Walking bass lines are a rich area of learning for bassists. A thorough knowledge of chord tones, note names, and fretboard knowledge is required to even be able to sound slightly competent.
Even if you're no jazzer, these areas are well worth your focus.
This lesson starts simple, using triads over a ii-V-I chord progression, before exploring 7th arpeggios, modes starting on the 3rd and 5th, and swing rhythms (no one greater than Ray Brown at this!).
Allow me a quick plug for my music theory course. It contains all the arpeggios, modes, triads, and scales you could possibly need for all styles of playing.
It contains fretboard diagrams so you can memorize them on all roots, plus examples of how to use them. Click the image below for more details. For the price of a couple of bass lessons, you'll get a lifetime of material you'll use forever.
Jazz ii-V-I Backing Track + TAB/Notation
Remember that it only takes a little bit of regular practice for these elements (triads, arpeggios etc.) to come together quickly. Even ten to thirty minutes per day is enough. Once you get them together, walking bass lines - or any aspect of bass playing - becomes easier!
Thanks Dan! Just now learning Fly Me to the Moon. This is super helpful!!!
That’s the next lesson! Keep an eye out for it…