3.3 | Bass Line Writing
There will be a video overview of each chapter that demonstrates how to complete each section with a multicamera view.
Learn
The kick usually plays on beat one of every measure to set up the meter. The bass plays with the first note of the kick to enhance this relationship. Unlike drums, bass instruments can hold notes for a period of time (duration). Altering the length of a bass note changes the sound of a beat. Adding one subdivision of separation between a bass release and an attack adds more punch to the second attack. Removing that separation by having the release on the same count as the attack creates a more connected sound.
Relationship I: Bass and kick play at the same time
Example: The attacks of the bass are on all of the same counts as the kick drum. Separation is added between some attacks to add punch, and the last note is held out for its full value to create a connected sound when moving to the next measure.
Relationship II: Bass plays more than the kick
Example: Bass notes played before the kick attacks support the drum part. The bass note on the and of four leads into the kick on beat one of the next measure.
Relationship III: Bass plays less than the kick
Example: The bass has attacks on beats one and three with no separation between the release of the first note and the attack of the second creating a more connected sound.
Relationships 2 and 3 can also be combined.
Ear Train
Listen to the rhythmic relationship between the bass and kick drum in rock music with This Spotify Playlist →.
Listen to the relationship between the bass and the kick rhythm.
Copy the attack of the bass/kick using the note that corresponds with the Roman Numeral in the song’s original key.
Pay attention to the releases and rests of the bass rhythm and copy them in your playing as well.
Write
Write a chord progression in the key of C or G major using the Chord Progression Organizer →.
Compose a drum groove and write a bass line to match the kick rhythm using the Bass Project Organizer →.
Record the drum and bass parts in Soundtrap. You can use the rap stem that has been provided, or you can record your own vocal part. The vocal can be rap, spoken word, or sung.
Create a drum + beats track and choose your sound.
Record the drum groove and quantize it to the correct subdivision.
Create a guitar + bass track and choose a bass sound.
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