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Queen have officially claimed their crown once again, this time for having the greatest bass lines in music history. A brand-new poll of 2,000 music fans has unveiled the top 20 most iconic bass lines of all time, and Queen dominate the rankings with an impressive four entries in the top 10 alone.
The band’s unmistakable 1980 smash “Another One Bites the Dust” topped the list, with fans praising John Deacon’s unforgettable groove as the greatest bass line ever recorded. Deacon appears again at number three, this time for “Under Pressure”, the legendary collaboration with David Bowie. The instantly recognisable bass riff has long been considered one of the most defining lines in pop and rock history, and the poll results prove its enduring legacy.
Queen’s influence doesn’t stop there. “Radio Gaga” and “Killer Queen” also earned spots in the top 10, giving the band an unrivalled presence in the rankings. Few groups can claim to have mastered so many different styles with such precision, and this poll cements Queen, and Deacon in particular, as true musical innovators.
The list also features other iconic contributions to music history. Fleetwood Mac’s “The Chain”, famous for its adrenaline-pumping bass break, takes fourth place. Meanwhile, Joy Division’s haunting “Love Will Tear Us Apart”, a post-punk classic with a distinctive melodic bass line, appears in the top 20.
Chic’s “Good Times”, widely regarded as one of the most influential bass lines ever, particularly in dance, funk, and hip-hop, also makes the list. And Adam Clayton’s smooth, atmospheric work on U2’s “With or Without You” proves its timeless appeal as one of rock’s most memorable musical backbones.
The survey results also revealed that John Deacon was voted the greatest bass player of all time, surpassing Paul McCartney and Led Zeppelin’s John Paul Jones. Deacon’s ability to blend rhythmic precision with melodic inventiveness has long made him a favourite among musicians, and now fans have officially placed him at the top.
Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters and Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea rounded out the top five, highlighting a fascinating mix of classic rock legends and modern masters.
One of the most interesting takeaways from the poll is the perception of the bass guitar itself. Nearly half (47%) of respondents said they believe bass players are the “coolest members of a band”, while a huge 63% agreed that bass is an underrated instrument in popular music. Despite often sitting in the background, the bass line is the foundation of countless timeless tracks, and this new ranking proves just how crucial that low-end power really is.
Music lovers were also asked to name their personal favourite bass line, with responses ranging from funky grooves to rock anthems. One thing is certain: audiences have deep appreciation for the instrument that holds the band together, even if it doesn’t always take centre stage.
With Queen leading the pack and Deacon’s legacy celebrated at new heights, the poll serves as a powerful reminder that some of the greatest musical hooks ever created weren’t sung, they were played on four strings.
THE TOP 20 BASS LINES OF ALL TIME
