LET IT BE, from left: Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, 1970

Red Hot Chili Peppers’ bassist, Flea, recently shared high praise for Beatles legend Sir Paul McCartney, calling him “the greatest rock bass player” on the podcast ‘Where Everybody Knows Your Name’ to Speaking to Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson.

Flea said:

“I think Paul’s the greatest rock bass player. He’s just great. I mean, there are so many guys that are great in different ways, but Paul’s bass playing is so lyrical and melodic, and it’s just so beautiful. One of the things I’ve heard is that he put the bass on after. A band like mine, the bass sometimes the song starts with bass lines, so coming first, or the music comes first.”

Flea highlighted McCartney’s unique approach to bass playing, describing it as “lyrical and melodic” and emphasizing its beauty. He pointed out how McCartney often added the bass lines after the melody was set, creating a counter-melody that enhances the song rather than just following the rhythm.

In related news, Paul McCartney is reflecting on his time with Wings in the upcoming documentary ‘One Hand Clapping.’ The film showcases rare footage from the recording sessions of the band’s live studio album in 1974 at Abbey Road Studios. Set to debut in cinemas next month, the documentary offers a nostalgic look back at Wings’ success, featuring McCartney performing Buddy Holly songs and an unreleased track, ‘Blackpool.’