bass guitar from “uptown funk” by mark ronson ft. bruno mars | ToneDB

uptown funk

mark ronson ft. bruno mars

bass guitar

75% ai confidence

Tone Profile

Punchy, bright, and funky bass tone with a slightly overdriven edge, providing a driving rhythmic foundation.

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The Story

The bass on 'Uptown Funk' was recorded at Royal Studios in Memphis using a Fender Precision Bass through an Ampeg SVT amplifier, with a Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI providing controlled overdrive and amp simulation. The recording utilized both a direct signal and a mic'd amplifier (using an AKG D112) which were blended together to achieve both the clarity of the DI and the fullness of the miked amp.

Production Credits

Producer: Mark Ronson

Engineer: Unknown

Recorded at: Royal Studios, Memphis, TN

Recreation Tips

  • Start with a Fender Precision Bass for that classic sound.
  • Use an Ampeg SVT or an amp sim to get a thick, powerful tone.
  • Dial in a slight overdrive with a SansAmp Bass Driver DI to add some grit and character.
  • Blend the DI signal with the mic'd amp signal to get a balanced tone.

Original Gear

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Substitutions & Recommendations

Alternative to: Fender Precision Bass

Provides the essential P-bass tone with split-coil pickups and solid construction at a budget-friendly price point

Alternative to: Ampeg SVT

Modern tube-hybrid head that captures the classic SVT sound with more reliability and portability than vintage models

Alternative to: Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver DI

Updated version of the exact pedal used on the recording, providing the same amp simulation and overdrive character

Alternative to: Ampeg SVT + SansAmp combination

High-quality bass amp simulation plugin that includes accurate SVT modeling and DI blending capabilities for in-the-box production

Alternative to: AKG D112

Dynamic microphone specifically designed for bass instruments with similar frequency response characteristics for capturing amp punch

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