Master one song over summer break! Recommended practice songs to level up your bass
Level up your bass technique over summer break! Why not challenge yourself to master one full song? We’ve selected tunes that intermediate players, in particular, will enjoy.
The lineup ranges from the latest tracks and classic hits to songs often played in jam sessions.
We’ve carefully curated a mix of Japanese and Western music.
Try finding something that matches your skill level! And if you’ve been relying on tabs until now, this could be the perfect time to try learning by ear.
Master One Song Over Summer! Recommended Practice Tunes to Level Up Your Bass (1–10)
MATSURI BAYASHIKEYTALK
Since KEYTALK’s lineup includes a bass vocalist and a guitar vocalist, I think this song is also good practice for bass vocals.
Plus, the intro uses slap technique, and both the chorus and right before the last chorus use octave playing, so you can learn various techniques from a single song.
Exploding Brain Girlrereriri
This song is perfect for speeding up your slapping or walking; as the lyrics even mention slap bass, the bass really stands out.
Since it has many phrases that sound flashy and complex, it might be a great choice to play when someone says, “Play something!”
STAY TUNESuchmos
A piece suited for intermediate players and up.
The acid-jazz-based bass line—likely influenced by Jamiroquai—is excellent.
While a 5-string bass is required for a perfect transcription, a 4-string can be used as a substitute.
Be mindful of ghost notes, note length, a subtly laid-back sense of time, and a swung feel.
Also, aim for a tone that both cuts through the mix and delivers a thick low end.
It’s not me unless it’s meGesu no Kiwami Otome.
This is a song by Gesu no Kiwami Otome with an incredibly funky, super cool bassline.
The chorus features a wildly active bass part that feels geared toward intermediate to advanced players.
There’s even a bass solo, making it extremely satisfying to play.
Definitely give it a try.
kaiju (giant monster)Sakanakushon
Sakanaction’s “Kaiju” is a captivating track with a unique worldview that also conveys a sense of tension.
The chorus keeps a steady groove, while the other sections are built around phrased lines, so let’s proceed with an eye on the finer techniques.
You’ll bring sharpness through rests, ghost notes, and dynamics, so practicing those elements may be crucial.
In the chorus, you stick to a consistent rhythm, making solid timekeeping there essential so the other parts can really stand out.
magnet04 Limited Sazabys
04 Limited Sazabys’ “magnet” is a song that showcases the band’s signature sense of speed and emotional intensity.
Because the track as a whole leaves a strong impression with its tempo, every instrument drives forward with playing that emphasizes momentum.
The bass should also prioritize energy—while firmly maintaining the rhythm, it’s important to make each note ring out with strength.
Until you get used to the song’s speed, your timing may feel unstable, so when practicing, it’s recommended to start slower than the original and gradually increase the tempo.
hundreds of millions of light-yearsOmoinotake
Omoinotake’s “Hundreds of Millions of Light Years” is a grand yet warm-sounding track that became a hit after being selected as a TV drama’s theme song.
The keyboard timbre and vocals give the piece its sense of expansiveness, so it may be important for the drums and bass to focus on firmly supporting the foundation.
The bass lines also change between the A verse, B verse, and chorus, so it’s recommended to practice each section separately and then combine them.
To support the song while bringing groove to the whole, sharp note releases with attention to rests and dynamic contrast for a sense of motion are key.