“I downsized my collection of electric bass guitars, having once owned over 100!”
Throughout his illustrious career, Stanley Clarke has become synonymous with his legendary bass guitars. An icon in the music industry, Clarke decided to downsize his extensive bass collection after an impressive five-decade tenure at the low-end. The virtuoso’s remarkable journey with bass gear, both past and present, reflects his innovative approach to music and his quest for the perfect sound.
Of all the iconic pairings that have shaped music history, Clarke and his Alembic bass stand out as one of the greats. Since 1988, Clarke’s signature model boasts a 30.75-inch scale, 24 frets, and an ebony fingerboard, complete with gold machine heads and an active circuit designed by Ron Wickersham. Clarke attributes his lifelong allegiance to Alembic, stating, “I’ve been playing Alembic all my life.” Despite this, he had amassed a colossal collection of over 100 electric basses at one point, prompting him to declutter and pass on many of them.
Clarke’s early days saw him performing with a Gibson hollowbody before transitioning to Alembic. A chance encounter with Rick Turner at a gig led to Clarke acquiring his first Alembic bass, marking a turning point in his sound. Embracing the transition, Clarke reminisces, “Suddenly I could play anything that I heard in my head.” This shift was pivotal in honing Clarke’s signature sound, emphasizing the importance of instrument and artist chemistry.
The release of his eponymous solo album in 1974 solidified Clarke’s partnership with Alembic, paving the way for the Stanley Clarke Signature model. Over the years, Clarke’s collaboration with Alembic has evolved, incorporating custom features such as a 5dB boost for a quick power surge. Clarke’s distinct tone on bass guitar resonated with audiences worldwide, especially with the release of his acclaimed album “School Days,” showcasing his flamboyant bass technique and Carl Thompson piccolo bass.
Despite his enduring relationship with Alembic, Clarke’s experimentation with instrument design saw him team up with Tom Lieber in 1980 to create the Spellbinder Bass. This collaboration continued into the 2000s with innovative designs like the SB II and the Mando Piccolo Bass. Clarke’s creative direction, reflected in designs like the Spellcaster bass inspired by the Fender Stratocaster, demonstrates his penchant for pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic possibilities.
Clarke’s meticulous approach to his signal chain reveals his attention to detail and commitment to sound quality. Incorporating EBS pedals into his setup, Clarke’s pursuit of sonic perfection is a testament to his dedication to his craft. His unparalleled musical journey, underscored by his evolving bass gear preferences, mirrors his artistic growth and unwavering passion for innovation in music.
Through his remarkable career, Stanley Clarke’s legacy as a bass virtuoso has left an indelible mark on the music world. His intricate relationship with his bass guitars, from his foundational Gibson hollowbody to his revered Alembic models, exemplifies his relentless pursuit of excellence and sonic exploration. As Clarke continues to redefine the boundaries of musical expression, his bass guitars remain an integral part of his iconic sound.