A compilation of bassists who use StingRays
Among basses, the MUSIC MAN StingRay stands out as a true icon.
Its distinctive look—like the headstock shape and tuner layout, the body contours, and that characteristic pickguard—makes it instantly recognizable as a StingRay.
It’s also famous as a quintessential active bass with a single humbucking pickup, and its powerful sound is loved by bassists across all genres.
In this article, we’ll introduce a lineup of bassists who use—or have used—the uniquely characteristic StingRay.
Let’s dive in!
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Bassists who use StingRays (11–20)
Waiting RoomJoe Lally（Fugazi）
Joe Lally has built his own musical world by harnessing the StingRay’s fierce midrange and the power of its humbucking pickups.
Especially throughout Fugazi’s career, he’s frequently seen wielding a StingRay.
The opening riff of Waiting Room, included on 1988’s 13 Songs, prominently showcases the StingRay’s rich tone.
His powerful, groove-driven sound has influenced countless bassists.
Robert Trujillo（Metallica）
Robert Trujillo, who has been crafting heavy bass lines as Metallica’s bassist since 2003, has played instruments from a variety of makers, including Warwick, Aria Pro II, Zon Sonus, and Fender—and a StingRay is among them.
In fact, in the audition footage from when he joined Metallica, he can be seen holding a StingRay.
Before joining, he drew attention for his distinctive playing—shaped by jazz and funk influences—with bands like Suicidal Tendencies.
His dynamic, high‑energy performances have left a strong impression on fans, and his playing style continues to influence countless bassists to this day.
Right Back At It AgainJoshua Woodard（A Day To Remember）
Joshua Woodard, who served as the bassist for A Day To Remember, is a devoted StingRay user.
There are live videos and music videos where he plays a Fender Jazz Bass as well, but you can often see him performing with a StingRay.
In the American loud rock and emo scenes, many bassists use StingRays.
The powerful sound of the StingRay really suits these genres.
Alex Al
Alex Al is a bassist who also played in Michael Jackson’s backing band, powerfully anchoring the rhythm section.
With a distinctive sound that creates unique bass lines, the StingRay was central to supporting his standout performances.
If you search for his performance videos on YouTube, you’ll find clips of him playing passionately with a StingRay.
The powerful bass tone played on stage leaves a strong impression on listeners and continues to be loved by many fans around the world.
east windHosono Haruomi (YMO)
The StingRay bass with its distinctive egg-shaped pickguard was used by Haruomi Hosono of YMO for a period.
Although Hosono is strongly associated with Fender, you can see it in live footage from the late 1970s.
The StingRay’s appeal lies in its punchy, deep low end—it delivers a solid tone that underpins the foundation.
Whether the StingRay or Fender, don’t these instrument choices reflect Hosono’s approach to the bass?
A Fortune in LiesJohn Myung（Dream Theater）
The bass magician John Myung once wielded a MUSIC MAN StingRay, renowned for its powerful sound.
Records show he used it during the production of Dream Theater’s album “When Dream and Day Unite,” capturing that distinctive StingRay tone.
These days, he primarily plays MUSIC MAN’s BONGO, and the company has also released his signature model.
His highly technical playing style has surely left a deep impression on many listeners and bassists alike.
Summary of bassists who use StingRays (21–30)
Stop On ByGail Ann Dorsey
The female bassist known for working with David Bowie and Lenny Kravitz is Gail Ann Dorsey.
An avid StingRay user, she’s distinguished not only by her bass technique but also by her outstanding vocals.
In this video, you can watch a performance where she overlays her singing on accompaniment played on a StingRay.