Learning bass lines that revolve around a single groove is fun. You don't have to learn multiple song sections and you can focus on developing stamina, technique, discipline, and your overall sense of groove.
Some songs in this lesson actually do have another section but we'll focus on the main groove that runs through most of the song. As a bonus, listen to the originals and try to figure out the other sections by ear.
Make sure to grab the accompanying PDF with TAB to follow along and get playing right away! Just scroll down.
5 Legendary One Groove Bass Songs Every Bassist Should Learn - Bass TAB/Notation
Mastering one-groove bass songs offers a wealth of benefits:
- Stamina: Holding down a repetitive groove builds endurance.
- Technique: Repeating patterns expose technical weaknesses and force you to refine your plucking and fretting-hand technique.
- Discipline: Playing a simple, repetitive line requires focus and the ability to stay locked in with the drummer.
- Feel and Groove: With fewer notes, every one counts. These songs teach you to play with precision, dynamics, and feel.
These tracks may sound simple, but they’re a true test of a bassist’s ability to groove, stay consistent, and make the music feel alive.
5 Legendary One Groove Bass Songs
1. Hot-n-Fun – N.E.R.D.
- Bass Player: I'm not sure - let me know if you know!
- Why It’s Great: This track features a hypnotic groove with a perfect balance of simplicity and funk. The locked-in playing provides a masterclass in consistency and feel. Playing this line will test your ability to stay in the pocket and keep your tone clean. There's a really cool filter effect that sounds a bit like a duck too!
- Key Technique: Precise plucking and dynamic control to make the groove breathe.
2. Pop Life – Prince
- Bass Player: Mark Brown (Brownmark)
- Why It’s Great: A quintessential example of Prince’s genius, this bass line stays steady throughout the track. Brownmark’s playing is an exercise in restraint and groove, showcasing how a single pattern can drive an entire song.
- Key Technique: Muting and consistent slap pop technique to maintain a tight, percussive feel.
3. Act Like You Know – Fat Larry’s Band
- Bass Player: Larry LaBes
- Why It’s Great: This smooth funk classic is built around a simple yet infectious groove that emphasises space and feel. Playing this line is a lesson in subtle dynamics and how to complement a rhythm section.
- Key Technique: Adding subtle accents and maintaining an even groove.
4. Stratus – Billy Cobham
- Bass Player: Leland Sklar
- Why It’s Great: This jazz-fusion masterpiece features a relentless, driving groove that requires stamina and precision. It’s a fantastic workout for any bassist looking to improve their consistency and hand strength.
- Key Technique: Staying relaxed while maintaining a steady, aggressive attack.
5. What’s the Use? – Mac Miller
- Bass Player: Thundercat
- Why It’s Great: A Thundercat gem, this track’s laid-back, syncopated groove is a lesson in groove and dynamics. It’s a slower tempo, but don’t let that fool you—it requires intense focus to keep it feeling smooth and natural.
- Key Technique: Mastering syncopation and note length for a buttery groove.
By working through these one-groove bass lines, you’ll not only improve your technical skills but also deepen your understanding of what makes a groove compelling. Download the PDF with TAB (above) to start playing these legendary songs and feel the groove in your fingers. Each one offers a unique challenge, so take your time, focus on precision, and have fun locking into the rhythm!
What’s your favourite one-groove bass line? Let me know in the comments!
Here are some more songs songs containing great bass lines that you can learn:
