Carol Kaye is widely regarded as one of the most influential and prolific bass guitarists in the history of recorded music. With over 10,000 session credits, she stands as one of the most renowned studio musicians of all time. Her unique contributions to numerous iconic tracks have earned her the unofficial title of the “First Lady” of bass playing. While Kaye was rarely part of a formal band, she became a key figure in the legendary L.A. studio ensemble known as the Wrecking Crew (a term Kaye herself dislikes, calling it a retroactive creation of drummer Hal Blaine).
Celebrating her 90th birthday on March 24, Carol Kaye’s career spans nearly every genre of music, though she is most celebrated for her work in rock and pop. Choosing just five standout tracks that feature her contributions is a difficult task, but here are five classics where Kaye’s bass and/or guitar work plays a crucial role:
1. “La Bamba” by Richie Valens (1958)
Kaye’s session career took off with her contribution to Sam Cooke’s “Summertime.” This led to more opportunities, including her iconic work on the 1958 hit “La Bamba” by Richie Valens. While Kaye would later become known for her electric bass guitar work, for this session, she played acoustic guitar, laying the groundwork for many of her future successes.
2. “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’” by The Righteous Brothers (1964)
Phil Spector’s “wall of sound” productions are legendary, and Kaye played a significant part in that sonic architecture. On “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” a track often associated with Spector’s distinct production style, Kaye’s acoustic guitar work is integral, even if it isn’t always immediately noticeable. Her contributions, though subtle, are a vital part of the song’s powerful emotional impact.
3. “The Beat Goes On” by Sonny and Cher (1967)
Sonny Bono, who began as a gofer for Phil Spector, went on to produce, record, and perform some of the era’s biggest hits. One such hit was “The Beat Goes On,” featuring a memorable bass line crafted by Carol Kaye. Her bass playing helped define the track’s groove, becoming a standout element in this quintessential ’60s pop song.
4. “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’” by Nancy Sinatra (1966)
Nancy Sinatra’s sultry rendition of Lee Hazlewood’s “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’” became a massive hit. A driving force behind the song’s catchy, sensual vibe was Carol Kaye’s iconic descending bass line. Her bass playing not only complements the song’s seductive feel but also becomes one of its most defining features.
5. “The Streets of San Francisco” Theme by the Pat Williams Orchestra (1975)
Carol Kaye’s versatility extends far beyond rock and pop, and her work in the 1970s includes numerous sessions for film and TV composers like Lalo Schifrin, Quincy Jones, and Pat Williams. One such track is the theme from the popular TV series The Streets of San Francisco, starring Karl Malden and Michael Douglas. In this jazz-infused, high-energy theme, Kaye’s electric bass provides a propulsive foundation, showcasing her skill in the world of cinematic music.
These five tracks only scratch the surface of Carol Kaye’s remarkable career, but they highlight the integral role she played in shaping the sound of an era.
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