Anthony Jackson is a true master of the bass guitar. An international bass legend, he has performed on over 500 albums, many of which have become classics and gold or platinum recordings. Jackson is perhaps one of the most innovative musicians of our time.

His research into the origins of the bass guitar led to the development of the contrabass guitar, decades even before the five-string bass became popular. He brought his idea to bass luthiers in the late seventies including; Carl Thompson, Ken Smith and of course, Vinnie Fodera. Anthony is primarily responsible for the invention of the contrabass guitar we know today.

AJ relaxing between takes at Electric Lady Studios Photo by Thomas DeRenzo

With expansive performance credits spanning many genres of music from jazz to fusion to pop, perhaps his most well known bass performance is on The O'Jays' million selling single, 'For The Love Of Money' from their platinum album, 'Ship Ahoy.' Jackson was the song's co-writer with Gamble & Huff. The song is now enjoying a tremendous resurgence in popularity as the theme for Donald Trump's hit television program 'The Apprentice.'

Anthony's groundbreaking use of the Maestro Phase Shifter on 'For the Love of Money' (1973), added distinction to the sound which proved to be one of the most recognized and sampled bass lines in popular music.

Born June 23, 1952, in New York City, Jackson began studying electric guitar at age 12. However, he was always more interested in playing the bass. The Beatles were a major influence in his formation as a musician. By 18, he was a member of Billy Paul's band and working as a session musician with Gamble & Huff's Philadelphia International Records. He has enjoyed a successful career ever since.

Anthony Jackson is in demand worldwide for both live and recording dates. He has worked with Michael Jackson, Madonna, Paul Simon, Diana Ross, The Bee Gees, James Taylor, Chaka Khan, Steely Dan, Donald Fagen, Nancy Wilson, Roberta Flack, Buddy Rich, Al Di Meola, Chick Corea, Al Jarreau, George Benson, Michael Urbaniak, Steve Khan, Mike Stern, John Tropea, Michel Petrucciani, Michel Camilo, Branford Marsalis, and many others. In addition to his work with the hit producers; Quincy Jones, Nile Rodgers, Phil Ramone, and Russ Titlemann.

His contribution to the book/CD, 'Standing in the Shadows of Motown: The Life and Music of Legendary Bassist James Jamerson is noteworthy. Some highly notable achievements would include performances on 'Simon and Garfunkel's' Live At Central Park', 'The Nightfly' by Donald Fagen, Chaka Khan's 'What 'cha Gonna Do For Me?', and Steely Dan's 'Gaucho.'