Bill Wyman: The Rock Bassist Who Deserves More Recognition
In the realm of iconic rock bass players, Bill Wyman often takes a backseat despite his contributions to the legendary band, the Rolling Stones. This article explores his impact, his unique place in rock history, and the reasons why his contributions may not gain the same recognition as his contemporaries.
Professional Background
Born in 1946, Bill Wyman joined the Rolling Stones in 1962, just a year after the band's formation. His journey with the Stones spans six decades, showcasing his versatility and dedication to the band's sound. However, it's important to note that Wyman's role went beyond just playing the bass. He was involved in various aspects of the band, from songwriting to session work, making him a multifaceted player.
The Evolution of Rock Music
Rock music has evolved significantly since Wyman's time with the band. The early days of rock and roll were characterized by individual performers singing behind a rhythm section, with membership often changing from song to song. The Rolling Stones, along with The Beatles, brought a change to this dynamic by introducing a cohesive "band sound" that emphasized individual instrumental virtuosity rather than just competence.
The introduction of iconic soloists like Jimi Hendrix and Cream marked a shift towards valuing individual instrumental prowess. This change led to the emergence of discussions about "Greatest Of All Time" (GOAT) guitarists, bassists, and drummers, with a focus on individual skills rather than the collective band sound. In this context, Bill Wyman, a pioneer in his own right, may have been overshadowed due to the era's focus on individual instrumental brilliance.
Wyman's Contributions to the Rolling Stones
Bill Wyman's bass playing is less prominent in many of the Rolling Stones' most beloved tracks. A small number of tracks during the band's "golden run" from Beggar's Banquet through to Exile on Main Street are particularly bass-driven. However, Wyman did not play bass on some key tracks, such as 'Sympathy For The Devil,' where he instead played keyboards. 'Street Fighting Man' is another example of a track that highlights other musicians' contributions rather than Wyman's bass work.
Interestingly, Wyman has claimed to have written the riff for 'Jumpin' Jack Flash,' but did not play bass on the track. In other tracks where Wyman does not play bass, Keith Richards often steps in. This suggests that while Wyman contributed to the band's sound in significant ways, his solo bass performances are less highlighted in the legacy of the Rolling Stones.
Comparison to Other Musicians
Another factor in Wyman's lesser recognition is his role as a band member. Unlike fellow Beatle Paul McCartney, Wyman did not serve as a band spokesman. After Brian Jones left the band, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards took over the role of public representatives, diminishing Wyman's visibility in the media.
Despite these challenges, Bill Wyman deserves more credit for his role in pioneering the band sound of the Rolling Stones. His contributions, particularly in the Special Disco version of 'Miss You,' highlight his versatility and importance to the band's musical legacy.
Closing Remarks
Bill Wyman is a lesser-known figure in the pantheon of great rock bass players, but his involvement with the Rolling Stones for over six decades speaks volumes about his impact on the band and rock music as a whole. While the focus on individual instrumental skills may have overshadowed his contributions, Wyman's place in rock history remains significant and deserves greater recognition.