This week I’m looking at the 3 biggest problems I see in players getting started with slap bass technique. Slapping can be really tough for beginner bass players that want to imitate their heroes like Flea, Marcus Miller or Mark King but some of the issues are easily fixed with some simple tips.
Top 3 Tips For Getting Started With Slap Bass:
1) Buy some new strings!
Slapping can sound really bad on old, dead strings. A lot of the slap sound comes from the zing of fresh new strings and when you’re getting started as a beginner bass player, you’re likely to get frustrated that it doesn’t sound like you want it to.
2) Watch Your Thumb!
Lots of slap bass players have problems with striking the wrong string or hitting in the wrong place. This is easily fixed. Just watch your thumb! Pick a spot on the string and slap it!
3) The Fretting Hand!
Bass players often assume that the thumb is responsible for the slap sound but the fretting hand is SO important. We use it for our note duration, we create ghost notes and percussive effects with it (like Mark King) and we also use it in slapping for cleaning up all the unwanted noise. In this lesson I introduce you to the ‘home position’ that could change your approach to slap bass and playing in general!
Hi,
I am using the Basics Fundamentals course and I am now seeing the Introduction to Slapping module. What I can´t figure out is why I get the twang when I hit the string with the thumb even if I am hitting an open string. It happens on every string and it is as if the strings are loose with no tension. The bass is tuned. The strings are 3 months old and I only play 1 hour per day . Could you please indicate if I need to change something of my bass. The bass is a Cort action 4. Thank you.
Absolutely excellent lesson! Thank You for knowing what you’re talking about and relaying it in great way! David Lee. Also what ‘bass strap’ are you using? I like it , and where can I order one?
I dont seem to get that mute percussion snap sound… could it be the strings are high?