Transcriptions
Transcription is one of the fastest, most efficient ways to not only improve your ear, technique and repertoire but it is also immensely satisfying. It also gives you the added benefit of writing charts on a consistent basis. Below are some transcriptions of both solos and basslines I've done over the years, hopefully they will be added to regularly!
Fuck you - Cee-lo Green
Laced with profanity and featuring a Jamerson-esque bass solo in the bridge, this song is one of the most unique Top 40 hits released in the last decade. Produced by The Smeezingtons, a production team consisting of Bruno Mars, Ari Levine and Philip Lawrence, the throwback vibes of this song make a great one to investigate.
War - Bob Marley
This is a classic example from one of the giants of reggae bass playing, Aston "Family Man" Barrett from Bob's "Rastaman Vibration" album. While it may look simple on paper, the choice of note length, harmonic simplicity and laid-back feel is nothing short of expert. Family Man has broken more poorly made soundsystems than any other bass player alive, and we can all learn something from him.
Communication Breakdown - Led zepplin
I first heard this riff wile watching an amazing movie called Small Soldiers when I was 8 years old. I didn't know it was Led Zepplin until I was 16 but I suppose the staying power of the opening riff is a testament to how iconic it is. John Paul Jones puts on a masterclass of Blues-rock bass playing here, and especially the offbeat line he plays in the chorus is worth checking out.
Kodachrome - paul simon
"When I think back on all the crap I learnt in highschool / It's a wonder I can think at all"
Maybe the best song written about a brand of photo film, Simon's unique style of songwriting is backed up by the Swampers, a group of session musicians playing out of Muscle Shoals, Alabama. David Hood, the bassist on this track, gives a great example of how to play underneath a great songwriter, supporting the message of the song while still playing interesting lines that lock in with the rest of the band. The double-time ending is especially fun to play.