Hello, and welcome to today’s article where I’ll be sharing with you the history of one of the most iconic bass guitar brands in the world, the MusicMan. Since its creation in the 1970s, the MusicMan bass has been a staple in the music industry, known for its powerful sound and sleek design. In this article, I’ll be taking you on a journey through the history of this legendary brand, from its humble beginnings to its status as a must-have instrument for professional musicians.
In the picture on the left is a Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 5 Special HH and on the right is a Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4 string. Both basses are made in California, USA.
The History of MusicMan Basses:
The MusicMan bass was first introduced to the world in 1976 by Leo Fender, one of the most influential figures in the music industry. After leaving Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, which he had co-founded, Leo decided to create a new line of basses that would push the boundaries of what was possible with electric basses.
The MusicMan bass was designed to be a high-end instrument, built with the finest materials and equipped with cutting-edge electronics. The first MusicMan bass model, the StingRay, was an instant hit with musicians thanks to its powerful sound, comfortable feel, and eye-catching design.
One of the things that set the MusicMan bass apart from other basses of the time was its active electronics. Unlike passive basses, which rely solely on the magnetic pickups to produce sound, active basses use a built-in preamp to boost the signal and provide greater tonal control. The StingRay’s active electronics allowed for a wide range of tonal possibilities, making it a versatile instrument that could be used in a variety of musical styles.
Throughout its history, MusicMan has remained committed to using only the highest-quality materials in its basses. The company’s basses are made with select woods such as ash, maple, and mahogany, and are equipped with top-of-the-line hardware such as Schaller tuning machines and custom-designed bridges.
Over the years, MusicMan continued to innovate, introducing new bass models with different designs and features. The Sterling bass, for example, was introduced in 1993 (see pics below) as a more affordable alternative to the StingRay, while the Bongo bass, released in 2003, featured a radically different body shape and a unique dual humbucker pickup configuration.
The MusicMan Sterling is built in Indonesia.
Despite its success, the MusicMan bass has faced its share of challenges over the years. One of the biggest challenges was the changing musical landscape of the 1980s, which saw the rise of electronic music and the decline of traditional rock and roll. To stay relevant, MusicMan had to adapt to these changes by introducing new bass models that could compete with the electronic instruments of the time.
One of the ways MusicMan adapted was by introducing new pickups and electronics that could produce a wider range of sounds. In 1987, MusicMan introduced the Sabre bass, which featured a new pickup configuration that allowed for more tonal control. This was followed in 1990 by the Sterling bass, which featured a smaller body and a more streamlined design.
Another challenge for MusicMan was the changing ownership of the company. In 1984, Leo Fender sold MusicMan to the investment group Thomas Organ Company, which was later bought out by Gulf + Western Industries. This ownership change led to a period of instability and uncertainty for the MusicMan brand.
However, in 1987, MusicMan was purchased by Ernie Ball, a well-respected guitar and bass string manufacturer. Under Ernie Ball’s ownership, MusicMan was able to stabilize and grow, introducing new bass models such as the Bongo and Sterling 5. Today, MusicMan continues to be owned by the Ball family and remains committed to producing high-quality basses with a focus on innovation and craftsmanship.
One of the most notable aspects of the MusicMan bass is its construction. Each MusicMan bass is built by hand in San Luis Obispo, California, by a team of skilled luthiers. The wood is carefully selected for its tonal qualities, and each bass is constructed with an attention to detail that is unmatched in the industry.
Another key feature of the MusicMan bass is its signature sound. The MusicMan bass is known for its bright, punchy tone that cuts through the mix and provides a strong foundation for any musical style. This signature sound is achieved through a combination of factors, including the active electronics, the high-quality pickups, and the construction of the instrument itself.
In conclusion, the MusicMan bass has a rich history that spans over four decades. From its beginnings as a high-end instrument designed by Leo Fender to its current status as one of the most respected bass guitar brands in the world, the MusicMan bass has proven itself to be a versatile, high-quality instrument with a unique sound. Despite facing challenges along the way, MusicMan has remained committed to innovation and craftsmanship, and today the MusicMan bass continues to be a top choice for professional musicians and bass enthusiasts alike.