The very best way to learn is to listen to the greats and learn to play their bass lines. To get you used to what ‘different feels’ actually means here are a few examples with some further listening for each style.
8th Note Rock
Check out: Basket Case - Green Day, Rolling In the Deep - Adele (not rock but definitely 8th note feel).
16th Note Funk
Check out: Come On, Come Over - Jaco Pastorius, What Is Hip? - Tower Of Power.
Swing Jazz
Check out: So What - Miles Davis, All Of Me - Michael Bublé.
12 Bar Blues Shuffle
Check out: Texas Flood - Stevie Ray Vaughan, Stumble - Freddie King.
6/8 Pop
Check out: Be Ever Wonderful - Earth, Wind and Fire, Norwegian Wood - The Beatles.
DOWNLOAD TAB/Notes:
Dan I wish I had seen your videos when I was hot at banging on the bass back in the eighties but that’s not why I am commenting I want to know where you went to school and how many Basses do you have I saw about eight in one of your videos and the the up rights and that short one can’t spell it and a keyboard are you like prince I just want to know I guess I am nosey are enquiring mind old chap cheers
Glad you’re still playing! I actually didn’t go to music school but I did have music lessons from an early age (and bass guitar from 11) and was very lucky to be taught by some excellent musicians. In terms of basses… a lot! I think 16 at last count. They do – for the most part – all get used. Let me know if there are any lessons or gear tips you want me to do a video on…