TONEDB

bass guitar from “papa was a rollin' stone” by the temptations | ToneDB

papa was a rollin' stone

the temptations

bass guitar

90% ai confidence

Tone Profile

A deep, round, and thumpy bass tone with a prominent fundamental, a slightly muted percussive attack, and remarkable clarity. It's warm, articulate, and provides a hypnotic, driving foundation that sits perfectly in the mix.

Signal Chain

Instrument: 1960s Fender Precision Bass (likely a '62 model or similar)

Amp: Custom Motown DI Box ("The Funk Machine") direct to mixing console (e.g., Universal Audio 610-style preamp)

Processing: Studio Compression (e.g., Teletronix LA-2A or Urei 1176)

Other: Played by Bob Babbitt. Heavy gauge La Bella flatwound strings (e.g., .052-.110). Foam mute placed under the strings near the bridge. Played with a pick, likely with strong downstrokes, often near the bridge for a more defined attack.

Recording Notes

  • Recorded in 1972, likely at Motown's Los Angeles studios (formerly MoWest).
  • The bassline was primarily captured via a custom-built direct injection (DI) box, a hallmark of the Motown sound.
  • The DI signal provided a clean, full-range tone that was then shaped by the studio console's preamps and equalization.
  • Compression was judiciously applied to even out the dynamics and enhance sustain, contributing to the bass's constant presence.
  • While an Ampeg B-15 Portaflex might have been available or occasionally blended, the DI sound was paramount for this track.
  • Bob Babbitt's unique feel, timing, and muting technique were crucial to the sound.

Recreation Tips

  • Use a Fender Precision Bass or a P-style bass.
  • Install heavy gauge flatwound strings (e.g., La Bella 760FS or similar).
  • Place a piece of foam under the strings, near the bridge, to achieve the characteristic muted thud.
  • Play with a hard pick (e.g., nylon or Delrin, 1.0mm or thicker) using mostly downstrokes. Experiment with picking closer to the bridge for more attack or closer to the neck for a rounder tone.
  • Roll the tone knob on the bass down slightly (e.g., 50-75%) to tame excessive brightness.
  • Use a high-quality DI box. A passive DI with a good transformer (like a Jensen) or an active DI/preamp designed for warmth can work well.
  • Apply subtle compression to control peaks and add sustain. Aim for a smooth, consistent level.
  • If using an amp, choose a tube amp like an Ampeg B-15 or SVT and keep the tone relatively clean. Blend the DI signal with a mic'd amp if desired, but prioritize the DI.
  • Minimal EQ is needed; perhaps a slight boost in the low-mids (100-250Hz) for warmth and a cut in the upper-mids if too clanky.

Sources