So here we are finally at the end! My pick for the Top Rhythm Section of Pop, Rock and Soul is Tom James and Danny Kanka of Old Empire, perhaps the greatest Post-Machiavellian SoulCore band ever.
JK!
1. 
James Jamerson/Benny Benjamin and others -- Motown
Toiling in obscurity at Motown studios in Detroit, the Funk Brothers laid down the groove for a sound that would literally change the musical landscape. Starting in 1959. it is estimated that James Jamerson played bass on more #1 hits than the Beatles. Sadly it was only after his premature death in 1983 that he received any real recognition, having never been officially credited on a Motown recording until 1971. Benny Benjamin was Jamerson’s usual side kick on the drums until his death in 1969. Bob Babbit was another Motown bassist that played on many tracks, most notably Marvin Gaye’s Mercy, Mercy Me Here is a live clip with Jamerson on bass:
