Bass lines and technique

Simple patterns

The most common pattern is root and fifth. Over a C chord, play C and G. Over A minor use the chord tones A, C and E.

Walking bass

A walking bass line plays steady quarter notes, one per beat, moving through chord tones and passing notes. It is typical of jazz and blues.

Blues

In a 12-bar blues in A, the first four bars use the I chord, A.

Technique

• Slap: the thumb strikes the low strings and a finger pulls (pops) the high ones.
• Ghost notes: muted, barely audible notes that add rhythm, common in funk.

In the pocket

Playing in the pocket means locking in tightly with the drummer, so bass and drums feel like one instrument.