What bass did Simon Gallup use on Boys Don't Cry?

Simon Gallup used a Fender Jazz Bass on "Boys Don't Cry." The Jazz Bass's bright, punchy tone was essential to the song's new wave character and became a key part of The Cure's early sound.

How to get The Cure bass tone Boys Don't Cry?

Start with a Fender Jazz Bass through an Ampeg SVT amp for the foundation. Add subtle chorus using a Boss CE-1 or similar pedal, and apply light compression to even out the dynamics and add sustain.

What chorus pedal did The Cure use on Boys Don't Cry?

The chorus effect on "Boys Don't Cry" was likely achieved using a Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble. This pedal was popular in the late '70s and early '80s and provided the characteristic shimmer on the bass track.

What amp did Simon Gallup use on Boys Don't Cry?

Simon Gallup used an Ampeg SVT amplifier on "Boys Don't Cry." The SVT's tube warmth and punch provided the solid foundation needed for the song's driving bass line.

Where was Boys Don't Cry by The Cure recorded?

"Boys Don't Cry" was recorded at Morgan Studios in London with producer Chris Parry and engineer Mike Hedges. The studio's professional environment helped capture the clean, punchy bass tone that defined the track.

bass guitar from "boys don't cry" by the cure

boys don't cry

the cure

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Tone Profile

A bright and punchy bass tone with a slightly compressed and subtly chorus-effected character, providing a solid foundation for the song's new wave energy.

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Fender Jazz Bass(instrument)
Ampeg SVT(amp)
Boss CE-1(processing)

The Story

Simon Gallup's bass tone on "Boys Don't Cry" was achieved using a Fender Jazz Bass through an Ampeg SVT amplifier. The track was recorded at Morgan Studios in London with producer Chris Parry and engineer Mike Hedges. A chorus effect, likely from a Boss CE-1, was applied to give the bass its characteristic shimmer and movement that became a signature element of The Cure's early sound.