Distorted Tone
I Keep Forgettin (Every Time You're Near)
Michael McDonald
Bassr&b1980s
Original Gear
BassMusic Man StingRay (early 80s, likely 2-band EQ)
AmpAmpeg SVT (likely blue line or blackface, classic tube head)
PickupsSingle humbucker (bridge position)
Amp Settings
gain5.5
bass6
mid5
treble6
presence5
compression7
Effects & Signal Chain
No effects used for this tone
Notes
Studio recording, 1982, Louis Johnson session for Michael McDonald; no live evidence for this tone
Tone Character(10)
punchypercussiveslightly grittycompresseddeep low endsnappy highsaggressive midrangetight attackmild tube breakupcontrolled sustain
Difficulty
The line requires tight, syncopated fingerstyle with ghost notes and dynamic control, plus occasional slap/pop accents. While not virtuosic, it demands strong groove, articulation, and rhythmic accuracy.
Sources
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Create Free AccountBassr&b1980s
Original Gear
BassMusic Man StingRay (early 80s, likely 2-band EQ)
AmpAmpeg SVT (likely blue line or blackface, classic tube head)
PickupsSingle humbucker (bridge position)
Amp Settings
gain5.5
bass6
mid5
treble6
presence5
compression7
Effects & Signal Chain
No effects used for this tone
Notes
Studio recording, 1982, Louis Johnson session for Michael McDonald; no live evidence for this tone
Tone Character(10)
punchypercussiveslightly grittycompresseddeep low endsnappy highsaggressive midrangetight attackmild tube breakupcontrolled sustain
Difficulty
The line requires tight, syncopated fingerstyle with ghost notes and dynamic control, plus occasional slap/pop accents. While not virtuosic, it demands strong groove, articulation, and rhythmic accuracy.