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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 vacation! Recommended practice songs to level up your bass (61–70)

SeptemberEarth, Wind & Fire

Earth, Wind & Fire – September (Official HD Video)
SeptemberEarth, Wind & Fire

This is a song that many people have probably heard even if they don’t know the genre of fusion.

When you play it, focus on how well you can convey the groove—tight rhythms, fills, and all.

If you lock in with the snare, you should be able to enjoy playing it!

May it be filled with kindnessJUJU

JUJU 'So That It Overflows with Kindness'
May it be filled with kindnessJUJU

Perfect for learning what a ballad is all about.

Not only the long tones, but also the melodic and wistful phrasing on the high frets feels wonderful to play.

There’s also an explanatory video on Seiji Kameda’s website, so be sure to check it out.

BUBBLE-GUM MAGICKEYTALK

[TAB] KEYTALK / BUBBLE-GUM MAGIC [Bass]
BUBBLE-GUM MAGICKEYTALK

If you’re looking for a funky J-rock track, I recommend KEYTALK’s “BUBBLE-GUM MAGIC.” It layers funky lead lines over a straight-ahead, head-bobbing dance beat, and the interplay between the bass and drums is really fun—great for keeping your practice motivation up.

The song features a bouncy rhythm called a shuffle, so use a metronome and make sure to solidify your sense of timing.

ZERORIZE

RIZE is a three-piece rock band that has had an enormous impact on Japan’s loud rock scene, electrifying listeners with their one-of-a-kind sound.

Their 15th single “ZERO,” featured as the song for Coca-Cola Zero’s ‘Wild Boxercise’ commercial, cranks up the energy with its tight beat and relentless, driving melody.

The bass playing blends slap techniques within unison lines with the guitar, showcasing the bassist’s presence in a way only a trio can.

It’s an aggressive rock tune that’s fun to play and recommended for intermediate bassists.

TRUTHT-SQUARE

T-SQUARE TRUTH1991(PV)
TRUTHT-SQUARE

This piece, famously known as an F1 theme and performed by Mitsuru Sudo, who also teaches at our Studio Rag, gave me quite a hard time when I tried to copy it—especially the sharp hits and fast-paced phrases.

The song’s solid structure packs in a variety of practice elements, so getting it up to the original tempo is tough, but once you nail it, it’s sure to lead to a significant boost in your skills.

My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – Zenzenzense (movie ver.) [Official Music Video]
My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoRADWIMPS

This is another song that was a huge hit in 2016.

The whole track is based on an 8-beat, so I think the phrases are playable even for beginners.

If the fast tempo makes it hard to keep your notes even, try relaxing your hands and focusing on maintaining clean form.

For phrases that move widely across the fretboard, it helps to play while being mindful of your landing points.

Don’t say “lazy”Hōkago Tī Taimu

A song by the in-story music unit Ho-kago Tea Time, used as the ending theme for the TV anime K-ON!.

Its fast-paced, aggressive rock sound feels cool enough to transcend the boundaries of typical anime songs.

While it features a lot of root-note playing, the tempo is quick, so focus on keeping your note attacks consistent without slipping out of the groove.

Also, the bass line in the interlude involves fairly large position jumps; practice it thoroughly so you can play it cleanly and bring out the song’s natural drive.