"Bass Players To Know: Learning From The Greats" by Ryan Madora

Bass Players To Know

For the aspiring musician, knowing what to listen to is just as important as knowing what to play. Bass player and writer Ryan Madora provides the reader with exactly that—a guide to listening and learning from the greats. Shining the spotlight on players who are too often confined to the background, this book highlights the session aces, band members, and career musicians whose bass lines have permeated popular culture. Madora discusses the nuances of bass playing and the stylistic choices behind classic records, top-forty hits, and funky deep cuts. 

An invaluable resource for professionals and hobbyists alike, Bass Players To Know features players who have contributed to the evolution of the instrument, including Ray Brown, Jack Bruce, Cliff Burton, Duck Dunn, Louis Johnson, Edgar Meyer, Willie Weeks, and many others. 

  • Head to Ryan’s store and purchase an autographed copy! Available in US only.

  • Yes, the book is available through Amazon. Ideal for international sales. Click here!

  • Visit the official Spotify playlist to listen along to the examples referenced in the book.

What People Are Saying

“We’ve read it, and it’s killer, so grab one now.”

— Bass Player Magazine

““A fun and deeply informative read for anyone who wants to go beyond the obvious mainstream influences on the instrument and learn about some truly unique voices on the bass. Highly recommended!”

— Bryan Beller (The Aristocrats, Joe Satriani, Dethklok)

“Absolutely love this book. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in learning more about the music world. And it’s a must read for bassists.”

— Darryl Jones (The Rolling Stones, Sting, Miles Davis)

“A fantastic addition to the pantheon of bass books in the world.”

— Mike Lull (Mike Lull Custom Guitars)