Larry Graham is widely credited as the man who invented electric slap bass, although session ace Louis Johnson has also staked a claim. Graham, who was the bassist in Sly & The Family Stone and his own group Graham Central Station, described his slap technique as 'Thumpin' and Pluckin'.'

When you consider the sheer number of bassists that slap (deep breath: Bootsy Collins, Flea, Les Claypool, Marcus Miller... oh, the list is endless) Graham’s contribution to the bass guitar has been huge. Here’s a lesson on the art of thumpin’ and pluckin’ from the man himself and an awesome clip of Larry getting down with his bad self.

Band(s): Graham Central Station, Sly & The Family Stone

Gear: Fender Jazz Bass

More info:www.larrygraham.com

Listen: Graham Central Station - Pow