Music

Best bass lines in rock songs

Explore a curated selection of the most iconic and foundational bass lines that have defined the rock genre. From catchy riffs that propelled anthems to complex melodies showcasing bassists' mastery, this list celebrates the rhythmic backbone of rock music. Discover the compositions that have influenced generations of musicians and remain essential for any rock enthusiast. Perfect for bass players seeking inspiration or fans wanting to appreciate the depth of rock instrumentation.

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  1. 1

    Megadeth - Peace Sells (1986)

    296 Global Votes
    • Instantly recognizable bassline

      (+4)

    David Ellefson's bassline is complex and fast, with an opening riff that is one of the most recognizable in thrash metal. It's a classic where the bass has its own voice and complexity, being a challenging riff.

  2. 2

    The Beatles - Come Together (1969)

    66 Global Votes
    • Intricately woven bass and drum part

      (+4)

    Paul McCartney created an incredibly memorable, funky, and melodic bassline that perfectly complements the rest of the song. It's a rock classic that demonstrates his ability to use the bass as a melodic force.

  3. 3

    King Crimson - 21st Century Schizoid Man (1969)

    64 Global Votes
    • Hard bassline with weird signatures

      (+3)

    Greg Lake's bassline is complex and progressive, with a sound that reveals unique depth and dimension. It's a fundamental piece of progressive rock, where the bass is a key element in the intricate structure.

  4. 4

    Queens Of The Stone Age - No One Knows (2002)

    61 Global Votes
    • Has a very deep yet coherent character

      (+2)

    Nick Oliveri's bassline is powerful and rhythmic, with a hypnotic groove that drives the song and complements the guitar riffs. It's a prominent example of alternative rock and stoner rock.

  5. 5

    Rage Against the Machine - Killing in the Name (1992)

    53 Global Votes
    • Features a sinister opening riff

      (+3)

    Tim Commerford's bassline is aggressive and *funky*, with a distorted sound that is fundamental to the band's *rap metal* style. It's a protest anthem with a bassline as powerful as the guitars.

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  7. 6

    Red Hot Chili Peppers - Give It Away (1991)

    27 Global Votes
    • Iconic bass line

      (+4)

    Flea's iconic bassline is an explosion of funk-rock, showcasing his distinctive mastery with a unique combination of *slapping* and *popping* techniques. It redefined what the bass could do in rock.

  8. 7

    Deep Purple - Highway Star (1972)

    16 Global Votes
    • Masterclass in high-velocity picking

      (+4)

    Roger Glover's bassline is energetic and fast, complementing the speed and aggression of the guitars and drums. It's a pillar of hard rock where the bass actively participates in the melody and power.

  9. 8

    Peter Gabriel - Sledgehammer (1986)

    9 Global Votes
    • Distinct eighties funk sound

      (+2)

    Tony Levin, a bass legend, uses a *fretless* bass with an octaver to create an extremely *groovy* and unique line. It defines the character of this 80s anthem, showing how the bass can be the central element.

  10. 9

    Walk on the Wild Side – Lou Reed (1972)

    8 Global Votes
    • Features an immortal bass line

      (+4)

    The bassline performed by Herbie Flowers is distinctive and melodic, with a seemingly simple yet very effective rhythm. It has remained fresh over the years, demonstrating that simplicity can be synonymous with genius.

  11. 10

    Foo Fighters - The Pretender (2007)

    7 Global Votes
    • Has higher complexity than average song

      (+4)

    Nate Mendel's bassline is powerful and impactful, with a rhythm that drives the song's energy and remains prominent in the mix. It's a modern rock example where the bass plays a crucial role in the intensity.

  12. 11

    Iron Maiden - Phantom Of The Opera (1980)

    5 Global Votes
    • Features a great bass line by Steve Harris

      (+4)

    Steve Harris, Iron Maiden's bassist, is known for his lively and bold basslines that set the band's aggressive tone. His contribution to this epic track is particularly memorable, being a prime example of bass in heavy metal.

  13. 12

    Queen – "Another One Bites the Dust" (1980)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features a funky bass line

      (+4)

    Created by John Deacon, this bassline is one of the most recognizable in history, with a minimalist and catchy groove. It's not only the rhythmic heart but also the melodic hook of the song.

  14. 13

    Pink Floyd - Money (1973)

    0 Global Votes
    • Most famous odd time signature bass line in Rock Music

      (+4)

    Composed by Roger Waters, this bassline is famous for its complex 7/4 time signature, making it a unique technical and musical challenge. Its intro is legendary and remains one of the most recognized riffs.

  15. 14

    My Generation - The Who (1965)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features one of the first bass solos in rock history

      (+4)

    John Entwistle's bassline is fundamental, including one of the first and most famous bass solos in rock and roll history. It was revolutionary for its time, elevating the bass to a starring role.

  16. 15

    Tool - Schism (2001)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features an iconic and instantly recognizable intro riff

      (+4)

    Justin Chancellor's bassline is a progressive masterpiece, seamlessly shifting between complex time signatures like 5/4 and 7/4. It serves as both a melodic and rhythmic foundation, standing out for its technical virtuosity.

  17. 16

    Queen and David Bowie - Under Pressure

    0 Global Votes
    • Features a distinctive and driving bassline

      (+4)

    John Deacon created an unforgettable riff that has become one of rock's most iconic basslines, with a distinctive and instantly recognizable groove. Its influence has transcended generations and genres.

  18. 17

    Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana

    0 Global Votes
    • Strong chord progression

      (+4)

    Krist Novoselic's bassline is fundamental to the song's heaviness and groove, anchoring the grunge sound. With its simplicity and power, it is crucial for the identity and impact of this alternative rock anthem.

  19. 18

    The Cure - Just Like Heaven (1987)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features a distinctive rhythm intro by Gallup and Williams

      (+2)

    Simon Gallup uses a pick to bring clarity and presence to these four iconic notes, creating a melodic and recognizable line. It's an alternative rock classic where the bassline is a distinctive element of the song.

  20. 19

    Sweet Child O' Mine by Guns N' Roses

    0 Global Votes
    • Good bass line

      (+3)

    Duff McKagan's bassline is solid and melodic, providing a firm foundation for Slash's iconic guitar and Axl Rose's vocals. It's one of the most recognizable hard rock lines, essential for its emotional impact.