Bass solos vs. playing bass with the song?

[Slax]

The bass solos I've had the liberty of playing live at shows usually have been the type (as said before) where everyone backs out and it's basically (pun intended) just bass and drums. They're fun and can be flashy, or not, it always sounds good.

I love bass when it's the lead, but only when it can hold down the low end at the same time (or has someone or something else to do so). I feel low end grooving matters more than anything, but if you pull off both at the same time, you're my hero and I'll most likely try learning some of your songs. lol

Also, I feel being lead in a song and doing a solo are two VERY different things.

[professor_bills]

I'm not a big fan of true solos be it bass drums or guitar. I prefer what i call showcasing where everyone else keeps playing but they tone it down while you get to show off for a verse. But as for those long drawn out solos that end up not sounding anything like asong let alone the song you were playing ... not for me

[WoodyG3]

Music is art. There is no "right" way to do art. Thus, there is no "right" way to play bass.

Just my 2 cents worth...

[Warfrat73]

In response to the first response... I've seen Vic play with the Flecktones 5-6 times and every time he was playing a 4 string Fodera Signature YY. And yeah, while Bela is keeping rhythm on banjo a bit, frequently (particularly on the truly "solo" stuff) Vic is running loops so he's holding down both parts with the help of technology.

[Fretlessboy]

Well I am an average soloist at best so I don't know if I have a right to even speak on the topic but I will anyway. I want to know why I have to lay down a groove and inspire others to solo but when it's my turn all I get is high hat? What happened to inspiring me...backing me up, giving me something to play with or against...well? That's what I thought. A few drummers I work with want me playing behind their solos because then they have something to work with so I think I have a right to be backed up as well. Yes the guitar/keys or any one else on that gig I want to be backed up. Unless they really suck then go get dinner and come back for the next set cause I'll finish this one myself.
As bassists our first gig to be a support facter for everyone else playing... we do deserve the same in return when it is our time to go. The intensity factor of the bass/drums backing a keyboard/guitar or horn solo then it cuts to nothing so the bass player can go. Keep it rolling, I got 1200 watts and they will hear me over the rest of what's going on. Trust me I won't get buried