10 Best Rock + Metal Bassists of All Time [Watch]

This Loud List counts down our picks for the 10 Best Rock + Metal Bassists of All Time!

We took these picks from our Top 50 Hard Rock + Metal Bassists of All Time list, so be sure to check that gallery out after you watch the clip above.

Bassists are often unsung heroes, holding down the low end and rhythm section to allow a guitarist or vocalist to soar. It doesn't always have to be this way, however, and these bassists were able to take their instrument to the forefront, capturing the attention and imagination of every fan who listens.

Some bassists like Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Mr. Big's Billy Sheehan established their greatness through technical playing, but that's not all we're judging this list upon. Legendary songwriting skills and trailblazing styles play a huge role too. Iron Maiden's Steve Harris, who has been the band's primary songwriter and pioneered the style of triplets, falls into this category, as does Motorhead's Lemmy Kilmister, who turned up his distortion to make Motorhead the world's loudest band.

Check out the 10 Best Rock + Metal Bassists of All Time in the video above!

Top 50 Hard Rock + Metal Bassists of All Time

10 Best Rock + Metal Guitarists of All Time