Skybone

Crying Over You - Roy Orbison

I'd agree with the "try as many as you can" sentiment. To be fair, you can't go far wrong with either a P or a J bass (or a P/J bass), and for that budget, you can easily get something that you can develop as a player on, as well as rehearse/record/gig confidently with. Like guitars, they're all a bit different, and you really do need to try a good few out before deciding which one to buy (especially with that budget). Better to find one you have a "connection" with in a shop, than spend a shed load buying stuff on the internet and finding it doesn't work for you. Good luck finding the right bass for you.

Ruby - Kaiser Chiefs

I Am (I'm Me) - Twisted Sister

Line6 POD Go. A really versatile piece of kit, especially for bass IMO.

Bloody Kisses - Type O Negative

Dance the Night Away - The Mavericks

3am Eternal - KLF

Two Minutes to Midnight - I, Ron Maiden

Seal Clubbing - Half Man Half Biscuit

I think Geddy would agree with you (apart from the "playing with a pick" bit).

You Oughta Know - Alanis Morissette

Buffalo Soldier - Mr Robert Nesta Marley

Stairway to Heaven - Led Zep

Orange Crush - REM

Repeat post.

In the 30+ years of playing and being in bands, none of these have ever happened.

Just the one. If I was in a professional band doing functions/weddings/etc. and playing for a couple hours, then yes, a back up instrument is probably advisable. If there was a need for fretless or other such variation, then yes, a back up instrument is probably advisable. As I am in neither category, just the one works for me.