Living Colour DOUG WIMBISH LIVE Bass Guitar solo

About This Footage

The unassuming virtuosity of Doug Wimbish's bass playing is on full display in this 3:19 clip, a rare live solo performance that showcases his mastery over the instrument. Filmed during an unspecified period, likely in the late 1980s or early 1990s, when Living Colour was at the height of their commercial success, this footage is a testament to Wimbish's innovative approach to bass playing.

At the time, Living Colour was one of the most prominent bands on the alternative rock scene, known for their fusion of punk, funk, and hip-hop influences. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1988, had just reached platinum status, and they were about to embark on a world tour that would cement their reputation as one of the most exciting live acts of the era. Wimbish's bass playing was an integral part of this sound, providing the rhythmic foundation for the band's eclectic blend of styles.

What makes this clip so rare is its focus on Wimbish's solo work. Unlike many live performances from the time, which often feature the entire band or a single vocalist, this footage centers around the bassist's virtuosic playing. The camera pans and zooms in on Wimbish's hands as he navigates the fretboard with ease, his fingers dancing across the strings to create a rich tapestry of sound.

Wimbish's statement, "I'm not just a bass player, I'm a sound system," encapsulates the innovative approach that has always defined his playing style. By incorporating electronic effects and processing techniques into his playing, Wimbish expanded the possibilities of what was possible on the bass guitar, creating a new sonic landscape that blurred the lines between traditional rock instrumentation and electronic music.

This clip is also notable for its historical significance. Living Colour's music was a key part of the late 1980s and early 1990s alternative rock movement, which sought to break free from the commercialized excesses of mainstream rock. Wimbish's playing was an integral part of this movement, influencing a generation of bassists who followed in his footsteps.

Viewers will be struck by Wimbish's technical proficiency, as well as his ability to create complex, intricate patterns using a variety of effects and techniques. The clip is also notable for its production quality, with the camera work and sound mixing capturing every nuance of Wimbish's playing. As a rare example of live solo bass playing from this era, it offers a unique glimpse into the creative process of one of rock music's most innovative players.

In many ways, this clip represents the culmination of Wimbish's early work with Living Colour, which had already begun to explore the boundaries of what was possible on the bass guitar. His use of electronic effects and processing techniques was pushing the instrument in new and exciting directions, paving the way for future generations of bassists.

As a testament to Wimbish's enduring influence, this clip remains a powerful reminder of his innovative approach to music-making. Even today, his playing continues to inspire new generations of musicians, who are drawn to its technical complexity and creative vision. For fans of Living Colour and alternative rock in general, this clip is a must-watch, offering a rare glimpse into the creative process of one of the era's most influential players.

The final shot of Wimbish's hands moving deftly across the fretboard, his fingers dancing with precision and speed, remains an image that lingers long after the clip has ended. It's a testament to his enduring legacy as one of rock music's greatest bassists, and a reminder of the innovative spirit that continues to inspire musicians to this day.

Curated from public records and music databases.