Danny Thompson, Pioneering Bassist, Dies at 86
Danny Thompson, a highly influential upright bass player celebrated for his distinctive style and collaborations with a diverse range of artists, has died at the age of 86. His innovative approach to the instrument redefined its role in British folk and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape.
From Soho Clubs to Musical Revolution
Thompson’s musical journey began in his youth, crafting a makeshift bass from a tea chest at the age of 13. By 16, he was performing in the vibrant music scene of Soho, London. His early career included a brief stint touring with Roy Orbison – a period he later noted as his sole experience playing electric bass. He quickly established himself as a versatile musician, equally comfortable in jazz and folk idioms.
The Founding of Pentangle and a New Sound
In 1965, Thompson co-founded Pentangle, a groundbreaking folk-rock band alongside Jacqui McShee, John Renbourn, bert Jansch, and Terry Cox. Pentangle revolutionized British folk music by fearlessly blending conventional repertoire with elements of jazz and psychedelia. Their music challenged conventional boundaries and offered a fresh perspective on established folk songs, influencing generations of musicians.
A Session Musician’s Legacy
Thompson’s talent extended far beyond Pentangle. He became a highly sought-after session musician, lending his unique bass lines to recordings by an extraordinary array of artists. These included Kate Bush, John Martyn, Cliff richard, and even T-Rex. He wasn’t simply providing accompaniment; artists actively sought his distinctive touch and improvisational skills.
Collaborations and Artistic Depth
His collaborations with John Martyn are notably noteworthy, marked by a powerful musical connection and a shared willingness to push creative boundaries. Thompson’s interplay with Martyn created a dynamic,frequently enough emotionally charged sound. He also contributed his skills to albums by Nick Drake, June Tabor, and the Incredible String Band, further solidifying his reputation as a masterful bassist.
| Artist | Notable Collaboration(s) |
|---|---|
| Kate Bush | The Dreaming, Hounds of Love |
| John Martyn | Numerous albums and live performances |
| Pentangle | Founding member and key musical force |
| Roy Orbison | Touring bassist (early career) |
A Unique Approach to the Bass
Thompson’s playing style defied conventional expectations. Unlike many bassists focused on maintaining a straightforward rhythmic foundation, he approached the instrument melodically, frequently enough prioritizing musicality over strict adherence to root notes. This freewheeling approach, born partly from a self-professed lack of attention to root notes, became his signature.
Did You Know? Thompson crafted his first bass guitar from a tea chest and stolen piano wire at just 13 years old,demonstrating his early ingenuity and passion for music.
Later Years and Continued Creativity
Thompson released his debut solo album,Whatever,in 1987,showcasing his diverse musical influences and establishing his identity as a solo artist. He continued to collaborate with various musicians throughout his career, including Richard Thompson and Eric Bibb.His final album, Song of Joy for Christmas, a collection of Christmas carols recorded with Jacqui McShee, exemplified his willingness to embrace unexpected projects.
The Enduring Legacy of Danny Thompson
Danny Thompson’s passing marks the end of an era in British music. His innovative bass playing, his willingness to experiment, and his dedication to musical exploration have inspired countless musicians. He wasn’t merely a bassist; he was a creator, a collaborator, and a true original. his influence can still be heard in contemporary music today, cementing his place as a pioneer of modern bass playing.
The impact of musicians like Thompson extends beyond their discographies. they help to redefine genres and inspire new generations of artists to push the boundaries of what’s possible. As the music industry continues to evolve, the contributions of figures like Thompson remain vital.
Frequently Asked Questions about Danny Thompson
- What was Danny Thompson best known for? He was best known as the founder of Pentangle and his innovative upright bass playing across a wide range of genres.
- Who did Danny Thompson collaborate with? He collaborated with numerous artists,including Kate Bush,John Martyn,Cliff Richard,and Nick Drake.
- What made Danny Thompson’s bass playing unique? His playing was known for its melodic approach, prioritizing musicality and improvisation over strict adherence to traditional bass lines.
- Was Danny Thompson solely a folk musician? No, Thompson was versatile and worked across folk, jazz, and rock genres.
- When did Danny Thompson release his first solo album? He released his first solo album, Whatever, in 1987.
What are your favorite danny Thompson recordings or collaborations? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
How did Danny Thompson’s bass playing style evolve when he joined T-Rex,and what specific qualities did he bring to thier sound?
Exploring the Musical Genius of Late Bassist Danny Thompson: Spanning Kate Bush to T-Rex and Pentangle
Danny Thompson: A Bassist’s Bassist
Danny Thompson (1948-2020) wasn’t a frontman,a songwriter dominating the charts,or a flamboyant showman. He was, quite simply, one of the most influential and respected bass players in British music history. His distinctive, melodic basslines underpinned some of the most iconic recordings of the late 20th and early 21st centuries, spanning genres from progressive folk to art-pop and glam rock. This article delves into the career of this remarkable musician, exploring his contributions to Pentangle, T-Rex, Kate Bush, and beyond. We’ll examine his unique playing style, his impact on the sound of these artists, and why he remains a touchstone for bassists today.
Early Years & Pentangle: The Foundation of a Style
Thompson’s musical journey began in the thriving British folk scene of the 1960s.He honed his skills playing with various artists before becoming a founding member of Pentangle in 1967. Pentangle, featuring guitar virtuoso Bert jansch and singer Jacqui McShee, blended folk, jazz, blues, and classical influences, creating a sound that was both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.
* Pentangle’s Impact: Pentangle’s self-titled debut album in 1968 showcased Thompson’s burgeoning talent.His walking basslines, often incorporating jazz harmonies and countermelodies, weren’t merely supportive; they were integral to the band’s sound.
* Unique Technique: Thompson favored a plectrum (pick) rather then fingers, giving his bass a luminous, articulate tone. This,combined with his melodic approach,set him apart from many of his contemporaries.
* Key Pentangle Tracks: Listen to “Light Flight” and “Bruton Town” to appreciate Thompson’s interplay with Jansch’s guitar and McShee’s vocals. His basslines aren’t just holding down the rhythm; they’re actively participating in the musical conversation.
Glam Rock & Marc Bolan’s T-Rex
In the early 1970s, Thompson took a sharp turn, joining Marc Bolan’s T-Rex. This move surprised many, given Pentangle’s folk sensibilities, but it proved to be a fruitful collaboration.Bolan was seeking to add depth and sophistication to his glam rock sound, and Thompson was the perfect musician for the job.
* Adding Sophistication to Glam: thompson’s basslines provided a grounding force to Bolan’s often flamboyant guitar work and lyrical themes.He brought a level of musicality that elevated T-Rex beyond simple pop songs.
* Notable T-Rex Contributions: He played on albums like Electric Warrior (1971) and The slider (1972), contributing to hits like “Get It On” and “Jeepster.” His bass playing on these tracks is deceptively simple, yet incredibly effective.
* Adapting His Style: While maintaining his signature melodic approach, thompson adapted his playing to suit the energy and drive of T-Rex’s music. He embraced a more aggressive tone and incorporated more rhythmic drive.
The Kate Bush Years: A Long and Fruitful Partnership
Perhaps Thompson’s most enduring and celebrated collaboration was with Kate Bush. He joined her band in 1977 and remained a key member for over three decades, contributing to almost all of her studio albums.This partnership allowed Thompson to fully explore his creative potential and become an integral part of bush’s unique sonic landscape.
* A Symbiotic Relationship: Bush and Thompson shared a deep musical understanding.She valued his musicality and gave him considerable freedom to contribute to her arrangements.
* Defining Kate Bush’s Sound: Thompson’s basslines are arguably the defining element of many of Bush’s most iconic songs. His playing on tracks like “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with god),” “Babooshka,” and “Hounds of Love” is instantly recognizable.
* Innovative Bass Techniques: Bush encouraged Thompson to experiment with different sounds and techniques. He utilized fretless bass on several recordings,adding a haunting,ethereal quality to the music.
* Live Performances: thompson’s live performances with Bush were legendary, showcasing his improvisational skills and his ability to connect with the audience. The Tour of Life (1979) was a groundbreaking concert experience,and Thompson’s bass playing was a central element of its success.
Beyond the Icons: A Diverse Career
While his work with Pentangle,
