Electric bass guitar

The electric bass guitar, a cornerstone of popular music since the 1950s, blends harmony and rhythm with its deep, distinctive sound.

About this subject

The electric bass guitar, also called the electric bass, evolved from the acoustic double bass to provide greater portability and amplification. Leo Fender introduced the Precision Bass in 1951, the first commercially successful model, which became an industry standard. Unlike the acoustic double bass, the electric bass is solid-bodied (no resonance chamber) and typically fretted, aiding precise note placement. Its four strings are standard tuned E, A, D, G (EADG), one octave below the lowest four strings of a guitar. Variations with five or six strings exist to extend range. The bass plays a critical role in the rhythm section, bridging the drums and the chords of guitar or keyboards. In Brazil, the electric bass is ubiquitous in genres like samba, choro, MPB (Brazilian popular music), and rock. Influential bassists include Jaco Pastorius, Paul McCartney, and in Brazil, Armandinho and Arthur Maia. Techniques like slap, tapping, and pizzicato are common. Construction typically features woods such as alder, ash, or mahogany, and magnetic pickups that convert string vibrations into electrical signals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an electric bass and an acoustic double bass?

The electric bass has a solid body and frets, is more portable and requires amplification, while the acoustic double bass is larger, fretless, and projects sound acoustically.

Who invented the electric bass guitar?

The modern electric bass was popularized by Leo Fender, who introduced the Precision Bass in 1951.

How many strings does a standard electric bass have?

The standard is four strings tuned EADG, but five- and six-string variations exist.