Back to CommunityCreate Free Account
Distorted Tone
I Keep Forgettin (Every Time You're Near)
Michael McDonald
Bassr&b1980s
Original Gear
BassMusic Man StingRay (early 80s, likely 2-band EQ)
AmpAmpeg SVT (likely blue line or blackface, classic tube head)
Amp Settings
gain5.5
bass6
Create an account to see all tone details
Create Free AccountEffects & Signal Chain
Notes
Studio recording, 1982, Louis Johnson session for Michael McDonald; no live evidence for this tone
Tone Character(10)
punchypercussiveslightly grittycompresseddeep low endsnappy highsaggressive midrangetight attackmild tube breakupcontrolled sustain
Difficulty
The line requires tight, syncopated fingerstyle with ghost notes and dynamic control, plus occasional slap/pop accents. While not virtuosic, it demands strong groove, articulation, and rhythmic accuracy.
Create an account to adapt this tone to your gear
Create Free AccountBassr&b1980s
Original Gear
BassMusic Man StingRay (early 80s, likely 2-band EQ)
AmpAmpeg SVT (likely blue line or blackface, classic tube head)
Amp Settings
gain5.5
bass6
Create an account to see all tone details
Create Free AccountEffects & Signal Chain
Notes
Studio recording, 1982, Louis Johnson session for Michael McDonald; no live evidence for this tone
Tone Character(10)
punchypercussiveslightly grittycompresseddeep low endsnappy highsaggressive midrangetight attackmild tube breakupcontrolled sustain
Difficulty
The line requires tight, syncopated fingerstyle with ghost notes and dynamic control, plus occasional slap/pop accents. While not virtuosic, it demands strong groove, articulation, and rhythmic accuracy.