Who is Jaco Pastorius

Ranked #6,833 in Music, #183,256 overall

Jaco Pastorius, the world's greatest bass player

In 1976, Jaco burst onto the scene with the release of Jaco Pastorius, his landmark debut album. Over the next ten years, Jaco contributed volumes to the world of music.

Not only did Jaco forever change the role of the electric bass, he contributed many beautiful compositions and arrangements. Whether joining a band or sitting in on a recording session, Jaco always took the music - and the musicians he performed with - to new heights.

Sadly, Jaco was taken from us in 1987, at the age of 35.  Fortunately for us, his music and legacy remain timeless.

Recent Jaco Pastorius Releases

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Biography

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Why "the greatest"?

I've been asked by visitors to this lens how I can put "the world's greatest bass player" in the title of this lens.

Well, that's Jaco's line, not mine.

Jaco was a huge sports fan, and loved watching Muhammad Ali. Obviously impressed with Ali's "I am the greatest" routine, Jaco became the self-proclaimed "greatest bass player in the world".

He usually followed up with, "it ain't bragging, if you can back it up".

Of course, I've always believed him. He always backed it up.

Jaco on the web

JacoPastorius.com: the official site
JacoPastorius.com is the official site, run by Jaco's children. Jaco fans are pretty active in the Interact discussion boards, and you can spread the word on Jaco with some nifty ecards. Jaco's complete discography, interviews, and photos fill out the site.
Portrait of Jaco, the early years
The ultimate box set of Jaco's early years, produced by Jaco's longtime friend and audio biographer, Bob Bobbing. This landmark release features an 80 page companion booklet, a gem on its own, and two discs complete with interviews and never-before-heard music.
Three Views
An incredible collection of stories, live shows, and more.
All Music's Guide to Jaco
A complete and detailed list of Jaco's recording career.

Essential Jaco

These are five of my favorites. Vote for your favorites, or add your own here!

Hejira

Hejira

Two voices: Joni's and Jaco's bass.4 points

The Birthday Concert

The Birthday Concert

An incredible big band recording that took place o more...2 points

Word of Mouth

Word of Mouth

Jaco forms The Word of Mouth big band while a memb more...1 point

Jaco Pastorius

Jaco Pastorius

The shot heard 'round the world: Jaco's debut solo more...0 points

Heavy Weather

Heavy Weather

The record that set the mark. Jaco brought Weather more...0 points

Your favorite Jaco projects

Jaco recorded with an amazing number of artists and groups in his short career. Vote for your favorite.

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Jaco Pastorius Music & Collectibles

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Collector Links

Unreleased live recording resources for traders

Jaco Pastorius Unissued Live Recordings
Len Pogost's list is the biggest I've seen online, and very detailed and organized.
Three Views Jaco Collection
A collection that spans most of Jaco's career, including CC Riders, Pat Metheny, Herbie Hancock, Solo Shows, Joni Mitchell, Word of Mouth, studio work and his later years.
Jaco Pastorius Recordings
Joe Botto's collection, organized by group.
Music Exchange Forum
Discussion thread for people looking to trade.

Jaco Videography

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Interact

Great discussion forums for Jaco fans

The Early Years Discussions
Hosted by Jaco audio biographer Bob Bobbing, this forum features many great early years stories, and is frequented by many who were there.
Jaco Stories
Fans discuss their favorite, first-hand Jaco experiences.
Music Exchange
Tape (CD) traders unite!
Fans
A place for Jaco fans to set up their own personal threads.

More Jaco

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Your thoughts on Jaco

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  • Reply
    _Joan_ Nov 11, 2010 @ 3:00 am | delete
    My brother plays the bass and I loved it whenever he was practicing Jaco.
  • Reply
    Bumper-T-Shirtstickers Jan 18, 2008 @ 12:21 pm | delete
    Great lens! I had the pleasure of knowing and playing with Jaco. I first mwt him when he played with Tommy Strand and the Upper Hand in Miami. Later we did a few gigs and I actually booked him to p[lay with Phylis Diller. (Imagine that). Anyway, an amazing player who left us way too soon. I believe the bartender who beat him was convicted of manslaughter. Great work!

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coreybrown

Hi. I'm Corey. I'm the COO here at Squidoo, and one of the founding team members.

I'm a husband, dad, bass player and avid reader.

In my spare time,...
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