In the heartbeat of every memorable song lies a bass line that not only grounds its melody but propels it into the realms of the unforgettable.
The songs highlighted in our narrative—spanning from the gritty grooves of “Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen to the soulful resonance of “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson—owe much of their iconic status to the profound bass lines that define them.
These foundational rhythms are the undercurrents that carry the stories, emotions, and the very essence of what makes these tracks stand out in the vast ocean of music. Through the decades, artists like Stevie Wonder with “Superstition” and the funk-driven beats of Parliament’s “Flashlight” have demonstrated that a bass line does more than accompany; it transforms.
It’s the difference between a song you hear and one you feel pulsing through your veins. Each pluck, slap, or smooth glide over the bass strings creates an auditory fingerprint as distinctive as a voice, turning simple arrangements into anthems that transcend time and genre.
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As we dive into the stories behind these monumental songs, it becomes evident that bass lines are not just part of the music—they are the very backbone, shaping the sonic landscapes that have become landmarks in music history.
Let’s start with absolutely ANYTHING by James Brown there are just way too many of his songs to mention…
Billie Jean by Michael Jackson
- Artist/Writer: Michael Jackson
- Year: 1982
- Story: “Billie Jean” tells a story of an obsessive fan who claims that the narrator is the father of her child, which Jackson denied. The song was inspired by groupies Jackson and his brothers encountered while part of The Jackson 5.
- Chart Performance: Peaked at No. 1 on both the Hot 100 and R&B charts.
Superstition by Stevie Wonder
- Artist/Writer: Stevie Wonder
- Year: 1972
- Story: Written by Wonder, “Superstition” reflects on the dangers and follies of believing in superstitions. It showcases Wonder’s talents as he played most of the instruments on the track.
- Chart Performance: Reached No. 1 on the Hot 100 and R&B charts.
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Forget Me Nots by Patrice Rushen
- Artist/Writer: Patrice Rushen, Fred Washington, and Terri McFadden
- Year: 1982
- Story: This upbeat track is known for its catchy chorus and funky bassline, serving as one of Rushen’s most recognized songs. It was later sampled by Will Smith for the “Men in Black” theme song.
- Chart Performance: Climbed to No. 23 on the Hot 100 and No. 4 on the R&B charts.
Flashlight by Parliament
- Artist/Writer: George Clinton, Bernie Worrell, and Bootsy Collins
- Year: 1977
- Story: A seminal funk anthem, “Flashlight” uses metaphorical lyrics and groundbreaking synthesizer bass by Bernie Worrell. It marked a departure from the band’s usual guitar-driven sound.
- Chart Performance: Reached No. 16 on the Hot 100 and No. 1 on the R&B charts.
- Artist/Writer: Frankie Beverly
- Year: 1981
- Story: A classic R&B hit that has stood the test of time, celebrated for its feel-good vibe and memorable melody. It’s often played at cookouts and celebrations.
- Chart Performance: Did not chart on the Hot 100 but reached No. 13 on the R&B charts.
Before I Let Go by Maze featuring Frankie Beverly
Lovely Day by Bill Withers
- Artist/Writer: Bill Withers and Skip Scarborough
- Year: 1977
- Story: “Lovely Day” features one of the longest-held notes in a Top 40 song in the US. The song is an uplifting ballad that highlights Withers’ smooth vocals and optimistic lyrics.
- Chart Performance: Peaked at No. 30 on the Hot 100 and No. 6 on the R&B charts.
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Le Freak by Chic
- Artist/Writer: Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards
- Year: 1978
- Story: Originally written as a response to being denied entry to Studio 54, “Le Freak” became Chic’s most successful track and a disco anthem.
- Chart Performance: Soared to No. 1 on both the Hot 100 and R&B charts.
Ascension (Don’t Ever Wonder) by Maxwell
- Artist/Writer: Maxwell and Itaal Shur
- Year: 1996
- Story: Part of Maxwell’s critically acclaimed debut album, “Ascension” is a soulful track that showcases his smooth vocal style and was a significant part of the neo-soul movement.
- Chart Performance: Did not chart on the Hot 100 but reached No. 8 on the R&B charts.
I Can’t Wait by Nu Shooz
- Artist/Writer: John Smith and Valerie Day
- Year: 1986
- Story: This hit emerged from the Portland-based band Nu Shooz, capturing listeners with its infectious synth lines and memorable chorus. Initially released on a small label, it gained significant attention after being remixed, leading to widespread popularity.
- Chart Performance: Peaked at No. 3 on the Hot 100 and No. 2 on the R&B charts.
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Too Hot by Kool and the Gang
- Artist/Writer: George Brown and Kool & the Gang
- Year: 1979
- Story: A smooth track that reflects on the challenges and changes relationships undergo. It combines soulful lyrics with the band’s signature funk and jazz-infused sound.
- Chart Performance: Reached No. 5 on the Hot 100 and No. 1 on the R&B charts.
Pull Up to the Bumper by Grace Jones
- Artist/Writer: Grace Jones, Koo Koo Baya, and Dana Manno
- Year: 1981
- Story: Mixing reggae, funk, and disco, this track became one of Jones’ signature songs. Its ambiguous lyrics and driving bassline made it a club favorite and a defining track of the early ’80s dance scene.
- Chart Performance: While it didn’t chart on the Hot 100, it reached No. 2 on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.
Genius of Love by Tom Tom Club
- Artist/Writer: Tina Weymouth, Chris Frantz, Adrian Belew, and Steven Stanley
- Year: 1981
- Story: Originating from Talking Heads’ side project, this song’s catchy rhythm and unique sound made it an underground hit. Its lyrics reference various musical influences, and its groove has been widely sampled in hip-hop.
- Chart Performance: Climbed to No. 31 on the Hot 100 and No. 6 on the R&B charts.
Keep on Truckin by Eddie Kendricks
- Artist/Writer: Frank Wilson and Leonard Caston
- Year: 1973
- Story: Eddie Kendricks‘ first major hit post-Temptations, this track solidified his status as a solo artist. Its upbeat message and Kendricks’ falsetto vocals over a funky bassline made it memorable.
- Chart Performance: Hit No. 1 on both the Hot 100 and R&B charts.
Check out Your Mind by Impressions
- Artist/Writer: Curtis Mayfield
- Year: 1970
- Story: This song marked the end of Mayfield’s time with The Impressions, focusing on themes of awareness and self-improvement. Its soulful melody and profound lyrics reflect the era’s social changes.
- Chart Performance: Reached No. 28 on the Hot 100 and No. 3 on the R&B charts.
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Boogie Oogie Oogie by A Taste of Honey
- Artist/Writer: Taste of Honey, Janice Marie Johnson and Perry Kibble
- Year: 1978
- Story: Originating as a response to an unenthusiastic crowd, this song’s infectious beat and baseline turned it into a disco classic, showcasing Johnson’s talent as a bass player.
- Chart Performance: Soared to No. 1 on both the Hot 100 and R&B charts.
Running Away by Roy Ayers
- Artist/Writer: Roy Ayers and Edwin Birdsong
- Year: 1977
- Story: This funk-infused track highlights Ayers’ vibraphone skills and explores themes of escapism. Its groove and rhythm have made it a favorite sample in later hip-hop productions.
- Chart Performance: Did not make a significant impact on the Hot 100 but reached No. 19 on the R&B charts.
Love is the Message by MFSB
- Artist/Writer: Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff
- Year: 1973
- Story: Serving as an anthem for the Sound of Philadelphia, this instrumental track by MFSB is known for its lush strings, brass, and the soulful groove that became emblematic of ’70s soul and disco.
- Chart Performance: Peaked at No. 42 on the Hot 100 and No. 1 on the R&B charts.
Love Hangover by Diana Ross
- Artist/Writer: Marilyn McLeod and Pam Sawyer
- Year: 1976
- Story: A quintessential disco anthem, “Love Hangover” (originally recorded by The 5th Dimension) features a slow, sultry opening that transitions into an upbeat dance track. Diana Ross‘ versatile vocals perfectly capture the song’s essence of romantic conflict and resolution.
- Chart Performance: Reached No. 1 on both the Hot 100 and R&B charts.
Good Times by Chic
- Artist/Writer: Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards
- Year: 1979
- Story: Emblematic of disco’s peak, Chic “Good Times” blends a memorable bassline with optimistic lyrics. Its rhythm laid the groundwork for early hip-hop, most notably being sampled in “Rapper’s Delight” by The Sugarhill Gang.
- Chart Performance: Climbed to No. 1 on the Hot 100 and R&B charts.
Firecracker by Mass Production
- Artist/Writer: Mass Production
- Year: 1979
- Story: Known for its energetic beat and vibrant horn sections, “Firecracker” showcases the band’s funk prowess. This song encapsulates the lively essence of late ’70s funk with a danceable groove.
- Chart Performance: Detailed chart performance is scarce, but it remains a fan favorite within the genre.
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Just a Touch by Slave
- Artist/Writer: Steve Washington and Mark Adams
- Year: 1981
- Story: A funk masterpiece, “Just a Touch” highlights Slave’s ability to blend tight rhythms with catchy melodies, creating a sound that’s both groovy and accessible.
- Chart Performance: While specific Billboard chart information may not be widely known, it has remained a significant track within the funk community.
Slide by Slave
- Artist/Writer: Mark Adams, Steve Washington, et al.
- Year: 1977
- Story: “Slide” is a definitive funk anthem characterized by its compelling bassline and energetic vocals. It’s celebrated for capturing the essence of the funk genre with its lively instrumentation and rhythm.
- Chart Performance: Peaked at No. 1 on the R&B charts, showcasing its widespread appeal within the genre.
Shame by Evelyn “Champagne” King
- Artist/Writer: John H. Fitch Jr. and Reuben Cross
- Year: 1977
- Story: This disco hit is marked by King’s powerful vocals and a vibrant melody that made it a dance floor staple. “Shame” is recognized for its contribution to the disco genre and King’s lasting legacy in music.
- Chart Performance: Reached No. 9 on the Hot 100 and became a defining track of the disco era.
Don’t Look Any Further by Dennis Edwards feat. Siedah Garrett
- Artist/Writer: Franne Golde, Dennis Lambert, Duane Hitchings
- Year: 1984
- Story: A smooth blend of R&B and soul, this Dennis Edwards interpretation stands out for its compelling duet vocals and memorable bassline. Its lyrics speak to loyalty and love, resonating with many.
- Chart Performance: Peaked at No. 2 on the R&B charts and No. 72 on the Hot 100.
Nothing Can Come Between Us by Sade
- Artist/Writer: Sade Adu, Stuart Matthewman, and Andrew Hale
- Year: 1988
- Story: A track from the critically acclaimed album “Stronger Than Pride,” this song features Sade’s signature smooth jazz sound, with lyrics about enduring love and commitment.
- Chart Performance: Reached No. 3 on the R&B charts, further cementing Sade’s status as a soul and jazz icon.
Another One Bites the Dust by Queen
- Artist/Writer: John Deacon
- Year: 1980
- Story: With its unmistakable bass riff, this song became one of Queen’s biggest hits, showcasing their ability to cross into different musical genres, including funk and disco.
- Chart Performance: Achieved No. 1 on the Hot 100 and surprised many by also performing well on the R&B charts, peaking at No. 2.
As we journey through the vibrant tapestry of music history, it becomes abundantly clear that the bass lines threading through iconic songs are more than mere components of sound; they are the soulful undercurrents that anchor and define.
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From the unmistakable groove of “Another One Bites the Dust” to the compelling rhythms of “Billie Jean” and beyond, these bass lines have not only marked the beats of our lives but have also shaped the contours of musical evolution itself. They’ve proven that the depth of a song lies not just in its lyrics or melody but in the rich, resonant vibrations that resonate with us on a primal level.
These bass lines have the power to invoke memories, stir emotions, and even define moments in history, proving that their role in music is as foundational as it is transformative. As we reflect on the stories and successes of these remarkable songs, we are reminded of the enduring legacy of great bass lines and their creators—musicians who, with a blend of skill, soul, and innovation, have left an indelible mark on the world.
Their work underscores the universal truth that at the heart of every great song is a bass line that carries its spirit, ensuring that as long as there are stories to be told, the bass will continue to be the pulse that brings them to life.
85% of all of James Brown’s jams!
Kevin- Can’t believe you left out The O’Jay’s “For The Love Of Money”. The creation of that bassline got Randy Jackson his A&R job @ Columbia…
I’ll put in a vote for Chic “Everybody Dance”.
Come on MAN! Does anybody know about “Fantastic Voyage” from Lakeside?!….and I know it’s Jazz but Herbie Hancock’s “Chameleon” had one of the funkiest, most recognizeable Bass lines EVER.
Woah, best bass line and NO Parliament??? Come on now, I could not have been the only funkateer back in the day that’s still listens to the Funk now. Come on now, this is a travesty.
come on…how could you leave out “papa was a rolling stone” by the temptations or “cherish the day” and “ordinary love” by stewart matthewson” or “natural mystic” by bob marley…what about “candy” by cameo?get with it!
No Motown guys?What about some classic Jamerson stuff?”I was made to love her” for starters and I can think about at least 10 more.What about “Lady Marmalade”?Best Bernard Edwards line – “I want your Love”
all of them are great…and what about “Mind Up Tonight” by Melba Moore?
Dude, you gotta to include Is It Love by Larry Graham & Grand Central StationAnd Raphael Saadiq’s Body Parts
Like some one said, no Motown? Marvin Gaye’s ‘Gotta Give It up’ – Jamerson is killing it! Also, believe it or not, DeBarge’s ‘I Like It’ has an awesome bassline that sneaks up on you! Can’t leave out any Chic. Other than those, pretty good list overall.
it must be magic by Teena Marie……