Bass Legends - Flea: Master the Art of Funk and Rock Bass Guitar

Dive deep into the funky and rhythmic bass lines of Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers with our comprehensive course, "Bass Legends - Flea." Designed for bass players seeking to expand their skills and embrace the unique style of one of rock’s most influential bassists, this course focuses on iconic songs that showcase Flea’s technique and creativity. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, these lessons provide valuable insights into complex bass lines and the energetic performance style that defines Flea’s approach to music. This course is taught by Phil Williams.

Songs Included in this Course

• By The Way
• Californication
• Give It Away
• Higher Ground
• Can't Stop

Song Breakdown

By the Way

In our "By the Way" lesson, learners will explore the integration of melodic phrases within a driving rhythm section. This song features dynamic use of slap bass techniques, allowing students to develop their timing and precision. The lesson emphasizes building the ability to switch between aggressive tones and softer, more melodic lines seamlessly. This not only enhances your versatility but also equips you with the ability to express a wide range of emotions through your playing.

Californication

The "Californication" segment focuses on melodic playing within a minimalist bass line that underscores the song’s lyrical themes. This lesson is an excellent opportunity to master the art of sustaining notes and creating space, which helps in developing a groove that supports the vocals and guitar harmonically. The simplicity of the bass line in this song teaches players the importance of tone and timing in creating impactful bass grooves.

Give It Away

In "Give It Away," students delve into advanced slap bass techniques and rapid string crossing. This lesson enhances hand coordination and rhythmic accuracy, critical skills for any bass player looking to add energy and funk to their playing. Learning these techniques provides players with the foundation needed to perform powerful and rhythmic bass lines that are the hallmark of Flea’s style.

Higher Ground

This lesson covers the iconic cover of Stevie Wonder's "Higher Ground" by Red Hot Chili Peppers, focusing on Flea's energetic slap bass technique. Students will practice speed, precision, and the ability to incorporate percussive elements into their playing. This song is perfect for learning how to use the bass as both a harmonic and rhythmic instrument, enhancing the player's ability to drive a song forward.

Can't Stop

"Can't Stop" incorporates an array of techniques, including syncopated rhythms and the use of ghost notes to create a complex, textured sound. This lesson teaches players how to layer rhythms and dynamics, providing a comprehensive understanding of how to create bass lines that are both rhythmic and melodic. This approach improves a player's ability to contribute to a song's overall feel and groove.

Techniques, Sounds, and Gear

Beyond individual songs, our course includes a special segment dedicated to the sounds, techniques, and gear that Flea utilizes to achieve his signature style. This part of the course is invaluable for players who wish to understand the technical aspects behind the tone and setups that define Flea’s sound. From his choice of bass guitars and amplifiers to effect pedals and playing techniques, this segment provides a holistic view of what it takes to sound like a rock legend.

List of Bass Techniques Used

At the end of our journey through Flea's bass lines, you'll have encountered various techniques that are essential for any bass guitarist looking to broaden their musical vocabulary. Here is a list of some techniques featured in our lessons, complete with links to detailed descriptions:

• Slap Bass
• Ghost Notes
• Syncopated Rhythms
• String Bending
• Sustain

By mastering these techniques, you will not only enhance your skill set but also gain the ability to adapt to various musical styles, ensuring that your bass playing is both versatile and expressive. Join us at LickLibrary to explore the rhythmic world of Flea and transform your bass guitar playing.