Learn To Play Rock Basslines

Bass Lesson Course Overview

Dive into the realm of rock with Licklibrary's "Learn To Play Rock Basslines"! This immersive learning experience with Phil Wiliams offers bass lessons for five iconic songs, unveiling the secrets behind the captivating basslines that helped shape the sound of rock. Let’s delve into the rich tapestry of each song, exploring the bass scales, bass parts, and the indelible contributions of the bass players.

Bass Lessons Include:

Thin Lizzy - Dancing In The Moonlight

U2 - Vertigo

Extreme - Get The Funk Out

Guns N' Roses - Sweet Child O' Mine

Bon Jovi - Livin On A Prayer

Lesson Performance Notes

Thin Lizzy - Dancing In The Moonlight

"Dancing In The Moonlight" exhibits a blend of rock and funk, distinguished by its infectious bassline. Phil Lynott's bass playing utilizes the major pentatonic scale, which creates a rhythmic and melodic groove that complements the song's upbeat feel. His contribution to the song demonstrates his ability to fuse melody with rhythm, adding a distinctive layer to Thin Lizzy’s sound.

U2 - Vertigo

Adam Clayton's bass playing in "Vertigo" showcases his knack for creating driving and anthemic basslines. The song employs a mix of major and minor scales, contributing to its energetic and edgy vibe. Clayton's rhythmic precision and ability to complement the guitar and drums have played a pivotal role in defining U2’s sound, making "Vertigo" a testament to his musicality.

Extreme - Get The Funk Out

"Get The Funk Out" is a prime example of funk-infused rock, characterized by Pat Badger's intricate and dynamic basslines. He employs a mix of funk scales and slap bass technique, bringing an energetic and groovy foundation to the song. Badger’s versatility and innovative approach have been instrumental in establishing Extreme’s unique sonic identity.

Guns N' Roses - Sweet Child O' Mine

Duff McKagan’s bassline in "Sweet Child O' Mine" is iconic, laying a solid foundation for the song’s melodic structure. Utilizing the natural minor scale, he crafts a bass part that is both supportive and distinctive. McKagan's ability to balance rhythm and melody has been crucial in shaping the sound of Guns N' Roses, making him an influential figure in the rock genre.

Bon Jovi - Livin On A Prayer

Alec John Such’s bass playing in "Livin On A Prayer" demonstrates his proficiency in crafting memorable and supportive basslines. The song features a mix of major and minor scales, with the bassline providing a rhythmic backbone that complements the anthemic nature of the song. Such's contributions have played a significant role in establishing Bon Jovi's signature sound.

Techniques Used

In these lessons, a variety of bass techniques are explored, essential for any aspiring bassist. Below is a list of techniques used across the lessons, with links for further learning:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Slides
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Arpeggios
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• String Bending

"Learn To Play Rock Basslines" offers a deep dive into the world of rock bass, helping bassists unlock the secrets behind these iconic songs and refine their technique. By analyzing the bass parts, scales, and contributions of the bass players, learners will gain invaluable insights and enhance their musical repertoire.