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)
Dream OnTom Hamilton（Aerosmith）
Tom Hamilton of Aerosmith has used a variety of basses.
One of his favorites has been the Music Man StingRay.
Even if it isn’t their main instrument, the StingRay’s distinctive tone is likely an important part of the palette for professional musicians.
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.
ResponsibilityMike Herrera（MxPx）
MxPx is a band that epitomized the punk rock scene of the ’90s.
Mike Herrera—the bassist, vocalist, and primary songwriter—left a strong impression with his performances singing while playing a StingRay.
During this era, the StingRay was used by many bands across punk and hardcore alike.
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)
Cameron Adler
Tonight Alive is a pop-punk band from Australia.
They’re known for a distinctive sound featuring a female vocalist.
The bassist, Cameron Adler, plays a pure white StingRay! That thick tone is quintessential StingRay.