RAG MusicBass Basics
A web magazine for enjoying the bass even more

Bass fundamental practice video collection: practice methods you can try right away

You started playing bass, but your practice isn’t really progressing… If you’ve come here, you’re probably dealing with that kind of frustration.

Practicing alone tends to make you fall into monotonous playing, doesn’t it? But don’t worry—this article will introduce video content that will help you improve, from basic training to practical playing! You’re sure to find ways to build your skills while having fun.

Take a brave first step toward becoming the bassist you admire!

Bass Fundamental Practice Video Collection: Quick-Apply Practice Methods (21–30)

Aggressive slap technique

Fieldy “Got the Life” bass lesson
Aggressive slap technique

Fieldy, the bassist of the California nu-metal band Korn, is known as a master of the slap technique, striking the strings aggressively.

This video explains the bassline of their famous song “Got the Life.” He’s practically using the instrument like a percussion instrument.

Explanation of sound design

Crafting Bass Tone! What Are “Scoop” and “Mid Hump”? — The Three Elements of Sound Shaping
Explanation of sound design

When you play bass, you’ll eventually run into struggles with tone shaping.

This video explains the basics of three foundational approaches: “kamaboko” (mid-focused), “scooped” (boosted lows and highs), and “flat.” It’s content that beginners should at least keep in mind.

Bass Fundamental Practice Video Collection: Practice Methods You Can Try Right Away (31–40)

Key Points for Picking Rock-Style Phrases | Aim to Graduate from Beginner! Introduction to Rock Bass, Lesson 04

Key points for picking rock-style phrases | Aim to graduate from beginner! Introductory course to rock bass
Key Points for Picking Rock-Style Phrases | Aim to Graduate from Beginner! Introduction to Rock Bass, Lesson 04

It introduces tips for picking when playing hard rock songs.

It explains the different types of picking in detail and even covers how to feel the off-beats and downbeats.

The video really helps you grasp how groove is created.

How to read tablature

Let’s Start Bass! (1) How to Read TAB Notation You Should Know First
How to read tablature

When practicing bass or guitar, one thing you can’t do without is tablature, known as TAB, which is sheet music specifically for guitar and bass.

However, many complete beginners may not be able to read it.

In this video, we explain how to read TAB notation in a way that’s easy for beginners to understand.

Vol.10 Electric Bass Beginner Course [Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti Do! Let’s Play the Scale!] Ongaccoh: Quick Music Lessons on Your Smartphone

Vol.10 Electric Bass Beginner Course [Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti Do! Let’s Play the Scale!] Ongaccoh: Quick Music Lessons on Your Smartphone
Vol.10 Electric Bass Beginner Course [Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti Do! Let’s Play the Scale!] Ongaccoh: Quick Music Lessons on Your Smartphone

It explains how to play scales in a careful, music-school-like manner.

The appeal is that you can learn step by step from the basic techniques, and it’s visually easy to understand.

It’s perfect for those who want to review the fundamentals, too! Use this video to keep leveling up and fully enjoy the charm of the bass.

[Darth Vader Theme] A 3-Minute-a-Day Fingering Training Method for Bass Beginners Whose Fingers Won’t Move – STAR WARS Darth Vader –

[Darth Vader Theme] A 3-Minute-a-Day Fingering Training Method for Bass Beginners Whose Fingers Won’t Move – STAR WARS Darth Vader –
[Darth Vader Theme] A 3-Minute-a-Day Fingering Training Method for Bass Beginners Whose Fingers Won’t Move – STAR WARS Darth Vader –

It’s training for fingerings, but since it’s done along with music, it’s very approachable.

It doesn’t seem to use any difficult phrases, so I feel like I can start right away.

I’m a bit curious about the tone of the person playing the bass, but let’s chalk that up to charm.

[Jupiter] A 3-Minute-a-Day Fingering Training Method for Bass Beginners Whose Fingers Won’t Move — Ayaka Hirahara-Style Melodic Bass

[Jupiter] A 3-Minute-a-Day Fingering Training Method for Bass Beginners Whose Fingers Won’t Move — Ayaka Hirahara-Style Melodic Bass
[Jupiter] A 3-Minute-a-Day Fingering Training Method for Bass Beginners Whose Fingers Won’t Move — Ayaka Hirahara-Style Melodic Bass

If you’re struggling with stiff fingers, this video might solve it in one go! Using Ayaka Hirahara’s “Jupiter” as an example, it introduces a training method that can noticeably improve your finger movement with just three minutes a day.

It’s perfect for complete beginners touching a bass for the first time, and for experienced players who want to revisit the basics.

If you want to get better at playing bass, definitely check it out—you’re sure to discover something new!