Free and the Gibson EB3

Andy with his Gibson EB3 bass. Picture taken from the book Heavy Load: The Story of Free by David Clayton and Todd Smith. The bass pictured is an early example, most likely 1961 or 62, so Fraser most likely got this bass used. The scratchplate and handrest have been removed, giving a clean look - see a complete 1961 EB3 here.

FlyGuitars After leaving John Mayall's Bluesbreakers, you joined Paul Kossoff, Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke to form Free where you are associated with the Gibson EB3 electric bass guitar, can you remember what it was that particularly attracted you to use it?

Andy Fraser I was immediately at home with the EB3. First, it is small, as am I, so it was a perfect fit. It had extra frets up top, and you could never have enough extra frets for me, and with the extra pickup, one could get a wide variety of tones. I really felt one with that model. Was not happy to have it stolen!!!

FlyGuitars From when Free formed in 1968 to when the band first split up in 1971 did you ever use any other basses other than the EB3 for recording or live shows?

Andy Fraser I had an Epiphone, semi-acoustic - forget the model. Nice change of tone. Slight danger of feedback live, because of being acoustic, but a nice bass. EB3 was my main baby.

FlyGuitars Pictures show an Epiphone Rivoli

Andy Fraser Ah! Rivoli!! see you know better than me.

FlyGuitars What made you start using this bass and did you stop using the EB3 completely?

Andy Fraser It may have been when the EB3 was stolen, and before I found another one. After the last tour with FREE, in Australia, we were in such disarray, one of the temporary roadies disappeared - as did all the equipment, and we had much weightier things to deal with than worry about that. So not too sure what actual equipment was used later.. I do remember liking it though.

Andy with his Epiphone Rivoli. Picture taken from the book Heavy Load: The Story of Free by David Clayton and Todd Smith

FlyGuitars From a bass players point of view, you were surrounded by three strong musicians, what was it like to play bass in Free?

Andy Fraser One couldn't ask for more than playing with the likes of Rodgers, Kossoff and Kirke. Total masters in their field. Our confidence came from our total belief in each other. It was like a team of commando's where you knew we were all watching each others back. Sensitive to each others weaknesses and had the chemistry to always be able to fill in the gaps, pick up the slack - complete the whole. A real band / marriage in every sense.

FlyGuitars After Free split up you formed the band Toby with Stan Speake and Adrian Fisher and as far as I am aware there were no recordings of Toby released. This was the first band where you handled the lead vocal duties, how did you find being the singer and the bass player?

Andy Fraser It was a great learning experience. It was very hard! I didn't have much confidence or technique, but it was something I had to do - get my feet wet. (I have an unnatural fear of the water, by the way) but a will and determination to get me thru' some rather embarrassing moments. Having Paul Rodgers as a yardstick doesn't make it any easier, but I do like a challenge. As a songwriter, I knew I had to sing, so I had to start somewhere. It would have been very easy keep 'doing what I was famous for", join a supergroup maybe, become ridiculously rich, and artistically empty. As it turns out, Someone must have been watching over me all the time, and I have been allowed to follow my heart

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2008 GIBSON USA GUITAR OWNERS MANUAL 28 PAGES SOME COLOR PHOTOS EXCELLENT SHAPE

Berlin, New Hampshire, 035**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$37

"IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR" SALE& FREE USA SHIPPING!
This is a great item to have if you have a Gibson guitar from 2008 to around 2013. It's 28 pages with useful information and a few good color pics of a flame-top Les Paul and a Flying Vee. Overall great shape with some minor hairlines and handling wear. A great way to add value to your guitar and make it complete!
FREE USA SHIPPING and a 30-day return privilege if you are not happy for any reason. The Bass Palace guarantees ALL of our... more

Gibson Bass Hand Rest

Houston, Texas, 770**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$200

Gibson bass handrest. Good chrome finish. Mounting holes 3 8" center to center. Note, this is not a bridge cover.... more

1959 1960 GIBSON EB-0 Slab Body BASS PICKGUARD USA

Houston, Texas, 770**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$250

Early slab body pick guard . Cut a little to fit replace pickup. Just a shave off it
... more

Gibson SG bass Original Hard shell Case USED Old Condition.

La Vergne, Tennessee, 370**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$250

I??ve never used it, was hardly used but In old condition because of its age.... more

1966-68 GIBSON CARE+SETUP GUIDE GUITAR & BASS 20 PAGES GREAT ILLUSTRATIONS RARE

Berlin, New Hampshire, 035**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$279

"IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR" SALE& FREE USA SHIPPING!
In 50 years of playing and over 30 years of selling I have never seen another one of these! This piece is way cool with its understated design, interesting layout and beautiful 2-color illustrations. It looks like they commissioned a famous illustrator to do the work! It's got 20 pages and is packed with information on setting up, caring for, handling, making adjustments and just appreciating your Gibson instrument in general. 60's Gibson... more

Vintage Gibson EB2 Bass pots Wiring Harness

Asheboro, North Carolina, 272**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$350

6 pots and 2 jacks
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Epiphone by Gibson Power Bass guitar With Case

San Tan Valley, Arizona, 851**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$350

In good condition with minor wear. Please view all photos for condition. It includes the case and cords. The case has the carrying strap
... more

Bass guitar string mute From 1966 Gibson Thunderbird

Cumming, Georgia, 300**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$400

This bass guitar string mute is a must-have for any Gibson Thunderbird owner. Made in 1966, this mute is a rare find for collectors and musicians alike. It is designed to fit perfectly on your bass guitar and provides a unique sound that is sure to impress
Crafted with precision and care, this mute is made to last. It is made from high-quality materials and is built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Whether you are a seasoned musician or just starting out, this bass guitar ... more

Epiphone by Gibson Rock Bass Black 80s? (Used)

Sedalia, Missouri, 653**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$400

This Epiphone by Gibson Rock bass is the only one I've ever seen with "Epiphone by Gibson" actually inlaid on the headstock in this specific font. Most of them may be inlaid "Epiphone" but they are not inlaid "by Gibson" and if they are, they do not have this same style of font. Not sure what year it was made but it has to be in the 80s since all of the 90s models I've seen have the different headstock inlay. We even took off the neck to see if there was any dating on the neck pocket or back of ... more

Epiphone / Gibson Embassy Bass Guitar

Beach City, Ohio, 446**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$430

Plays excellent very good condition a couple of slight scratches nothing major new strings setup to make thunder these are the thunderbird pickups and these pickups are very good in this particular bass comes with gig bag and new strap
... more

1980s Gibson Victory Bass Neck ONLY

Statesville, North Carolina, 286**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$500

80s model Gibson victory, Bass neck, fresh frets truss rod works great has imperfections ready for a body needs hardware take note when these basses were made thesenecks was fit to a specific body so if you buy this, and for some reason, it doesn??t fit right don??t tell me it??s messed up or there??s something wrong with it because these are all custom fit to a body when they??re built thank you for looking

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Gibson Truss Rod Cover / Epiphon Thunderbird Bass Guitar

Deer Park, Washington, 990**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$599

The Gibson-Epiphone Thunderbird Bass Guitar is a high-quality electric bass guitar designed for right-handed musicians. With its classic 4-string configuration and distinctive Tobacco Sunburst body color, this model is a stylish and reliable choice for bass players. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned musician, the Thunderbird offers a rich sound and smooth playability that is sure to impress. The Gibson brand ensures top-notch craftsmanship and durability, making it a trusted choice for any... more

1967 / 68 / 69 Gibson USA EB Bass Husk - Routed

Garland, Texas, 750**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$795

1967 / 68 or 69 GIBSON USA EB bass husk. No parts included. Routed and extra holes for pots and switches as you can see in the pictures. Truss rod turns both ways. Could make a cool project bass. No case. Please review pictures carefully.
Buyer pays $60 shipping and insurance.
Thanks for looking.
... more

Gibson SB-400 Bass Guitar Body Neck Hull Carcass Project Vintage 1973 Walnut

Spring Hill, Florida, 346**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$900

Vintage 1973
Gibson SB-400 Bass Guitar Body Neck Hull Carcass Project
Original finish, Played Perfectly Upon Disassembly, No Repairs
Neck .895@1st, .990@12th
Nut Width 1 70 "
Scale Length: 34 "
Weight As Is 6 Pounds, 1 Ounce
Very Clean Overall
This is a Vintage 1973 Gibson SB-400 Bass Guitar Body Neck Hull Carcass Project as pictured. This guitar will show wear and flaws as pictured from use and age, but still a great part ready for reassembly with your choice of ... more

Vintage 1969 Gibson EB-0L Playable Project

Madison, Alabama, 357**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$900

This 1969 Gibson EB-0L is in fair shape for its age and that??s for a few reasons!
The main issue is one that plagues all of these late 60??s EB Basses, and that??s the horrible neck sets on them. Which usually results in crazy high action. And this example is not exempt from that
The neck is very playable up until til about the 7th fret when the action starts to get fairly high. We tried everything we could to get it to a fairly standard height, but to no avail. This is why it is being ... more

Epiphone Grabber Bass Natural w / Humbucker Inspired by Gibson

Las Vegas, Nevada, 891**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$969

This bass is brand new (used like new) and has been kept in its Premium Epiphone Gig Bag with original paperwork since I bought it. I have never played this outside of my home and it still has the plastic on the pick guard. I??ve only plugged this in and played it 2 times and for a very short period of time. If you??d like additional photos, please feel free to ask Serial number # 25021521291A reissue of the legendary 70s bass with modern appointments Epiphone revives a legend with the Grabber ... more

Vintage Gibson EB-2 Modified Bass EB2 ES bass Electric Bass 1960??s

Brisbane, California, 940**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1000

A really cool bass that was always in this shape. Owned for about 5 years and planned to redo it. Im more of a guitarist so Im thinning the heard. Looks great. I think the bridge is a dimarzio and there have been other pots once installed. The switches seem to be boosts for the pickups. And Volume for each pickup. No tone option. Another routes on the back. Gibson sticker gone. Some screws missing on the back and rusty input screws but everything stays together. Was also like that

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Gibson EB-5 Bass

West Palm Beach, Florida, 334**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1050

Gibson EB-5 bass, in new like condition.
Comes with an original Gibson soft gig bag.
Local pick up in West Palm Beach or additional shipping cost will be added.... more

gibson bass guitar 4 string

Maple Shade, New Jersey, 080**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1188

The Gibson Bass Guitar 4 String is a high-quality electric bass guitar designed for musicians looking for a powerful and versatile sound. With its solid body construction and distinctive red color, this SG model delivers rich bass tones that are perfect for both live performances and studio recordings. Featuring four strings, this bass guitar offers a wide range of notes and harmonies, making it ideal for bass players looking to explore different genres and styles of music. Built by the renowned... more

Vintage 1970 Gibson EB-0L Bass Natural

Stockton, California, 952**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1200

Vintage 1970 Gibson EB-0L Bass Natural
Awesome storage unit find Bass has been modified to a fretless, it is also missing the bridge cover as well as the small model plaque. I acquired it as shown. "GIBSON" is missing the S Local guitar shop owner inspected and said it was in good shape for its age Bass shows some scratches as should be expected. IThe case it came with has some cracks, its in rough shape I have added many images, please be sure to look through all and ask any questions you ... more

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