Eric Haydock, English bass player

Eric Haydock: The Foundational Bassist of The Hollies

Eric Haydock, born Eric John Haddock on 3 February 1943, was a highly influential British musician primarily celebrated as the original bass guitarist for the iconic British Invasion band, The Hollies. His tenure with the group spanned a pivotal period from December 1962 until July 1966, during which he laid down the rhythmic and melodic bedrock for many of their early, chart-topping hits. Haydock passed away on 5 January 2019, leaving behind a significant musical legacy.

A Pioneer of the Fender Bass VI in British Music

One of Haydock's most distinctive contributions was his pioneering use of the Fender Bass VI, a unique six-string bass guitar. This instrument, tuned an octave lower than a standard guitar (E-A-D-G-B-E), allowed Haydock to blend traditional bass duties with more intricate, melodic lines, effectively bridging the gap between a bass and a baritone guitar. At a time when electric basses were still evolving, Haydock's choice made him one of the very first British musicians to widely adopt and showcase the capabilities of this distinctive instrument, influencing the sound of The Hollies' early recordings with its rich, deep tones and often counter-melodic phrases. This unique sonic signature helped differentiate The Hollies' sound during the competitive early 1960s British music scene, which was characterized by the explosion of Merseybeat and R&B-influenced bands.

Musical Contributions and Impact on The Hollies' Early Success

During his time with The Hollies, Eric Haydock's solid and often innovative bass lines were integral to the band's signature sound. His playing provided a crucial foundation for the vocal harmonies of Allan Clarke, Graham Nash, and Tony Hicks, underpinning hits such as "Stay," "Just One Look," "I'm Alive," and "Bus Stop." While his contributions were foundational to their ascent to stardom, his melodic approach to the bass guitar ensured that his parts were not merely supportive but often memorable components of the songs, demonstrating why he was widely regarded as a great bass guitarist of his era.

Departure from The Hollies and Subsequent Endeavors

Despite his undeniable musical talent and crucial role in the band's formative success, Eric Haydock's tenure with The Hollies concluded abruptly in July 1966. His departure stemmed from significant disputes primarily related to the conduct of the band's managers and broader disagreements over financial remuneration and the direction of the band. Haydock felt that he was not adequately compensated for his contributions compared to other members, particularly concerning songwriting royalties, which became a point of contention. Following his departure, he was replaced by Bernie Calvert, who continued as the band's bassist for many years. Although Haydock largely stepped away from the mainstream music scene for a period, he later resurfaced, notably forming a group called "Haydock's Hollies" in the late 1990s, which performed many of the original band's hits, a venture that unfortunately led to legal disputes with the other members of The Hollies over trademark issues.

Legacy of a Founding Member

Eric Haydock's legacy is firmly cemented as a founding member and original bassist of The Hollies, a band inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010. His innovative use of the Fender Bass VI and his consistently strong musical contributions during the band's crucial early years established a blueprint for their sound and ensured his place in the annals of British rock history. He remained a respected figure among fans and fellow musicians for his authentic talent and his integral role in shaping the sound of one of Britain's most enduring pop-rock groups.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eric Haydock

When was Eric Haydock born and when did he pass away?

Eric Haydock was born on 3 February 1943 and passed away on 5 January 2019.

What was Eric Haydock's primary role in The Hollies?

He was the original bass guitarist for The Hollies from December 1962 until July 1966, playing a vital role in their early success and sound.

What made Eric Haydock unique among British musicians of his time?

Eric Haydock was one of the first British musicians to prominently play the Fender Bass VI, a distinctive six-string bass, which contributed a unique sonic texture to The Hollies' early recordings.

Why did Eric Haydock leave The Hollies?

His departure in 1966 was due to disputes primarily related to the conduct of the band's management and disagreements over financial compensation.

Who replaced Eric Haydock as The Hollies' bassist?

He was replaced by Bernie Calvert after his departure in July 1966.