John Paul Jones, the legendary bassist of Led Zeppelin, had a distinct approach to bass playing that contributed significantly to the band’s sound. His bass technique was marked by versatility, a deep understanding of music theory, and a commitment to musicality that went beyond just holding down the bottom end. Jones often used unconventional methods, blending influences from jazz, classical, and folk music into his bass lines. His ability to create intricate, melodic bass lines was a hallmark of his style, which set him apart from typical rock bassists of the time.
One of the key aspects of Jones’ technique was his use of the bass as a melodic instrument, not just a rhythmic one. On songs like “Ramble On” and “The Lemon Song,” Jones creates bass lines that are both rhythmic and melodic, adding an additional layer to the overall composition. He was also known for using a pick, especially on faster songs like “Good Times Bad Times,” where his crisp, percussive attack adds punch and clarity to the mix. His fingerstyle technique was equally proficient, providing a smoother, rounder tone on more laid-back tracks like “Stairway to Heaven.”
In contrast, Jimmy Page, Led Zeppelin’s guitarist, had a more improvisational and free-form approach to his riffs. While Jones was often meticulous in crafting bass lines that served the song’s structure and harmony, Page’s riffs were more about creating a strong, emotional impact through raw, expressive guitar playing. Page’s riffs were often the focal point of the band’s sound, with his innovative use of tunings, bends, and fingerpicking techniques. He would frequently build riffs around open-string drones, creating a heavy, atmospheric sound that became iconic in rock music.
Jones, however, often provided counter-melodies to Page’s riffs, adding complexity and depth. A great example is “Kashmir,” where the bass works in harmony with Page’s unique, drone-based riff, but also weaves around it with its own distinct melodic path. While Page was known for his improvisational skills and signature riff-making, Jones’s contribution was more refined and calculated, with an emphasis on rhythm, harmony, and texture.
In essence, while Page’s riffs were the backbone of Led Zeppelin’s iconic sound, John Paul Jones’s bass playing gave those riffs depth, harmony, and a sense of structure. Together, they formed a dynamic partnership that was integral to the band’s unique and revolutionary sound.
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