The Bastard Instrument: A Cultural History of the Electric Bass

Tracking Pop

By: Brian F. Wright

Narrated by: James Michael Shetler

The Bastard Instrument chronicles the history of the electric bass and the musicians who played it, from the instrument’s invention through its widespread acceptance at the end of the 1960s. Although their contributions have often gone unsung, electric bassists helped shape the sound of a wide range of genres, including jazz, rhythm & blues, rock, country, soul, funk, and more.

Their innovations are preserved in performances from artists as diverse as Lionel Hampton, Liberace, Elvis Presley, Patsy Cline, the Supremes, the Beatles, James Brown, Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, Jefferson Airplane, and Sly and the Family Stone, all of whom are discussed in this volume. At long last, The Bastard Instrument gives these early electric bassists credit for the significance of their accomplishments and demonstrates how they fundamentally altered the trajectory of popular music.

©2024 University of Michigan Press (P)2025 University of Michigan Press

Non biased and informative history

A great read/ listen. The author provides history in context with artist and song examples along the way so the reader can pause and go find the song which strengthens the time line and displays the progression of popular music as the electric bass guitar is adapted and used more. While no single volume could be all encompassing, Wright strives for and accurately portrays the development and use of the Bastard Instrument with stories from most notable Bass Guitar Icons through out.