The Jazz Bass is the second model of electric bass guitar created by Leo Fender and introduced in 1960 as the Deluxe Model. It is distinct from the Precision Bass in that its tone is brighter and richer in the midrange and treble with less emphasis on the fundamental frequency. It has a naturally more focused tone than the Precision Bass, with less low end and low midrange. Because of these tonal characteristics, the Jazz Bass is often preferred by bass players who seek a more noticeable sound, rather than serving as a background instrument.
This instrument was custom built in 2004 for Rhonda Smith in the Corona factory.
The instrument had several cosmetic changes which can be followed through the years. The instrument had originally a white pick-guard as can be seen in The Rock ’n’ Hall of Fame March, 2004 performance of Prince.
Prince suggested to Rhonda that an aluminum pick-guard would look cooler and this change was made early 2004. On the cover of the June 2004 edition of Bass Player Magazine, the new pick-guard can be seen. Later Prince further suggested to have the headstock of the bass repainted in the same colour as the body. The guitar went back to the Fender Custom shop to have this done.
This was one of the major bass guitars Rhonda used during her stay with Prince and the NPG.
