The legendary sound of Rush achieved unprecedented complexity when Geddy Lee embraced the Wal bass guitars, influencing his desire for a double-neck instrument. The Rickenbacker company built Lee’s iconic 4080/12 model, a unique creation that allows him to switch seamlessly between bass and twelve-string guitar parts during live performances of songs like "Xanadu." This guide explores the specifications, history, and impact of the Geddy Lee double neck bass, celebrating a truly remarkable instrument that has become synonymous with progressive rock innovation and the virtuosity of one of music’s most influential bassists.
Diving Deep into the Geddy Lee Double Neck Bass Universe
So you’re intrigued by the mesmerizing allure of Geddy Lee wielding a double neck bass? Excellent! You’ve come to the right place. Crafting an informative and engaging article about Geddy Lee’s use of double-neck basses requires a structured approach that balances technical details with the sheer artistry of his playing. Here’s how we can build a fantastic piece:
I. Introduction: Setting the Stage
- The Hook: Start with a captivating anecdote or a striking visual – maybe a picture of Geddy shredding on a double neck. Immediately grab the reader’s attention. Think about opening with something like: "Imagine the roar of the crowd, the flashing lights, and Geddy Lee, bass god, seamlessly switching between the crisp highs of a 4-string and the rumbling depths of an 8-string neck…".
- Brief Explanation of Double Neck Basses: Quickly define what a double neck bass is. Highlight its versatility and potential for tonal exploration. Think of it as a musical Swiss Army Knife.
- Introducing Geddy Lee’s Association: Clearly state Geddy Lee’s connection to double neck basses and why he’s a significant figure in their popularization. Emphasize his pioneering spirit and the unique sound he achieves.
- Article Overview: Briefly outline what the article will cover – models, modifications, playing techniques, etc. This sets expectations and keeps readers engaged.
II. The Iconic Wal Double Neck: Geddy’s Main Squeeze
This section will focus heavily on the Wal basses, Geddy Lee’s most iconic double neck instruments.
- History of Wal Basses: Delve into the history of Wal basses. Discuss their unique construction, materials, and the distinctive sound they produce. Who founded Wal? What made them special?
- Specific Wal Double Neck Models: Get into the details of the specific Wal double necks Geddy Lee used. Was it a custom build? What were the key features? If there are differences between models, clearly lay them out.
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Detailed Specifications: Present a table or a list of specifications for each model.
Feature Wal Double Neck #1 Wal Double Neck #2 Neck Configuration 4-string/8-string 4-string/8-string Body Wood (e.g., Mahogany) (e.g., Maple) Pickups (e.g., Wal Custom) (e.g., Wal Custom) Electronics (e.g., Active) (e.g., Active) Finish (e.g., Natural) (e.g., Sunburst) - Geddy’s Modifications (if any): Did Geddy Lee make any modifications to his Wal basses? Were there custom pickups, bridge changes, or alterations to the electronics? This is crucial detail that fans will crave!
III. Other Double Neck Appearances
While the Wal is the king, explore any other double-neck basses Geddy Lee has used, even briefly:
- Other Basses: Did Geddy ever dabble with other double neck instruments? Even if it was a one-off appearance, it’s worth mentioning for completeness.
- Stage Use and Recordings: Discuss where and when Geddy Lee used each double neck bass. Which songs featured the 8-string sound? Where could you see this in live performances?
IV. The Sound: Capturing Geddy’s Double Neck Magic
This is where you explore how Geddy Lee gets his signature sound.
- Tonal Qualities: Describe the tonal characteristics of the Wal (and any other double-neck basses) when played by Geddy Lee. Focus on the interplay between the 4-string and 8-string necks. What does the 8-string add?
- Amp and Effects Chain: Provide insight into Geddy Lee’s amplification and effects setup when using the double neck. What amps, cabinets, and effects did he use to shape the sound?
- Playing Technique: Discuss Geddy Lee’s playing technique on the double neck. How does he switch between necks? Does he use unique techniques on the 8-string?
V. Legacy and Influence
- Impact on Bass Playing: Discuss how Geddy Lee’s use of the double neck bass influenced other bass players. Did he inspire a new generation of musicians to explore the instrument?
- The "Geddy Lee Double Neck Sound": How has Geddy Lee’s double neck sound become synonymous with a particular style of progressive rock?
VI. Resources and Further Exploration
- Discography: List specific Rush albums and songs that prominently feature Geddy Lee’s double neck bass playing.
- Live Performances: Link to video footage of Geddy Lee playing the double neck bass in concert.
- Interviews: Reference interviews where Geddy Lee discusses his double neck basses.
- Gear Forums and Communities: Point readers towards online communities where they can discuss Geddy Lee’s gear and playing techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions about Geddy Lee Double Neck Basses
What’s unique about Geddy Lee’s use of a double neck bass?
Geddy Lee of Rush primarily uses a double neck bass for playing songs that require both 4-string bass parts and 12-string guitar parts in a single performance. It allows him to switch instantly between sounds without changing instruments. He’s not the sole pioneer, but he definitely popularized it.
Did Geddy Lee design his double neck bass?
While Geddy Lee didn’t design the double neck bass entirely from scratch, he collaborated with Rickenbacker on his signature 4080/12 model. It’s based on a standard Rickenbacker design, customized to his specifications, including neck profiles and pickups. You could therefore consider it a collaborative design.
Are there different versions of the Geddy Lee double neck bass available to buy?
The most commonly associated Geddy Lee double neck bass is the Rickenbacker 4080/12. However, because these are often vintage or custom instruments, finding exact replicas available for purchase can be difficult. Some luthiers offer custom builds that replicate the specifications.
What’s the value of a vintage Geddy Lee double neck bass?
The value of a vintage Rickenbacker 4080/12, especially one used by or associated with Geddy Lee, can be significant. Prices vary based on condition, provenance, and originality, but such a geddy lee double neck bass would typically command a high price in the collector’s market, often tens of thousands of dollars.
So, whether you’re a seasoned bassist looking to add some serious stage presence or just dreaming of channeling your inner Geddy Lee, hopefully this guide has given you a good overview of the Geddy Lee double neck bass and what it takes to rock one. Now go forth and find the perfect combination of necks to nail those high notes and low-end grooves!