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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Summary of bassists who use StingRays (21–30)
Wherever I Lay My HatPino Palladino
When people think of a StingRay, many imagine a sharp, biting sound.
However, the one Pino Palladino favored while playing in Paul Young’s backing band was a StingRay modified to be fretless, delivering a round, mellow tone.
It shows that the StingRay is, unexpectedly, a bass with a wide range of versatility.
Stefan Lessard
Stefan Lessard, known as the virtuoso bassist of Dave Matthews Band.
When you think of a StingRay, it tends to be used by bassists in metalcore bands, but he comes from a jazz background.
You don’t often see a StingRay played with fingers, but it looks cool! As expected, the 18-volt sound using two batteries seems to be well received.
Bassists who use Stingrays (31–40)
Makoto Ishida
Makoto Ishida, the bassist of the Tokyo metalcore band Her Name In Blood.
Before he started using a Fujigen bass, he was known for playing a StingRay covered with NOFX stickers.
Here’s the music video for one of their early fan favorites, “Decadence.” He still uses his trademark green bass today!
Communication BreakdanceTOMOHIKO
The Japanese funk band SUPER BUTTER DOG.
The instrument that supported the band’s low end was the StingRay played by TOMOHIKO.
Its distinctive, clearly defined tone pairs perfectly with funk music.
Run to the FutureAZU（Cyntia）
AZU, who performed as the bassist for the girls’ rock band Cyntia, used several different basses, among which a StingRay could also be seen.
Even within the band’s sound, the bass stands out with a striking presence.
Under PressureGail Ann Dorsey
She is a bassist and vocalist from Philadelphia, USA, known for having long served as a session musician for David Bowie.
She reportedly started playing guitar at 9 and bass at 14, but she originally didn’t aspire to be a musician—she aimed to become a screenwriter—so she possesses many talents.
MientesPedro Aznar
He is a musician from Argentina, a singer as well as a multi-instrumentalist who plays several instruments, and he is also known for having been part of Pat Metheny’s group.
When he plays bass, he uses a StingRay, and he often sings while playing.
Because he performs on various instruments and sings, his bass playing is very melodic.