring from the mind of Leo Fender but instead was conceived of by Fender's marketing mastermind, Don Randall. In the same way that the development of the Stratocaster—and then the Jazzmaster—were driven by the desire to offer a more "deluxe" instrument than the Telecaster, Randall wanted Fender to create a more upscale version of the Precision Bass—more attractive, more versatile and more appealing to the jazz musicians who had been reluctant to pick up an electric bass. This was in part how the new electric bass guitar came to be named the Jazz Bass.

Fender 1960 Jazz Bass in Olympic White

Pictured: 1960 Fender Jazz Bass in Olympic White

Combining the offset body style of 1957's Jazzmaster with the Precision Bass' 34" scale and a pair of single-coil pickups (reversing the polarity of the magnets for hum cancellation), the Jazz Bass went into production in early 1960. Early versions, up into 1962, used stacked pots, so that each pickup had its own volume and tone control. There is no firm cutoff date for the change to the familiar two-volume, one-tone knob control setup as Fender ran through their existing inventory of the dual potentiometers before solidifying the change.

There would be other changes over the next several years—the switch from slab rosewood fingerboard to a round-laminated fingerboard in 1963, neck binding and pearloid dot inlays added in 1966, and the shift to block pearloid inlays the next year, then the release of the maple fingerboard version with black inlays starting to appear in 1968. By and large, with the exception of the moving of the bridge pickup .4" (10 mm) closer to the bridge in 1972—which slightly accentuated the brightness of the pickup—the non-aesthetic aspects of the Jazz Bass were to remain largely unchanged, with the biggest additions over the years to be five-string models and the availability of models with active electronics.

But what is it about the Fender Jazz Bass that sets it apart and has made it such an essential instrument for so many legendary bassists?

How Does the Fender Jazz Bass Compare to Other Popular Basses?

When it comes to basses, there are few instruments that have captured the imagination of as many players as the Fender Jazz Bass. At its core, it's a masterclass in tone shaping and versatility. But it's not just about raw power or flexibility—it's also about nuance and subtlety.

The combination of dual pickups and blendable volume controls delivers an incredible range of tonal possibilities. The ability to add just a little bit of that bridge pickup growl to the warm, round tones of the middle pickup, or to add just a little extra bottom end on that articulate slap bass line makes the Jazz Bass fit in more easily across genres and styles.

You wouldn't think a mere sixteenth of an inch would make that big a difference, but many players feel the oh-so-slightly narrower nut width of the Jazz Bass makes it more comfortable and easier to play. That factor has certainly made it a favorite with many guitarists who double on bass—it helps reset their brain into the mindset required to hold down that foundation.

Fender Player II Jazz Bass Headstock

Shop Now: Fender Player II Jazz Bass Headstock

Pickup positioning is another factor. Where the pickups are placed has a decided effect on their sound, both individually and when combined. The middle pickup placed where it emphasizes the fundamental is a perfect match to the bridge pickup, which allows for greater reproduction of a string's upper harmonic series (check out Jaco Pastorius' mastery of using harmonics on his fretless Fender Jazz Bass).

Finally, there's the comfort factor. To start, the contoured, offset body makes playing long sessions while seated, as is common for session players, much more comfortable. And the ergonomics of the control placement make it easy to shift picking/plucking/thumping to a multitude of spots for tonal variety and emphasis while still having easy access to those volume and tone controls.

With all that, it's no wonder that the Fender Jazz Bass has held a place of honor among both session aces and road warriors over the decades. But, for perspective, let’s take a look at a chart comparing five of the most popular basses around today. 

Bass Model

Scale Length

Nut Width

Controls

Pickup Number/Type

Active/Passive Electronics

Sonic Quality

Fender Jazz Bass

34"

1.5"/38 mm

Individual volume, master tone

2/single-coil RWRP hum cancelling

Varies by model, mostly passive

Bright, articlulate mids and highs with ample bass from middle pickup

Fender Precision Bass

34"

1.62"/41.3 mm

Single volume, single tone

1/split single-coil RWRP hum cancelling

Passive

Warm, balanced, with deep bass and strong midrange

Fender Mustang Bass

30"

1.5"/38 mm

Single volume, single tone

1/split single-coil RWRP hum cancelling

Passive

Similar to the Precision, but with a slightly brighter tone due to its shorter scale length

Gibson EB-0

30.5"

1.5"/38 mm

Single volume, single tone

1/humbucker

Passive

Deep, resonant, with a strong low-end and midrange presence

Ernie Ball Music Man Stingray

34"

1.62"/41.3 mm

single volume, 2- or 3-band EQ

1/humbucker

Active

Balanced, with a smooth high-end response and a solid midrange

A Guide to Fender and Squier Jazz Bass Models

Fender offers a wide range of Jazz Bass models, with basses suitable for every musical style and skill level. From beginner to advanced; rock to prog and fusion, there's sure to be a model that's calling your name. So, let's take a quick look at the wide variety of Squier and Fender Jazz Bass flavors available at your local Guitar Center so you can find the best Jazz Bass for your sound, playing style and budget.

Fender Jazz Bass Group Shot

Shop Now: Squier and Fender Jazz Basses

Squier Affinity Series Limited-Edition PJ Bass

Why It's Cool: You can't beat the value and features of this limited-edition model.

Things to Consider:

  • Combines the thunder of a P Bass with the articulate punch of a Jazz Bass
  • Lightweight poplar body keeps it easy to handle
  • High-output ceramic pickups cut through the mix

Squier Affinity Series Limited-Edition PJ Bass in Sunburst

Shop Now: Squier Affinity Series Limited-Edition PJ Bass in 3-Color Sunburst

The Squier Affinity Series PJ Bass in a limited-edition three-tone sunburst finish is a phenomenal choice, whether you're just starting to play or looking to add a bass to your existing arsenal. From its powerful ceramic pickups—combining the best of the Fender Precision and Jazz Bass tones—to its lightweight poplar body, it's a pleasure to play and a joy to hear.

Squier Affinity Series Active Jazz Bass V

Why It's Cool: Get the thunder of a low B string and the flexibility of active electronics at an amazing price.

Things to Consider:

  • Dual ceramic Squier Noiseless J Bass pickups for hum-free playing
  • Active preamp delivers two-band cut/boost EQ
  • Expanded range you can only get from a five-string

Squier Affinity Series Active Jazz Bass V in Black Metallic

Shop Now: Squier Affinity Series Active Jazz Bass V in Black Metallic

Some players just want to shake the world, and that's why the five-string bass was born. This top-selling Squier Affinity Series Active Jazz Bass V lowers the barrier to lowering the frequency. From the comfortable, ultraplayable J Bass neck profile to the lightweight poplar body, this one is definitely all about that bass. It's a great choice for beginners or for bassists who want to make that leap into the five-string world.

Squier Classic Vibe '70s Jazz Bass

Why It's Cool: This smooth-sounding Jazz Bass combines ’70s vintage vibe with a player-friendly price.

Things to Consider:

  • Fender-designed alnico pickups for punch and clarity
  • Vintage-style hardware completes the look
  • Poplar body keeps things light

Squier Classic Vibe '70s Jazz Bass

Shop Now: Squier Classic Vibe '70s Jazz Bass in Natural

The natural-finish, maple fingerboard Jazz Bass models of the 1970s are some of the most legendary, seen in the hands of many players of that era. Capture that groove with this Squier Classic Vibe version. It's got all the things you want in a J Bass, from punchy alnico pickups that offer the full range of articulate sonic options to the archetypal slim Jazz Bass neck.

Fender Vintera II Jazz Bass

Why It's Cool: With its vintage-inspired design and updated features, the Fender Vintera II '60s Jazz Bass is a modern take on a classic instrument that's sure to please both retro enthusiasts and seasoned players.

Things to Consider:

  • '60s vintage-style pickups deliver an authentic 1960s vibe
  • Period-style hardware completes the look of a classic Jazz Bass
  • Vintage C neck profile provides a traditional playing feel

Fender Vintera II '60s Jazz Bass in Lake Placid Blue

Shop Now: Fender Vintera II '60s Jazz Bass in Lake Placid Blue

A masterclass in combining nostalgic design with modern sensibilities, the Fender Vintera II '60s Jazz Bass is instantly recognizable. Its sleek, curvaceous body and vintage-style headstock deliver a classic tone that is surprisingly modern and versatile. The ’60s vintage-style pickups deliver an authentic 1960s vibe, with articulate highs and rich lows. With its period-style hardware and C neck profile, this bass is a joy to play, providing a responsive, traditional feel that's perfect for both melodic lines and thumping grooves. Whether you're covering the classics or making your own mark on music history, the Vintera II ’60s Jazz Bass is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable, great-sounding instrument with timeless style.

Fender Player II Jazz Bass

Why It's Cool: Get timeless tone and feel with modern features and playability, as embodied by the Fender Player II Jazz Bass.

Things to Consider:

  • Player Series Alnico V pickups provide a versatile and articulate sound with a balanced blend of warmth and brightness
  • Vintage-style touches, including a disc string tree and three-ply pickguard, add a nostalgic and authentic feel to the instrument's design
  • Rosewood fingerboard adds warmth and depth to the sound, providing a smooth playing experience for players of all levels

Fender Player II Jazz Bass in Hialeah Yellow

Shop Now: Fender Player II Jazz Bass in Hialeah Yellow

The Fender Player II Jazz Bass takes a modern look at the classic Jazz Bass design. It combines the traditional Jazz Bass body and neck with a pair of Fender's alnico V Player Series single-coil pickups to deliver an articulate and aggressive tone. The rosewood fingerboard adds a touch of warmth and depth to the sound. With its versatile features and reliable construction, the Player II Jazz Bass is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a great-sounding instrument with timeless style.

Fender American Performer Jazz Bass

Why It's Cool: Modern playability meets vintage tone in the Fender American Performer Jazz Bass.

Things to Consider:

  • Yosemite pickups deliver rich, articulate sound with a balanced blend of warmth and brightness
  • Greasebucket tone system provides a versatile way to shape highs without altering the bass
  • ClassicGear tuners offer smooth, reliable tuning performance that's essential for any serious musician

Fender American Performer Jazz Bass 3-Color Sunburst

Shop Now: Fender American Performer Jazz Bass in 3-Color Sunburst

The Fender American Performer Jazz Bass delivers modern playability with a twist. Its sleek, contoured body houses Fender's Yosemite pickups, providing a rich, articulate sound with a balance of warmth and brightness. But it's the Greasebucket tone system that really sets it apart—providing the ability to contour your highs without affecting that Jazz Bass low end you love. With ClassicGear tuners keeping everything in tune, this bass is ready to deliver.

Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass V

Why It's Cool: The Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass V redefines versatility with its five-string configuration, opening up new sonic possibilities for adventurous players.

Things to Consider:

  • V-Mod pickups deliver a balanced sound with improved midrange clarity and a tight, articulate low end
  • Rolled fingerboard edges provide a smooth, rounded feel that reduces finger fatigue for increased comfort and precision while playing
  • Sculpted neck heel allows easy upper fret access

Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass V in Olympic White

Shop Now: Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass V in Olympic White

The Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass V is designed to deliver exceptional playability and tone. The bass features Fender's high-performance V-Mod pickups, providing a balanced sound that cuts through any mix. Combined with the rolled fingerboard edges and sculpted neck heel, this instrument makes navigating the upper frets a breeze. With five strings at your disposal, you'll have unprecedented flexibility to create complex sounds and push the boundaries of what's possible on bass.

Fender American Ultra II Jazz Bass

Why It's Cool: The American Ultra II is at the cutting edge of bass design, boasting premium features.

Things to Consider:

  • Compound-radius, rolled-edge fingerboard and tapered neck heel keep it fast and comfortable all the way to the 21st fret
  • Ultra II Noiseless pickups with switchable active mode double down on quiet
  • Fender Hi-Mass bridge maximizes sustain and tone

Fender American Ultra II Jazz Bass in Noble Blue

Shop Now: Fender American Ultra II Jazz Bass in Noble Blue

When Fender launched the Ultra II Series (check to see if u/c), they were looking to produce the most advanced, polished and playable production instruments ever, and the American Ultra II Jazz Bass more than lives up to that goal. With switchable active/passive operation, it's easy to go old school or modern. Active mode features a 3-band EQ with switchable midrange frequency for serious tone tweaking. And the familiar slim J Bass neck profile is accentuated by the rolled-edge, compound radius fingerboard for unparalleled playing comfort. The American Ultra II Jazz Bass is also available in a 5-string variation.

Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass

Why It's Cool: The Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass is a recreation of one of the most iconic basses in rock history, offering a tone and feel that's deeply rooted in the past.

Things to Consider:

  • Pure Vintage '66 pickups deliver a balanced sound with improved midrange clarity and a tight, articulate low end
  • Vintage-style neck profile and vintage 7.25" fingerboard radius provides authentic feel
  • Period-correct hardware contributes to the overall vibe

Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass in Olympic White

Shop Now: Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass in Olympic White

The Fender American Vintage II 1966 Jazz Bass is built to deliver a rich, vintage tone that's perfect for players who crave authenticity. With its Pure Vintage '66 pickups, this bass is capable of producing a wide range of sounds, from smooth jazz to aggressive rock. The classic neck profile and vintage-style fingerboard radius ensure comfortable playability, making it easy to navigate the fretboard with precision.

Fender Flea Signature Road Worn Jazz Bass

Why It's Cool: The Flea Signature Road Worn Jazz Bass is a unique and bold take on the classic Fender design, paying homage to the Red Hot Chili Pepper’s iconic bassist while also showcasing his own distinctive style.

Things to Consider:

  • Custom-designed pickups deliver a versatile sound with a strong midrange presence and articulate low end
  • Roadworn finish adds a weathered, vintage aesthetic that's perfect for players who want a bass that looks like it's been well loved
  • Active electronics provide a high-output signal for easy amplification

Fender Flea Signature Road Worn Jazz Bass in Shell Pink

Shop Now: Fender Flea Signature Road Worn Jazz Bass in Shell Pink

For Flea, there's no substitute for the raw energy of his vintage '62 Jazz Bass. That's why he partnered with Fender to create this signature model, which captures the essence of his iconic stacked-pot controls and the unmistakable tone that's made him a rock legend. With its custom-designed pickups and roadworn finish, this bass is ready to unleash its own brand of sonic chaos on your music.

Fender USA Geddy Lee Signature Jazz Bass

Why It's Cool: A unique and highly sought-after instrument, the Fender Geddy Lee Signature Jazz Bass combines stunning looks with exceptional playability and tone.

Things to Consider:

  • Custom artist neck profile provides a comfortable playing experience for musicians of all levels
  • Signature Hi-Mass bridge ensures precise string alignment and stability, perfect for players who want more aggressive soundscapes and articulate low end
  • Maple neck adds brightness and clarity to the overall tone, making it ideal for Lee's intricate bass lines

Fender USA Geddy Lee Signature Jazz Bass Black Maple Neck

Shop Now: Fender USA Geddy Lee Signature Jazz Bass in Black

Rush bassist Geddy Lee's signature instrument is a testament to Fender's commitment to innovation and musicianship. Built by skilled artisans in the USA, this Jazz Bass features a stunning black maple neck and body that will appeal to both collectors and working musicians alike. With its attention to detail and focus on playability, the Fender USA Geddy Lee Signature Jazz Bass offers an exceptional playing experience for those who demand the best.

Fender Jaco Pastorius Fretless Jazz Bass

Why It's Cool: Capture the legendary tone of Jaco Pastorius in this iconic fretless bass.

Things to Consider:

  • Urethane-coated pau ferro fingerboard with inlaid position markers provides a glass-like playing surface for unparalleled expressiveness
  • Fender American Vintage Jazz Bass pickups capture authentic vintage tone
  • A signature-stamped neck plate complements the vintage hardware for an instrument you'll treasure

Fender Jaco Pastorius Fretless Jazz Bass in 3-Color Sunburst

Shop Now: Fender Jaco Pastorius Fretless Jazz Bass in 3-Color Sunburst

The Fender Jaco Pastorius Fretless Jazz Bass carries on his tradition with a unique playing experience that's as innovative as it is playable. Designed in collaboration with the iconic Jaco Pastorius, this fretless bass is based on Jaco's one-of-a-kind instrument—one that continues to inspire bassists around the world.

Fender Limited-Edition Blu DeTiger Player Plus Jazz Bass

Why It's Cool: The Blu DeTiger Player Plus Jazz Bass captures the style and tone of the TikTok star.

Things to Consider:

  • Unique pickup combination offers huge range of available tone
  • Lightweight chambered ash body for added comfort in long sessions and performances
  • Unique aesthetics match Blu DeTiger's personal style

Fender Limited-Edition Blu DeTiger Player Plus Jazz Bass

Shop Now: Fender Limited-Edition Blu DeTiger Player Plus Jazz Bass in Sky Burst Sparkle

With high-end components from the signature Fireball humbucker to a 3-band active EQ, the limited-edition Blu DeTiger Player Plus Jazz Bass is a perfect reflection of the unique style and smoothly funky basslines of this rising star. The chambered ash body makes it light enough to play all night. Blending the bridge Fireball with the Player Plus Noiseless Jazz Bass middle pickup offers a wide and unique range of tones. Whether you're figuring it out or murdering 'em on the dance floor, this is how you get there.

Fender Custom Shop 1960 Jazz Bass Time Machine

Why It's Cool: It's like this 1960 Jazz Bass just stepped out of a time machine.

Things to Consider:

  • Period-correct details in hardware, pickups and finish
  • Meticulous craftsmanship from experienced Custom Shop builders
  • Fit and finish second to none

Fender Custom Shop 1960 Jazz Bass NOS Rosewood Fingerboard Time Machine 3-Color Sunburst

Shop Now: Fender Custom Shop 1960 Jazz Bass NOS Time Machine in 3-Color Sunburst

This 1960 Fender Custom Shop Time Machine Jazz Bass is probably as close as you can get to having bought it in 1960 and lovingly cared for it over the years. But better, because it was built with the meticulous care of Fender's amazing Custom Shop builders. From the handwound pickups and quartersawn maple neck with slab rosewood fingerboard to the classic, concentric control knobs, it's an idealized Fender Jazz Bass—the only you've always dreamed of.

Fender Custom Shop '68 Jazz Bass Journeyman Relic Aged

Why It's Cool: Get an instrument that's true to vintage specs, with the Custom Shop ’68 Jazz Bass.

Things to Consider: (all was bolded below)

  • Handwound pickups for vintage tone
  • Meticulous craftsmanship from experienced Custom Shop builders
  • Top-tier materials like quarter-sawn maple, nitro lacquer finish and period-correct hardware

Fender Custom Shop '68 Jazz Bass Journeyman Relic Aged in Candy Apple Red

Shop Now: Fender Custom Shop 68 Jazz Bass Journeyman Relic Aged in Candy Apple Red

Get all the vibe of a vintage treasure with the superb quality of a Fender Custom Shop build with this ’68 Jazz Bass Journeyman Relic. Featuring a two-piece body of carefully selected alder, handwound Custom Shop vintage-style pickups and full period-correct hardware this Jazz Bass delivers a seamless top-of-the-line experience. You can frame that Certificate of Authenticity, but you won't want to just leave this one hanging on the wall because it was built to be taken out and played.

Famous Fender Jazz Bass Players and Featured Tracks

The Fender Jazz Bass has been popular across genres and has been the choice of some of the most influential and groundbreaking bassists for more than six decades. Let's take a look a cross-section of players and listen to how they used their J Bass to help evolve the art of bass playing.

Fender Player II Jazz Bass

Shop Now: Fender Player II Jazz Bass in Polar White

Adam Clayton, "Pride (In the Name of Love)" by U2 (1984)

Clayton's playing with U2 has always showcased his ability to use his Jazz Bass to create a strong foundation underneath their anthemic style with deft melodic sense and a chordal style that reinforces The Edge's frequently sparse lines. As for his bass, Clayton says, “I love those single-coil-pickup sounds. I love the range of tone you can get on a J Bass. You can play around with it and get a lot of variation right there on the actual bass.”

Tim Commerford, "Guerilla Radio" by Rage Against The Machine (1999)

Combining punk aggression with precise, rapid-fire lines, Commerford's style was the perfect complement to Tom Morello's experimentation and Rage Against the Machine's political bravado. Commerford has cited the Jazz Bass neck as “ … the most comfortable one for me.”

Blu DeTiger, "Latency" (2024)

One of the shining examples of how to use social media to jumpstart your musical career, DeTiger's strong pop sensibility and funk-tinged bass playing has made her a strong contender for breakout star. DeTiger has said, “Today, genre is so fluid that you really need an instrument with full versatility that you can get any kind of sound out of—no limits—and that’s what I tried to do with this bass.”

Gail Ann Dorsey, "À toi" by -M- (2022)

Frequently referred to as "David Bowie's secret weapon," Dorsey's career as bassist and vocalist extends far beyond her work with The Thin White Duke, encompassing international session work and several solo albums.

Ben Ely, "Miffy's Simplicity" by Regurgitator (1996)

Regurgitator bassist Ben Ely blends funk, punk, psychedelia, hip-hop and electronic music to bring a unique spin on what you can do with a Jazz Bass to this Australian band.

Flea, "Aeroplane" by Red Hot Chili Peppers (1995)

Red Hot Chili Pepper's blend of punk, funk, melodicism and sheer exuberance are probably best embodied by Flea's energetic playing and riveting stage antics. His attachment to the Fender J Bass is deep, especially to the treasured ’61 model his signature bass is modeled on, saying, “The greatest bass I’ve ever played is the ’61—it’s just a magic bass.”

Larry Graham, "It Ain't No Fun to Me" by Graham Central Station (1973)

The man who created slap bass when his trio's drummer quit, Graham was at the forefront of the fusion of rock and soul music in the late 1960s and early ’70s with Sly & the Family Stone and his own Graham Central Station.

Jerry Jemmott, "Think" by Aretha Franklin (1968)

One of the most recorded session bassists in history and still working today, Jemmott is responsible for many of the most iconic soul and R&B basslines in existence. He said of choosing the Jazz Bass when he switched to electric from upright, “I didn’t want to leave my jazz roots behind.”

John Paul Jones, "Ramble On" by Led Zeppelin (1969)

Led Zeppelin wouldn't have been the same without Jones' eclectic musical taste, classical training and uncanny ability to hold down the center, allowing Page and Bonham the freedom to be themselves.

Geddy Lee, "La Villa Strangiato" by Rush (1978)

Combining massively technical chops with a keen melodic sense, Lee's ability to weave complex lines into Rush’s challenging song structures was unparalleled. He switched from Rickenbackers to the Fender Jazz Bass when he used the ’72 J Bass he’d picked up in a pawnshop on “Tom Sawyer,” noting, “I was amazed at how easily I could shape the top end, but I was getting something new in the low end—it was punchier.” We still don't understand how he can play what he does and sing at the same time.

MonoNeon, "Jelly Roll" (2024)

Eclectic, energetic, inventive—MonoNeon is one of the most adventurous bass players on the scene today, reaching out from solid funk roots (hey, he worked with Prince and George Clinton) to blend genres with sheer abandon.

Jaco Pastorius, "Donna Lee" (1976)

The self-proclaimed "Greatest Bass Player in the World" didn't get much argument about that after his stunning debut album made jaws drop worldwide and put the fretless Fender Jazz Bass in the spotlight.

Esperanza Spalding, "Radio Song" (2012)

Though she started her career playing upright bass, Spalding has increasingly turned to a Fender Jazz Bass when she needs to get funky, as several recent albums show.

Nik West, "Thumpahlenah (with Larry Graham)" (2023)

Her colorful personal style and energetic stage persona have helped make her a star, but it's been her spectacular slap bass style that's endeared her to bassists around the globe. Nik even worked with us back in 2020, helping create a video to launch the Fender American Ultra Jazz Bass.

Tal Wilkenfeld, "Fives (with Guthrie Govan)" by Lee Ritenour (2010)

A debut album that featured spectacular jazz fusion chops and an impeccable melodic sense brought her to the attention of people like Herbie Hancock and Jeff Beck when she was barely 20, and Wilkenfield has proven herself to be a force to reckon with over the years. Frequently switching between a Precision and a Jazz, her early work features the distinctive tones of the J Bass.

Getting Down With the Jazz Bass

Now that you've had a chance to learn a little more about the history and legend of the Fender Jazz Bass, you're likely to want to play one. Who could blame you? Luckily, we've always got a great selection of Jazz Bass models in stock here at Guitar Center, and we've got the knowledgeable Gear Advisers, whether in your local Guitar Center store or waiting at our call center (yes, operators are standing by) to help you find the one that's right for you. Just remember these words of wisdom—"You've got to get up to get down"—and drop on by, physically or virtually to check out the wonderful world of the Fender Jazz Bass.

George Van Wagner

George Van Wagner is a writer and editor for Guitar Center, where he has worked since 2007. A multi-instrumentalist, freelance recording engineer, arranger, composer, writer and all-around tech geek, he has over 30 years of experience in the musical instrument industry at companies like Midiman/M-Audio and Line 6, doing everything from customer service and writing user manuals to working in product development. He is currently gigging around Los Angeles with Gruppo Subconscious and Bobby “Hurricane” Spencer.

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