Bootsy Collins' Jazz Bass, formerly owned by James Brown, is now available on eBay.] - Guitar | Technique

A 1969 Fender Jazz Bass originally purchased by James Brown back in 1970, before it was used and owned by Bootsy Collins, has been listed on eBay with a “buy it now” price of $74,999.99

Bearing serial number #266610, it’s described as “a historically significant instrument directly tied to the genesis and evolution of modern funk music.”

(Image credit: Heritage Auctions)

It’s now been listed for sale by Stinson & Company, an “old school antique pawn shop” based in Portland, Maine. The shop is owned by Joseph Stinson, a former professional bassist who has overseen its care since purchasing it.

listed them separately on eBay for $299. The bass is currently fitted with a new set of Rotosound Swing strings.

Original Strings from a 1969 Fender Jazz Bass

(Image credit: eBay)

Originally finished in Fender’s Three-Tone Sunburst, the body has been stripped back to the natural wood having once reportedly been covered in red and black psychedelic contact paper during Brown’s disco-era.

The lower horn also features two strap button holes, a modification Bootsy Collins himself confirmed as unique to his early James Brown bass, which he used to record several funk anthems including 1971’s Soul Power, Pts 1 & 2.

Late ‘60s and early ’70s Jazz Basses can be a minefield among collectors – good ones can be great (just ask Geddy Lee), but bad ones predominate.

Originality of finish and condition is all-important in this area, but thanks to signed provenance from bandleader Hollie Farris, this particular Jazz Bass is seemingly worth more than any mint condition ’70s model.