I think McCartney must have been THE one who really conceptualized rock bass playing. I didn't grow up in that era, so I can't say for sure, but he undoubtedly is one of THE most significant innovators for rock bass and bass playing in general.
Listen to the older rock 'n roll stuff. He really knows how to jam with his bass. The bass really is a driving force in the tunes. It's not just some passive, blurred in the mix, follow the rhythm guitar type of lame **** that a lot of today's bass players play. And on his later albums, you can see how he evolved as a songwriter and bass player. Songs like "With a Little Help From My Friends," "Come Together," and a whole lot more. In terms of tone and capturing the sound on record, it seems like people still can't nail that vibe.
How can he suck?
