“His bass playing is so lyrical – he'd play a counter melody as opposed to just rhythm”: Flea names his pick for “the greatest rock bass player” of all time

Flea of Red Hot Chili Peppers performs at Budweiser Stage on July 15, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario.

For many, Flea’s wildly energetic slap bass antics and funk-sharpened attack make him one of the greatest bass players in the world. But now the Red Hot Chili Peppers maestro has named the bassist that, in turn, fascinates him the most.

The bassist, who starred in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games closing ceremony over the weekend, has singled out who he believes to be the “greatest rock bass player” – and he's given the honor to Paul McCartney.