Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

For anyone here who has IFC in their cable channel lineup, there is a new show called "Documentary Now"
It stars Fred Armisen (Sat. Night Live, Portlandia) and Bill Hader (Sat. Night Live).

Last night's season finale was a Rockumentary about some mythical band. Within the first half, Bill is seen playing an older Jazz Bass.
But soon you see him playing a White Rickenbacker 4001/4003. I was trying to date it, but really could not pinpoint the year. It had the short inlays though.

The interesting thing was that the Bridge pup cover was off, and Bill was fingering directly over the open space in the correct manner a REAL bass player would pluck the strings. I know that Fred is a real musician---he plays drums and guitar.
Does anyone know if Bill actually plays bass?????????

I saw that too. That episode was set around '74 and historically accurate because a Rick w/o the pickup cover was all the rage back then (a la McCartney).

Bill Hader though obviously doesn't play actual bass, you could tell. He's an actor.

I know Bill is an actor.
I asked because there are a number of actors/comedians who are also musicians. And, I thought Bill looked as if he could actually play.

Good point regarding the pup cover.

Yeah the guy who replace Brian Williams, Lester Holt, is a bass player.... I have never heard him play but is a low ender!