John Paul Jones: A Ranked Giant Among Bass Players

When we discuss the greatest bass players of all time, one name often surfaces: John Paul Jones. Over the years, he has been ranked anywhere from number 1 to 20, depending on personal taste. However, his status as a top-tier bassist is undisputed among those who truly understand the music industry.

The Recognition He Deserves

Despite not being in the public eye as much, John Paul Jones has been recognized for his outstanding contribution to the music of Led Zeppelin. The people who matter within the industry know just how great he is. As one seasoned reviewer put it: 'Jpj doesn’t get enough credit. He composed a lot of Zeppelin’s music.'

His Standing Among Experts

Many experts agree that John Paul Jones ranks in the top 10 bass players of all time. He remains actively involved in the music scene and can still be found playing with his band Them Dirty Buzzards. As another enthusiast noted, 'In my opinion, he definitely ranks in the top 10. And bear in mind, he’s still in bands and recording with Them Dirty Buzzards.'

Expanding Your Musical Horizons

As discussed by another respondent, it's worth checking out John Paul Jones' work with the band Them Crooked Vultures. This band, featuring drummer Dave Grohl and guitarist/vocalist Josh Homme, provides a new perspective on John's undeniable talent. Them Crooked Vultures is a great example of the collaborative genius that John brings to the table, alongside two other notable artists in the music industry.

The Subjectivity of Rankings

It’s important to note that the ranking of John Paul Jones among bass players is highly subjective. However, most bassists who have the opportunity to collaborate with or learn from him would rank him highly. As one respondent stated: 'The answer to that question comes down to personal preference. I will say that most all of the bass players I know would rank him in their top ten of all time if not their top five.'

Conclusion

John Paul Jones is indeed a towering figure among bass players. His contributions to Led Zeppelin and his ongoing involvement in the music scene speak to his talent and longevity in the music industry. While opinions may vary, the recognition he has received from those within the industry solidifies his place among the greatest bass players of all time.