Why Don’t We See the ‘Upright’ Bass Anymore?

Everyone loves it when they see a bassist performing on the "upright" bass, or as it is sometimes unfortunately referred to, "string bass" or "doghouse bass." So, why is it we don't see the instrument anymore?

There are a few simple answers:

• They are a pain in the butt to haul around.
• They are incredibly expensive. $18,000 is typical. $60,000 is not uncommon.
• Contrary to popular belief, bass is a very difficult instrument to play.
• They are difficult and expensive to maintain.
• Playing the "upright bass" will get you just about as many chicks as playing the tuba.
• and lastly, most people can't play the damn things in tune.

Point of clarification: the actual name of the instrument is the "double bass" or "contra bass." The term "double bass" come from the fact that it wasn't all that long ago the instrument mostly doubled the cello part, only an octave lower.

Remember back in 1983 when Sting performed on a double bass in the video "Every Breath You Take?" That video set the world on fire,  topping the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart for eight weeks, and winning the Grammy for Song of the Year.

In reality, the double bass is a remarkable instrument that can perform a variety of roles, including that of solo instrument.

Now here's the type of bass playing that makes life worth living.