By C.

The Danelectro Longhorn is a charming and unique instrument when it comes to electric bass guitars, known for its distinctive design, unique sound, and cultural impact. Since its introduction in the late 1950s, the Longhorn has been celebrated for its quirky aesthetics and practical playability, making it a favorite among a variety of musicians, from garage rockers to professional studio players.

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The Danelectro company, founded by Nathan Daniel in 1947, initially produced amplifiers for Sears and Montgomery Ward. In 1954, the company began making guitars and basses under the Danelectro brand. The Longhorn model, which was introduced in 1958 as both a guitar and bass, stood out immediately due to its unique body shape, featuring two long “horns” extending from the body, resembling a longhorn steer. While the standard 6-string guitar (or “guitarlin” as it was known) never quite caught on with guitarists, the Longhorn bass in both 4 and 6-string versions became exceedingly popular with bassists over the years.

The design of the Longhorn is both visually striking and practical. The body is made from Masonite, a type of hardboard, over a pine frame. This construction method was economical and provided a distinctive tone that contributed to the Longhorn’s unique sound. The lightweight body makes it comfortable for extended playing sessions, and the compact size is ideal for musicians who prefer a smaller, more manageable instrument.

One of the standout features of the Longhorn is its short scale neck, measuring 29.75 inches. This shorter scale length puts less tension on the strings and makes them easier to fret and bend, facilitating faster and more comfortable playability, especially for players with smaller hands or those who favor a lighter touch.

The Danelectro Longhorn is equipped with two single-coil “lipstick” pickups. These pickups are named for their resemblance to lipstick tubes and are known for their bright, clear sound with a pronounced midrange. This tonal quality is a hallmark of the Longhorn and makes it particularly suited for genres like surf rock, country, and early rock and roll. The electronics also feature a simple control layout with two volume knobs and two tone knobs stacked together, allowing for straightforward adjustments to the sound.

Throughout the decades, the Longhorn has been embraced by a wide range of musicians across various genres. Its affordability and distinctive sound have made it a popular choice for both aspiring and established bassists. Notably, John Entwistle of The Who used a Longhorn in the early years of the band, as well as Jack Bruce of Cream, each contributing to the instrument’s rock and roll credentials.

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The Longhorn’s unique aesthetic has also made it a favorite in the world of indie and alternative music. Its quirky, retro look stands out on stage, making it a visually appealing choice for performers who want to make a statement.

Danelectro has reissued the Longhorn several times, with modern versions staying true to the original design while incorporating some updates. Contemporary Longhorns maintain the classic body shape and scale length but may include improved electronics and hardware for enhanced performance and reliability. These modern versions ensure that the Longhorn remains relevant in today’s music scene, appealing to both vintage enthusiasts and new players less familiar with the model.

The Danelectro Longhorn’s distinctive design, characterized by the iconic long horns and lightweight Masonite body, sets it apart from other basses. The unique tonal qualities provided by the lipstick tube pickups and the short scale neck make it a versatile instrument capable of delivering a wide range of sounds suitable for almost any type of music.

From its inception in the late 1950s to its continued presence in the modern world, the Longhorn has remained a beloved and influential instrument. Whether you’re in for a traditional 4-string setup, or the more obscure 6-string offering, it has been used by some of the most renowned musicians across many genres. Players of all skill levels can easily see how the Longhorn offers a blend of history, playability, and unique sound that is hard to match. Just don’t forget your cowboy hat..

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