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Western songs with cool bass lines: classic and popular tracks recommended for bassists

Among the roles in a band, the bass is the unsung hero that supports a song and gives it conviction.

It plays a crucial part across a wide range of music, from rock to dance music.

Not only in the latest hits and trending tracks—there are also timeless classics that feature incredibly cool bass!

So we’ve selected some must-hear Western classics for low-end lovers, spanning genres and eras.

Enjoy not just the flashy bass solos, but also the jaw-dropping techniques subtly showcased behind the vocals and the many uniquely characterful basslines.

Songs with cool basslines in Western music: must-listen classics and popular tracks for bassists (71–80)

OshúnDayme Arocena

Dayme Arocena, « Oshún » | Live Néo Géo
OshúnDayme Arocena

Daymé Arocena is one of Cuba’s leading artists.

Her distinctive musical style blends her African roots with genres like jazz, soul, bolero, and salsa.

It’s no exaggeration to call her one of the most exciting and accomplished young singers today.

Her song “Oshún” strongly reflects jazz influences.

With a simple arrangement of just bass and keyboards, the bass line really stands out.

If you enjoy intricate melodies, be sure to check it out!

CheetahJackson Wang

Jackson Wang – Cheetah (Official Music Video)
CheetahJackson Wang

This song by Jackson, a member of the Korean boy group GOT7, is themed around a cheetah.

That’s why the fusion of ethnic beats with a driving 16-beat groove is so captivating.

In 16-beat tracks, the crisp, percussive guitar cutting pairs with a bass line that intricately marks the rhythm—both stylish and satisfying.

Layered on top is Jackson Wang’s delicate vocal, adding color to the sound.

The music video’s choreography is also a highlight, so be sure to enjoy every aspect of this track.

Dime Quién Soy YoNiña Pastori

Niña Pastori – Dime Quién Soy Yo (Acaríciame la cara) (En Directo)
Dime Quién Soy YoNiña Pastori

Niña Pastori, famed as a flamenco cantaora, possesses top-tier vocal ability among active cantaoras.

She is active not only as a cantaora but also as a singer, and she has served as a judge on Spain’s audition program La Voz.

The song she performs here, Dime Quién Soy Yo, is a piece richly woven with flamenco elements.

It may not stand out at first, but the bass provides accents in several places, so be sure to listen for it!

Songs with cool basslines in Western music: classic and popular picks recommended for bassists (81–90)

EmotionPurple Disco Machine

Purple Disco Machine is the project of German music producer Tino Piontek.

As the name suggests, he’s known for a disco-centered sound, and he helped spark the revival boom.

Among Purple Disco Machine’s works, the track with an especially cool bass is Emotion.

The bass isn’t necessarily the main focus, but it steadily lays down a slick riff in the background.

Definitely give it a listen.

Do It AgainRay Dalton

Ray Dalton – Do It Again (Official Video)
Do It AgainRay Dalton

Ray Dalton, known as a hip-hop artist, released “Do It Again” in 2023.

It’s a song about the joys of summer and the wish for those days to never end.

The lively bass line seems to capture that soaring feeling.

It can also be interpreted as a song about hope for the future, which makes the bass feel even more meaningful.

It’s perfect for playing when you want to energize the crowd.

RushTroye Sivan

Troye Sivan – Rush (Official Video)
RushTroye Sivan

Troye Sivan started out as a YouTuber and became a top star.

His song “Rush” also evokes the rhythms of his home country, South Africa.

In this track, the bass functions like a heartbeat, making it feel good to surrender to the beat.

While bass parts have increasingly taken on roles beyond their original function, this song reminds us how important the bass’s fundamental, centripetal low-end role truly is.

Vengo VenenosoAntonio Carmona

Antonio Carmona is an artist who enjoys extremely high popularity in Spain.

He is a member of Ketama, the legendary band that gained fame throughout the country.

Ketama is said to have changed the history of flamenco, creating the genre known as nuevo flamenco by blending flamenco with various styles such as jazz and funk.

He was in charge of composing for the band and is still highly regarded for his exceptional songwriting skills.

His famous song “Vengo Venenoso” is a nuevo flamenco number released in 2006.

Pay attention to the subtle yet captivating bassline!