The Art of Bass Riffs
As a bassist, nothing gets me more excited than a wicked bass riff. Whether I’m practicing on my own or playing with my band, nothing can compare to the adrenaline rush that comes with playing an awesome bass line. In this blog post, I’ll be discussing some of the most badass bass riffs of all time and hopefully inspire you to try them out for yourself.
The Classics
One of the most iconic bass riffs of all time is the opening to “Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen. Written by bassist John Deacon, this riff has been played at countless parties and events since its release in 1980. The simple but effective bass line is perfect for any beginner bassist looking to learn a classic riff.
Another classic is the opening riff to “Under Pressure” by Queen and David Bowie. This riff was created by bassist John Deacon and is played throughout the song, cementing its place in history as one of the most recognizable bass lines ever. Its simplicity is also perfect for beginner bassists who want to learn a classic riff.
The Funky Riffs
If you’re a fan of funk music, there are plenty of killer bass riffs to choose from. One of my favorites is the bass line in “Good Times” by Chic. This famous bass line has been sampled in countless hip hop and R&B songs and is instantly recognizable. The bassist, Bernard Edwards, lays down a simple but incredibly funky riff that will get you grooving in no time.
Another great funky riff is the opener to “Super Freak” by Rick James. This bass line, played by James himself, is a must-learn for anyone who wants to play funk music. It’s fast, it’s groovy, and it’s downright funky.
The Heavy Riffs
For those who prefer heavier music, there are quite a few bass riffs that will get your head banging. The opening riff to “Hysteria” by Muse is one such riff. This fast-paced riff is a challenge for any bassist, but once you get it down, you’ll feel like a rockstar.
Another great heavy riff is the bass line in “Longview” by Green Day. This heavy, distorted riff is simple enough for beginners to learn, but still packs a punch. It’s a great example of how a bass line can be just as heavy as a guitar riff.
The Unique Riffs
Some of the best bass riffs out there are the ones that are completely unique and don’t fit into a specific genre. “Come Together” by The Beatles is a great example of this. The bass line, played by Paul McCartney, is unlike anything else and adds a distinct flavor to the song.
Another great unique riff is the bass line in “Roundabout” by Yes. This complex riff, played by Chris Squire, is a challenge to play but is incredibly rewarding once you get it down. It’s a great way to challenge yourself as a bassist and learn something completely new.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are countless bass riffs out there for you to discover and learn. Whether you prefer classic rock, funk, heavy metal, or something else entirely, there is a bass riff out there that will get you excited to play. So plug in your bass, turn up the volume, and start playing some of the wickedest riffs out there.
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