John Entwistle was the silent one of the group. However, while this is the basis of his fame, Entwistle is a gifted bassist and composer.
An avid brass player, John entered the Detours as the bass and trumpet player, and is credited with the introduction of Pete Townshend. John has collected numerous nicknames over the years, all hinting at his superhero ability to play the bass. "The Ox" "Thunder Fingers" and "The Greatest Bass Player of All Time" to name a humble few.
Entwistle penned numerous Who classics such as "Boris the Spider" "My Wife" and a couple of tracks from Tommy as well. His dark sense of humor proved to be a fertile ground from which he could pluck such classics.
On stage, Entwistle could not have been more opposite from his companions. He was a picture of serenity. He stood not far from stock still (save his thunderous fingers) watching his bandmates tear up the stage and make splinters of their instruments. (However it is said that he once or twice smashed up one of his basses) While Townshend let loose his angst, Entwistle smiled. As Roger twirled his mic dangerously, he stepped back. When Moon kicked over his drums, he gripped his bass and strolled away.
Entwistle is the bass player that took the bass and transformed it into a respected instrument in rock and roll, releasing it from its rusty position in the rhythm section. If ever witnessed live, Entwistle's playing is indeed thunderous. He covers the entire length of the neck in a mattter of riffs, and his speed and dexterity is overwhelming. Words cannot begin to explain this bass player's ability.
Entwistle; the peaceful one; the Ox; Thunder Fingers. |
