The unheard note

The bass guitar is one of the greatest unsung heroes in the world of musical instruments. While his glamorous acoustic, and electric cousins steal all the limelight with their charishma and chutpah, the bass guitar chooses to stay in the background, playing a largely unacknowledged role; indeed seemingly making no difference at all.

I think one of Rahman's greatest contributions to Indian music has been to give this instrument the respect, and attention it deserves ! To me, the essence in some of his songs is conveyed in that one bass note change at just the right moment..

And yet, oblivious to the lack of attention, the bass guitarist plays, but largely for himself, and for his few colleagues who understand and appreciate his contribution. To all the bassists on this planet - I salute you !