10 *Must Know* Tips for Beginner Bassists
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- Опубліковано 8 чер 2024
- Technique, posture, raking, alternate plucking: these are the things I wish I had known about when I started to learn bass guitar!
In today’s new video, we break down 10 things every beginner bassist needs to know - no matter how long you’ve been playing for.
Get these 10 core skills down and you’ll have completed your bass guitar apprenticeship!
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Video Breakdown:
00:00 - Introduction
00:33 - Tip #1 - Anchor Your Thumb
01:11 - Ultimate Deal omergosh
01:51 - Tip #2 - Use Rest Strokes
02:49 - Tip #3 - Alternate Plucking
03:25 - Tip #4 - The Topic of Gear
04:17 - Tip #5 - Use Your Pinky
06:04 - Tip #6 - Sit Down
06:55 - Tip #7 - Posture & Position
08:02 - Tip #8 - Get In Tune
08:20 - Tip #9 - Learn Songs
08:57 - Tip #10 - Be Patient With Yourself
09:38 - Boba Who..?
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Great video guys!!
All great tips, and #10 is underrated. I never thought I'd have correct "alternate plucking" down, but I kept at it and now it's truly automatic. Keep at it, everyone 😊
I had the privilege of actual 1 on 1 lassons when II first startet. But your channel and videos like this are awesome for the "younger" generation of players. Keep it up. I've been playing bass for around 25 years now and still learn something from you guys.
Great tips! I'm a self-taught bassist of 24 years, and I wish I'd had resources like this! Now I've been asked to (rather informally) teach a couple of youth group kids at my church that want to learn. I'll be sending them this video.
That's so awesome to hear dude!
8:00 And what I learned from Adam Neely about putting the neck diagonal when your sitting is, that you can read the score in front of you and simultaneously look at your fretboard. Or at least it isn‘t that much out of sight.
8:53 The first song I would recommend to learn is Word Of Mouth by Mike & The Mechanics. It can‘t get easier to play a number one hit. 🙂
Thank you guys
🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
i´ve being playing the bass for about 12 or more years and i would have loved to have a video like this in those first 2 or 3 years! thnks guys and greetings from México!
Great stuff! I love my music but knew 'jack all' about music I have just started to learn the bass at 67, and this site is just what I need to get started, thank you 👏👏
Never too late to begin, enjoy your musical journey!!!
Anchoring your thumb, and having your strap at a length that keeps the bass in the same place whether you're sitting or standing are going to make the rest of your beginner bass player's journey a lot more enjoyable.
Totally agree. You should ideally be using a strap when sitting as well.
Hmmm, it would have been good for those to be in the video…oh, wait! They were!!
Did he not mention those in the video bro?
@@mrtambourineman6107 Did I ask why he did not mention those in the video, bro?
Great tips! Thanks
It's funny about Step #7 Posture and Position. I've been practicing playing bass since January using Rocksmith 2014. I have fun with the game and learning songs but I seemed locked up with my positioning on how I hold my bass. While standing, I'd have the bass straight across my body going "side to side" as you put it. I was watching one of your videos over the weekend and you said to move the bass from "corner to corner" (when I sit, I do that but not while standing). I switched from corner to corner while standing and I GREATLY improved in one instance! LOL!
Thanks! One little thing improved my playing by quite a lot! :)
Been awhile since I've seen a truly beginners beginning bass video. Have gotten used to the other channels that claim to be beginners tips then jump straight into full speed arpeggios 😂
Great video, you two are awesome!! 40+ years a professional drummer here, now retired due to multiple surgeries on back amd feet. Anyway, always wanted to learn the bass and now at the ripe young age of 57, finally bought one. Great channel, subbed and looking forward to this journey and blessed to have found this channel!❤❤❤
I use a strap whether sitting or standing. I started playing siitng without a strap, but got some great advice to use one all the time. If adjusted correctly the bass sits at the same level whether I'm standing or sitting. My personal preference.
This is your best video you guys put out in a while. You've pushed back on the expensive gear hype and talked about something lots of kids learning to play bass on a limited budget can relate to. Yes Ian you are most correct. Get yourself a good solid bass and stick with it to practice!
Mayv the expensive gear hype partly pays for the videos?
Guys I realm love your style! Keep deliver the goods 🎉
Great video!
I wish you had some associated exercises for some of these tips too so i can practice them and really embed them.
Knowing your catalogue of videos though, I'm sure I'll find them somewhere.
Great video!
My very first bass was an old 4-string precision, and it was just natural for me to anchor my thumb on the pickup--didn't even have to think about it. That being said, it took OVER TWENTY YEARS for me to finally start using my pinkie on the fretboard 😊!
Thank you
Just when you think, "Pshh, I don't need any more beginners' tips!", one comes out of left field and smacks you in the face:
#7 - Posture
I have issues with my shoulder, so when I sit or stand, I have to play with the neck of the bass up at a 45-degree angle as opposed to parallel with the ground. I had never considered parallel with the ground at an angle AWAY from my body. Something new I will definitely have to try 😊
There's always something new to learn and improve on, no matter where you are in your bass journey dude! Hope this tip helps you Brian 🙌🏻
Scott your the best ❤
Floating thumb technique is my preferred anchoring method. For muting purposes, I don't think it makes sense to have only one anchor point. My thumb anchors on the E string when I'm playing the A, but sideways on the A string when I'm playing the D or G. That way the lower strings I'm not playing are muted at all times.
I was gonna say why didn’t they mention floating thumb unless it’s an advanced way? I mean the idea of floating thumb means it doesn’t really rest on any string even though it can I guess at least touch a string to mute sounds even if it’s not fully anchored on it
Good! Funny!
Thank you!
🧡🧡🧡
Learn to listen, learn to experiment and really play (like playfully), put songs you love in the background and just jam along with them, slowly you'd pick up the map of the fretboard, find scales, patterns and nice transitions, understand that no note (even out of scale) is a mistake, the question is how you resolve the tension in the next note. Flow with the beat, and slapa tha base
All the best
"Stop focusing on gear" ...eeehm, ooooooook! 😂 You're a great channel also because, despite your long activity, you're still focusing on these very basic aspects of playing. Can't really find a way to express how much I admire you.
Awesome Joe! Thanks for your support! 🤘🏻
For posture, I personally prefer to use a strap and put the bass in a position similar to how you play a classical guitar.
Those "NO"s had me dying over her!!!!! lol Thank you for creating great content, subscribing now! 🙌🏾
Glad SBL's Dynamic Duo takes us back to basics when we can get lost in music theory.
What is that Squier P bass finish?! Anyone please! I'm not bass shopping by color for sure... never... but I must know...
LOL beware of GAS (gear acquisition syndrome). I bought a perfectly suitable sterling bass earlier this year, had it set up, new strings, the works. Fast forward to my birthday at the beginning of May, and I went and got myself an Aerodyne Jazz Bass that was on sale. Every time my wife asks why I needed a second bass, I tell her “sorry babe, but I got bad GAS”. Her attorney is drawing up divorce papers as I write this, but the joke was totally worth it 😅
If I was just sitting on my bed and I had my bass do I still move the top to the corner.will there be a remembering w all notes on the fretboard type video?
Love SBL. Great video. However, John Paul Jones, who for my money is the GOAT of rock bass playing utilized the one fingered "hook". I believe that James Jamerson JR. said his dad utilized the one fingered "hook" as well. Thank you for what you do!
How much pressure should I applying to the frets? Are my strings too tight? Everyone looks like there just lightly pressing.
You shouldn't have to use much pressure. I have issues using my pinky. If you can have your bass set up by someone, I would and have a low string action to help make it easier to press the frets.
Have you ever had your bass set up, truss rod adjustment, string height, etc? Check with your local music store. They should have a good guitar/bass tech who can help. I personally prefer the "Low and fast" string action height.
You should be pressing down just enough to make a note NOT buzz. If you feel like you are applying too much force you may want to lower your action. (Instructions for this can be found online) As long as you buy standard gauge strings and you are in standard tuning your strings should be in proper tension.
@@TheYellingIdiot Thank you, I am a mechanic and I think I pressing way to hard, and them saying a 7 year old is playing it brought out that question.
@@suddenlyawetrat2587 Thanks, I will have to teach myself all of this, nothing around me offers anything for bass, youtube will be my guide.
I have a hard time keeping my right hand pointing straight down when my thumb is anchored, it tends to turn towards the neck slightly and my fingers don't hit the strings straight on. Any suggestions to fix?
Hey! Check out this short from Michael League...
ua-cam.com/users/shortsUgfFtbEgP-Q
We'd recommend taking that exercise, super slow and playing in front of a mirror so you can really focus on the position of your right hand. If you add this into your practice schedule for 5-10mins a day this should hopefully help your hand naturally adjust! 🙌🏻
#5: Is there a preferred workaround if my pinky cannot reach the E string? Do I just use the other three fingers which might be the best way to play that particular riff? I've seen other recordings of yours that emphasize using the index, middle, and pinky. Not possible for me. Thanks for the other tips.
No worries at all! If your pinky can't reach the E string comfortably, it's absolutely fine to use your other three fingers. Remember, adapting techniques to suit your playing is essential, so play with what feels best for you. 🤘🏻🧡
I have a question for bass fans out there.
Many years ago I broke fingers on my right hand in a motorcycle accident.
I started playing pretty late in life and because of my injuries, I play with a pick.
Here's the question:-
It's virtually impossible for me to lead with my index finger. Because of the nerve damage, I always lead with my middle finger, no matter how much I try to change it. I've tried practicing ZZTopp's Legs for ages.
Do I persist in trying to change it or carry on with the middle? Are there any others that lead with the middle.
I'd be most grateful for any feedback.
Thanks.
A lot of inexpensive basses are neck-divey, so a strap is essential(even if you're sitting down) unless you want to hold the neck of the guitar up while you play. Get the widest strap possible, 4" is good, and when you put your bass and strap on.....move that strap out to the end of your shoulder so the weight of the bass is resting on your bones, instead of the tissues and nerves closer to your neck. Someone told me this when I was really young and I've never had one neck or back problem from playing, standing up or sitting down.
Great advice April! Using a wide strap and adjusting its position can make a significant difference in comfort and posture while playing. Thanks for sharing your wisdom and keeping the bass community healthy and grooving! 🙌🏻🧡🔥
Just got my first bass and realised I don't know how to practice with songs.
With the guitar you learn the tune. People show you every note to play.
Is it the same with bass? It already strikes me that you could play many different basslines to the same song.
Do tab videos and books exist for bass players?
I think you should practice the way you’re going to gig. I remember I used to practice only sitting down and when it was time to play live, it felt totally different playing standing up. Once you get the basics, practice standing up unless you don’t plan on ever playing live
thanks slappers
Thanks for tuning in!
What is the green bass? I cant find the same color P bass. Any help?
It's a Squier dude!
I do need to dispute the "Don't get a strap". I've been a luthier for over 20 years. I've seen far to many guitars dropped off of laps.
Get a strap, but don't stand up with it. Also, DO NOT lean your guitars up against walls. They will slide down, and if you have an angled headstock, it will snap off. Always use a stand or lay it down on something soft.
First song for beginners to play are ramones discography
I think the use of double notes is something a beginner bassist can practice, 2 tight percussive notes. I still do this in almost every song I play. Ba-bop. This leads to 16th notes being played eventually. Now you're halfway to Joe Dart speed. Just play three notes, that's what Joe Dart still does sometimes, for an hour, It's how well you play three notes obviously this is what makes it good or not good. He used to play Jazz, and it's like fusion. He didn't get super fast playing Funk, I doubt it. I mean I guess you could, like if Joe Dart was the only person you heard play a bass before, but he learned mostly through Jazz musicians and then Funk. Gospel is fast, shout music is super fast for bass, funk usually had a steady rhythm, nothing too crazy fast. You have to slow down and feel the Funk dude, just how it's played but that's it's own genre. Between Flea and Joe Dart, people are so confused even how to copy them and also confused about musical genres. If they are playing pure Funk, then it took steroids and it changed somehow there. You can't really re-create what they have going on, not without their bands. So I wouldn't really try to copy anyone, personally I would work to develop your own style through fundamentals. If you're a bassist that plans to ride solo and just go super fast, then I'm not sure what genre that is bro, that must be UA-cam genre. It's never going to be fundamental bass guitar, no matter what anyone does. This is why, while I find that guy Charles to be a great solo bass player, I have yet to see him display any solid bass fundamentals besides slap, tapping is just too new for me dude. His grooves are soooo fast...like can he play slow ?. but in more of a guitar way than say Stanley Clarke played lead and used chords and awesome bass skills, or how Les Claypool got super creative on the bass. Scott and Ian are on the other hand, skilled and versatile as traditional bassists. I am somewhat versatile I can switch between like 4-5 genres, but not like these guys. Considering the demand for live music is gone, people should probably play a lead instrument first. I'm looking for a double neck bass and guitar, to record and mess with, as music fades away into obscurity. Fundamental bass skills will be a rare thing to have in the future. Sadly this is the reality of our current setup, I don't expect anyone to download my songs for 3.99 on bandcamper, but I do have one original I completed so far, now it needs vocals and a name. It's like Hip hop - Funk fusion, super mellow and light, a little bit of a Jazzy melody. If live music is dead, then music will die with it eventually, with the social aspect of music seems to be going out the window. The people I know, they need to be abducted before they would actually sit down and jam anymore, too busy doing nothing else important besides work.but in more of a guitar way than say Stanley Cla
tap out by the strokes i think was raked
I started 11 days ago
I fucking suck badly so watching every video available.
You're in the right place dude! Stick at it, you'll get there! 🙌🏻
🤚👍
I love these two adorable nerds
"In under 5 minutes" 😂 love the tips
🙈🙈🙈
I see people playing bass in the headstock XD
Weird unrelated question. I've never heard you guys mention Warwick basses, good or bad. I mean, Prince's one eye'd bass might as well be the millennium falcon. I have spent many hours listening to you guys. Did someone at Warwick steal your girlfriend or something?
I’ve just never owned one! Always more of a Spector guy in that world. Would love an old Dolphin someday tho…
Where are you guys getting a perfectly playable Squier PJ bass for 150 bucks?👨🏻
You might need to adjust the intonation, bridge and trustrod. Once that is done it already sounds way better, you can then even take care about the pickup height.
@@bluesberrysmoothie69420 lol that’s not what I asked
Edit: I was specifically referring to their bass appearing in the video.
You might find a used Squier PJ for $150, but they go for $280 new.
Oof I needed number 10
🧡🧡🧡
Mistake no 1 : Do NOT anchor your thumb, make it useful by following up or downward your fingering motion (much like a classical guitarist would do) so it mutes the inactive strings, truly freeing your left hand in the process . Use middle finger as the Lead finger to alternate going upward but you can use a rake-alternate picking motion going downward (last finger on last note of string strikes first note on lower string then alternate between middle and index)
So many advantages to this technique - it will clean, tighten & free up your sound, your pop-slap will naturally go trough with the thumb - all the crazy techniques, like flamenco, become easily available for you to practice.
Not to disagree with Scott and so MANY other Bass Giants, but eh! I just did - Do NOT anchor your thumb kids.
So floating thumb then..
@@AtomizedSound I think you should, but I'm just a guy on the net. Try it!... If anything, it won't set you back.
Where does steve harris anchor his thumb
Cliff burton was playing bass in the womb... they thought he was just kicking like a normal baby
Sitting down with a strap on at the right height keeps the bass connected to you so you are free to play
Up and away is how at least one guy plays with his thumb, not sure how.
Repeatedly holds up his insanely priced notasignature bass then says to not obsess about expensive gear.
Tip 4a: develop the proper nasty face (3:58)
💯🤣
Back to Bassics
🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
I take lessons from someone you have interviewed. That individual always wears a strap, so do I.
1. No, you do not NEED to anchor your thumb somewhere, I don't, many famous bassists don't and they (and I) do perfectly fine.
2. Yes we can be plucking for a heavy tone or play the strings in many ways to have a small sound.
3. Again, no. You can use just one finger. Again, many famous bassist did this and it's perfectly fine if it suits your game and need.
4. This a Squier VM Precision Jazz bass from the mid 2010 (until 2017) and it was brand new for 350-400€, 150€ is a used price that you LUCKILY got.
5. Finally a good tip, the pinky is useful and it's often hard to start using it.
6. Don't stand up maybe at the very beginning, but don't sit for too long. Or you will become what I personally am: a bedroom player, sadly not pursuing his wish to play in a band, and right now (I am) unable to play comfortably while standing up, which is sad.
7. Great tip.
8. Good tip too, and get your intonation on pair, or have a skilled person do it for you.
9. That goes without saying.
10. Of course a tip that needs to be reminded from time to time, everybody will be different in how fast they learn, progress. I thought of giving up many times, but then I tried to be patient.
Overall, I'm a bit sad with this video though, I think the 3 first tips are really off because some beginners are gonna have favourite bass players that don't play by the books, and it's fine if they decide to pick up some alternative ways to play.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts! It's great to see different perspectives on bass playing. Remember, these tips are just guidelines, and everyone's journey is unique. Keep exploring and finding what works best for you! 🎸🎶🙌🏻
General guideline wise for beginners, this video is spot on. Every bassist should have the foundations down before branching out and doing what you are saying. But at least get the fundamentals down first and then you can tweak as needed
Wait I thought they were both the same person 🤣
🤣🤣🤣
🤦 скучно
I've received 13 different offers from you in 13 days via my email...13 emails. Is that really necessary?
Hey dude, really sorry about this, you definitely should have received this volume of e-mails. I will pass this onto our marketing team to take a look into this, thankyou for letting us know!
@@devinebass Thx! 🙂
I don't what this video is about. I stopped it after the fourth "dude." My loss, perhaps. I guess I'll never know.
Tip number 1
Buy a bass
is this the same guy who doesn't rate mark king as a bass player ?🤔😧🤡
That definitely isn't anyone at SBL! 🙌🏻
Why do wear a stupid glove? 🧤?? 😂
The reason Scott sometimes wears gloves is because he has a neurological condition called Focal Dystonia and the gloves prevent him from having involuntary muscle movements. Cheers!!