NEW Program Alert: The Groove Accelerator is OPEN for enrollment! Limited Time Only —Join Now
Unlocking the Nine Levels of Bass Lines
I’m always getting asked by students if I have any sure-fire ways of leveling up a simple bass groove.
It usually starts like this—“Dude, I saw a Youtube video with you in it!”
The thing is there are absolutely no secrets when it comes to adding killer hooks to your bass lines, BUT there are some simple things that I routinely focus on and that many bass players, regardless of ability, don’t. So I guess these are my secrets-ish!
In this lesson you’re going to learn about:
- Articulation, ghost notes, and the “Hand Drop”.
- How to double up on the root note (wait for it!)
- When to throw in a “stanky third” or a sneaky octave!
- And watch me “slappa da bass!” Paul Rudd-style…
Originally published on February 29th, 2020, this article was updated and republished on October 26th, 2023.
I’m going to guide you through the process of how to craft unforgettable bass lines in nine easy steps. And here’s the best part—it’s way easier than you might think!
1. The Art of Grooving
Initially, we can start off a bass line by playing the root notes of the chords in your song. In the video, I picked two simple notes as an example—E and D. I’m grooving along with a drum machine, alternating between D and E on the downbeats.
2. Unveiling the Ghost Notes
Next, we can take it to level two without even moving off the root notes. We play a note and then gently lift off, dampening the strings to create ghost notes. This technique introduces depth and intrigue to the groove.
3. Adding the Backbeat
Now, our groove takes a new turn with the introduction of the backbeat. Simply drop your hand onto the strings on the backbeat (beats 2 & 4), while you keep going with the root note downbeat groove. Along with this level-three addition and the ghost notes, you’ve already got a vibrant and dynamic bass line.
4. The Chromatic Approach Notes
Next, we can add some flavor with chromatic approach notes to our original E and D notes. In the video, I’m playing D sharp just before the E, and C sharp just before the D. Remember to keep all of the other stuff going on at the same time!
5. Doubling Up the Roots
With all this going on, double up on the initial root notes, E and D. This intricate layering coexists with the ever-present ghost notes, creating a rich and complex groove.
6. The Sneaky Octave
Now while all that is happening, add in a sneaky octave! This adds even more dimension and movement to the bass line as it builds.
7. The Pull-Off Articulation
The pull-off articulation adds a funky expression that can really inject personality into the bass line. Like slap bass, this technique enhances the storytelling within the bass line, adding a new layer of emotion.
8. The Stanky Third
The inclusion of the "stanky third" is the next chapter in our bass line's evolution. It’s a distinctive element that infuses character and flavor into your bass line! So now we’re playing root notes with chromatic approach notes, octaves, and thirds. If you need a refresher on what these intervals mean, check out our theory guide for bass.
There’s one more level to go!
9. Slap the Bass
Finally, we can introduce arguably the most important part of any bass line—the bass slap!
Bring everything we’ve just learned together, and you have all the ingredients for a filthy, funky bass line that everyone will appreciate!
Moving Beyond Bass Lines
Now that you’ve unlocked the nine levels of bass lines, maybe you’d like to take your journey a step further.
Download a copy of the FREE bass toolkit. Inside you’ll find the secret tools I use to create a great bass tone, soloing tips, things to avoid, and so much more!
