How Reef Made Place Your Hands: Bassist Jack Bessant Reveals 2026

Reef's bassist Jack Bessant reveals the story behind the band's classic hit "Place Your Hands," a song that blends Motown basslines with 90s rock energy. The track, which became a defining anthem of the era, holds a deeper emotional meaning that only recently came to light.

The Birth of the Bassline

While recording at Abbey Road with producer George Drakoulias, Reef were given new instruments that would change their sound. Bessant received a 1960s Fender Jazz bass, and the moment he touched it, inspiration struck.

“Sometimes you pick up an instrument you’ve never touched before and immediately start playing stuff you wouldn’t normally play,” he recalls. The result was a bassline inspired by Motown legend James Jamerson, giving the song its distinctive groove.

From Mellow to Action-Packed

Initially, the track had a chilled, mellow vibe with lyrics about going down by the water. But when guitarist Kenwyn House added the iconic opening riff, the song transformed into something far more dynamic and energetic.

“It changed from something mellow into something much more action-packed,” Bessant says. The band’s open-mindedness, drawing from Motown, Bob Marley, and Van Morrison, helped shape their unique sound.

The Hidden Meaning Behind the Lyrics

For years, Bessant didn’t fully grasp the emotional depth of the lyrics. Recently, singer Gaz explained that “put your hands on” was a metaphor for wanting a hug, a way to cope with the grief of losing his grandfather.

“I hadn’t realised at the time because we were young rockers, swept up in the moment and full of testosterone,” Bessant admits. The 90s wasn’t a time when men were encouraged to be sensitive, but looking back, he finds the lyrics beautiful.

Influences and Musical Style

Reef’s sound was a melting pot of genres. Bessant’s love for reggae is evident in the bridge, where he played an old Telecaster bass. The band’s willingness to experiment set them apart from their peers.

Key Takeaways from the Story

• The song's bassline was born from a new instrument at Abbey Road.
• Lyrics carry a hidden metaphor about seeking comfort and connection.
• Reef’s diverse influences shaped their unique 90s sound.
• The band’s youthful energy and openness were crucial to their creativity.

FAQ

FAQ

Reef's "Place Your Hands" remains a timeless rock anthem, but its true story adds a layer of poignancy that resonates even more today. Jack Bessant's reflections offer a rare glimpse into the creative process and the personal struggles behind the music.