The First Mass Produced Basses (1950s)

The article highlights the formation of the first mass-produced bass guitars (1950s). The electric model Fender Precision Bass, created by the American engineer and entrepreneur Clarence Leo Fender, based on the Fender Bloadcaster/Telecaster electric guitar, is investigated. L. Fender’s original idea is emphasized, which involves replacing the bulky double bass with a more convenient bass prototype, as well as the need for performers to amplify the acoustic power of the instrument. The role of bass guitarist Monk Montgomery is noted. He managed to introduce Fender Precision Bass into professional performing practice, as well as to make the first studio audio recording on bass guitar in The Art Farmer Septet album. In addition, fundamentally new bass models are considered: Gibson EB, Höfner 500/1 Violin Bass, Rickenbacker 4000 and Danelectro 58 Longhorn Electric Bass. The design features of these bass prototypes are of particular interest, based on the search for exclusive design solutions. The differences in the fastening of the neck and body of instruments, the scale length (length of the neck), the number of fret partitions and pickups, the presence or absence of the end pin are being analyzed. At the same time, the author refers to the work of the first bass players who influenced the popularization of the instrument in modern music.