Billy Sheehan, a highly regarded figure in the world of modern bassists, recently shared his thoughts on who he believes holds the title of the greatest bassist of all time. During his appearance on the Mistress Carrie Podcast, Sheehan passionately expressed his admiration for the legendary Paul McCartney of The Beatles, asserting that McCartney is “probably the greatest” bassist to ever grace the music scene. This endorsement speaks volumes about Sheehan’s respect for McCartney’s innovative playing style and influential contributions to music.

Discover Why Billy Sheehan Celebrates Paul McCartney as the Ultimate Bassist

Sheehan was quick to articulate his reasons for this high praise, stating, “Almost anything McCartney did is just brilliant.” He emphasizes that while McCartney may not always receive the recognition he deserves in discussions of the greatest bassists, Sheehan is eager to illuminate his immense talent. He reflects on how some may overlook McCartney’s genius, but believes that with a little explanation, they can come to appreciate his artistry just as he does.

Sheehan recalls a moment when a friend introduced him to the music of Igor Stravinsky, particularly the groundbreaking work “The Rite of Spring.” He describes how understanding the context and controversy surrounding its premiere allowed him to truly appreciate its brilliance. This analogy underscores Sheehan’s belief that sometimes, a deeper explanation is necessary to grasp the full impact of an artist’s work.

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Sheehan continues to advocate for McCartney, asserting, “I would be happy to explain to anyone why Paul McCartney is probably the greatest — really, just a really great, great player.” He draws parallels between McCartney’s playing and that of James Jamerson, the renowned bassist from Motown. Sheehan points out that both musicians have a knack for creating bass lines that are not only intricate but also seamlessly integrated with the rest of the song, making their work unforgettable.

Exploring Billy Sheehan’s Connection to The Beatles and Paul McCartney

In a touching anecdote, Sheehan shares a memorable experience involving a gift from another bass legend, which highlights his deep appreciation for both McCartney and the Beatles. He recounts how a friend who worked with Cliff Williams, the bassist for AC/DC, gifted him a stunning Höfner 1973 Beatle bass. This moment was incredibly special for Sheehan, as it connected him to his musical heroes in a profoundly personal way.

Sheehan describes the emotional impact of receiving the bass: “I had tears in my eyes. Just amazing.” His admiration for both Williams and McCartney is palpable as he reflects on the significance of this gift. He expresses his disbelief that someone as talented as Williams recognized his passion for The Beatles and chose to share such a meaningful piece of musical history with him.

After receiving the bass, Sheehan took the time to personally thank Williams, expressing his gratitude for the thoughtful gesture. “What a wonderful guy and what an incredible player,” he recalls, emphasizing how this experience has left a lasting impression on him. He cherishes the idea of playing McCartney’s music on that iconic instrument, feeling that it enriches his connection to the music and the legacy of The Beatles.

Sheehan concludes by sharing his plans to celebrate his next birthday by playing Sgt. Pepper’s in its entirety on the treasured bass, stating, “It’ll be so great.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates his enduring love for McCartney’s music and the joy that playing it brings him.

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Delving Deeper into Billy Sheehan’s Admiration for Paul McCartney

In a previous interview from 2020, Sheehan reflected on the influences that inspired him to pursue the bass in the Loudwire Gear Factor series. While he initially mentioned Paul Samwell-Smith from The Yardbirds, it was clear that his affection for McCartney held significant weight in his musical journey.

Sheehan stated, “Paul McCartney from The Beatles, of course, was a huge thing for me,” highlighting the profound impact that McCartney’s work has had on his career. He specifically pointed to the song “Rain,” praising its remarkable bass line and how it initially captured his interest. Sheehan noted McCartney’s aggressive playing style, which resonated with him and shaped his approach to bass playing over the years.

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