McCartney and this “cavern”, or “violin” bass as it’s sometimes referred to, go way back to the very beginning of his career, and while it’s been subject to some cosmetic modifications over the years, one can always recognize the “Paul McCartney Bass guitar”. See the full list of Paul McCartney bass guitars, electric guitars, acoustic guitars, and other gear below. He’s also played a wide range of other bass and six-string guitar models throughout his storied career. Paul McCartney is most known for playing the Höfner 500/1 “Violin” or “Cavern” Bass guitar which was one of the primary instruments of his tenure with The Beatles. Let’s dive into the basses, guitars, and gear Sir Paul McCartney has used over the years. Of course, becoming perhaps the greatest performer and songwriter of all time requires at least some equipment. Photo by Jimmy BaikoviciusĪdditionally, Macca’s longevous career has seen him evolve from a solid bass player to a powerhouse of a multi-instrumentalist. Throughout his career, Paul McCartney has been nominated for a whopping 79 Grammy Awards, won 18, was inducted twice into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, earned an Academy Award in 1971, and was even knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to music.

Guinness Book of World Records even recognizes McCartney as the “ most honored composer and performer in history!” Paul McCartney, arguably the most prolific Beatle, not only did he help shape the face of modern music with his original project but he has also written some of the greatest songs from the past 60 years.

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