2. Jaco Pastorius
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Arguably the greatest jazz-based bassist in music history, Pastorius also shined while working with the likes of Joni Mitchell and Pat Metheny. His innovative, funk harmonies are still an influence today. A somewhat tortured soul who dealt with a bipolar disorder and nasty temper, Pastorius died in 1987 at 35 due to injuries suffered in a bar fight.