List of Basses Used in the Studio

1971: Rickenbacker 4001. Last seen in a 1975 TOTP performance in Belgium.

1972: Fender Precision, probably a 1965 model although it could be earlier or later. Originally sunburst until summer 1975, when John stripped the paint off and left it natural. Last seen in the video for The Miracle.

1974: Fender Precision, a slightly newer model. Sunburst until summer 1976, when it received the same treatment the other one had one year earlier. In 1986 it was sprayed black. Basically John's main instrument for most of his career.

1977: Music Man Stingray, bought in America during the tour in February. Used occasionally in the studio in the late 70's and then for some recordings such as Another One Bites the Dust, Cool Cat and Back Chat. Probably some more as well. Also a fretless sunburst Fender Precision that he may or may not have used in the studio from time to time.

1978: Fender Masterbuilt Precision. A 1955 model bought in Dallas before the beginning of the tour in November. Used occasionally in the studio. I suspect (but have absolutely no way to prove it) he played it on Crazy Little Thing Called Love.

1980: Kramer DMZ. Possibly not used in the studio.

1981: Fender Precision Special. Used on Under Pressure and possibly I Want to Break Free.

1984: Fender Precision Elite: Beautiful red colour. Used in the studio sometimes (e.g., One Vision).

1986: Giffin Bespoke and Warwick Buzzard. No idea if he played either one, or both, at some point.