PLUGGED IN – EPISODE 10: 75 YEARS OF THE PRECISION BASS

In 1951, Leo Fender and his team started a revolution in rhythm sections across America with the introduction of the rugged and reliable Precision Bass. Nothing like it existed before and nothing like it has ever taken its place. It became the gold standard on stage and in the studio and it holds that honor to this day. To properly celebrate the 75th anniversary of the P Bass, our host John Dreyer sat down with some of its biggest and most loyal fans.

Our first stop is our Corona, CA factory, where John checks in with Jon Button, bassist for one of the world’s most iconic rock bands, the Who. Button shows off his 1965 P Bass and talks about how he really doesn’t need anything else when he’s out on tour. He’s also got a couple of other favorites from his collection with him, including a 1958 model that he’s strung with flatwounds and equipped with a foam mute. Even John Entwistle would be impressed. 

Then, we talk with Natalia Garcia, a brilliant young artist and musical director at a church in North Dallas, TX. Garcia started out as a guitarist but found her calling in the bass. She shows us her very first P Bass – an all-white made-in-Mexico model, as well as her current favorite – a stunning Lake Placid Blue American Professional Classic.

We wrap things up with songwriter, producer and minted session man Sean Hurley, who shows us the 1966 P Bass he’s used on everything from classic country to modern pop tracks.

Check out the video and then head over to Fender to learn more about the legendary Precision Bass.