Monthly Archives: November 2011

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Tips For Bass Shopping

Here are a few helpful tips for when you have to go to the store and pick out a bass for your own personal present.

The Look

You should like the way the bass looks. It seems obvious, but a lot of people overlook the importance of aesthetics. How are you going to stand up on stage in front of people if you don’t even like the way your bass looks?

The Feel

When you pick up the bass and start playing, how does it feel? This matters a lot and ultimately should be the deciding factor of whether you are going to buy the bass or try the next one.

The Feeling

Commonly confused with the feel, the feeling is the emotional connection you feel when you start playing the bass. There are different feelings that can be associated with different basses. You may get nostalgic, happy, sad, or frustrated. Pick an emotion that you want to have while playing the bass in order to help narrow your bass search.

The Price

As much as we all wish each bass was affordable to us, it’s just not true. When I go to a store I may play a little on some expensive basses, but I try to keep it realistic.

No reason to get upset because you can’t buy the $6000 8 string beast-of-a-bass.

Hopefully this list helped you gain some perspective on your next bass buying experience. As always, try in store, buy online.

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Give Thanks For Bass

It’s the week of thanksgiving and I’m thinking of all the things I am thankful for- family, friends, and bass.

Keep in mind that playing bass is a priveledge that not many people get to experience.

Cherish it.

Be thankful for all your gear and experience and talent.

That’s all!

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What Sports Can Teach You About Bass Playing

This article focuses on some aspects of athletics or sports that can also be applied to bass playing. If you’re not into sports, don’t worry. This article will still appeal to you!

No Pain, No Gain

A classic saying that carries a lot of weight. Playing bass can be painful- wrist and arm cramps, blisters, and other bass related injuries.

There are certain ways to prevent these injuries, but sooner or later you are going to feel a little pain from playing bass. Do not let this stop you, but be cautious about what is right for your body.

There Is No “I” In Team

When you are playing in a band environment there is no individual that stands above the rest. While some members like the lead guitarist or singer may appear more important, that is simply not true.

Perfect Practice Makes Perfect

I can’t write a single article without making a comment about practice! Specifically perfect practice, because sometimes regular practice just doesn’t cut it.

Perfect practice is basically you maintaining a focus on technique and quality. Make sure you keep on task and work hard to maximize results and minimize time.

Did these sports metaphors make any sense? Let me know with a comment below.

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4 Awesome New Riffs (Tabs)

Check out these 4 completely original bass riffs that will hep you gain some speed and agility for your bass playing.

Ace of Diamonds

advanced bass riff tab

Cookie Jar

intermediate bass tab

Trampoline

speed bass playing tab

Xylophone

funky bass lick

Try alternating between playing with your fingers and playing with a pick. Start slow with the riff and then build up speed.

Add on your own parts to these bass riff and try to create a unique lick that is your own.

Leave a comment below about what you did to make the bass riff your own.

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How To Start Playing Bass Today

If you are just becoming interested in playing bass than this article is just for you. Here are some quick thoughts and tips about how to start playing bass.

Find Your Nearest Guitar Store

Odds are, they will have basses too. GuitarCenter has a lot of locations around the country, so check the store locator on their website to find the closest one to you. There are also some great “mom and pop” stores that you can visit where there will be skilled guitarists willing to help you pick out your first bass.

My recommendation would be to go to a store, then order your bass online for the cheapest price. Make sure it’s not a scam though!

Find A Teacher

I started off by getting lessons from a local bass player at a music school. I would go in once a week and spend a little one-on-one time trying to get better. It was definitely worth it and I would suggest it to all beginning bass players.

You can also learn basses by following the blog and signing up for the weekly email. Every week you will receive tips and articles about bass that will help you become a better player.

Those are just the first too steps. You will also have to get accessories for your bass okaying, but worry about that tomorrow.

Congratulations on your interest in bass, now go get started!