3 Alternative Rock Songs From the 1990s Defined by Their Bass Lines

Iconic bass grooves that became the heart of alternative rock hits

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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While guitar riffs have defined many rock songs, there are plenty of tracks that wouldn't be the same without their iconic bass lines. This article highlights three alternative rock songs from the 1990s where the bassists' grooves became the identifiable parts of the songs.

Why it matters

The bass is often an overlooked instrument in rock music, but these 1990s alternative rock songs prove how crucial the bass line can be in shaping a song's identity and mood. The bassists on these tracks helped define the sound of alternative rock in that era.

The details

The article highlights three iconic 1990s alternative rock bass lines: 1) "Three Days" by Jane's Addiction, where bassist Eric Avery's spacious, melodic playing sets the hypnotic mood. 2) "Around the World" by Red Hot Chili Peppers, where Flea's unhinged, virtuosic bass line matches the primal energy of the song. 3) "Jeremy" by Pearl Jam, where bassist Jeff Ament's droning, blues-inspired riff on a 12-string bass became one of the band's biggest hits.

  • The songs highlighted were all released in the 1990s.

The players

Eric Avery

The bassist for the alternative rock band Jane's Addiction, known for his melodic and atmospheric bass lines that helped define the band's sound.

Flea

The bassist for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, renowned for his virtuosic and energetic playing style that has become a signature part of the band's music.

Jeff Ament

The bassist for the alternative rock band Pearl Jam, who wrote the iconic bass riff for the band's hit song "Jeremy" using a 12-string bass.

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The takeaway

These 1990s alternative rock songs demonstrate how the bass can be a crucial and defining element of a rock song, with iconic bass lines that have become as recognizable as the guitar riffs that often get the spotlight. The bassists on these tracks helped shape the sound of alternative rock in that era through their innovative and memorable playing.