As the bassist and multi-instrumentalist of Led Zeppelin, John Paul Jones earned a reputation as one of rock’s most versatile musicians. His bass lines combined technical precision, creativity, and musical intelligence, influencing generations of players. Because of his stature, fans pay close attention whenever he praises another bassist.
Among the many great musicians Jones has admired, one name consistently stands out: James Jamerson.
Jamerson was the secret weapon behind countless Motown hits during the 1960s and early 1970s. While casual listeners often recognize the singers and songwriters associated with the label, musicians understand that Jamerson’s bass playing was a crucial ingredient in the Motown sound.
Jones has spoken with deep admiration about Jamerson’s abilities, describing his playing in terms that suggested near perfection. What impressed him most was Jamerson’s combination of groove, melody, and technical skill. Unlike many bassists who simply followed chord changes, Jamerson created independent musical lines that became essential parts of the songs themselves.
Listen to classics recorded by artists such as Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, and Stevie Wonder, and you’ll hear Jamerson’s fingerprints everywhere. His bass parts often move with the complexity of a lead instrument while never sacrificing the groove.
For Jones, this level of musicianship represented the highest standard. Jamerson had a unique ability to make difficult passages sound effortless. His lines were sophisticated enough to impress fellow musicians yet accessible enough to serve the song perfectly.
The influence of Jamerson extends far beyond Motown. Bassists across genres—from rock and jazz to funk and pop—continue to study his recordings. Many consider him one of the most important bass players in history.
Jones himself brought a similarly melodic approach to Led Zeppelin. Songs like “Ramble On” and “The Lemon Song” feature bass lines that do far more than support the rhythm section. Like Jamerson, Jones treated the bass as an expressive instrument capable of shaping the entire character of a song.
Perhaps that’s why Jones held Jamerson in such high regard. He recognized a fellow musician who understood the deeper possibilities of bass playing.
Today, Jamerson’s legacy continues to grow as new generations discover the artistry hidden within classic Motown recordings. And when a musician of John Paul Jones’ caliber points to someone as the gold standard, it’s worth paying attention.