JMJ Introduction

By John Fertig, March 2007 Justin Meldal-Johnsen is the bass player & music director of the artist Beck, as well as well as performing or recording with Air, Ima Robot, Tori Amos, Garbage, Macy Gray, Mars Volta, Marianne Faithful, Nelly Furtado, Dixie Chicks, and more. Justin also has done work on movie scores including Ocean's 13, The Devil's Rejects, Team America World Police, Starsky & Hutch, Charlie's Angels, Nacho Libre, and many more.

His inspired and creative bass playing covers many genres in popular music today ranging from old school thump on songs like Beck'’s “Sexx Laws” (Midnight Vultures) to experimental crazy fuzz bass on Tori Amos' ““Cruel” (The Choirgirl Hotel) or driving fundamental grinding rock on song’s like Ima Robot'’s Dynomite” (Self Titled- Ima Robot). Justin’'s playing takes on a different dimension that fits the artist and the song alike.
But Justin-Meldal Johnson is more than just a session bassist; he has also acted as live musical director for Beck, Gnarls Barkley and Air. He produced artists such as Ken Andrews, Holly Palmer, new artists Canon and Reeve Carney. Justin has co-written songs with artists such as Shirley Manson and Macy Gray.

JMJ is currently working on original music and music supervision for a movie in production called "The Informers". Also, recording new material with Beck for his next record.

Justin explains his role as bassist, producer, and musical director.

FlyGuitars Why did you start playing bass and at what age?

Justin Meldal-Johnsen (JMJ) Because a friend of my parents gave me some crazy Japanese Jazz Bass copy when I was twelve, and I wanted to play along with MTV. Boo yah.

FlyGuitars Any formal training?

JMJ I had, on and off for a year, some great lessons with The Faunt School here in LA right after high school. It's unique in that they are private lessons that are actually based on an expansive curriculum. Lots of emphasis on ear and rhythm training.

Buried in bass - an RD Artist, Guild B301, Starfire 2, Fender Jazz and 1979 Wal Pro IIE. At a Macy Gray session, 2002.

FlyGuitars What are your favorite bass players or your bass influences?

JMJ Peter Hook, Tony Levin, Robbie Shakespeare, Tina Weymouth, Bootsy, Graham Lewis, Paul McCartney, Chuck Rainey, Joe Osborn, James Jamerson, David J, Jah Wobble.

FlyGuitars When did you decide play bass as a profession?

JMJ I think I always did. It was into that right when I got my bass. I'm so happy, even now, to realize that I do this for a living. It's like a constant realization. I just love playing.

FlyGuitars You seem to get a lot of work, what is it you bring to the table as a bass player?

JMJ A great listening skill, a positive outlook, good taste, and desirable tones. That seems to be the combo.

FlyGuitars Do you do any production work?

JMJ Yes indeed. Just co-produced a Ken Andrews (ex-Failure) solo album (Secrets of the Lost Satellite), Holly Palmer, Reeve Carney, Ima Robot, various things. I'm liking producing, but I can't stop playing bass, and I don't see how I ever could.

Beck playing live

FlyGuitars It seems that a lot of bass players make great producers, why do you think that is?

JMJ Because the bassist, more than any other role in the band landscape, listens to the interrelationships between all things. That sets his ears on constant alert, if you will. I find that in order to bridge harmony and rhythm, I have to have, in my periphery, a bird's eye view of what everyone else is doing. Same for production, obviously.

FlyGuitars Do you find producers today, favor a passive tone?

JMJ Unequivocally. I can't bring in an active bass, and the only one I have anyway (besides an RD, which doesn't really count, in my book) is a Wal, and that is a very unique voice, thankfully.

FlyGuitars Ima Robot really remind me of the band Sparks, fun music! Are you still working/playing with them?

JMJ Thanks. That's a big influence for me. No; the boys are out on their own. I liken myself to being their benevolent uncle, though.

Justin playing live for Gnarls Barclay, April 2006

FlyGuitars Do you do any singing?

JMJ Yup. I'm always doing backgrounds.

FlyGuitars What work did you do with Gnarls Barkley?

JMJ I was hired to be their bassist and music director, which is what I do for Beck. Unfortunately, I could only do two shows (their first two ever), and then it was over. I acted remotely as their music director, however. Even now, I'll help them if they need anything.

FlyGuitars Were you one of the Storm Troopers on the Grammy Awards show a year or so back with Gnarls Barkley, playing the Les Paul Standard?

JMJ No sir. That was my excellent replacement, my friend Cedric from Remy Zero

FlyGuitars Do you ever plan on having your own band or do you just enjoy working/producing other people's projects?

JMJ Always. That was the point of Ima Robot. I like bands. I'll probably do another.

Gibson bass guitars for sale

Flyguitars.com is funded by its visitors. When you buy through links on our site we may earn an affiliate commission. For more info see terms and conditions.

1964 Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass 1 of the best originals it's 1 of a kind & Minty

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$27495

These early production Reverse?? Thunderbird??s & Firebird??s were so far ahead of time & very few were ever made comparatively to Fender??s P & J Basses. This particular example was ordered in Gibson??s most popular color of a Dark 2-tone Sunburst finish all over its neck & body. Very little yellowing appears yet she has slight playtime all over. These tend to get funky from playing in bars & clubs & get nicotine stained. Its rosewood fingerboard is straight as an arrow ... more

1965 Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass in Pelham Blue oh-so rare & cool you need it !

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$13495

These 2nd issue ??Non-Reverse?? Thunderbird??s & Firebird??s were so far ahead of time & very few were ever made comparatively to Fender??s P & J Basses. Most all T??bird??s were available in a Sunburst finish. But some were ordered in their select Custom Colors. This particular example was ordered in Gibson??s most luv??d optional color of Pelham Blue all over its neck & body. Very little yellowing but she??s has plenty of playtime wear. These tend to get funky from playing in ... more

1976 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial Bass ?? Natural ?? Vintage USA ?? Kalamazoo

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

$5250

pppplispanul1976 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial Bass, USA-made in Gibson??s Kalamazoo, Michigan factory to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the United States. These Bicentennial Thunderbirds were produced in limited numbers and are increasingly sought after by collectors and serious players alike
This is an original vintage instrument, not a reissue, with classic Thunderbird tone, feel, and presence
Serial Number
00243861
Weight
9 0 lbs
Great vintage condition for a ... more

1991 Gibson Thunderbird IV Neck Through Bass Sunburst w / Case

Seattle, Washington, 981**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2450

Up for sale, a 1991 Gibson Thunderbird IV in perfect working order, complete with the original hardshell case. A modern iteration of the 1963 original, this Thunderbird IV features nine-ply mahogany and walnut neck-through body construction, black hardware, a three-point bridge, and a gloss Sunburst nitro lacquer finish
As its name would suggest, this bass thunders and growls with the best, producing incredible low end thump and grind via its two imposing ceramic magnet humbuckers. The ... more

Used 2022 Gibson Gene Simmons G2 Thunderbird Bass, Ebony

Tampa, Florida, 336**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2380

A rock 'n' roll legend, Gene Simmons has inspired countless metal-heads to bring groovy, rockin' sound to the world. The 2022-model Gibson Gene Simmons G2 Thunderbird Bass carries that essence in the purest form. Built in America, this striking bass has a Reverse Thunderbird body made from mahogany, with a Mirror Plex pickguard for an awesome look. The rounded mahogany neck hosts an ebony fingerboard, and it's powered by a set of T-Bird pickups, each with individual volumes and a master tone ... more

2024 Gibson Rex Brown Signature Thunderbird Ebony 4 String Bass Guitar With Case

Lewiston, Maine, 042**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1826

This guitar plays very nice and comes with the original strap and hard shell case!!! There are some dings and dents as you can see in the photos of this listing.
Stock # J78010770-NK / 10 13XZ
A New Signature Bass Model From Rex Brown
Multi-instrumentalist Rex Brown is well-known for his work with legendary metal bands Pantera and Down, and his hard-rocking solo album, Smoke on This?? His new Gibson Rex Brown Signature ... more

Gibson Gene Simmons Signature G2 Thunderbird Electric Bass Guitar USA

Georgetown, Ohio, 451**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1710

This is a fantastic made in USA bass! Sounds and plays so good! Straight neck. Fully functional. Slight cosmetic blemishes, nothing major. This can take your joy of playing to new heights and also is a very collectible item, being a Gene Simmons USA Bass! Comes with case!


Don't miss your chance to own!


Items only come with case or accessories if pictured or listed in the listing

Items only come with accessories / parts pictured and ... more

GIBSON NON REVERSE THUNDERBIRD BASS (P03059497)

Spokane, Washington, 992**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1600

@import ; .buya-main .buya-main a:hover{ text-decoration: underline; } .buya-main .buya-main .buya-main .buya-main .bravo-logo .buya-main .bravo-logo a:hover, .buya-main .bravo-footer a:hover{ text-decoration: none; } .buya-main .bravo-logo .buya-main .buya-main .logo2 .buya-main .logo2 .buya-main .logo2 .buya-main .buya-main .buya-main .description .buya-main .description ... more

02 Gibson Thunderbird Bass Guitar Right Handed W / Hrd Shell Case LOCAL P / U OHIO

Dublin, Ohio, 430**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1450

This bass sounds amazing. It has neck through the body for incredible tone.
I have to call it used but it is like new without a scratch that I can see. It has Grover tuners and comes with an authentic Gibson hard shell case
LOCAL PICKUP IN THE CENTRAL OHIO AREA ONLY!!!... more

2023 Gibson Non Reverse Thunderbird Bass Guitar - Hard Shell Case Free Shipping!

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

$1425

2023 Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird Bass ??
Excellent Playing Condition with Honest Play Wear + Original Hardshell Case, Tuner & Locking Strap
For sale is a fantastic Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird bass in excellent operating condition ?? this bass plays and sounds like a dream! It has some nicks and wear, see detailed photos, (light nicks & chips, and minor play wear on the body and edges), but nothing structural, no cracks, no major dings, and no issues with functionality. ... 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

Gibson Thunderbird Bass 1964 - Sunburst

London, UK, UNITED KINGDOM

£11999

FINESTSELECTIONSHIPPINGSPECIALISTS24 HourSupportLondon Vintage Guitars are please to offer:Gibson Thunderbird Bass 1964 - SunburstGibson Thunderbird BassYear: 1964
Condition: Excellent
DescriptionTHE CLASSIC BIRD
We are happy to offer the following Classic Gibson Thunderbird details as follows
1964 Gibson Thunderbird Bass
Sunburst
Twin Pickup
Internally / Externally Original
Condition: 8 / 10 – Normal playing wear
Original Case
Comments
Classic Gibson ... more

Gibson Thunderbird IV READY TO GIG

Nocera Superiore, 84***, ITALY

€6990

Thunderbird IV Bass, READY TO GIG This instrument has had its neck and headstock replaced , repainted in black ,the diameter of the nut is 10 cm 1\2 on the first fretthe serial number, engraved on the replaced headstock, is 21 81 20, the frets have been transferred on the new neck, Everything else, regarding the body it has been repositioned .The potentiometers have been replaced, they are not the original onesThe "soapbar" pickups are original and unmistakable in sound, I supply the replaced ... more

1964 Guild Starfire I Bass Cherry Red Double Cutaway Semi-Hollow El. Bass w / Bag

Quebec, G1K***, CANADA

C $4200

1964 Guild Starfire I Bass Cherry Red Double Cutaway Semi-Hollow El. Bass w / Bag 1964 Guild Starfire I Bass Cherry Red Double Cutaway Semi-Hollow El. Bass w / Bag
Up for sale a 1964 Guild Starfire I Bass Cherry Red Double Cutaway Semi-Hollow Electric Bass w / Bag - #37952!  We are an Authorized Dealer of Guild Guitars!  ... more

Guild Starfire Bass 1966

Marino, 00***, ITALY

€3500

GUILD STARFIRE BASS 1966!!! Awesome vintage bass in perfect condition considering it is almost 60 years old . SOUNDS GREAT!!! The hinge straps on the case are a little worn but they close and open without problems
... more

60's EPIPHONE by GIBSON EMBASSY BASS USA - THUNDERBIRD SOUND - LONG SCALE

COLOGNE, GERMANY

€3250

60's Epiphone by Gibson Embassy Deluxe Bass - made in USA:
+ mahogany body finished in wine red, has lots of weather checking and wear, several extra screw holes on back
+ mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard, LONG SCALE, has 4 minor SURFACE stress cracks below tuners=check last 3 pics
* skinny neck profile on back around first 5 frets
+ new Fender Reissue tuners
+ 1 original THUNDERBIRD pickup & 1 newer Fender Jazz bass single coil
+ new pickguard
+ new pots and ... more

60's EPIPHONE by GIBSON EMBASSY DELUXE BASS - made in USA - THUNDERBIRD SOUND

COLOGNE, GERMANY

£2850

60's Epiphone by Gibson Embassy Deluxe Bass - made in USA:
+ mahogany body finished in wine red, has lots of weather checking and wear, several extra screw holes on back
+ mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard, LONG SCALE, has 4 minor SURFACE stress cracks below tuners=check last 3 pics
* skinny neck profile on back around first 5 frets
+ new Fender Reissue tuners
+ 1 original THUNDERBIRD pickup & 1 newer Fender Jazz bass single coil
+ new pickguard
+ new pots and ... more

Guild B301 4 String Bass Guitar 1979

Northampton, NN6***, UNITED KINGDOM

£1200

I have had this bass for quite a while now thinking about selling it as times are tough and I don't play bass anymore bit scratched up but looks beautiful in my opinion  She is still amazing and has no major problems at all.... more

1987 GIBSON BASS IV - Made in USA - THUNDERBIRD PICKUPS

COLOGNE, GERMANY

£1090

1987 GIBSON BASS IV - made in USA :
* the black painted part of the body was cut off before by some moron and replaced with 2 pieces of ash=
check pic 5
* pearl white finish is very worn
* Thunderbird pickups
* black Schaller hardware
* ebony fingerboard, frets are fine
... more

Guild B301 bass guitar

Wisbech, PE14***, UNITED KINGDOM

£721

Guild B301 circa 1978 with a neck repair which has been professionally done to a very good standard - hence all the neck pictures - it does NOT impact payability or sound at all or at least I think it's a repair -according to Guild they have 3 piece necks ?) It can be collected at my house and tried out, or I can post it, tracked and well padded in the gig bag - your choice Please don't be put off by the repair - it really looks good although it is there, and you can see it if you look hard ... more

Find more vintage guitars for sale at vintageguitarsforsale.co