Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider recently sparked a debate among rock fans by choosing Led Zeppelin’s John Paul Jones over Rush’s Geddy Lee as his preferred bassist. He shared his thoughts on X (formerly Twitter).
The discussion began when a fan suggested Geddy Lee as the best bassist, while Dee picked John Paul Jones. This prompted Snider to offer his perspective on the comparison.
“Geddy Lee is amazing, but I bet John Paul Jones is one of his biggest influences (and Plant for vocals),” Snider said. “Hell, the first Rush album sounds like Led Zep.”
The conversation continued when another fan pointed out the absence of Neil Peart on Rush’s debut album. Snider responded with additional insight about the band’s evolution.
“Nope. Neil changed the game for Rush and took them in a prog direction,” he continued. “Not that there’s anything wrong with that!”
Snider’s choice reflects the enduring influence of Led Zeppelin’s legendary rhythm section. It also highlights the foundational role Jones played in shaping rock bass playing.
Guitar World reported that John Paul Jones is universally recognized as one of the greatest bassists of all time. He is known for his innovative bass lines including the distinctive octaves in classics like “Kashmir” and “The Song Remains the Same.” His technical prowess and musical versatility helped define Led Zeppelin’s sound throughout their legendary career.
Before joining Led Zeppelin, Louder Sound noted that Jones was already an accomplished session musician who had worked with Jimmy Page on various recording projects. When Page was forming his new band after The Yardbirds, he recruited Jones based on their previous collaborations and mutual respect.
The formation of Led Zeppelin happened remarkably quickly. Louder Sound documented that Jones explained their rapid development: “We rehearsed an act, an album and a tour in about three weeks, and it took off.” This swift assembly of talent would go on to create one of rock’s most influential bands.
Louder Sound revealed that Jones served as both bassist and keyboard player throughout Led Zeppelin’s entire 12-year run. He contributed to every album and tour until the band’s dissolution following John Bonham’s death in 1980. His dual role as bassist and multi-instrumentalist set a template that would influence countless rock musicians, including Rush’s Geddy Lee, who similarly combined bass duties with keyboards and vocals.
