Fender Precision Bass Ex Colin Greenwood – Radiohead

Some instruments speak for themselves through their impressive heritage and repeated use over the decades. This 1960 Fender Precision Bass is one of them: its patina, enhanced by time, and its numerous marks invite you to dream about the history carried by its wood. It takes nothing more than a name — Colin Greenwood — to strengthen the mystical dimension and aura of this superb bass.

The Fender Precision Bass is a legendary guitar in the Fender lineup introduced in 1951. It has since remained a benchmark in the world of amplified music, used across a wide range of musical styles. Known for its legendary lightness, it delivers sumptuous deep and woody tones. This bass is a 1960 model. The original paint has been stripped off, giving it a stunning natural finish, but it still retains its original tortoiseshell pickguard. A jazz pickup has been added, and the wiring has been adjusted accordingly. The neck and headstock are original; the only addition is a Hipshot tuner.

While this instrument is already a superb piece in itself, its provenance completes its incredible story. It was used by Colin Greenwood, the bassist of Radiohead, during the recording of the album *The Bends* in 1994, and more specifically on the song “Fake Plastic Trees.” This Precision Bass was loaned to RAK Studios in London during the band’s sessions for their second album, among other instruments. Radiohead’s sound engineer then specified that only this bass had been used for recording, with Colin Greenwood particularly appreciating its warm and round tones. If more proof were needed, this bass later passed into the hands of Steve Harris, the famous Iron Maiden bassist… An exceptional instrument ready to inspire other musicians!