It’s no secret that the guitar and the bass guitar share several similarities. The only main differences would be the sound, size, number of strings, and technique. With that in mind, it’s not uncommon for a guitarist to know how or learn how to play the bass.
If you’re someone who loves playing the guitar but wants to expand their talents to the bass, you’ve come to the right place. The good news is that you already have some of the skills and talents to help you excel at the bass. These two instruments are similar in many ways but require a different approach and mindset. Here’s how you can think like a bassist:
Play with the drummer
A bass guitar is the “glue” of the band. It helps smooth transition and ensures all of the instruments complement one another. When there’s a rhythm section, you’ll want to try to lock in with the drummer by playing bass lines that complement the drummer’s snare drums and kick.
Consider octave root notes. Octaves provide an interesting melody that doesn’t clash with the underlying chords. Find the groove, ride the wave, and have fun.
Blog Post
"*" indicates required fields
By submitting this form, I authorize Musicians Institute (MI) to make or allow the placement of calls, emails, and texts to me at the phone number that I have provided, including through the use of automated technology, or a prerecorded or artificial voice. I understand that I am not required to provide my phone number as a condition of purchasing any property, goods, or services. I agree to the terms of MI’s Privacy Policy. MI will not sell or rent your information to third parties, and you may unsubscribe at any time.
Choose your finger technique
Just because you play your guitar with a pick, doesn’t mean you need to with a bass. You can choose if you want to use your fingers or a guitar pick to pluck the instrument. Do what makes you feel comfortable with the song, there’s no right or wrong answer. Several big-name bass players were known for using both their fingers and picks while playing the bass.
Stick to octaves and fifths
Octaves and fifths are arguably the most harmonically agreeable notes you can play on bass. They’re the framework of the class sound of the bass line and help keep things interesting. Plus, it’s a great way to complement the drums and maintain a smooth, unbeatable melody.
Maintain the tempo
You might not always be able to notice, but the bassist is there to keep the tempo steady and help the music flow in the right direction. The pocket will depend on the bass, so you’ll want to learn your own metronome that works for you and the rest of the band. The tempo depends on the song. Don’t be afraid to play with 4/4 or 8/8. Go with whatever feels best and feel out the vibe of the song.
Play with different chord tones
When you stray away from root notes and play with third or fifth underlying chords, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the change in the chord progression. This small change can make all the difference, adding warmth or tension to any melody you choose.
Give the crowd the ear candy they’re craving
If you’re going to take on the bass like a bassist, you’ll need a killer fill. Fills are small pieces within a song that are all about a solid bass line. They help move a song forward and give it a flavorful flair you won’t find anywhere else. Fills are tools that help break up the monotony of a song, and insane the overall flow.
To put things in perspective, some of the most popular basslines of all time are in “Money” by Pink Floyd, “Ramble On” by Led Zeppelin, and “Good Times” by Chic.
Enhance your skills today with MI
Whether you’re a guitarist looking to explore the bass or you’re a bassist wanting to take their skills to the next level, we’re here to help. We have comprehensive programs for both the guitar and the bass, so you can get the most out of your talents and improve your skills with a passionate profession. Request more information today to see if our bass guitar program is a good fit for you.