If you are a fan of Kiss, you are likely familiar with Gene Simmons’ iconic axe bass. The unique instrument has become synonymous with the rock legend and is instantly recognizable to fans all over the world.
But who exactly makes Gene Simmons’ axe bass? The answer lies with the California-based company, Cort Guitars. Cort has been the official manufacturer of Gene Simmons’ axe bass for over 30 years, crafting each instrument to the rock star’s specifications.
Cort Guitars, known for their high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, works closely with Gene Simmons to ensure that each axe bass meets his exacting standards. From the distinctive body shape to the powerful electronics, no detail is overlooked in the creation of these iconic instruments.
The partnership between Gene Simmons and Cort Guitars has resulted in a range of signature models, each designed to capture the essence and spirit of the original axe bass. Whether you are a die-hard Kiss fan or a musician looking for a unique instrument, Gene Simmons’ axe bass is a true testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in the world of music.
Who Creates the Iconic Gene Simmons Axe Bass?
The iconic Gene Simmons Axe Bass is created by the company Cort Guitars. Cort Guitars is a renowned guitar manufacturer based in South Korea. They have been producing high-quality instruments for over 50 years and are known for their craftsmanship and attention to detail.
When it comes to creating the Gene Simmons Axe Bass, Cort Guitars works closely with Gene Simmons himself to ensure that every detail is perfect. From the unique shape of the bass to the custom graphics and finishes, Cort Guitars works tirelessly to bring Gene Simmons’ vision to life.
Collaboration with Gene Simmons
The collaboration between Cort Guitars and Gene Simmons began in the 1980s when Gene Simmons approached Cort Guitars to create a custom bass that resembled an axe. The result was the iconic Gene Simmons Axe Bass, which has since become synonymous with Gene Simmons and the band KISS.
Gene Simmons has been heavily involved in the design process of the Axe Bass, ensuring that it not only looks stunning but also sounds incredible. From choosing the right pickups to fine-tuning the tone, Gene Simmons’ input plays a crucial role in creating the perfect bass guitar.
Quality and Craftsmanship
Cort Guitars takes pride in their commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Each Gene Simmons Axe Bass is meticulously crafted by skilled artisans who pay attention to every detail. The bass is made using high-quality materials and undergoes rigorous quality control checks to ensure that it meets the highest standards.
From the headstock to the body, every aspect of the Gene Simmons Axe Bass is crafted with precision and care. The result is a bass guitar that not only looks stunning but also delivers exceptional sound and performance.
Whether you’re a fan of Gene Simmons and KISS or a bassist looking for a unique instrument, the Gene Simmons Axe Bass is an iconic guitar that represents the perfect blend of artistry and functionality.
The Origins of the Unique Bass Guitar
The unique bass guitar known as the Gene Simmons Axe Bass was created by the musician Gene Simmons, who is best known as the bassist for the legendary rock band KISS.
Simmons first conceived of the Axe Bass in the late 1970s as a way to create a visually striking and distinctive instrument that would complement the theatrical image and stage presence of KISS. Inspired by the shape of a battle axe, Simmons collaborated with luthier Karl Sandoval to bring his vision to life.
The Gene Simmons Axe Bass features a body shape that resembles the head of a battle axe. It has a long, symmetrical body that tapers towards the center, creating a unique silhouette. The body is made of solid mahogany, which provides rich and warm tones. The neck is constructed from maple and is fitted with a rosewood fingerboard.
One of the most distinctive features of the Axe Bass is its dual neck design. It has two sets of strings, allowing Simmons to switch between a traditional four-string bass and an eight-string bass with just the flick of a switch. This versatility allows Simmons to create a wide range of tones and effects during performances.
In addition to its unique design, the Gene Simmons Axe Bass also features custom electronics and hardware. It is equipped with active electronics, including dual pickups that capture the full range of tones produced by the instrument. The bass also has a custom bridge and tuners that provide stable tuning and intonation.
Over the years, the Gene Simmons Axe Bass has become an iconic instrument closely associated with Gene Simmons and KISS. Its distinct shape and versatile sound have made it a favorite among bass players and fans alike. Whether on stage or in the studio, the Axe Bass continues to be a powerful and eye-catching instrument.
The Inventor and Designer of the Axe Bass
The Axe Bass, famously played by Gene Simmons of the rock band KISS, was originally designed and invented by John Veleno in the 1970s. Veleno, a skilled luthier and guitar designer, created the unique instrument by combining elements of a bass guitar with the shape and aesthetics of an axe.
John Veleno was known for his innovative approach to guitar design and had previously gained recognition for his metal-bodied guitars. He saw an opportunity to create something truly unique and eye-catching with the Axe Bass, inspired by Gene Simmons’ iconic stage presence and persona.
The instrument features a distinctive double-cutaway body shape that resembles the blade of an axe. The body is typically made from solid wood, providing excellent sustain and tone. The neck of the Axe Bass is often made from maple, which adds brightness and stability to the instrument’s sound.
One of the standout features of the Axe Bass is its built-in amplifier and speaker system. This allows the player to produce a powerful, full-bodied sound without the need for external equipment. The pickups are strategically placed to capture and amplify the bass frequencies, resulting in a rich and punchy tone.
Over the years, the Axe Bass has become synonymous with Gene Simmons and his onstage presence. Its unique design and powerful sound have made it a favorite among bass players and collectors alike. Thanks to John Veleno’s original vision and craftsmanship, the Axe Bass continues to be a beloved instrument in the world of rock music.
The Making of the Gene Simmons Axe Bass
The Gene Simmons Axe Bass is a signature bass guitar developed and produced by Cort Guitars and Gene Simmons, the bassist of the legendary rock band KISS. This unique bass guitar is known for its iconic axe-shaped body, which adds a visually stunning element to its performance on stage.
The process of creating the Gene Simmons Axe Bass involves a combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern manufacturing techniques. Each bass guitar is meticulously designed and crafted to meet Simmons’ exact specifications, ensuring maximum playability and tone.
The body of the Gene Simmons Axe Bass is made from high-quality mahogany, which is chosen for its rich and warm tonal characteristics. The mahogany body provides a solid and resonant foundation for the bass guitar, enhancing its sustain and overall sound quality.
After the body is cut and shaped, it is finished with a sleek black gloss or a striking silver sparkle finish. This choice of finishes adds to the bass guitar’s visual appeal and reflects Simmons’ personal style and rock star persona.
The neck of the Gene Simmons Axe Bass is also made from mahogany and features a comfortable and fast-playing design. It is attached to the body using a reliable and stable bolt-on construction, ensuring optimal stability and playability.
The fretboard of the bass guitar is made from rosewood, a durable and smooth wood that enhances playability and adds a touch of warmth to the overall tone. The frets are carefully installed and leveled to ensure precise intonation and smooth playing experience.
The Gene Simmons Axe Bass is equipped with a powerful pair of custom-designed humbucking pickups, which deliver a thick and punchy tone with plenty of low-end definition. These pickups are specially voiced to capture the signature sound of Gene Simmons and provide a versatile sonic palette that suits various musical styles.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Finish | Black gloss or silver sparkle |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Pickups | Custom-designed humbuckers |
In conclusion, the Gene Simmons Axe Bass is a truly unique and iconic instrument that showcases the collaboration between Cort Guitars and Gene Simmons. Its distinctive axe-shaped body, high-quality construction, and powerful pickups make it a must-have bass guitar for any fan of KISS or aspiring rock bassist.
Gene Simmons Signature Series
The Gene Simmons Signature Series is a line of bass guitars designed and manufactured by Cort Guitars in collaboration with Gene Simmons, the bassist and co-lead vocalist of the iconic rock band KISS. These bass guitars are known for their distinctive “axe” body shape, which is inspired by Simmons’ legendary bass guitar, known as the “Axe Bass”.
The Gene Simmons Signature Series bass guitars feature a solid mahogany body, providing a rich and resonant tone. They also come equipped with high-output humbucker pickups, designed to deliver powerful and punchy bass tones. The bass guitars have a comfortable and playable neck, with a rosewood fretboard and 22 jumbo frets, allowing for easy playability and smooth navigation across the fretboard.
One of the standout features of the Gene Simmons Signature Series bass guitars is the striking custom artwork and finishes. Each bass guitar in the series features unique graphics and designs, reflecting the iconic style and persona of Gene Simmons. These visually stunning bass guitars are sure to make a statement on stage and turn heads wherever they are played.
In addition to their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, the Gene Simmons Signature Series bass guitars also come with a range of high-quality components and hardware. They feature a sturdy and reliable bridge, ensuring solid intonation and tuning stability. The bass guitars also come with premium Grover tuners, allowing for precise and accurate tuning, even during intense performances.
Whether you are a die-hard fan of Gene Simmons or simply looking for a high-quality bass guitar with a distinctive design, the Gene Simmons Signature Series offers a unique and exciting option. With their superior craftsmanship, powerful tone, and eye-catching aesthetics, these bass guitars are a perfect choice for players who want to stand out from the crowd and make a statement on stage.
| Key Features: | Specifications: |
|---|---|
| – Solid mahogany body | – Body: Mahogany |
| – High-output humbucker pickups | – Neck: Maple |
| – Comfortable and playable neck | – Fretboard: Rosewood |
| – Custom artwork and finishes | – Frets: 22 Jumbo |
| – Sturdy and reliable bridge | – Pickups: High-output humbuckers |
| – Premium Grover tuners | – Tuners: Grover |
The Impact of the Axe Bass on the Music Industry
The Axe Bass, famously played by Gene Simmons of the legendary rock band KISS, has made a significant impact on the music industry. This unique instrument has revolutionized the way bass guitars are perceived and played, influencing musicians and fans alike.
The Birth of the Axe Bass
The concept of the Axe Bass was first introduced by Gene Simmons in the 1970s as a part of KISS’ sensational stage performances. He desired an instrument that stood out visually and sonically, and the Axe Bass was his solution. With its distinctive axe-shaped body and elongated neck, the instrument immediately caught the attention of music enthusiasts.
Simmons worked closely with a team of luthiers to bring his vision of the Axe Bass to life. The instrument featured a single humbucker pickup, providing a powerful and punchy tone that perfectly complemented Simmons’ theatrical bass playing style.
Influence on Bass Playing
The introduction of the Axe Bass brought a new level of showmanship to bass playing. Simmons’ use of the instrument helped break the stereotype that bass players should stay in the background. His energetic and acrobatic performances on stage, combined with the striking appearance of the Axe Bass, inspired a generation of musicians to push the boundaries of their instrument.
The Axe Bass also influenced the way bass lines were composed and performed. Its unique design allowed for increased reach and maneuverability, allowing bassists to explore new techniques and sounds. The distinctive tone of the Axe Bass became synonymous with the iconic KISS sound and helped shape the band’s signature sound.
Impact on the Music Industry
The introduction of the Axe Bass had a lasting impact on the music industry. Its eye-catching design and powerful sound became a symbol of rock and heavy metal music. Many aspiring musicians were drawn to the instrument, inspired by Gene Simmons’ larger-than-life persona and unique playing style.
The popularity of the Axe Bass also led to the development of similar instruments by other manufacturers. This opened up new opportunities for bass players to explore different tonal possibilities and experiment with their sound. The Axe Bass paved the way for further innovations in bass guitar design and helped expand the sonic possibilities of the instrument.
In conclusion, the Axe Bass made a significant impact on the music industry. Gene Simmons’ creative vision and his use of this iconic instrument inspired countless musicians to think outside the box and push the boundaries of what could be achieved on the bass guitar. The Axe Bass will forever be remembered as a symbol of innovation, showmanship, and rock ‘n’ roll spirit.
Getting Your Own Gene Simmons Axe Bass
If you are a fan of Gene Simmons and his iconic Axe Bass, you may be wondering how you can get your own. While Gene Simmons custom-made bass guitars are not widely available, there are a few options for obtaining one.
Purchase from Official Merchandise
The easiest way to get your hands on a Gene Simmons Axe Bass is to check the official merchandise store of KISS, the legendary rock band that Gene Simmons is a part of. They occasionally release limited edition replicas of the Axe Bass for fans to purchase. Keep an eye out for any new releases on their website or at their concert merchandise stands.
Custom-Made
If you are willing to invest some time and money, you could consider getting a custom-made Gene Simmons Axe Bass. There are a number of talented luthiers and guitar builders who specialize in creating custom instruments. Research and find a reputable builder who has experience in making replica bass guitars and discuss your requirements with them. They will be able to guide you through the process and create a unique Axe Bass to your specifications.
Keep in mind that custom-made instruments can be quite expensive, so be prepared to budget accordingly.
Second-Hand Market
If you can’t find a brand new Gene Simmons Axe Bass, you could try looking in the second-hand market. Check online classifieds, auction websites, or even local music stores for any used Axe Bass guitars that may be available for sale. Be sure to thoroughly inspect any used instrument before purchasing to ensure its authenticity and condition.
Additionally, joining online forums or groups dedicated to KISS or Gene Simmons fans might also be a good way to connect with other fans who may be interested in selling or trading their Axe Bass guitars.
Getting your own Gene Simmons Axe Bass can be an exciting and rewarding experience for fans of the legendary bassist. Whether you choose to purchase an official replica, opt for a custom-made instrument, or explore the second-hand market, make sure to take your time, do thorough research, and select an option that best fits your budget and preferences.
