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The Legendary Leland Sklar and His Iconic Bass
Today, we have something truly extraordinary for you—an exclusive encounter with one of the most prolific bass players in recorded music history.
This remarkable musician has lent his talents to over 2,000 albums, collaborating with legendary artists such as Bill Collins, Diana Ross, Toto, Carol King, James Taylor, and Neil Diamond.
The man who carries this musical legacy is none other than the legendary Leland Sklar!
Originally published on July, 24th, 2021, this article was updated and republished on October 25th, 2023.
The Birth of a Legend
Our story begins in 1973 when Sklar crafted an instrument that has left an indelible mark on contemporary music history.
The bass, often regarded as one of the most recorded basses ever, has made its presence known on nearly 2,400 albums.
It’s been a cornerstone of contemporary music for decades, and Leland Sklar estimates that it has graced 85% of his recordings. It's an instrument that has withstood the test of time and continues to shape the soundscape of modern music.
A Medley of Different Bass Parts
This bass holds a few secrets and its nickname "Frankenstein" is a good indication of what’s under the hood.
Underneath the cover, you'll find the remnants of a Precision bass, courtesy of a company called Charvel in San Dimas. The alder body, originally crafted for a Precision, resonated like no other, making it the perfect choice for this extraordinary instrument.
Leland's Bass Arsenal
Leland Sklar actually has around four instruments that cater to his diverse musical needs. While the Old Frankenstein bass is his go-to for studio work, his choice ultimately depends on the song.
It's all about matching the right instrument to the musical context. Whether it's the five-string bass or his Dingwall, every choice is guided by the song's unique requirements.
Autographs and Memories
A feature that makes the Frankenstein bass truly unique is the multitude of autographs that adorn its surface.
The first occurred in 1981 when Leland and the "big blue wrecking crew" were in the studio, recording "We Are the Champions" by Queen to celebrate the Los Angeles Dodgers' World Series victory.
At the end of the session, signatures graced baseballs, and an idea was born when Leland asked, "How about signing my bass?"
Since that moment, countless luminaries have left their mark on this iconic instrument including BB King and Star Wars creator George Lucas!
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