In his final moments, one renowned bass player underscored a observation he'd made years prior - the prominent role of the unheard notes in a composition, a poignant tribute shared with another musical genius.
In an exclusive interview with MusicRadar, renowned bassist and 'The Voice of Rock', Glenn Hughes, discusses his latest solo album, Chosen, and shares insights about his career, favourite basses, and advice for young musicians.
This month, Hughes unveils his new solo album, marking another milestone in his illustrious music career. Known for his work with bands like Trapeze, Deep Purple, and Black Country Communion, Hughes continues to push boundaries and evolve his sound.
One of Hughes' most cherished instruments is his '62 Fender Jazz Bass, adorned with original strings. The bass, which he acquired while playing at The Surf Ballroom in Iowa, has been a constant companion throughout his career. Notably, the guitar hero Joe Bonamassa, who performs alongside Hughes in Black Country Communion, has had the privilege of seeing this iconic instrument.
Hughes learned the importance of the notes not played from his friend Andy Fraser, a lesson that has shaped his unique and powerful style. He advises new bass players, "Less is more."
Throughout his career, Hughes has primarily relied on Fender P-Basses for his bass guitars. His 1965 sunburst Fender P-Bass, the bass he has used the most on albums, is a testament to this preference.
In the early '70s, Hughes' bass rig with Trapeze consisted of Hiwatt amps and no pedals. However, he began incorporating pedals into his setup during his time with Deep Purple, even using a wah-wah pedal on his bass. Despite this, Hughes generally keeps his basses stock, favouring the natural sound of his instruments.
Since his time with Trapeze, Hughes' bass settings and style have evolved considerably, integrating more funk and contemporary sounds into his repertoire. His extensive solo career and collaborations beyond his initial hard rock roots have allowed him to explore diverse songwriting and influences over decades, adapting his bass playing to different genres and musical projects rather than sticking to a singular setup or tone from the early 70s.
Joe Bonamassa, another guitar hero, is a frequent collaborator with Hughes, and together they continue to captivate audiences with their powerful performances.
In a world where music is constantly evolving, Hughes remains a beacon of inspiration for new and seasoned musicians alike. His wisdom, passion, and timeless sound continue to resonate, making him an enduring figure in the world of rock music.
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