Music theory can seem overwhelming. Scales, modes, chords, intervals, key signatures… where are you actually supposed to start, and what do you do with the information? After years of playing and teaching bass, I think a handful of theory concepts ...
This is a bass practice session that will work on the following: Major pentatonic scale across two strings Hand shifts Alternate plucking Fretboard knowledge Timing, groove, and feel Creating bass lines and fills Get my weekly bass lessons, tips, and ...
The simple idea alluded to in this lesson's title is to use various scales, modes, and pentatonics to create bass lines and fills. I've been using these musical components for decades, and they really do give you what you need ...
When I was younger, I was really into the self-improvement literature. Whilst I struggled a bit with some of the writing and suggestions, I was into the likes of Anthony Robbins et al. If I read a book or listened ...
A friend's son (hi, Noah!) reached out with some questions about slap, specifically about struggles with accuracy, timing, and volume differences between slaps and pops. So I made this lesson to help address those issues. Make sure to scroll down ...
Ask a load of different bass players what their weakest area of technique is, and I guarantee a fair few will say their pinky finger. The fourth finger of the fretting hand is generally the weakest, and many players don't ...
Great bass playing isn't about playing more notes; it's about playing the right notes with great timing and feel. In this lesson, we'll work through six practical grooves designed to improve your internal pulse, strengthen your sense of pocket, and ...
Learn five 1/16th note ghost note patterns plus a cool bass line in this bass tutorial. Used sparingly, ghost notes add a percussive flair to your playing. In this lesson, I'll show you how to play them cleanly, in time, ...
Rhythm is one of the most important skills a bassist can develop. You can know scales, arpeggios, modes, and harmony inside out, but if your timing and rhythm aren't solid, your bass lines won't have the same impact. That's why ...
If you want to improve, it's important to push yourself. When I'm feeling bereft of inspiration or ideas, I learn a new song or do some sight-reading. In this week's lesson, I'll show you Toto's Hold The Line whilst sight-reading ...