The double bass or simply the bass (and numerous other names) is the largest and lowest-pitched bowed string instrument in the modern symphony orchestra. It is a transposing instrument and is ...

It is hard to imagine the double bass — the lowest-pitched member of the violin family that resembles a string instrument on steroids — setting the tone for the Sufi song ‘Dama dam mast kalandar’, but ...

ZZ Top's Elwood Francis has become a key part of the band's live lineup, but he has one major regret about his performances. That would be having introduced the gigantic bright yellow 17-string bass ...

Although it’s true that bass strings last longer than standard guitar strings, I believe it’s important for the upkeep of your bass to regularly fit it with a fresh set. Not only do regular string ...

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission. When it comes time to replace your strings, there are two ...

ZZ Top’s Elwood Francis—that’s who. The ZZ Top bass player broke one out at the band’s show in Huntsville, Alabama earlier this week on November 5. The musician played the odd-looking instrument when ...

ZZ Top bassist Elwood Francis has now explained why he whipped out a massive 17-string bass guitar onstage with the long-running classic rock band last week. Francis, formerly a stage technician for ...

When a traditional bass doesn’t have enough low end to serve the music you’re playing, then you might want to explore some of the best 5-string bass guitars instead. Having an extra low string gives ...

From the mariachi’s booming guitarron on “Cielito Lindo,” to the powerful accordeón in Los Tigres del Norte’s “Ni Parientes Somos” to even the trap drums of a Natanael Cano corrido tumbado, the sound ...

A global guitar string manufacturer behind the sound of some of the biggest British rock bands is celebrating 60 years since the business’s inception. Rotosound sold its first set of strings in 1958 ...