10 Iconic Bass Guitar Riffs to Learn
So you’ve got a bass guitar and you’re ready to rock. But where do you start? Look no further than “10 Iconic Bass Guitar Riffs to Learn.” With this product, you’ll have access to a curated list of the most memorable and influential bass riffs in music history. From the groovy lines of the Beatles’ “Come Together” to the funk-fueled bassline of James Brown’s “Sex Machine,” you’ll be able to master these timeless classics and take your bass playing to the next level. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player looking to add some new tricks to your repertoire, this collection has got you covered. So grab your bass and get ready to rock those iconic bass riffs.
1. Smoke on the Water – Deep Purple
Background
One of the most iconic bass guitar riffs of all time, “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple is a must-learn for any bassist. Released in 1972, this classic rock track has a timeless appeal and is instantly recognizable. It was written as a result of a true incident where the band’s mobile recording studio was destroyed by fire in Montreux, Switzerland.
Riff Description
The bass riff in “Smoke on the Water” is simple yet incredibly effective. It consists of three power chords played in a descending pattern. The notes C, B♭, and A are played on the A string, creating a heavy and driving sound. The riff repeats throughout the song, providing a solid foundation for the rest of the instruments to build upon.
Techniques Used
The main technique used in this riff is alternate picking. By using a consistent up-down motion with your picking hand, you can achieve a steady and even sound. It’s important to maintain a consistent rhythm and keep your picking hand relaxed to avoid tension and fatigue.
Tips for Learning
To master the “Smoke on the Water” bass riff, start by playing each individual note slowly and accurately. Focus on getting a clean and consistent sound on each string. Once you are comfortable with the individual notes, try playing the entire riff in time with the song. Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable. Don’t forget to practice with a metronome to develop a strong sense of timing.
2. Another One Bites the Dust – Queen
Background
Originally released in 1980, “Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen became an instant hit and remains one of their most popular songs. Written by bassist John Deacon, this funk-inspired track features an infectious bass line that has become synonymous with the song’s success.
Riff Description
The bass line in “Another One Bites the Dust” is groovy and rhythmic, and it serves as the backbone of the song. It starts with a distinctive opening phrase and then transitions into a repetitive pattern that is both catchy and memorable. The notes used in the riff create a driving and funky vibe that perfectly complements the overall feel of the song.
Techniques Used
In order to nail the bass line in “Another One Bites the Dust,” you’ll need to master a few key techniques. Sliding is a crucial aspect of this riff, as it adds a smooth and seamless quality to the transitions between notes. Additionally, muting the strings with your fretting hand will help achieve a tight and percussive sound.
Tips for Learning
Start by familiarizing yourself with the opening phrase of the bass line. Practice playing it slowly and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable. Once you have mastered the opening, move on to the repetitive pattern that follows. Focus on maintaining a tight and consistent groove throughout the entire riff. Remember to keep your hand relaxed and maintain proper finger placement to ensure clarity in your playing.
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3. Seven Nation Army – The White Stripes
Background
Released in 2003, “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes is recognized for its iconic bass riff played on a guitar. The song’s unforgettable riff has made it a classic in the realm of rock music, and it has become a staple at sporting events around the world.
Riff Description
While “Seven Nation Army” is performed on a guitar, the bass-like riff has made it a favorite among bass guitarists as well. The instantly recognizable riff is simple yet immensely powerful. It consists of only three notes played on the E and A strings, creating a driving and hypnotic effect. The repetition of the riff throughout the song is what makes it so catchy and unforgettable.
Techniques Used
The main technique used in this bass-like riff is palm muting. By resting the edge of your picking hand lightly against the strings near the bridge, you can achieve a muted and percussive sound. This technique is crucial for capturing the distinctive character of the riff. Additionally, alternate picking is used to create a consistent and rhythmic sound.
Tips for Learning
To learn the “Seven Nation Army” riff on bass guitar, start by practicing the three-note pattern slowly and accurately. Focus on achieving a tight and controlled sound. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase the tempo and work on playing the entire riff smoothly and seamlessly. Pay close attention to your palm muting technique to ensure a crisp and percussive sound. Practice with a metronome to develop a strong sense of timing.
4. Money – Pink Floyd
Background
Released in 1973, “Money” by Pink Floyd is known for its catchy bass line and distinctive time signature. Written by bassist Roger Waters, this classic rock track showcases a fusion of blues, rock, and psychedelic elements that make it a favorite among bass guitarists.
Riff Description
The bass line in “Money” is instantly recognizable and sets the tone for the entire song. It starts with a memorable bass intro that leads into a funky and groovy verse. The riff is primarily based on a blues scale and uses repetitive patterns to create a hypnotic effect. The time signature of 7/4 adds an extra layer of complexity, making it an interesting challenge for bassists.
Techniques Used
In “Money,” the main technique utilized is fingerstyle playing. By using your fingers instead of a pick, you can achieve a smooth and melodic sound. Additionally, sliding and bending techniques are incorporated to add dynamics and flair to the bass line. It’s important to have a good grasp of the blues scale and a solid understanding of rhythm to effectively execute this riff.
Tips for Learning
Begin by learning the introductory bass riff, focusing on nailing the timing and note placement. Practice it slowly and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable. Once you have mastered the intro, move on to the verse section and work on playing the repetitive patterns smoothly and consistently. Experiment with sliding and bending techniques to add your personal touch to the bass line. Practice with a metronome to improve your timing and accuracy.
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5. Sweet Child o’ Mine – Guns N’ Roses
Background
“Sweet Child o’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses is an iconic rock ballad released in 1987. The bass line in this song, played by Duff McKagan, adds depth and richness to the overall sound of the track. The song’s popularity and timeless appeal make it a popular choice for bass guitarists to learn.
Riff Description
The bass line in “Sweet Child o’ Mine” is melodic and soulful, complimenting the guitar melodies and vocals. It starts with a memorable intro that transitions into a driving and rhythmic verse. The riff utilizes a combination of single notes and slides to create a smooth and flowing melody. The tone of the bass is warm and rounded, adding depth to the overall sound of the song.
Techniques Used
In order to master the bass line in “Sweet Child o’ Mine,” it’s important to have a solid foundation in fingerstyle playing. This song requires precise finger placement and control to achieve the desired tone and clarity. Sliding and bending techniques are also used to add emotion and expression to the bass line. A good sense of timing is crucial to capturing the overall feel of the song.
Tips for Learning
Start by practicing the intro of “Sweet Child o’ Mine” slowly and focus on getting the notes and transitions right. Once you have the intro down, move on to the verse section and work on playing the repeating patterns with precision and fluidity. Pay close attention to your finger positioning and ensure clean articulation of each note. Experiment with different finger techniques and dynamics to add your own interpretation to the bass line. Practice with a metronome to improve your timing and consistency.
6. Under Pressure – Queen and David Bowie
Background
“Under Pressure” is a collaborative effort between Queen and David Bowie, released in 1981. This iconic track features a captivating bass line that perfectly complements the powerful vocals of Freddie Mercury and Bowie. Written by both Mercury and bassist John Deacon, this song has stood the test of time and remains a fan favorite.
Riff Description
The bass line in “Under Pressure” is melodic and groovy, driving the song from start to finish. It starts with a distinctive opening phrase and then transitions into a repetitive pattern that serves as the backbone of the song. The notes played create a catchy and rhythmic melody that adds depth and intensity to the overall sound.
Techniques Used
To master the bass line in “Under Pressure,” it’s important to have a good understanding of fingerstyle playing. This song requires precise finger placement and control to achieve the desired tone and articulation. Slapping and popping techniques are also utilized to add funk and dynamics to the bass line. Additionally, muting techniques are employed to create a tight and percussive sound.
Tips for Learning
Begin by familiarizing yourself with the opening phrase of the bass line in “Under Pressure.” Practice it slowly and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable. Once you have mastered the opening, move on to the repetitive pattern. Focus on maintaining a consistent groove and accurately playing each note. Experiment with slapping and popping techniques to add your personal flair to the bass line. Record yourself playing and listen back to identify areas for improvement. Practice with a metronome to develop a strong sense of timing.
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7. Another Brick in the Wall – Pink Floyd
Background
“Another Brick in the Wall” is a three-part composition by Pink Floyd, released in 1979. Part 2 of the series features a catchy and rebellious bass line that has become one of the band’s most well-known riffs. Written by Roger Waters, this song serves as a critique of rigid education systems and has become an anthem for rebellion.
Riff Description
The bass line in “Another Brick in the Wall” is a driving force behind the song’s rebellious energy. It starts with a distinctive opening phrase and is repeated throughout the song, providing a strong foundation for the vocals and guitar. The riff primarily utilizes single notes and slides to create a catchy and memorable melody.
Techniques Used
The main technique used in this bass line is fingerstyle playing. It requires precise finger placement and control to achieve a clean and articulate sound. Sliding techniques are also incorporated to add dynamics and fluidity to the riff. It’s important to maintain a steady and consistent rhythm while playing to effectively capture the rebellious energy of the song.
Tips for Learning
Start by learning the opening phrase of the bass line in “Another Brick in the Wall” and practice it slowly and accurately. Pay close attention to your finger positioning and ensure a clean and crisp sound. Once you have mastered the opening, work on playing the entire riff in time with the song. Focus on maintaining a consistent rhythm and capturing the rebellious energy of the song. Experiment with sliding techniques to add your own personal touch to the bass line. Practice with a metronome to improve your timing and accuracy.
8. Stand by Me – Ben E. King
Background
Originally released in 1961, “Stand by Me” by Ben E. King has become a timeless classic. This soulful and uplifting song features a beautiful bass line that adds depth and richness to the overall sound. The bass line, played by Lloyd Trotman, perfectly complements the heartfelt vocals and serves as the backbone of the song.
Riff Description
The bass line in “Stand by Me” is melodic yet understated, providing a solid foundation for the song. It starts with a simple yet elegant opening phrase and transitions into a repetitive pattern that drives the song forward. The notes played create a warm and soulful melody that captures the essence of the song.
Techniques Used
To master the bass line in “Stand by Me,” it’s important to have a good grasp of fingerstyle playing. This song requires precise finger placement and control to achieve a smooth and melodic sound. Additionally, sliding and walking bass techniques are utilized to add dynamics and movement to the bass line. It’s crucial to maintain a steady and consistent rhythm throughout the song.
Tips for Learning
Begin by learning the opening phrase of the bass line in “Stand by Me” and practice it slowly and accurately. Focus on achieving a warm and melodic tone. Once you have mastered the opening, move on to the repetitive pattern in the verse. Pay close attention to your finger positioning and ensure clean articulation of each note. Experiment with sliding and walking bass techniques to add your personal touch to the bass line. Practice with a metronome to improve your timing and consistency.
9. Come Together – The Beatles
Background
“Come Together” is a classic rock song by The Beatles, released in 1969. The bass line in this song, played by Paul McCartney, is both funky and mesmerizing. With its infectious groove and catchy melody, “Come Together” has become a staple in the world of bass guitar.
Riff Description
The bass line in “Come Together” is instantly recognizable and adds a unique energy to the song. It starts with a syncopated and bluesy opening phrase that sets the tone for the rest of the riff. The repetitive pattern that follows is driving and funky, accentuating the rhythm and melody of the song.
Techniques Used
The main technique used in the bass line of “Come Together” is fingerstyle playing. It requires precise finger placement and control to achieve a clean and articulate sound. Slapping and popping techniques are also incorporated to add funk and dynamics to the bass line. It’s important to maintain a steady and consistent rhythm to effectively capture the groove of the song.
Tips for Learning
Begin by familiarizing yourself with the opening phrase of the bass line in “Come Together.” Practice it slowly and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable. Once you have mastered the opening, move on to the repetitive pattern that follows. Focus on maintaining a tight and consistent groove throughout the entire riff. Experiment with slapping and popping techniques to add your personal flair to the bass line. Practice with a metronome to develop a strong sense of timing.
10. Billie Jean – Michael Jackson
Background
“Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson is an iconic song released in 1982. This chart-topping hit features a dynamic and funky bass line that has made it a favorite among bass guitarists. The bass line, played by Louis Johnson, perfectly complements the infectious rhythm and catchy melodies in the song.
Riff Description
The bass line in “Billie Jean” is rhythmic and groovy, serving as the backbone of the song. It starts with a distinctive opening phrase that immediately draws the listener in. The repetitive pattern that follows is melodic and powerful, driving the song forward. The bass line incorporates subtle variations and accents that add depth and complexity to the overall sound.
Techniques Used
In order to master the bass line in “Billie Jean,” it’s important to have a good understanding of fingerstyle playing. This song requires precise finger placement and control to achieve the desired tone and articulation. Additionally, muting techniques and sliding techniques are employed to create a tight and percussive sound. A strong sense of timing and rhythm is crucial to capturing the feel of the song.
Tips for Learning
Start by practicing the opening phrase of the bass line in “Billie Jean” slowly and accurately. Pay close attention to your finger positioning and ensure clean articulation of each note. Once you have mastered the opening, move on to the repetitive pattern. Focus on maintaining a steady and consistent groove while incorporating the subtle variations and accents. Experiment with sliding techniques to add your own personal touch to the bass line. Practice with a metronome to improve your timing and accuracy.
In conclusion, these ten iconic bass guitar riffs offer a wide range of styles and techniques for bassists to explore. From the heavy and driving riffs of “Smoke on the Water” and “Another Brick in the Wall” to the funk-inspired lines of “Another One Bites the Dust” and “Billie Jean,” each riff presents its own unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced bassist, learning these iconic riffs will not only enhance your technical skills but also deepen your understanding of the diverse range of bass guitar playing. So grab your bass, crank up the amp, and start mastering these unforgettable riffs!
