Jerry Scheff: Elvis Concert Bass Solo

Here’s a classic clip of bassist Jerry Scheff pouring his soul into a blues solo during a taped performance with Elvis Presley.

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Share your thoughts

  1. Clifton

    WOOW!! Looks like your was using the James Jamerson “HOOK!” Nice work!

    • On a Bass Player interview, he said he always plays with his index only. Btw how cool and relaxed Elvis in introducing players’ solos and in thanking them at the end!

  2. Keith

    Get rid of the effects and it would be a nice solo!!!

    • Michael Snell

      I think it would die without the effects. It would not cut through and the notes would die too soon IMHO. The sound would not work for non solo playing but this is clearly a solo. Effects are not the sole domain of other musicians. Tear Your Playhouse down is a good example. The playing would not stand out the way it does without effects.

  3. Still one of the best bassplayers of all time.Jerry and Ronnie Tutt on drums were the glue in that band.Alot of times Elvis would smile and look back at the rhythm section in appreciation.James Burton of course added to the magic.Fantastic stuff!!!

  4. Brian Mcghee

    love it

  5. Preston Kofoed

    His son Jason plays with Chicago!

  6. Joe

    That’s some crazy tone!

  7. Loved the solo and the hairy tone! Look out Jack Bruce and John Paul Jones!
    And Elvis made a great MC.

  8. Anthony

    I don’t know which is cooler: the solo or that Seventies haircut Scheff had! It’s always cool to hear a bad solo that uses the lower register effectively.