And the congregation intoned: "Fuck Yeah!" (oops!)😂😂😂 Hey y'all, I heard Rich live with Rudresh Mahanthappa, Rudy Royston, and Rez Abbasi at Blues Alley in DC about, oh...19 or 20 years ago? Straight fire. It's a cherished musical memory; it STILL gives me goose bumps. Rudy and Rich grooved hard and just smiled at each other all night as they served up heaping portions of groove dopesauce. Everyone sounded great! And I got to chat with Rich. He's just as down-to-earth and humble in-person as he is in these videos. This message is so important and so simple! Love what you do and do what you love. Love yourselves and love each other. Rich and the commenters here seem to be about THAT, so thanks to ALL of you. To Rich, in my best Denzel Washington voice(dark shades on, cup of coffee lifted): "My man!"😎
You’re truly a saint amongst musicians, Rich. You’re the person that inspired me to play 6 string , and now I play them exclusively. There’s room in this world for any number of strings with no judgement, because our end goal is simply to use the instrument as a vessel for expression. Keep fighting the good fight, Rich 🫶🏼
The question I ask myself is: why someone would not play a six-string bass?, which is also the closest thing to the perfection. A 7-string bass, is the perfect instrument to study, not only the instrument, but the music in general. Whoever doesn't understand it, just has to take look at the circle of fifths and realize it... I did play the 4-string bass for a long time, until I knew the 7 string bass, unfortunately it's very heavy and not too practical, so went for the 6, which is the closest you can be to the heaven…
When they ask “Why do you play a six string?” Respond with “Because I can” Anything more than that is courtesy on your part which they really aren’t entitled to. Keep up the good work /Teaching Sir.
THANK YOU RICH!!!! I have learned a lot from your channel! I am 70 yrs old, playing bass for 4 years now, and I learned on a 5 string. I love playing it because of the extra range! Thanks again!!? 👍👍👍
Honestly I have never watched a bassist playing a 6 string bass on UA-cam or live and thought, "that ain't no bass." You play bass, and you're a damn good one too!
Wow! Digging the Mutual Admiration Society here! You two would be perfect for a duo, like Victor Wooten and Steve Bailey did a couple of years ago! Just sayin'!
Seeing the bass as an instrument and not a role to be played in music leads to these limited and limiting beliefs. It's a joy and inspiration to hear you sing down low and up high, thank you Rich!
I will never forget the collective groan that went up when someine raised this point at the SBL clinic you did in London all those years ago. We had just heard you play the most beautiful music, on your bass, and that was all he could think of. We are all bassists.
The world is full of self-righteous and self-proclaimed purists across the gamut of human culture and expression. We can all hold our own opinions and they are just that - opinions. In my opnion, you have the skill to create beautiful music and you are willing, able and kind enough to share that. Surely, we are united around the sound, the vibe, the feel of all that is low end! Hopefully, the detractors and haters will be outnumbered by the rest of us who are not hung up on counting strings. 🤗❤🎵
I've been in love with 6-string ever since I saw the cover photo of Patitucci's debut album with his Ken Smith. I bought my first 6-banger in 1996 and in 2012, I finally purchased my dream bass: a Ken Smith 6-string.
I bought a six string Bass a year ago, I've ended up selling it, a lot of people told me that this instrument was more a guitar than a bass "You only need four strings" etc etc. The truth is that I wish that I've seen this video before , because at the end like you said "We all want to be better Bass Players". There is a lot of hate and competition between musicians, that is so sad. Music is beautiful and coming from my heart I can tell you that you are a great teacher and person. You teach from the heart and not because you want to make some money out of this, 60,000 subscriptions do the talk. Thanks a lo for.being here Rich and hope you download some more videos and positive vibes. We love you man.
I have been a guitar player since 1998. I play a Spanish guitar, a few 6-string electric guitars too, a Venezuelan cuatro, and bought an 8-string electric guitar around 2018. I find the extra 2 strings have opened up new doors on how I compose and play music. I have been interested in recent years in playing the bass guitar. The bassist in our band died of cancer about two years ago and I really miss his playing the bass. I can’t imagine how extra bass strings will hinder the bass player. The bass player adapts and finds their own original groove. It can only get better. I have heard about muting issues while playing a 5-string bass, but you just have to put the work to adapt to the instrument you’re playing to control the issues. More power to you for playing a 5 or 6-string bass. I was thinking about getting a 4-string fretless bass, but your video is inspiring me to get a 5 or 6-string fretless bass. Thanks for this video.
I don't get why anyone would be so negative, other than because of pure envy! I listened to another great bassist emphasise the importance of humility to playing good bass and your manner is exemplary!
One of the greatest players I've heard played a 7 string Conklin. He was always playing solid bass serving the role of harmonic foundation and has fantastic time. Sure he could do other stuff outside of the common bass roles and did it well but I never heard him sacrifice the bass-line. I love him as a bass player and as a good human. Locally he's known as that guy who plays the 7 string bass. I just call him a fantastic bassist. I started playing a six in at a blues gig in 98 and it was my main instrument in my most successful musical endeavor through the 2000's I have always played bass no matter what instrument I was using. Upright, electric, tuba and keyboard bass. Bass is about what we play and how we fit into the music, not the instrument we happen to be using. The focus should be on the musical sound not the visual object. BTW I just found your channel I love it.
Right on,Rich. I am a four stringer, but just love what other bass brothers are doing on extended bass instruments. Bringing the bass to the forefront is always a good thing ! Respect and appreciation, bass brother 🙌🏽🎵
I play a 6 and 7 string bass.keep doing your best at what you want to play and you will make it.thank you for your gift of sharing your knowledge of music.
Few weeks ago after 10 years of playing four string I bought a 5 and I immediately stop believing anything bad people said about it. I practice only on 5 string now. It add so much to my project, I feel fulfilled!
I am a drummer learning bass on a Kala ukelele bass guitar, so I get what you are saying from a totally different perspective...hate it hate...shows me just how many deeply unhappy people there out in the world which shows me there is a much larger problem then just 'comment haters'. Thank you and keep being you! subscribed!
100% Rich, we do need more encouragement and positivism in the bass community, we all have one goal and that's to express ourselves to the best of our abilities with this wonderful instrument, we are all on the same boat as you well said, keep on rocking 🙏 Also, getting tired of the "jaco only needed 4 strings" motto that some people seem to repeat on loop, there is only 1 Jaco and there is only 1 Rich Brown, the bass is our voice and we shouldn't limit it, we should have as many strings and notes as we need to express ourselves, no less.
Jaco also ripped out the frets in his electric bass and epoxied the fretboard when he felt they were getting in the way of something he wanted to express. He didn't let other people's perception of what the instrument was dictate how he was going to play.
I've only picked up a bass a few months ago, a five string at that, at the age of 30 with no musical education at all. I expect the b string hindered my initial progress, but I'm used to it now and I'm glad it was my first. My favorite bassists are, for the most part, metal and rock musicians who used the instrument in nteresting ways and were pushing the limits. There is absolutely nothing wrong with being a solid, steady player who keeps his head down and doesn't stick out, but Cliff Burton, Les Claypool, and Ryan Martinie inspire me. Rich, your work has been a blessing for me on this journey. Thank you for your time and effort.
I LOVE this message, partly for what it says about bass, mostly because it can be said about ANYTHING. Stop the hate, or the mudslinging, or disrespect, whatever. Be kind. I adore your beautiful spirit, Rich. God bless.
100% agree! Seeing your playing especially has really inspired me to venture out into the 6-string bass world, and I couldn’t be more excited. Many thanks to you and for what you do for the bass community!
Respect Rich!! You've always been an inspiration. 15 years deep on my 6-string custom Andrew Stewart bass and never once looked back. I'm constantly inspired to dive deeper and deeper into the chordal and tonal possibilities of 6-string, harmonized and effected playing. It's carved out a huge part of the re.verse sound, and has opened the doors to many creative approaches to our own repertoire and trio/quartet interpretations of covers we love to play. I care not for the purists!! To them I will say - my Fender Jazz bass is fine, but it mostly acts as a collector of random stickers and dust now lol. Much love 👊
Totally agree and on a similar note, I'm tired of hearing that you can't play bass with a pick. I play with my fingers and a pick, depending on which works best for me on a particular tune.
Thank you Rich! I play an Ibanez 5-string tuned E-C and I love it! It almost feels like three instruments because it allows me to play basslines, chords and melodies. Just perfect.
This video really means the world to me, Rich. I play and have almost exclusively played a 6-string bass, and the reason I sorta fell into this was due to a necessity, I feel. The church I attend and play worship on had lost a good portion of our team and what used to be a 7-10 piece band was now 3-4 on a *good* day. I found having the wider range found in a 6-string versus a 4-string - anything from helping to add color while also keeping the low end through tapping and chord shapes - really helped fill the void left by no longer having Keys, horns, etc. While I know I could have stayed on a 4-string, it just felt really limiting when it came to the styles and feeling of sounds we were able to create if we were essentially your proto-power trio/quartet setup. I can't tell you how disheartening, truly, it feels to constantly read online and see others say I was somehow desecrating the craft or position of a bass player in a band - I'm sure you already know what it is like without me having to harp on about it, I just wanted to thank you and tell you how much this meant.
That's a good reason. It could be very misleading to people aspired to pick up the instrument. I think people that play the 6 string bass misunderstand when people say that. You're a professional musician who's grown to apply mentally, physically and theoretically.. it's not the norm. You're unique and special by right. That's like me being a pianist and doing the same thing. I would play the bass, piano, synth, everything all at once to fill up void. That's not piano playing, that's understanding multiple instruments musically, and mentally, physically applying on the keyboard by theory.
I've used my 6 in a worship setting as well. I was fortunate to have WLs that trusted me to have the discipline to do what was needed and still have fun playing an extended range when we stretched out.
Hey man, you keep doing you. You are a profound and exquisite professional musician. I have never used a six-string, as I only own four-string basses. I would very much like to use a six-string at some point. Both are perfectly capable of serving what the Bass was meant to function and then some. Bass is Bass, whether it'd be one string, or 24 in some more interesting settings haha. Cheers.
I sold my 6 string but kept the Stingray 4, the Corvette 5 fretless and my trusted Yamaha BB435. When it comes to public displays. NOTHING compares to my Tuba. 🙂 The Tuba has immense dynamic range, modulation options and the best of it all: I can play that thing in the woods or on a mountain. No further amplification needed. Thank you for your exercises, they helped me a lot and keep me inspired!
Hey Rich, I’m a natural singing drummer who started playing bass. I have some cool Fender Jazz and Precision basses. I admire you and anyone else that can play with more strings. I would never knock anyone for playing a 6 string. I know a lot of bassists and I think you’re really cool.
Greetings Rich! Well said on the 6 string bass. I have a four string that I’m actually trading in for a 5 string. Reason; I can’t play comfortably some songs that I like on the 4. For ergonomic reasons and being a minimalist I’m moving to a five. See you at 6 string soon. Thanks for clearing the path. Bass is bass. I will do my part in encouraging 6 string players not to be shunned. FYI I have played bass for 8 months only and I can see a myriad of benefits for playing more than four. 6 is great for chords as well. Blaze on!
Honestly I love the tone basses get on the higher frets and strings, even when you're intruding into pitches guitars are typically in. There's just something much cleaner and fuller than your typical guitar can manage, and I guess that comes down to string thickness, scale and pickups.
@@richbrownbassbass chords sounds way more Warmer and my wife loves it when i do them. She even bought me a custom 7 string Fanned Fretted to encourage me to play music again. I explained all the in comment section on my own post.
I think that the same thing was said back in the 1950's, with the introduction of the ELECTRIC Fender Precision Bass. I bought my first Precision Bass in 1962. I was 15. By then it was pretty well accepted by at least the genres of Country, Rock, Rhythm and Blues. I love to see someone just kill it on a 6 string bass. In ways, I am jealous, because I have all that I can do to conquer just 4 strings after 62 yer of plucking those 4 strings Pesonally I have never thought much about what is and isn't a bass. I have been humbled by another old man playing a one string bass made from an old wash tub, a broom handle, and one gut string. Damn, he made that thing sing in a way that did not seem possible. You gotta play what talks to you or what you have, no atter how many strings it has. Thanks for sharing with all of us.
I’m really thankful for how simple, yet at times complex, playing bass has been for me. From my first P bass, to my 7 string fretless I’ve owned, all the way back to more 4 string P basses. I’m now into playing 5 string E-C strung basses. Life is beautiful, and I’m grateful how my bass journey has evolved over the years.
Hey Rich, thank you for the content of especially THIS vid! It's absolutely not a matter of what instrument or how many strings someone plays. Important is content! For me you're a master of that attitude. You master that fine line between too many or too less notes that are necessary for a song or a solo. And hate is an unfortunately a phenomenon of these days where people hide behind wall of social(!) media formats. I always wonder would they tell you the same if these people would sit with the addressed person in one room face to face? I don't think so. Respect is the magic word. Respect other people as you want to be respected. Rich, I support to 100% your position. Kind regards from Germany
Hi Rich, welcome to BC 🙂 I'm a 62 year old woman, who has just started to learn bass. My inspiration was my son, who has played a 5 string bass for years (and told me about your channel too). I've played a number of other instruments over the years and never thought that any of them weren't legit just because they came in different variations. Whether a bass has 4, 5, 6, or 7 strings shouldn't matter; it still serves the same purpose. Being able to use the full range of a bass (ie. the full fretboard) is to truly understand its capability. To me, being able to play a 6 string bass is not only badass, but would undoubtedly enhance the contribution that this instrument offers to a piece of music. Although challenging in its nuances, I love learning bass, and I appreciate your generosity in sharing your knowledge, passion and insight. Thank you!
I really don't want to play a 6-string - I almost certainly couldn't. But I've never thought it wasn't a bass, just different. Keep on truckin', Rich - fantastic work, whatever your instrument.
Love this video! I have a 4 string P bass, a 5 string active and a beautiful 6 string active and i love all equally but they give me different inspiration because of the uniqueness of the feel and flavour of what they allow..........I say play as many basses as you can, expand your horizons and open your minds, God knows the world could do with more of that ;)
Rich, thank you for this video. We have five senses to help us understand something. We so often are quick to make judgements with and listen with our eyes. While we do not need to taste or smell an instrument to understand it, why are we so quick to judge something from what it looks like or where it is made? We do the same with people and other surroundings. I must confess that I am shamefully guilty of this myself and am working to improve on it. If we listened more to just the music from the instrument and appreciated the musician, where the real music comes from, more there would be less animosity towards those playing different style instruments or musical styles. There is not only a lesson about music here, but also about life in general. To quote Victor Wooten, "You bought 20-24 frets. Use them."
I'd honestly love to have the mastery to be able to play such a fine and grand instrument as a 6 string bass. Serious props, haters gonna hate and that's all it is. No worries. I'm so glad I found this channel!
the "purest" thing never really bothered me too much. bunch of snobs anyway. i get what you're saying. folks just need to chill and enjoy the music! i started with drums in the 70s (to expensive back then) went to guitar. then to bass. back and fourth for years. well, i lost the end of my middle finger (string hand) so went from my strat back to bass. (i just want to play) man! i forget how much fun this is! and the power is just amazing. folks ask if i get bored! ARE YOU KIDDING! lol. i explain it as "you my not notice the bass, but you definitely now when it's not there!" really enjoy your vids. thanks for helping us. you make a big impact! jam on cuz! be safe.
When it comes to music and instruments it's like different color flowers wouldn't the world be boring if there were only one color flower it's the same for instruments since i have been on here i have been seriously on going back to a six string i feel that i have been missing a lot thank you so much for sharing with us and there are many judgemental people out there they are closed minded and they play the same way I am 75 and have been playing since i was 14 and i an still hungry to learn. Keep the faith and just smile Your student Joe
Rich, I started playing Trumpet way back in 4th grade continuing on into adulthood. I played and sang using a huge variety of genres, but stopped during grad school until I was nearing retirement. Then, wanting to get back to music with a dramatic change in the range of my voice I chose to learn the 6-string Bass (& 5-string) because that is my current vocal range. Thus, I want to play music I can sing to being the primary reason for my choice of instruments. Granted, my intent is to play more melodically than cover the low-end supporting percussion. Much of my music is connected to church, but I'm also working on jazz and ballads. The 6-string is simply what fits my desired music. Your videos have been of great help as I'm learning something that is so far from what I have ever done in the past that I am clearly a beginner, even after working on this for a couple of years.
I love my six string so much I never play my four strings. It sounds so much richer I literally don't want to put it down. There are things I can do with the six that you just can't do with the four. The chords but you can play on the six are beautiful and impossible to play on the four string. I found you because I was searching 6-string bass players and I'm so glad I did. You are an inspiration I love your music I love your voice. Keep it up brother thank you so much for everything you do for the bass community!
I’m only your side! I’m about to buy a short scale bass bc I love the tones and it seems easier as a beginner (6mons). You do great work. Stay strong, need you.
KEEP DOING WHAT YOU DO,I KNOW THIS SOUNDS CRAZY,I BROUGHT FENDER 4 AND 5 STRING BASSES DIDN'T KNOW HOW TO PLAY IN 2016,WORKED OUT OF STATE FOR 4.5 YEARS DIDN'T HAVE TIME TO LEARN,SO PANDEMIC STARTED,GAVE ALL MY FE DERS AWAY FOR FREE,GOT IBANEZ BTB 1606E AND I AM HAPPILY LEARNING BASS,AND I AM VERY GLAD,ALSO HAVE A 7-STRING BASS,AND CONTINUING IN LEARNING, LOVE THE SOUND OF CHORDS
@@richbrownbass 6&7 string basses are so amazing,YOU CAN DO THE ENTIRE MODES ON THE 7 STRING BASS GOD DESIGNED EVERYTHING TO END AND REST AT SEVEN.......ANTHONY WELLINGTON MODES 7 STRING BASS
My first bass was a 4 string. And within a few months I had to get a 5, because the low E seemed like a weird cut off point for a bass. It works with guitar written songs, but as soon as a keyboard player comes with a song in C or D I'm glad to have that range.
I love my 6 strings and I use them for almost everything, from 'tradional' playing in bands to more melodic synthy stuff that I write by myself. I do feel that sometimes the parts I write aren't "bass parts", and like anything else that can be the right or wrong thing for the music depending on context. The wonderful thing about the 6-string bass is that opens up these different ways of serving the music. And hey, compared to a standard 4-string bass, a 6-string also has MORE bass thanks to the low B!
I was always envious of people who could become proficient on the 6. I picked up my first one about 4 months ago, in part because of RB. It’s a challenge but rewarding too.
Speaking from experience since I switched to the six-string a couple of years before you did (!) I figure any bass player who plays more than root notes runs the risk of being labeled a "frustrated guitar player", it happened to me. Of course it's nonsense. I do play guitar and other instuments but to me bass has a character all its own and since it's the first instrument I got serious with it will always reign supreme in my heart. I dig your passion about this Rich, just another reason you're so cool in my book.😎👊
If I could learn the four strings as well as I like maybe I would move. I like hearing more involved bassists but I can't do it. I follow a guy who uses E to C on a five string. I don't know if I could that, however that may be easier. Love all you do.
Dude, the six string is a monster of a bass. It truly intimidates me so I stick with the five string. I never judged bass players on what type of basses they played. I always saw it as a matter of your playing style. Six string cats have an amazing style as well as talent (not taking away from four and five strings). Don’t let it bug you when people criticize, it’s easier to criticize things versus learning to develop an appreciation for something different, thought it’s really not that different. I dig your videos, I’ve played for years without learning and real fundamentals and I’ve gained so much from watching your videos. So keep doing your thing and focus only on those with broader mindsets.
So very well said, Rich! Exploration and evolution is essential and amazing in every artistic endeavour and you exemplify the very best of that spirit!
Another great video Rich! I routinely have people ask me about 5 and 6 string basses, and also hear their comments about 4 string basses being 'the only real bass' etc. It is difficult to explain the advantages of extended range basses to people when they cling to their staunch ideas and melancholy nostalgia for the past. I love to play a 4 string bass but not as much as I love the 5 and 6 string. You have my full support! Keep up the good work and positive messages!
As a recovering bassist (50+ years passed since the garage band) AND a fan of all things fusion, I LIVE above the fifth, and try not to screw-up chords, too! P Bass to Ibanez 6 string I'm loving arpeggios in the "alto-to-soprano" altitudes. Good on ya!
In situations like this, I wish people would either keep their mouths shut or keep their minds open. I play a 4 string Fender Jazz, like many people around the world do. Honestly, 4 strings are confusing enough! I can't imagine playing a 5 or 6 string. But I would never talk sh-t or talk down to someone because they play one. Yeah, Jaco only had 4 strings. Big deal. How boring would it be if everyone only played a 4 string and never tried something different. Most of the time when I go into a music shop I'll pick up a 5 or 6 string just to play around with it and see how it feels and sounds. Maybe someday I'll get one. For now 4 strings are plenty, but again I would never give someone a hard time just because they play a 5/6 string. Great video, Rich. Keep up the great work!
I picked the 6 string up, ca 2 years ago. I cant play any other Bass anymore. its just so convenient to have 2 strings up and down.. I actually would like to have another 7th string up, as the c string just doesnt do it anymore.
I WENT BACK AND FORTH BETWEEN 4 AND 5 STRING BASS. BUT EVERY TIME I TRIED A 4 STRING BASS I NEEDED THE LOWER RANGE OF A FIVE STRING. SO NOW MY GO TO BASS IS A 5 STRING BASS. MY BASS INSTRUCTOR TAUGHT ME THE RULES AND THEN SAID “YOU GET IT HOW YOU GET IT.” SO ROCK ON DUD 🤘🤘🤘🤘
This is a great video, about something that HAD to be said. I personally gravitate towards extended range players because they do not seem to have that kind of small minded thinking when it comes to bass playing. Really loving the 6 string, to me it's just perfect and feels like "home". I get a lot of suspicious looks when reaching for it, mainly by other bass players. Most non-musicians don't really seem to know what a bass is anyway, they just care about the music that comes out of it. Let's just make music and stop arguing about gear so much. Much love to you Rich!
Great Video Man - People even give me grief about playing a 5 string… “why do you have 5 string” is the common question 🤦♂ It has honestly stopped me from getting into the 6 string bass because I can’t be bothered with that common tag … Great video, thank you for sharing and inspiring:)
Thank you! but I noticed it's not a washtub bass😁. i would have loved to hear you play all six strings and past the 5th. Love what you are saying. Right ON! Just play that instrument 🤟
For me, 5 string with low B is the instrument of choice. I started on a 4 string and I found that it did not provide enough low end, so I switched to a 5 string bass. I am also a piano and keyboard player and these instruments are so versatile that I understand why it may be nice to have a 6 string or extended range bass instrument. One can play it like a piano with both hands and can surprise listeners because of the greater tonal pallette he or she gets playing 6 or 7 or multi string bass or guitar. Posibilities are endless. Imagination is the key.
Amen 🙏🙌 these disparaging comments come from fear, from not understanding and from a place where not being able or comfortable to do something gives a perceived license to demean it. Like many of the other comments have said, the entire range of the bass is amazing & gorgeous, from the singing vocal qualities of the upper registers to the thunderous body shaking low registers, and everything in between. I don’t think you hear many of the same comments with other instruments when they push the boundaries of the possible. If it serves the music, it’s good. And yes, we’re all bass players standing up for each other 💪🙌
It's simply all the bass + some treble, it's like one and a half instrument in one, so there's literally zero downsides to it and many benefits, such as extended range (duh), more notes in one position for sight readers, many more possibilities for soloing, chordal playing and everything else.. I am still playing a 4 string, but I'm planning on buying a 6 string because I know it will open many more challenges, possibilities and ideas which will make me a better musician and that's what it's all about. So Rich, don't pay any attention to the negativity and keep doing your thing. Thank you. Oh, and one more thing, check out Christian Galvez if you haven't already, the 6 string haters would probably have an aneurysm watching and listening to him :D
Great video Rich, I used to play a 6 strings bass a few years ago, but later I trasitioned to 5 string because I cannot handle the mutting techique, my hands are small for a big chunk of fretboard but hoping to coming back when I feel confident enough playing the 5 strings bass, the buzzing is quite annoying when you don't meant to do. In the end, self-expression is the goal of playing music.
Stop the hate : well said !! We have better things to do than that ,maybe trying to play some good music actually Whatever number of strings , it is just a tool to express yourself 😊 I have watch some of your video which are very inspiring to learn new things on my instrument ,so thank you for taking the time to share . Good day !!
I come from playing (yes 6 string) guitar, which I started in 1980… When I got my first bass that was in 1999 and not until I started to really play bass and not guitar on bass and got deeper into it I quickly missed strings. So I got a really descent 5 string, honestly 3 now. Then I got one 6 string - sadly not that good as money didn’t allow it - and I immediately. Played differently and got more inspired. 6 strings ist simply more bass, not less and especially not „not bass“. Btw. I like your playing a lot - on 6 string especially - and even more your attitude!
First up, thank you for your videos. Two more strings are two more octaves😮. Thats so handy. 😊 Thats a nice way to go. A simulare sort of talk is with fx on bass too 🎉. I think as a minimalist you should not be minimalistic 😖 on the many ways of perspectives that are offered by music in general. Njoy an be happy
Hi, love your stuff. Hate sucks. It doesn’t matter how many strings, it’s all about how they’re used. I started on a 4 string over 50 years ago. I switched to a five about 20 years ago. If you support the pocket and respect the song, everyone shines! If it has room for a bass solo, melody over note quantity, in my book, always wins. ☮️
![6 Ways To Use Modes On Bass [Finally know what to do!]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/gUVMbs7CUt8/mqdefault.jpg)
![6 Ways To Use Modes On Bass [Finally know what to do!]](/img/tr.png)
And the congregation intoned: "Fuck Yeah!" (oops!)😂😂😂
Hey y'all, I heard Rich live with Rudresh Mahanthappa, Rudy Royston, and Rez Abbasi at Blues Alley in DC about, oh...19 or 20 years ago?
Straight fire. It's a cherished musical memory; it STILL gives me goose bumps. Rudy and Rich grooved hard and just smiled at each other all night as they served up heaping portions of groove dopesauce. Everyone sounded great! And I got to chat with Rich. He's just as down-to-earth
and humble in-person as he is in these videos.
This message is so important and so simple!
Love what you do and do what you love. Love yourselves and love each other. Rich and the commenters here seem to be about THAT, so thanks to ALL of you.
To Rich, in my best Denzel Washington voice(dark shades on, cup of coffee lifted): "My man!"😎
I tell people all the time, “I mean, they put all these notes here on the bass, so I may as well play them.” Keep on keepin’ on, Rich ❤
You, sir, are exactly right!
You’re truly a saint amongst musicians, Rich.
You’re the person that inspired me to play 6 string , and now I play them exclusively. There’s room in this world for any number of strings with no judgement, because our end goal is simply to use the instrument as a vessel for expression. Keep fighting the good fight, Rich 🫶🏼
This is all I'm saying, Chairman. Thank you very much, and I appreciate your very kind words. I'm honoured, brother. It truly means a lot!
The question I ask myself is: why someone would not play a six-string bass?, which is also the closest thing to the perfection. A 7-string bass, is the perfect instrument to study, not only the instrument, but the music in general. Whoever doesn't understand it, just has to take look at the circle of fifths and realize it... I did play the 4-string bass for a long time, until I knew the 7 string bass, unfortunately it's very heavy and not too practical, so went for the 6, which is the closest you can be to the heaven…
Hey Rich! thank you for standing up for all us 6-string bassists, and thank you for being you! cheers!
When they ask “Why do you play a six string?” Respond with “Because I can” Anything more than that is courtesy on your part which they really aren’t entitled to. Keep up the good work /Teaching Sir.
What if Billy Sheehan asks you?
THANK YOU RICH!!!!
I have learned a lot from your channel!
I am 70 yrs old, playing bass for 4 years now, and I learned on a 5 string. I love playing it because of the extra range!
Thanks again!!? 👍👍👍
Honestly I have never watched a bassist playing a 6 string bass on UA-cam or live and thought, "that ain't no bass."
You play bass, and you're a damn good one too!
Thank you very much. I appreciate the kind words. (And now I'm hungry. Is that the effect?)
@@richbrownbass LMAO! Yes it sure is. 👍🏼🥓🥓🥓
Exactly. It’s mind blowing.
I agree...4 string player here...working on learning 5 string. A 6 string bass is most definitely a bass!
I'm so glad someone like yourself is standing up and speaking out about this. Thank you for this video, Rich! Much love - Anthony
Many thanks, my man. Great to hear from you. Your channel is awesome! 🙏🏾
@@richbrownbass The feeling is mutual to say the least! Hope to see/hear you in person sometime soon!
Wow! Digging the Mutual Admiration Society here! You two would be perfect for a duo, like Victor Wooten and Steve Bailey did a couple of years ago! Just sayin'!
Love this! Started playing 6 strings 2 years into my bass playing. It’s always challenging me and I love it!
Seeing the bass as an instrument and not a role to be played in music leads to these limited and limiting beliefs. It's a joy and inspiration to hear you sing down low and up high, thank you Rich!
I will never forget the collective groan that went up when someine raised this point at the SBL clinic you did in London all those years ago. We had just heard you play the most beautiful music, on your bass, and that was all he could think of. We are all bassists.
The world is full of self-righteous and self-proclaimed purists across the gamut of human culture and expression. We can all hold our own opinions and they are just that - opinions. In my opnion, you have the skill to create beautiful music and you are willing, able and kind enough to share that. Surely, we are united around the sound, the vibe, the feel of all that is low end! Hopefully, the detractors and haters will be outnumbered by the rest of us who are not hung up on counting strings. 🤗❤🎵
I've been in love with 6-string ever since I saw the cover photo of Patitucci's debut album with his Ken Smith. I bought my first 6-banger in 1996 and in 2012, I finally purchased my dream bass: a Ken Smith 6-string.
I bought a six string Bass a year ago, I've ended up selling it, a lot of people told me that this instrument was more a guitar than a bass "You only need four strings" etc etc.
The truth is that I wish that I've seen this video before , because at the end like you said "We all want to be better Bass Players".
There is a lot of hate and competition between musicians, that is so sad.
Music is beautiful and coming from my heart I can tell you that you are a great teacher and person.
You teach from the heart and not because you want to make some money out of this, 60,000 subscriptions do the talk.
Thanks a lo for.being here Rich and hope you download some more videos and positive vibes.
We love you man.
I have been a guitar player since 1998. I play a Spanish guitar, a few 6-string electric guitars too, a Venezuelan cuatro, and bought an 8-string electric guitar around 2018. I find the extra 2 strings have opened up new doors on how I compose and play music. I have been interested in recent years in playing the bass guitar. The bassist in our band died of cancer about two years ago and I really miss his playing the bass. I can’t imagine how extra bass strings will hinder the bass player. The bass player adapts and finds their own original groove. It can only get better. I have heard about muting issues while playing a 5-string bass, but you just have to put the work to adapt to the instrument you’re playing to control the issues. More power to you for playing a 5 or 6-string bass. I was thinking about getting a 4-string fretless bass, but your video is inspiring me to get a 5 or 6-string fretless bass. Thanks for this video.
You're right. We're all bass players. Peace and love !
Don’t waste your energy, neurons and good vibes paying attention to haters. Your art and teachings are great, Mr. Brown!!! God Bless!!!
I don't get why anyone would be so negative, other than because of pure envy! I listened to another great bassist emphasise the importance of humility to playing good bass and your manner is exemplary!
One of the greatest players I've heard played a 7 string Conklin. He was always playing solid bass serving the role of harmonic foundation and has fantastic time. Sure he could do other stuff outside of the common bass roles and did it well but I never heard him sacrifice the bass-line. I love him as a bass player and as a good human. Locally he's known as that guy who plays the 7 string bass. I just call him a fantastic bassist.
I started playing a six in at a blues gig in 98 and it was my main instrument in my most successful musical endeavor through the 2000's
I have always played bass no matter what instrument I was using. Upright, electric, tuba and keyboard bass. Bass is about what we play and how we fit into the music, not the instrument we happen to be using. The focus should be on the musical sound not the visual object.
BTW I just found your channel I love it.
30 years here. It opened so many doors musically for me, but I’ve heard it 1000 times. It’s ridiculous. Great message.
Love you so much, and thank you for honouring my first album with your unbelievable talent. Miss you
Miss you too, Sharon. It’s been a minute! I hope you’re doing very well. 🙏🏾❤️
Right on,Rich. I am a four stringer, but just love what other bass brothers are doing on extended bass instruments. Bringing the bass to the forefront is always a good thing ! Respect and appreciation, bass brother 🙌🏽🎵
Beautiful words of wisdom. Keep up the brilliant work.
Thank you, Mick. I'll do my best, brother.
I play a 6 and 7 string bass.keep doing your best at what you want to play and you will make it.thank you for your gift of sharing your knowledge of music.
Few weeks ago after 10 years of playing four string I bought a 5 and I immediately stop believing anything bad people said about it. I practice only on 5 string now. It add so much to my project, I feel fulfilled!
I am a drummer learning bass on a Kala ukelele bass guitar, so I get what you are saying from a totally different perspective...hate it hate...shows me just how many deeply unhappy people there out in the world which shows me there is a much larger problem then just 'comment haters'. Thank you and keep being you! subscribed!
100% Rich, we do need more encouragement and positivism in the bass community, we all have one goal and that's to express ourselves to the best of our abilities with this wonderful instrument, we are all on the same boat as you well said, keep on rocking 🙏
Also, getting tired of the "jaco only needed 4 strings" motto that some people seem to repeat on loop, there is only 1 Jaco and there is only 1 Rich Brown, the bass is our voice and we shouldn't limit it, we should have as many strings and notes as we need to express ourselves, no less.
Have those people ever heard of Felix Pastorius?
Funny, son of Jaco plays a six-string bass.
Jaco also ripped out the frets in his electric bass and epoxied the fretboard when he felt they were getting in the way of something he wanted to express. He didn't let other people's perception of what the instrument was dictate how he was going to play.
I've only picked up a bass a few months ago, a five string at that, at the age of 30 with no musical education at all. I expect the b string hindered my initial progress, but I'm used to it now and I'm glad it was my first. My favorite bassists are, for the most part, metal and rock musicians who used the instrument in nteresting ways and were pushing the limits. There is absolutely nothing wrong with being a solid, steady player who keeps his head down and doesn't stick out, but Cliff Burton, Les Claypool, and Ryan Martinie inspire me. Rich, your work has been a blessing for me on this journey. Thank you for your time and effort.
I LOVE this message, partly for what it says about bass, mostly because it can be said about ANYTHING. Stop the hate, or the mudslinging, or disrespect, whatever. Be kind. I adore your beautiful spirit, Rich. God bless.
100% agree!
Seeing your playing especially has really inspired me to venture out into the 6-string bass world, and I couldn’t be more excited. Many thanks to you and for what you do for the bass community!
Respect Rich!! You've always been an inspiration. 15 years deep on my 6-string custom Andrew Stewart bass and never once looked back. I'm constantly inspired to dive deeper and deeper into the chordal and tonal possibilities of 6-string, harmonized and effected playing. It's carved out a huge part of the re.verse sound, and has opened the doors to many creative approaches to our own repertoire and trio/quartet interpretations of covers we love to play. I care not for the purists!! To them I will say - my Fender Jazz bass is fine, but it mostly acts as a collector of random stickers and dust now lol. Much love 👊
Totally agree and on a similar note, I'm tired of hearing that you can't play bass with a pick. I play with my fingers and a pick, depending on which works best for me on a particular tune.
I'll be revisiting and looking for the explanations . Just keep in mind that reasons and opinions are not the same. Love what you do Rich.
Rich, I would take it as a compliment in that you're doing something beyond the realms of what is normally expected of the instrument.
Thank you Rich! I play an Ibanez 5-string tuned E-C and I love it! It almost feels like three instruments because it allows me to play basslines, chords and melodies. Just perfect.
Thank you Master Brown..This is awsome and so true....
This video really means the world to me, Rich. I play and have almost exclusively played a 6-string bass, and the reason I sorta fell into this was due to a necessity, I feel. The church I attend and play worship on had lost a good portion of our team and what used to be a 7-10 piece band was now 3-4 on a *good* day. I found having the wider range found in a 6-string versus a 4-string - anything from helping to add color while also keeping the low end through tapping and chord shapes - really helped fill the void left by no longer having Keys, horns, etc.
While I know I could have stayed on a 4-string, it just felt really limiting when it came to the styles and feeling of sounds we were able to create if we were essentially your proto-power trio/quartet setup. I can't tell you how disheartening, truly, it feels to constantly read online and see others say I was somehow desecrating the craft or position of a bass player in a band - I'm sure you already know what it is like without me having to harp on about it, I just wanted to thank you and tell you how much this meant.
That's a good reason. It could be very misleading to people aspired to pick up the instrument. I think people that play the 6 string bass misunderstand when people say that. You're a professional musician who's grown to apply mentally, physically and theoretically.. it's not the norm. You're unique and special by right. That's like me being a pianist and doing the same thing. I would play the bass, piano, synth, everything all at once to fill up void. That's not piano playing, that's understanding multiple instruments musically, and mentally, physically applying on the keyboard by theory.
I've used my 6 in a worship setting as well. I was fortunate to have WLs that trusted me to have the discipline to do what was needed and still have fun playing an extended range when we stretched out.
Hey man, you keep doing you. You are a profound and exquisite professional musician. I have never used a six-string, as I only own four-string basses. I would very much like to use a six-string at some point. Both are perfectly capable of serving what the Bass was meant to function and then some. Bass is Bass, whether it'd be one string, or 24 in some more interesting settings haha. Cheers.
Thank you very much, and well said, my friend!
@@richbrownbass Thanks man so much. Bass can make music in any case if you really immerse yourself in it. Cheers again.
I sold my 6 string but kept the Stingray 4, the Corvette 5 fretless and my trusted Yamaha BB435.
When it comes to public displays. NOTHING compares to my Tuba. 🙂
The Tuba has immense dynamic range, modulation options and the best of it all:
I can play that thing in the woods or on a mountain. No further amplification needed.
Thank you for your exercises, they helped me a lot and keep me inspired!
I am totally with you. ☮️ Keep doing what you’re doing they way you do it. Thanks for your teaching and sharing your knowledge
Hey Rich, I’m a natural singing drummer who started playing bass.
I have some cool Fender Jazz and Precision basses.
I admire you and anyone else that can play with more strings.
I would never knock anyone for playing a 6 string.
I know a lot of bassists and I think you’re really cool.
Greetings Rich! Well said on the 6 string bass. I have a four string that I’m actually trading in for a 5 string. Reason; I can’t play comfortably some songs that I like on the 4. For ergonomic reasons and being a minimalist I’m moving to a five. See you at 6 string soon. Thanks for clearing the path. Bass is bass. I will do my part in encouraging 6 string players not to be shunned. FYI I have played bass for 8 months only and I can see a myriad of benefits for playing more than four. 6 is great for chords as well. Blaze on!
Thanks!
Thank you so very much, Chad.
Thanks for all you do for bass players of all kinds!
Yes! This totally validates my existence as 6 string guy! Hope it does for others as well! Thanks for the video Rich!!!
Honestly I love the tone basses get on the higher frets and strings, even when you're intruding into pitches guitars are typically in. There's just something much cleaner and fuller than your typical guitar can manage, and I guess that comes down to string thickness, scale and pickups.
I could not agree more. Some basses really sing in the upper register. I love it.
@@richbrownbassbass chords sounds way more Warmer and my wife loves it when i do them. She even bought me a custom 7 string Fanned Fretted to encourage me to play music again. I explained all the in comment section on my own post.
I think that the same thing was said back in the 1950's, with the introduction of the ELECTRIC Fender Precision Bass. I bought my first Precision Bass in 1962. I was 15. By then it was pretty well accepted by at least the genres of Country, Rock, Rhythm and Blues. I love to see someone just kill it on a 6 string bass. In ways, I am jealous, because I have all that I can do to conquer just 4 strings after 62 yer of plucking those 4 strings Pesonally I have never thought much about what is and isn't a bass. I have been humbled by another old man playing a one string bass made from an old wash tub, a broom handle, and one gut string. Damn, he made that thing sing in a way that did not seem possible. You gotta play what talks to you or what you have, no atter how many strings it has. Thanks for sharing with all of us.
I’m really thankful for how simple, yet at times complex, playing bass has been for me. From my first P bass, to my 7 string fretless I’ve owned, all the way back to more 4 string P basses. I’m now into playing 5 string E-C strung basses. Life is beautiful, and I’m grateful how my bass journey has evolved over the years.
Hey Rich, thank you for the content of especially THIS vid! It's absolutely not a matter of what instrument or how many strings someone plays. Important is content! For me you're a master of that attitude. You master that fine line between too many or too less notes that are necessary for a song or a solo. And hate is an unfortunately a phenomenon of these days where people hide behind wall of social(!) media formats. I always wonder would they tell you the same if these people would sit with the addressed person in one room face to face? I don't think so. Respect is the magic word. Respect other people as you want to be respected. Rich, I support to 100% your position. Kind regards from Germany
Hi Rich, welcome to BC 🙂 I'm a 62 year old woman, who has just started to learn bass. My inspiration was my son, who has played a 5 string bass for years (and told me about your channel too). I've played a number of other instruments over the years and never thought that any of them weren't legit just because they came in different variations. Whether a bass has 4, 5, 6, or 7 strings shouldn't matter; it still serves the same purpose. Being able to use the full range of a bass (ie. the full fretboard) is to truly understand its capability. To me, being able to play a 6 string bass is not only badass, but would undoubtedly enhance the contribution that this instrument offers to a piece of music. Although challenging in its nuances, I love learning bass, and I appreciate your generosity in sharing your knowledge, passion and insight. Thank you!
Thank you so much, Vee. I truly appreciate your support.
I really don't want to play a 6-string - I almost certainly couldn't. But I've never thought it wasn't a bass, just different. Keep on truckin', Rich - fantastic work, whatever your instrument.
Love this video! I have a 4 string P bass, a 5 string active and a beautiful 6 string active and i love all equally but they give me different inspiration because of the uniqueness of the feel and flavour of what they allow..........I say play as many basses as you can, expand your horizons and open your minds, God knows the world could do with more of that ;)
Rich, thank you for this video. We have five senses to help us understand something. We so often are quick to make judgements with and listen with our eyes. While we do not need to taste or smell an instrument to understand it, why are we so quick to judge something from what it looks like or where it is made? We do the same with people and other surroundings. I must confess that I am shamefully guilty of this myself and am working to improve on it. If we listened more to just the music from the instrument and appreciated the musician, where the real music comes from, more there would be less animosity towards those playing different style instruments or musical styles. There is not only a lesson about music here, but also about life in general. To quote Victor Wooten, "You bought 20-24 frets. Use them."
I'd honestly love to have the mastery to be able to play such a fine and grand instrument as a 6 string bass. Serious props, haters gonna hate and that's all it is. No worries. I'm so glad I found this channel!
the "purest" thing never really bothered me too much. bunch of snobs anyway. i get what you're saying. folks just need to chill and enjoy the music! i started with drums in the 70s (to expensive back then) went to guitar. then to bass. back and fourth for years. well, i lost the end of my middle finger (string hand) so went from my strat back to bass. (i just want to play) man! i forget how much fun this is! and the power is just amazing. folks ask if i get bored! ARE YOU KIDDING! lol. i explain it as "you my not notice the bass, but you definitely now when it's not there!" really enjoy your vids. thanks for helping us. you make a big impact! jam on cuz! be safe.
Amen, thank you for spreading the love with your bass 🙏🏼
When it comes to music and instruments it's like different color flowers wouldn't the world be boring if there were only one color flower it's the same for instruments since i have been on here i have been seriously on going back to a six string i feel that i have been missing a lot thank you so much for sharing with us and there are many judgemental people out there they are closed minded and they play the same way I am 75 and have been playing since i was 14 and i an still hungry to learn.
Keep the faith and just smile Your student Joe
Be as you are and play what you want, you are working for those who wants to improve his playing
Love this channel. The truth is the truth. "Hate is a weak emotion. a sign of failure"
Rich, I started playing Trumpet way back in 4th grade continuing on into adulthood. I played and sang using a huge variety of genres, but stopped during grad school until I was nearing retirement. Then, wanting to get back to music with a dramatic change in the range of my voice I chose to learn the 6-string Bass (& 5-string) because that is my current vocal range. Thus, I want to play music I can sing to being the primary reason for my choice of instruments. Granted, my intent is to play more melodically than cover the low-end supporting percussion. Much of my music is connected to church, but I'm also working on jazz and ballads. The 6-string is simply what fits my desired music. Your videos have been of great help as I'm learning something that is so far from what I have ever done in the past that I am clearly a beginner, even after working on this for a couple of years.
Thank you so much. You have no idea what it means to read your comment. It really does mean a lot.
They say that it's not a bass, but... they are still want to play with you? That makes sense :) Thank you for your videos. You're doing a a great job!
I love my six string so much I never play my four strings. It sounds so much richer I literally don't want to put it down. There are things I can do with the six that you just can't do with the four. The chords but you can play on the six are beautiful and impossible to play on the four string. I found you because I was searching 6-string bass players and I'm so glad I did. You are an inspiration I love your music I love your voice. Keep it up brother thank you so much for everything you do for the bass community!
I'm very glad and grateful that you found me, too. Thank you so much for your very kind words. It really does mean a lot to hear them. ❤️🙏🏾
You're welcome Rich. Curious as to what effect pedal you are using on Nguyen?
I’m only your side! I’m about to buy a short scale bass bc I love the tones and it seems easier as a beginner (6mons).
You do great work. Stay strong, need you.
KEEP DOING WHAT YOU DO,I KNOW THIS SOUNDS CRAZY,I BROUGHT FENDER 4 AND 5 STRING BASSES DIDN'T KNOW HOW TO PLAY IN 2016,WORKED OUT OF STATE FOR 4.5 YEARS DIDN'T HAVE TIME TO LEARN,SO PANDEMIC STARTED,GAVE ALL MY FE DERS AWAY FOR FREE,GOT IBANEZ BTB 1606E AND I AM HAPPILY LEARNING BASS,AND I AM VERY GLAD,ALSO HAVE A 7-STRING BASS,AND CONTINUING IN LEARNING, LOVE THE SOUND OF CHORDS
You can't beat the sound of chord on those instruments. Beautiful!
@@richbrownbass 6&7 string basses are so amazing,YOU CAN DO THE ENTIRE MODES ON THE 7 STRING BASS GOD DESIGNED EVERYTHING TO END AND REST AT SEVEN.......ANTHONY WELLINGTON MODES 7 STRING BASS
My first bass was a 4 string. And within a few months I had to get a 5, because the low E seemed like a weird cut off point for a bass. It works with guitar written songs, but as soon as a keyboard player comes with a song in C or D I'm glad to have that range.
I love my 6 strings and I use them for almost everything, from 'tradional' playing in bands to more melodic synthy stuff that I write by myself. I do feel that sometimes the parts I write aren't "bass parts", and like anything else that can be the right or wrong thing for the music depending on context. The wonderful thing about the 6-string bass is that opens up these different ways of serving the music. And hey, compared to a standard 4-string bass, a 6-string also has MORE bass thanks to the low B!
I have a 6 string bass and I love it, I also have 5 string basses too , and I wouldn't want it any other way .!!
Yep coming from a 25 yr full time 6 string player over here! THANK YOU ❤️🙌
Its the lack of limitation that is so intimidating for many. This is true thruout this thing called life isn't it? Carry on Rich!
I was always envious of people who could become proficient on the 6. I picked up my first one about 4 months ago, in part because of RB. It’s a challenge but rewarding too.
Speaking from experience since I switched to the six-string a couple of years before you did (!) I figure any bass player who plays more than root notes runs the risk of being labeled a "frustrated guitar player", it happened to me. Of course it's nonsense. I do play guitar and other instuments but to me bass has a character all its own and since it's the first instrument I got serious with it will always reign supreme in my heart. I dig your passion about this Rich, just another reason you're so cool in my book.😎👊
If I could learn the four strings as well as I like maybe I would move. I like hearing more involved bassists but I can't do it. I follow a guy who uses E to C on a five string. I don't know if I could that, however that may be easier.
Love all you do.
Dude, the six string is a monster of a bass. It truly intimidates me so I stick with the five string. I never judged bass players on what type of basses they played. I always saw it as a matter of your playing style. Six string cats have an amazing style as well as talent (not taking away from four and five strings). Don’t let it bug you when people criticize, it’s easier to criticize things versus learning to develop an appreciation for something different, thought it’s really not that different. I dig your videos, I’ve played for years without learning and real fundamentals and I’ve gained so much from watching your videos. So keep doing your thing and focus only on those with broader mindsets.
I played a 7 string, and experienced the exact same thing. Got to play it again!
So very well said, Rich! Exploration and evolution is essential and amazing in every artistic endeavour and you exemplify the very best of that spirit!
ofcourse is this bass..a nice bass..incredable sound & playing!
peter from rotterdam ( Holland)❤
Another great video Rich! I routinely have people ask me about 5 and 6 string basses, and also hear their comments about 4 string basses being 'the only real bass' etc. It is difficult to explain the advantages of extended range basses to people when they cling to their staunch ideas and melancholy nostalgia for the past. I love to play a 4 string bass but not as much as I love the 5 and 6 string. You have my full support! Keep up the good work and positive messages!
As a recovering bassist (50+ years passed since the garage band) AND a fan of all things fusion, I LIVE above the fifth, and try not to screw-up chords, too! P Bass to Ibanez 6 string I'm loving arpeggios in the "alto-to-soprano" altitudes. Good on ya!
In situations like this, I wish people would either keep their mouths shut or keep their minds open. I play a 4 string Fender Jazz, like many people around the world do. Honestly, 4 strings are confusing enough! I can't imagine playing a 5 or 6 string. But I would never talk sh-t or talk down to someone because they play one. Yeah, Jaco only had 4 strings. Big deal. How boring would it be if everyone only played a 4 string and never tried something different. Most of the time when I go into a music shop I'll pick up a 5 or 6 string just to play around with it and see how it feels and sounds. Maybe someday I'll get one. For now 4 strings are plenty, but again I would never give someone a hard time just because they play a 5/6 string. Great video, Rich. Keep up the great work!
I picked the 6 string up, ca 2 years ago. I cant play any other Bass anymore. its just so convenient to have 2 strings up and down.. I actually would like to have another 7th string up, as the c string just doesnt do it anymore.
I WENT BACK AND FORTH BETWEEN 4 AND 5 STRING BASS. BUT EVERY TIME I TRIED A 4 STRING BASS I NEEDED THE LOWER RANGE OF A FIVE STRING. SO NOW MY GO TO BASS IS A 5 STRING BASS. MY BASS INSTRUCTOR TAUGHT ME THE RULES AND THEN SAID “YOU GET IT HOW YOU GET IT.” SO ROCK ON DUD 🤘🤘🤘🤘
This is a great video, about something that HAD to be said. I personally gravitate towards extended range players because they do not seem to have that kind of small minded thinking when it comes to bass playing. Really loving the 6 string, to me it's just perfect and feels like "home". I get a lot of suspicious looks when reaching for it, mainly by other bass players. Most non-musicians don't really seem to know what a bass is anyway, they just care about the music that comes out of it. Let's just make music and stop arguing about gear so much. Much love to you Rich!
This video is an analogy for many things beyond the number of strings on the instruments itself. Thank you, Rich Brown!
Great Video Man - People even give me grief about playing a 5 string… “why do you have 5 string” is the common question 🤦♂ It has honestly stopped me from getting into the 6 string bass because I can’t be bothered with that common tag … Great video, thank you for sharing and inspiring:)
It's a totally erroneous misconception. Of course, it's a bass guitar. Beautiful video; thanks Rich!
Thank you! but I noticed it's not a washtub bass😁. i would have loved to hear you play all six strings and past the 5th. Love what you are saying. Right ON! Just play that instrument 🤟
For me, 5 string with low B is the instrument of choice. I started on a 4 string and I found that it did not provide enough low end, so I switched to a 5 string bass. I am also a piano and keyboard player and these instruments are so versatile that I understand why it may be nice to have a 6 string or extended range bass instrument. One can play it like a piano with both hands and can surprise listeners because of the greater tonal pallette he or she gets playing 6 or 7 or multi string bass or guitar. Posibilities are endless. Imagination is the key.
You are great man. Keep the love!!
Amen 🙏🙌 these disparaging comments come from fear, from not understanding and from a place where not being able or comfortable to do something gives a perceived license to demean it. Like many of the other comments have said, the entire range of the bass is amazing & gorgeous, from the singing vocal qualities of the upper registers to the thunderous body shaking low registers, and everything in between. I don’t think you hear many of the same comments with other instruments when they push the boundaries of the possible. If it serves the music, it’s good. And yes, we’re all bass players standing up for each other 💪🙌
First I like your videos. You’re a good teacher.
As far as bass. Who cares. It’s music! What you do with it is your music.
It's simply all the bass + some treble, it's like one and a half instrument in one, so there's literally zero downsides to it and many benefits, such as extended range (duh), more notes in one position for sight readers, many more possibilities for soloing, chordal playing and everything else.. I am still playing a 4 string, but I'm planning on buying a 6 string because I know it will open many more challenges, possibilities and ideas which will make me a better musician and that's what it's all about. So Rich, don't pay any attention to the negativity and keep doing your thing. Thank you.
Oh, and one more thing, check out Christian Galvez if you haven't already, the 6 string haters would probably have an aneurysm watching and listening to him :D
Great video Rich, I used to play a 6 strings bass a few years ago, but later I trasitioned to 5 string because I cannot handle the mutting techique, my hands are small for a big chunk of fretboard but hoping to coming back when I feel confident enough playing the 5 strings bass, the buzzing is quite annoying when you don't meant to do. In the end, self-expression is the goal of playing music.
Change is hard for people who are experts on what's right. Play on brother!
Good on you Rich. Thank you.
Amen! Thank you for that!
Stop the hate : well said !! We have better things to do than that ,maybe trying to play some good music actually
Whatever number of strings , it is just a tool to express yourself 😊
I have watch some of your video which are very inspiring to learn new things on my instrument ,so thank you for taking the time to share . Good day !!
I come from playing (yes 6 string) guitar, which I started in 1980… When I got my first bass that was in 1999 and not until I started to really play bass and not guitar on bass and got deeper into it I quickly missed strings. So I got a really descent 5 string, honestly 3 now. Then I got one 6 string - sadly not that good as money didn’t allow it - and I immediately. Played differently and got more inspired. 6 strings ist simply more bass, not less and especially not „not bass“. Btw. I like your playing a lot - on 6 string especially - and even more your attitude!
First up, thank you for your videos.
Two more strings are two more octaves😮. Thats so handy. 😊 Thats a nice way to go. A simulare sort of talk is with fx on bass too 🎉. I think as a minimalist you should not be minimalistic 😖 on the many ways of perspectives that are offered by music in general.
Njoy an be happy
Mann you are so inspiring. ❤️❤️❤️ Thanks a lot
Hi, love your stuff. Hate sucks. It doesn’t matter how many strings, it’s all about how they’re used.
I started on a 4 string over 50 years ago. I switched to a five about 20 years ago. If you support the pocket and respect the song, everyone shines! If it has room for a bass solo, melody over note quantity, in my book, always wins.
☮️