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Hofner-(not just Beatle Basses)-Group

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#61
Please pardon my change of direction, but I just wanted to make a comment concerning Paul McCartney, who obviously made the violin bass what it is today. I believe, after actually 'listening' to his bass patterns in the old Beatles music, that he was one of, if not the best, bass player of all times.

Now, I don't want to stir up a hornet's nest, but the reason I give him those honors is because while he was playing those superb patterns, he was also singing too! That would be kind of like a lead guitar player doing a riff and trying to sing at the same time. Very difficult to do and takes a very talented individual to pull it off. Kudos to Paul!! :bassist:
Jack
 
#62
Well its about time they made a club and start apreciating these things!!! Here's my baby all original '65 500/1

DSC02318.jpg


I would like to know what type of stuff people play with their Hofners? I do classic rock, blues and some contemporary praize and worship also... oh and here's my favorite Hofner clip on youtube check it out!!

Chris Wood
 
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#63
I used mine mostly in a Rockabilly band in the early 80's. Nowadays she's pretty much retired. Others (Stray Cats, Rockats, Whirlwind, Robert Gorden, etc) were lugging 'round the huge acoustic stand-up basses, but I prefered the Hofner to get a somewhat similiar sound. My 500/1 is completely hollow (I think all the reissues have the center block?). Used flats and nylon strings, with zero sound effects.
 
#64
seamus bass said:
pardon my busting in, im just wondering what makes these basses special for you guys, it seems mandatory to play with a pick, is there alot of neck dive? imo not impressed with the ones ive tried,and ive really tried to like them but there uncomfortable to play as well.
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I've never been a big Beatles fan, even though I grew up when they were around, so I always ignored these Hofners. Lately, I've grown tired of the weight and reach of most of my other basses and on a lark tried a Hofner Contemporary about a month ago at a store and was hooked. Nice and light, although the Contemporary has a center block that adds a little weight. Excellent sound and very versatile as well. I got a great deal and it's now my main bass. No neck dive and very comfortable to play either sitting or standing.
 
#69
jackajesusfreak said:
Please pardon my change of direction, but I just wanted to make a comment concerning Paul McCartney, who obviously made the violin bass what it is today. I believe, after actually 'listening' to his bass patterns in the old Beatles music, that he was one of, if not the best, bass player of all times.

Now, I don't want to stir up a hornet's nest, but the reason I give him those honors is because while he was playing those superb patterns, he was also singing too! That would be kind of like a lead guitar player doing a riff and trying to sing at the same time. Very difficult to do and takes a very talented individual to pull it off. Kudos to Paul!! :bassist:
Jack
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I agree. I grew up with the Beatles but they were never my favorite group. Just recently with the remastering of their catalogue, it rekindled my interest. I bought my wife the complete Beatles scores several years ago, she plays keyboard, and I have be working through them. Some of the bass lines are fairly simple but others are as complex as any I have seen. As you stated, add that to the vocals and you have a massive talent. Whether he is the best or certainly one of the best, I will let those with more experience than me decide.
 
#70
jblock said:
.....I've grown tired of the weight and reach of most of my other basses and on a lark tried a Hofner Contemporary about a month ago at a store and was hooked. Nice and light, although the Contemporary has a center block that adds a little weight. Excellent sound and very versatile as well. I got a great deal and it's now my main bass. No neck dive and very comfortable to play either sitting or standing.
Click to expand...

+1
 
#71
jackajesusfreak said:
Please pardon my change of direction, but I just wanted to make a comment concerning Paul McCartney, who obviously made the violin bass what it is today. I believe, after actually 'listening' to his bass patterns in the old Beatles music, that he was one of, if not the best, bass player of all times.

Now, I don't want to stir up a hornet's nest, but the reason I give him those honors is because while he was playing those superb patterns, he was also singing too! That would be kind of like a lead guitar player doing a riff and trying to sing at the same time. Very difficult to do and takes a very talented individual to pull it off. Kudos to Paul!! :bassist:
Jack
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I agree that McCartney is great. He is my greatest bass influence. I saw him at CitiField this past July and it was AWESOME.
 
#73
To me, as a long time Beatles fan since the mid 1960's, their greatness was not so much in their instruments, playing/singing abilities, although excellent.

The 'magic' with the Beatles (John & Paul's obviously, although with many significant contributions from George/Ringo)...

...was in their rapid maturation and progress from the mid to late 60's, their chemistry, and their incredible imaginations.
 
#78
OriginalKeyster said:
My Hofner 182 Professional... that is, at least I think it is. No serial number and it appears to be consistent with late 70's and early 80's examples. One thing's for sure, this thing packs a serious punch! I would take a number if they are still being given...

DSC07860.jpg
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OriginalKeyster you are number 24. There are few examples of the solid body basses that I have seen. Your's is a very nice one. Welcome.
 
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