In the world of bass guitars, Dingwall Guitars stands out as a beacon of innovation and quality. Founded in 1987 by CEO Sheldon Dingwall in Saskatoon, Canada, the company has garnered a reputation for pushing the boundaries of bass guitar design. Dingwall is known for his daring approach, introducing concepts like fanned fretboards and extended scale lengths to create instruments that are as versatile as they are unique.
Dingwall’s latest offering, the John Taylor Signature model, is a testament to this spirit of innovation. Developed in collaboration with John Taylor, the bassist of the iconic band Duran Duran, this new model builds on the success of the limited edition Rio Dream Bass launched in 2023. The collaboration with Taylor, whose bass playing style has left an indelible mark on the music industry, represents a new chapter in Dingwall’s quest to create the ultimate bass guitar.
John Taylor, a founding member of Duran Duran, is a bassist whose influence extends far beyond the confines of his band. With over 100 million albums sold worldwide, Duran Duran’s music has become synonymous with the sound of the 80s and beyond. Taylor’s bass lines, characterized by their tasteful syncopation and punchy tone, have earned him a place among the pantheon of great bassists.
The John Taylor Signature Model Rio Dream Bass launched with a numbered, limited-edition cranberry pearl colored bass, mimicking the colors on the cover of the hit album. It features a special string pack, a “Rio Eye” inlaid in the 12th fret of the fingerboard, a custom guitar hanger and more. The John Taylor Signature model follows the formula of the limited edition Rio Dream Bass, barring a few design tweaks and the Metallic Black, Primrose and Seafoam Green finishes, as well as a new 5-string variant.
“This bass felt so intuitive to me from the moment I picked it up, and immediately made me wonder why all bass guitars aren’t made like this,” Taylor shared.
Taylor’s partnership with Dingwall Guitars is a natural extension of his lifelong passion for music and innovation. Having been impressed by Dingwall basses since he first encountered them six years ago, Taylor has played an instrumental role in the development of the John Taylor Signature model. His input, combined with Dingwall’s expertise, has resulted in a bass guitar that is not only visually stunning but also a joy to play.
For Taylor, the collaboration with Dingwall Guitars is more than just a business venture; it’s a creative partnership that allows him to continue pushing the boundaries of his art. As he embarks on this new chapter with Dingwall, Taylor remains as passionate and dedicated to his craft as ever, ensuring that his legacy as one of the greatest bassists of his generation will endure for years to come.
