Paul started using it in the studio as early as 1965 on several tracks from Rubber Soul. With the switch to the 4001, Paul's bass sound and style also evolve in the Beatles' records.
Paul McCartney first tried the new Rickenbacker 4001S in New York in February 1964, during the Beatles’ first American tour. The instrument was presented to him by Rickenbacker president F.C. Hall, alongside George Harrison’s 360/12. Since it was a right-handed bass, Paul had to wait until the band’s second visit to the U.S. a year later, for their concert at the Hollywood Bowl on 30 August 1965. While staying at Burt Lancaster’s house — along with Roger McGuinn of the Byrds, Peter Fonda and Joan Baez — Hall offered Paul a left-handed version, though built with a right-handed neck, resulting in the famous reversed headstock.
Paul began using the Rickenbacker in the studio in late 1965, first appearing on Think For Yourself, recorded on 8 November during the Rubber Soul sessions. Compared to the Hofner, the new bass provided a clearer tone and far superior intonation, allowing Paul to explore a more melodic and expressive style — turning the bass into a true lead instrument. With the 4001, Paul developed that unmistakable voice heard in Rain, Paperback Writer, I’m the Walrus, With a Little Help From My Friends and many others — genuine masterpieces of taste and creativity.
Originally finished in “Fireglo,” Paul later painted the bass in psychedelic colours in 1967, in full Magical Mystery Tour spirit, before stripping it back to natural wood in January 1969, during the Get Back/Let It Be sessions.
Regarded as one of the key instruments behind the Beatles’ sonic evolution, the Rickenbacker 4001S accompanied Paul McCartney through the band’s most creative years, redefining the role of the electric bass in pop and rock music.
In our photo: a 2010 Rickenbacker 4001c64 Fireglo — an official reissue of Paul McCartney's original 4001, complete with reversed headstock and all period-correct details. You can see it in our videos of Rain, Something and Dear Prudence. Meanwhile, you can see the more modern Rickenbacker 4003 in the videos for I Am the Walrus, Paperback Writer and Strawberry Fields Forever.
