Alright so, this kid at my school won't leave me alone about my technique (which he shouldn't have the right to do anyway since he doesn't even play bass). He keeps calling me the "p" word (not sure if you can say it on TB) because I play with a pick and not my fingers. I tell him that I play with both but I just get a clearer sound with a pick so it's what I play with and practice with normally. He then tells me that true bassists never pick up a pick in their life and use nothing but their fingers and that I should give up on bass. I ignore this and walk away.

The next day, he bugs me again. Only this time, he comments on the songs that I play. He says that the stuff that I play is the "s" word (again, I'm not sure if this can be used on TB). That I shouldn't be playing stuff like Blink 182, Fall Out Boy, and other punk rock songs, and that I should play "real" and "harder" bass stuff. I tell him that playing bass isn't about playing "hard" bass lines but instead playing your favorite songs and enjoy playing all together. He tells me calls me a "p" word yet again and tells me that I play "s" word bass lines by "s" word bass players.

In short, this kid won't leave me alone about how I play, what I play, and why I play it.

And my question is, do you agree with him or am I right about how I play? Just want some opinions on the subject.

A bass bully!

Hit him with a garbage can.

What, in his definition, is "real bass stuff"? I want to know if what I am practicing meets muster from some punk in NH.

Um, he didn't really give examples. He only mentioned Red Hot Chili Peppers, which, in my opinion, aren't that great of a group.

Play him a copy of 'Roundabout' by Yes (Chris Squire) or 'For The Love Of Money' by The O'Jays (Anthony Jackson) and THEN ask him if playing bass with a pick is for p*****...

Then ignore him.

Tony Levin occasionally plays his bass with drumsticks attached to his fingers (he calls them Funk Fingers).

Tell him he's right. I bet he'll go away if you don't argue or disagree. Then go play what you want.

There is two camps in bass playing (well 3 really.) Finger players, pick players, and then the hybrid ones. If you look around on here you will see some pretty heated and pointless debates about this topic. Both sides have thier ideas of what bass playing should be. I myself use what is right for the song and for me playing the song. If I'm doing a lot of big chords I'll use a pick, if I was a laid back, rounder feel I'll use my fingers. Do what's right for you.

As far as your music choices it's up to you. There are millions of music listeners and players out there. It is the diversity of those people that makes music interesting. If we all played the absolute hardest bass lines then, IMO, it would be kind of boring. Play what you want. Period. It might be fun, and helpful, to learn some of those harder lines, but that's up to you.

If this kid isn't a bass player, ask him to play some songs from Rush or some old Cliff Burton Metallica with his fingers and see how easy he thinks it is. I wouldn't even pay any attention to him.

Tell him to buy a bass and then he can play what he wants

Um, he didn't really give examples. He only mentioned Red Hot Chili Peppers, which, in my opinion, aren't that great of a group.

he said rhcp is real bass stuff? does he not know that flea is known to use a pick every now an then? does that mean it isnt real bass stuff anymore?

A bass bully!

Hit him with a garbage can.

Priceless- my new sig! Con permisso, Mr. Nerve? :)

Here's what you do:

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i86/Pstyle1/6081.jpg

He'll stop buggin you

Priceless- my new sig! Con permisso, Mr. Nerve? :)

Absolutely. :)

I wonder if that girl above knows yet how famous she is. I crack up every time I see a new pic with her in it. Now she's TRULY priceless!

Why even answering ? Tell him to go fornicate himself and do your stuff.

As far as your music choices it's up to you. There are millions of music listeners and players out there. It is the diversity of those people that makes music interesting. If we all played the absolute hardest bass lines then, IMO, it would be kind of boring. Play what you want. Period. It might be fun, and helpful, to learn some of those harder lines, but that's up to you.

I do occasionally learn some of the harder stuff (such as Nirvana, Metallica, and Ozzy) but he tells me that I'm not truly playing it unless it's with my fingers and not a pick.

Tell him, "AS soon as you can out play me, then we'll talk. Untill then, shut the F*ck Up"!

ask him to play something for you, while he is playing hit him with a fish, or a garbage can as was mentioned earlier.

Garbage can, filled w/fish(dead, smelly rotten ones)over the head, then go fornicate himself(also classic, Jazz Ad:cool:). OK, scratch the last one- don't want this closed. :rolleyes:

simply say "thanks for the feedback, duly noted"

if he continues to bother you ask him what his obsession is with you and why he cares? seems pretty odd that someone would comment on your playing at all, let alone someone who doesn't play the instrument.

Rise above it. Don't play his game. He probably has self esteem issues he's working out on you. Pity him and move on. If that doesn't work for you, tell him his mama dresses him funny.

Absolutely. :)

I wonder if that girl above knows yet how famous she is. I crack up every time I see a new pic with her in it. Now she's TRULY priceless!

Yes. Her parents were actually filing lawsuits in her behalf with ever website that they could find with that picture. Ofcourse, when word of that got out, the internet exploded with it, and there were simply too many sites to deal with.

hit him with your bass, then discuss your technique.

Just tell him its not your fault his parents don't pay enough attention to him :ninja:

don't take that. Just punch him in the face if he doesn't quit bugging you or it gets worse.

tell him tool uses a pick so did jason newsted on great metallica albums...

just tell the kid to F*** off man!!! mind his own "bassnus"

or youll shove your headstock up his arse!

simply say "thanks for the feedback, duly noted"

if he continues to bother you ask him what his obsession is with you and why he cares? seems pretty odd that someone would comment on your playing at all, let alone someone who doesn't play the instrument.

+1

I like this advice. It's more my style. I'd probably look at him; and in a relaxed tone say, "Thanks for the tip."

When he comes back again; I'd probably say, "Yup, you mentioned that yesterday. Thanks again."

If he comes back again: "These are some amazing suggestions! Can you write them down for me? I'd love to share them with some of my musician friends."

I think he'll pick up on the sarcasm. He'll probably just get bored and go away.

Good luck with this guy.

Joe

Hey take everyone else's advice on here, it's all good. Don't let whatever anyone says bother you, all that matters for you is what you want, so who cares? If he's anything like the bullies I used to get bothered by, he'll end up in jail or worse, addicted to herion working as a gay prostiute anyway. so don't sweat it.

On the subject of pick vs. fingers, I'm personally a religious finger picker, but only because that's how I learned. There are definetely a ton of songs out there that warrant pick use for tonal or speed reasons, or maybe becuase that's how YOU learned. And whoever mentioned flea flatpicking, I forget, yea I've definetely seen that too.

Everything aside, play what you want, how you want. If no one ever did things a little different or unnexcepted, thousands of musical innovations would've never happened.

+1

I like this advice. It's more my style. I'd probably look at him; and in a relaxed tone say, "Thanks for the tip."

When he comes back again; I'd probably say, "Yup, you mentioned that yesterday. Thanks again."

If he comes back again: "These are some amazing suggestions! Can you write them down for me? I'd love to share them with some of my musician friends."

I think he'll pick up on the sarcasm. He'll probably just get bored and go away.

Good luck with this guy.

Joe
Good advice. Don't let this windbag cause you to lose your cool.

As a musician, you'll frequently run into people who want to make suggestions about your band, your music, your equipment, your technique, etc. Some can be more annoying than others, and this guy sounds as annoying as they come. Ignore him and move on.

Play him a copy of 'Roundabout' by Yes (Chris Squire) or 'For The Love Of Money' by The O'Jays (Anthony Jackson) and THEN ask him if playing bass with a pick is for p*****...


+1

While I don`t play with a pick, I do use my index finger and thumb as sort of a `soft pick` that with the right amount of treble dialled in on my P bass tone knob does the trick for when I want that pick sound and vibe.
I have never understood the rift between bassists when using a pick comes up in conversation....we are all on the same team so while the **** are we fighting? (however so far on this thread everyone seems to have banded together to put a good ol` fashioned hate on this bully, and that`s just great!)
Besides, you say he doesn`t even play bass and cites RHCP as an example of a `hard` bass line... learn the bass line to Higher Ground using a pick (its pretty easy but sounds tough...all octave stuff.) play it for him, then punch him in the throat....:spit:
Well okay that`s going a bit far, but seriously just ignore the dude he is obviously just a know nothing d***** bag that gets off on harrassing others. Smile and nod, then go home and play whatever the **** you want. After all its your passion not his...besides he`s probably just jealous `cause he can`t play an instrument at all.

He keeps calling me the "p" word.

Tell him you are what you eat.

And he's an ignorant fool who knows nothing about bass, so don't pay him any mind.

And whoever mentioned flea flatpicking, I forget, yea I've definetely seen that too.

I forgot about that too. I used to have the "Funky Monks" video and Flea tried using a pick and his fingers on the same bass line to see which one sounded better. That was for BSSM when they lived in that house while they recorded (except for Chad, he commuted).

Joe

Pffft Fall Out Boy, play some Metallica! Pete Wentz has a bass but he doesn't know how to play it.


Oh yah pick playing is awesome, I just don't do it.

Don't lose any sleep over it man, this guy is a boob. Bassist4Life's advise is up my alley too, but what ever trips your trigger, just loose the guy and do what you want.

Good luck

Yes. Her parents were actually filing lawsuits in her behalf with ever website that they could find with that picture. Ofcourse, when word of that got out, the internet exploded with it, and there were simply too many sites to deal with.

Thats interesting to know, I've seen those pics just about everywhere

You could tell him "thanks for the tip", and ask him about the pick users mentioned in this thread: http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=366766

billm

I do occasionally learn some of the harder stuff (such as Nirvana, Metallica, and Ozzy) but he tells me that I'm not truly playing it unless it's with my fingers and not a pick.


wait... nirvana, metallica and Ozzy? anybody wanna chime in on how Krist used a pick? and i'm pretty damn sure Jason used one to. and maybe Geezer? so the "hard stuff" has been played with picks.

just tell this kid that if he wants to talk to you about bass, he needs to play one. cuz otherwise, he does not know what he's talking about, and likely just likes the sound of his voice. and his mom's ugly.

Um, he didn't really give examples. He only mentioned Red Hot Chili Peppers, which, in my opinion, aren't that great of a group.

Flea + pick = Parallel Universe.

Tell him to stick his copy of Californication where the sun don't shine.

Why do you care? Is he a cool kid or something and you want his approval? If not, don't say anything, just stare and smile at him... and keep smiling as it grows more and more uncomfortable...

kind of like this:
:eyebrow:

:)


:eyebrow:

:)

:eyebrow:

:)

until he finally runs away screaming.

Or you could always talk about the pros and cons of Chinese/Russian/US tubes for particular bass amp.

My advice is that next time you see him, attack him like a rabid chimp.



Of course, that's pretty much my solution to any problem.

It can be bothersome. Paraphrasing from Sidhartha

Angry man yells at Sidhartha, and sidhartha waits for him to stop and says "What do you do with a gift you don't want?" They guy says "Give it back." Sidhartha "I do not accept your gift of hate"

With people like this I would suggest not falling into his game. Don't answer the question/comment he gives you. Direct the conversation to another place. If he says "why are you changing the subject you wuss" tell him the truth. because the information he is using is all just regurgitated idealistic notions he is impressing upon art and expression with is in deed missing the point of creating/playing music.

If he persists and you can't get away from him start talking to the people around you and pointing out how silly he is being and that he is bothering you and annoying.

However, times like this in another persons life. maybe his life is hard. Who knows what he is going through at home. People do not fit into categories such as "bad" "good" exclusively IMO. Maybe ask him how his day was.

I assume he just wants too seem smart and get attention.

take control without emotions running your thought process.

Jonathan

just tell this kid that if he wants to talk to you about bass, he needs to play one. cuz otherwise, he does not know what he's talking about, and likely just likes the sound of his voice. and his mom's ugly.
Yeah, just tell him, "I DO use my fingers...on your mom." :hiding:

I don't use a pick myself, but my philosophy is whatever gets the string to vibrate the way you want it to is the right way to play your bass. I agree with the guy who said to tell him when he can outplay you he can criticize you.

Alright so, this kid at my school won't leave me alone about my technique (which he shouldn't have the right to do anyway since he doesn't even play bass). He keeps calling me the "p" word (not sure if you can say it on TB) because I play with a pick and not my fingers. I tell him that I play with both but I just get a clearer sound with a pick so it's what I play with and practice with normally. He then tells me that true bassists never pick up a pick in their life and use nothing but their fingers and that I should give up on bass. I ignore this and walk away.

The next day, he bugs me again. Only this time, he comments on the songs that I play. He says that the stuff that I play is the "s" word (again, I'm not sure if this can be used on TB). That I shouldn't be playing stuff like Blink 182, Fall Out Boy, and other punk rock songs, and that I should play "real" and "harder" bass stuff. I tell him that playing bass isn't about playing "hard" bass lines but instead playing your favorite songs and enjoy playing all together. He tells me calls me a "p" word yet again and tells me that I play "s" word bass lines by "s" word bass players.

In short, this kid won't leave me alone about how I play, what I play, and why I play it.

And my question is, do you agree with him or am I right about how I play? Just want some opinions on the subject.

This kid has bigger problems than your bass playing, believe me.
Don't worry, he'll be bagging your groceries someday.

Tell him you are what you eat.

And he's an ignorant fool who knows nothing about bass, so don't pay him any mind.


hehe slick!
I forgot about this line.:bassist:

+1

While I don`t play with a pick, I do use my index finger and thumb as sort of a `soft pick` that with the right amount of treble dialled in on my P bass tone knob does the trick for when I want that pick sound and vibe.
I have never understood the rift between bassists when using a pick comes up in conversation....we are all on the same team so while the **** are we fighting? (however so far on this thread everyone seems to have banded together to put a good ol` fashioned hate on this bully, and that`s just great!)
Besides, you say he doesn`t even play bass and cites RHCP as an example of a `hard` bass line... learn the bass line to Higher Ground using a pick (its pretty easy but sounds tough...all octave stuff.) play it for him, then punch him in the throat....:spit:
Well okay that`s going a bit far, but seriously just ignore the dude he is obviously just a know nothing d***** bag that gets off on harrassing others. Smile and nod, then go home and play whatever the **** you want. After all its your passion not his...besides he`s probably just jealous `cause he can`t play an instrument at all.

Better yet, have him play you some Necrophagist!!

I use a pick most of the time and use my fingers ocaasionally.
I can understand why someone would use one over the other most/all of the time. It's because there are no rules in music and they can use whatever they perfer, for getting the sound they want.

I've been thinking about this. I am going to make another suggestion. When he attempts to give you another suggestion, take off your bass, hand it to him and ask him to show you how its "supposed" to be done correctly.

My guess is that he will look dumbfounded and probably walk away.

So here's the deal; the way you want to play is the right way to play, the music you want to play is the right music to play. The whole "pick vs fingers" debate is so silly. If you want a biting clear sound then use a pick, if you want a more "traditional" sound then use your fingers. It's all about what's appropriate for the music and what you like. I mostly play with my fingers but I definitely use a pick from time to time; I even just wrote a piece where I use a pick on my upright bass (it's great for extended technique!).

It's good that you're getting this experience early though b/c all through life you're going to encounter people who want you to live your life according to their rules and this is especially true if you're a bass player. EVERYBODY has an opinion about how bass should be played whether or not they're even a musician so you should learn how to deal with these wonks now. When that hoser approaches you next time just smile and say "whatever man". If he persists then make a bigger smile (letting him know that you know that he's a joke) roll your eyes and say "seriously, you need to get a life and stop focusing on me; you obviously need some serious work yourself". He's probably not ever going to see things your way and that's fine but don't change what you're doing to appease him.

And no worries, bass players are like dorks, nobody knows how cool they are till they get to college.

Heres what you say to him:

Yes, i know that fall out boy suck, and the other 2.5 million people who bought the album must think they suck too. I mean they probably only have enough money for one private jet plane.

And tell him to play dragonforce with his fingers and then he should shut up.

Whip him at a car.

not throw something at his car. actually take him to an overpass and whip him at a passing car.

*Peter Griffin voice on* Hey... Hey. Shut up. Shut up. Ok? Alright... *Peter Griffin voice off*

People like this are why I hated high school. I spent years trying to ignore, respond, and ignore their garbage. When that didn't work, and they started getting physical about it, (shoving my books, papers, etc. scattering them down the hall) I stabbed one of the dudes with a pencil. Repeatedly. The next guy that got in my face, I twisted his arm around behind his back, but got pulled off by other people before I could break it. After that everyone pretty much left me alone. Maybe the bdu pants, combat boots, and long hair helped too. While I certainly don't advise this approach, (unless you are being physicaly pushed around, in which case, by all means defend yourself, and don't stop until you are pulled apart and sepparated) going apesh*t on people tends to have a strong effect.
In your case, I recommend one: offer to teach him to play, both pick and fingerstyles, maybe after he learns for himself what it's like, he'll shut up, or two: if that doesn't work, make a complete jerk out of him. Publicly. First, loudly ask him in front of as large a group as possible (the more musicians present, the better) how does he know what he's talking about when he doesn't even play? Then list off many of the excellent bassists listed above who play with a pick, then ask who the heck listens to red hot chilli peppers anyway? Try to list as many bassists from his preferred style of music as possible. Also, for the greatest effect, again, as many people as possible, as many musicians as possible, as they will tend to jump in and defend you, and perhaps most importantly of all, delivery.
If you are usually a quiet, reserved, non swearing, non cussing type of person, be loud, angry, obnoxious, and use a lot of profanity. Why? Because it will be so out of character, it will instantly draw peoples intrest, and show you are very passionate about what you are saying. Likewise, if you are usually loud, and/or cuss a bit, saying it in a voice easily heard by the group, but calmly and with NO profanity, will have a similar effect. I know people would notice anytime I could say a full sentance with no profanity. It would freak them out when I delivered an entire argument that way. Again, depends on your personality.
Sorry for the long post, but god do I hate bullies.

I forgot to mention, that the only reason he's actually saying any of this is because he doesn't think I should be considered a bass player unless I only play with my fingers and only play these "hard" bass lines. I really want to figure out a way to make him realize that not everyone plays with their fingers and that he needs to leave me alone.

I forgot to mention, that the only reason he's actually saying any of this is because he doesn't think I should be considered a bass player unless I only play with my fingers and only play these "hard" bass lines. I really want to figure out a way to make him realize that not everyone plays with their fingers and that he needs to leave me alone.

Keep on playing with a pick but maybe try the harder basslines you will improve dramatically and eventually you'll know how to play the easier stuff you like (ewww FOB:p) a lot quicker. I love the fact after I learned a lot of harder songs (YYZ, Pulling Teeth) that I'm picking up other lines from easier songs in mere minutes of trying them, I was kinda surprised I learned Metal Militia in such a short span of time:D. So my main thing was classic Rock but after learning some of that stuff I realized that a lot of it I loved had a good bass line but not really a challenging one, so then I started trying stuff like Iron Maiden, Rush & Metallica, helped a lot and I also love the music, now I wanna start working on some Racer X VERY fast stuff. My advice would be find a band yah like that has some tough basslines, nice to have so ability to backup your bass playing.

Next time he says something while you playing, take off your bass and say OUT LOUD

" PEOPLE, MR "what-ever his name is " SAYS REAL BASS PLAYERS PLAY WITH PICKS, AND THAT I PLAY @@#$%^ BASS LINE BY %$%^&^%#$ PEOPLE. SO, IT IS MY PLEASURE TO TURN MY BASS OVER TO MR "what-ever his name is" SO HE, YES HE CAN SHOW US ALL HOW IT IS DONE"

Than sit your bass down, take a seat and see what he can do.

Get back to us with the results:hyper:

Just exactly qualifies him to criticize your technique? If he has no qualifications, tell him to f*** off and go on about your business.

http://www.carolkaye.com/

Alright so, this kid at my school won't leave me alone about my technique (which he shouldn't have the right to do anyway since he doesn't even play bass). He keeps calling me the "p" word (not sure if you can say it on TB) because I play with a pick and not my fingers. I tell him that I play with both but I just get a clearer sound with a pick so it's what I play with and practice with normally. He then tells me that true bassists never pick up a pick in their life and use nothing but their fingers and that I should give up on bass. I ignore this and walk away.

The next day, he bugs me again. Only this time, he comments on the songs that I play. He says that the stuff that I play is the "s" word (again, I'm not sure if this can be used on TB). That I shouldn't be playing stuff like Blink 182, Fall Out Boy, and other punk rock songs, and that I should play "real" and "harder" bass stuff. I tell him that playing bass isn't about playing "hard" bass lines but instead playing your favorite songs and enjoy playing all together. He tells me calls me a "p" word yet again and tells me that I play "s" word bass lines by "s" word bass players.

In short, this kid won't leave me alone about how I play, what I play, and why I play it.

And my question is, do you agree with him or am I right about how I play? Just want some opinions on the subject.

sounds like he's jealous. and thanks for erring on the side of caution with your vocabulary :).

you must be doing something right if this kid is so aggravated that he has to criticise you all the time. next time ask him "so, how's your bass playing coming? what kind of bass do you have?" :)

I forgot to mention, that the only reason he's actually saying any of this is because he doesn't think I should be considered a bass player unless I only play with my fingers and only play these "hard" bass lines. I really want to figure out a way to make him realize that not everyone plays with their fingers and that he needs to leave me alone.

why? why does it matter what he thinks? are you secretly in LOVE with him? :eek::hyper: just kidding. seriously, though, shrug it off soldier. this kid is just about as insignificant and inconsequential as they come, even if you were in love with him.

are you secretly in LOVE with him? :eek::hyper:

Well he likes Pete Wentz so I wouldn't be surprised:p:hiding:

Punch that kid in the ******* mouth. Just make sure you use your picking hand. :)


I never used to use a pick, until I joined my new band. But I really enjoy the even response and attack I get, it really suits the music. **** what everyone else thinks.

I forgot to mention, that the only reason he's actually saying any of this is because he doesn't think I should be considered a bass player unless I only play with my fingers and only play these "hard" bass lines. I really want to figure out a way to make him realize that not everyone plays with their fingers and that he needs to leave me alone.Based on what you have said, I do not agree with you. That is not the only reason that he's actually saying any of this. He is messing with you. He is disrespecting you. And he will not leave you alone as long as he sees that he bothers you or that he can modify your behavior in some manner. And you can not make him realize anything other than: 1) you are fun to mess with, or: 2) you are not fun to mess with. Period.

You are spending too much time considering the content of what this person says instead of simply dealing with the fact that he is disrespecting you. You are spending too much time considering how to respond to the content, instead of what I think you should be doing: considering how to deflect the attacks in a manner that he looks for someone else to mess with. In deflecting the attacks, you do not have to be perfect, you simply have to be less fun to taunt that some other person who will eventually show up on the taunter's radar.

I really like the advice to thank him for is input, and the advice to ask him to write it down for you so you can show other people his wisdom. In addition, I would advise you to yell out to others who are around to come over and listen to the musical wisdom that this person is offering. "Hey everybody, come over here and listen to this guy who can not play bass tell me how to play!" Smile. Be cool. Like no way it bothers you.

I am sorry. Life with these kinds of people is tough. It does not stop. And they seem to be better at messing with us then we are at dealing with them. And as they get older they get smarter and get to the point where when they mess with you they do it in a manner that later they can claim that it was "just trying to help you out", or "just for fun", or they put all the blame on you, "hey man, don't get so upset", or "hey dude, what's your problem".

This is not easy to deal with. I was not good at this in high school, but because people have continued to give me grief all my life I have learned how to deal with it and how to identify specific types of people who are not interested in being friends with me. You just have to see it for what it is and see these people for who they are. Try to get in touch with your feelings when you are around other people, and when you start wondering if what you are doing is right or wrong, when you start doubting yourself, you may be being manipulated by someone who does not have your best interests in mind.

You have the right to get into the hobbies and interests that you like and get into them in exactly the way that brings you joy. The only problem with this is that when you expose to some other people what is important to you, they will use exactly that to mess with you. The more important it is to you, the more discomfort they can cause you, the better they feel. This is strange but true. I spend all weekend working on things that bring me pleasure to do or pleasure to practice and get better at, while other people get their own pleasure by finding someone like you or me to mess with us about the very thing that is important to us.

And talkbass is full of them. For exaple they are trolling through the threads looking for someone who loves the band Tool just so they can taunt that person. When they are young, they say silly things like Justin is a ****, but then when people stop responding to these childish taunts, they get smarter. They do not get smarter in a way where they become nicer or in some way helpful, no, they get smarter in how they taunt and disrespect people so they they can continue to snicker to themselves that, once again, they GOT somebody. If they can get someone to write a long post like this one after simply saying "Justin is a ***", then they do not read that post to grow and become a better person, no, they read it while they are snickering all the time knowing that once again they GOT someone.

Listen to the interviews of the criminals on television. Sometimes you will hear them say things like "well, if they are not going to lock up their homes any better than that, they don't deserve to have that nice stuff." Well, like it or not, just as there are good bass players and not so good bass players, somewhere inbetween good people and criminals in prision, there are people who are simply difficult to deal with.

There is a good book on this, it is named: "In Sheep's Clothing: Understanding and Dealing with Manipulative People". Another one is "Coping with Difficult People: The Proven-Effective Battle Plan That Has Helped Millions Deal with the Troublemakers in Their Lives at Home and at Work".

You are not a real bass player unless you can play walking bass lines to jazz standards.

You are not a real american unless you have served in the army.

You are not a real computer programmer unless you use C++.

You are not a real photographer unless you take black and white and unless you do you own developing.The instant that you start to reply to the content of any of these types of attacks you have already lost the battle. And believe me, you are in a battle. You have been attacked.

Winnar!

You are not a real bass player unless you can play walking bass lines to jazz standards.

Lucky me. I'm in Jazz band at school and I play that stuff all the time (with my fingers).

I wouldn't tell him anything...

Don't bother - just ignore him and enjoy your day. (If you must acknowledge him, just say "OK, cool" and continue to go about your day).

Play your bass how you like, and play what you like. Most of all, just play your bass, and enjoy it.

Good music is the music that you like.

The right technique for you is the one that makes your bass sound the way you want it to sound.

:)

the kid was right
:p

Hi;

I take it you are in high school. I'm a teacher as well as a pro musician.

Someone above said he has self-esteem problems and they are right. Some people feel they can only get ahead by putting others down so they can climb higher on their defeated backs.

Believe me, this phase will only last a few months. In a few years he'll be doing something he hates while you'll be enjoying music.

Also, take this as a lesson in how to deal with people. A-holes grow up to be grownup a-holes so you'll meet people like him in the future.

I suggest "How to Have Confidence and Power when Dealling with People" by Les Giblin. Read a bit here: http://www.amazon.com/Have-Confidence-Power-Dealing-People/dp/0134106717/ref=pd_bbs_2/103-3211607-2047033?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1191165034&sr=8-2

Also, this reading will help: http://www.kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/problems/bullies.html

Good Luck

Based on what you have said, I do not agree with you. That is not the only reason that he's actually saying any of this. He is messing with you. He is disrespecting you. And he will not leave you alone as long as he sees that he bothers you or that he can modify your behavior in some manner. And you can not make him realize anything other than: 1) you are fun to mess with, or: 2) you are not fun to mess with. Period.

You are spending too much time considering the content of what this person says instead of simply dealing with the fact that he is disrespecting you. You are spending too much time considering how to respond to the content, instead of what I think you should be doing: considering how to deflect the attacks in a manner that he looks for someone else to mess with. In deflecting the attacks, you do not have to be perfect, you simply have to be less fun to taunt that some other person who will eventually show up on the taunter's radar.

I really like the advice to thank him for is input, and the advice to ask him to write it down for you so you can show other people his wisdom. In addition, I would advise you to yell out to others who are around to come over and listen to the musical wisdom that this person is offering. "Hey everybody, come over here and listen to this guy who can not play bass tell me how to play!" Smile. Be cool. Like no way it bothers you.

I am sorry. Life with these kinds of people is tough. It does not stop. And they seem to be better at messing with us then we are at dealing with them. And as they get older they get smarter and get to the point where when they mess with you they do it in a manner that later they can claim that it was "just trying to help you out", or "just for fun", or they put all the blame on you, "hey man, don't get so upset", or "hey dude, what's your problem".

This is not easy to deal with. I was not good at this in high school, but because people have continued to give me grief all my life I have learned how to deal with it and how to identify specific types of people who are not interested in being friends with me. You just have to see it for what it is and see these people for who they are. Try to get in touch with your feelings when you are around other people, and when you start wondering if what you are doing is right or wrong, when you start doubting yourself, you may be being manipulated by someone who does not have your best interests in mind.

You have the right to get into the hobbies and interests that you like and get into them in exactly the way that brings you joy. The only problem with this is that when you expose to some other people what is important to you, they will use exactly that to mess with you. The more important it is to you, the more discomfort they can cause you, the better they feel. This is strange but true. I spend all weekend working on things that bring me pleasure to do or pleasure to practice and get better at, while other people get their own pleasure by finding someone like you or me to mess with us about the very thing that is important to us.

And talkbass is full of them. For exaple they are trolling through the threads looking for someone who loves the band Tool just so they can taunt that person. When they are young, they say silly things like Justin is a ****, but then when people stop responding to these childish taunts, they get smarter. They do not get smarter in a way where they become nicer or in some way helpful, no, they get smarter in how they taunt and disrespect people so they they can continue to snicker to themselves that, once again, they GOT somebody. If they can get someone to write a long post like this one after simply saying "Justin is a ***", then they do not read that post to grow and become a better person, no, they read it while they are snickering all the time knowing that once again they GOT someone.

Listen to the interviews of the criminals on television. Sometimes you will hear them say things like "well, if they are not going to lock up their homes any better than that, they don't deserve to have that nice stuff." Well, like it or not, just as there are good bass players and not so good bass players, somewhere inbetween good people and criminals in prision, there are people who are simply difficult to deal with.

There is a good book on this, it is named: "In Sheep's Clothing: Understanding and Dealing with Manipulative People". Another one is "Coping with Difficult People: The Proven-Effective Battle Plan That Has Helped Millions Deal with the Troublemakers in Their Lives at Home and at Work".

Great advice.

Tell him to read this thread......

punch him in the throat. if this kid isnt a musician, tell him to f off. when i get critisized i just say, "i have a platinum album on my wall. what have you done with your life?" that shuts em up pretty quick. works really well on other musicians.

Sorry, I couldn't resist...
http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p91/thombrady_bass/rocker2.jpg

Yeah, I'm probably goin' to hell for this...:hiding:

I forgot to mention, that the only reason he's actually saying any of this is because he doesn't think I should be considered a bass player unless I only play with my fingers and only play these "hard" bass lines. I really want to figure out a way to make him realize that not everyone plays with their fingers and that he needs to leave me alone.

oh, now that you mention that...he is 100% right. drop that pick and learn to play like a REAL bassist. :rollno:

i personally don't consider myself a bassist. i consider myself a musician who just happens to play the bass.

punch him in the throat. if this kid isnt a musician, tell him to f off. when i get critisized i just say, "i have a platinum album on my wall. what have you done with your life?" that shuts em up pretty quick. works really well on other musicians.

hehe :bassist:

My simple and easy solutions for problems like this: Stab him in the head.

It's easy, and it sure shuts people up.

Or, you could ignore him and realize that his opinion does not matter. It's your choice. :hmm:

(Bass) Guitars are called axes for a reason.

Water on a duck's back, Grasshopper. Ask him how his lessons are going.
"What lessons?"
Exactly...:spit:

If he's anything like the bullies I used to get bothered by, he'll end up in jail or worse, addicted to herion working as a gay prostiute anyway. so don't sweat it.

+1

One bully I remember from elementary school died of a heroin overdose a few years ago. Another one has been in prison for years. Karma is a bitch.

Dude, who the fvck cares about this guy? Does he even play anything? He's just trying to get a rise out of you, and the best thing is don't give it to him, and try and turn it on his head. If he does this in front of not just yourself, say in a tone that may or may not come accross as sarcastic, "Thanks, DUDE. You're AWESOME. You SO should be playing bass". As he walks away, turn to who ever is around and just say "wanker", followed by a snigger. Remember man, you are doing something that you love. No one can TELL you how to enjoy your art. This dude is a guarenteed heroin addict in the making.

As long as you enjoy playing bass, you are a good bass player.

Tell this kid to act more like a bass player. Give him some sheet music if you want him to stfu. :-p

He will realize that "cool" is a made-up thing once you are all out of school, and believe me, this will come as a shock... he'll get his, probably show up wasted to some of your gigs and tell anyone who'll listen that it should have been him... but they won't.

Tell him that Hillel Slovak, a GUITAR PLAYER, taught Flea how to play bass. Give him a Jaco CD and tell him to go home and learn what bass playing is all about. "Lead bass" is easy to play.*

*(there are many exceptions, all of which have been recorded by REAL bass players)

That I shouldn't be playing stuff like Blink 182, Fall Out Boy,

Well, I'll have to agree with the kid here. :D

and other punk rock songs,

But! If you really want to play punk, you need to hit him with the garbage can.

I guess acording to your friend Sid Vicious was a P**** , and Chris Squire wasn't a real bass player.

Although none of the youngn's know who Chris Squier is.

As long as you enjoy playing bass, you are a good bass player.

This is definitely NOT necessarily true!

Randy13, It is good to hear that you are in jazz band. With a solid jazz foundation, you will be able to play all of the lines from the punk bands you like, and better yet, know the theory behind them. After walking "Cherokee" or "Giant Steps" at tempo or reading a tough big band chart, Blink 182 lines will be a walk in the park.

Regardless of what our other colleagues have said on this board, it is best to avoid perpetuating violence, unless of course your adversary is violent first. Do you want to get suspended or charged with assault & battery over whether it is better to play with fingers or a pick? You have everything to lose my friend. Your hatemongering buddy will definitely get his come-upance in life. Be patient and know this, and you'll be ok.

Surprised no one has suggested this one yet - take your buddy's comments as a challenge. Go home, learn a RHCP bass line (it would be best if you transcribed it!), and play it perfectly. You don't necessarily have to play it for your friend, but see if there is any validity to what he claims. I am sure you will be able to learn it, no sweat! Even if you don't particularly care for RHCP, learn a line or two - you might learn a new fingering or cool riff in the process.

Best of luck!

Chebass88

P.S. For some reason, my bandleader recently called a Snow Patrol tune as a cover ("All that I have???"). I used a pick for the first time in my life, and it was a challenging skill to master. If you can make fluid lines with a pick, you have much respect from me!

Using a pick can be just as hard as using fingers.

Using a pick can be just as hard as using fingers.

yep. garry tallent uses a pick and he seems to have a pretty good gig.

The simple answer, is that you use whatever it takes to produce the sound you hear in your head. Steve Swallow is one of the most reknowned jazz bassists and he not only uses a pick, but produces a sound that is perfect for his expression of music and unique to his personality.

For the sake of mastering the instrument and building your versatility it would probably behoove you practice a variety of techniques --- as long as the practice is for your betterment and the betterment of the quality of music you want to represent to your audience you'll always be in good shape.

I admire bassists who can pick well. I've been playing for many years and have always sucked with a pick.

Stick to your own bass pleasures, friend. Don't worry about this guy, he will go away and you'll have learned the unfortunate lesson of what a true **hole is like. That lesson comes in handy as life goes on.

he is a POSER!!!!!

And you should just preceed every conversation with 'what up POSER!' . 'I'll keep that in mind POSER'. 'like the way your girlfriend tastes POSER'........

Sorry, I couldn't resist...
http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p91/thombrady_bass/rocker2.jpg

Look... she's using a pick! ;)

Randy13,

Sounds like that douche, errr... dude is trying to HELP you, but is going about it the wrong way. Helping you w/ technique isnt a bad thing, unless he's a jerkoff. And, you should certainly play whatever the heck you want to play.

There's alot of guys w/ crappy tech, who make a living playing stuff... Its MOST important, that you enjoy playing... PERIOD. Otherwise, this kid can piss off.

Look... she's using a pick! ;)


I gotta ask

Is that Boris Yeltsin with the mic?

I gotta ask

Is that Boris Yeltsin with the mic?

Maybe...
http://allprikol.ru/pic/politic_pic/5087413292.jpg
Give that finger-style bully at school the "Yeltsin" finger style! LOL

I guess acording to your friend Sid Vicious was a P**** ,


Sid, God bless him, didn't actually know how to play the bass.

Tell him to S your D (I don't know if I could say those words on TB)
I only play with my fingers, but thats my taste.

Laugh at him the next time, while walking away!

Much respect for all bassists!

Pavel Jazz pro 5 Deluxe
Eden 600 watt "Highwayman pre amp
Eden speaker system
MTD 5 string
slew of MXR stomp pedals
Bossa 5 string bass

www.lament.ee

Tell him he's right. I bet he'll go away if you don't argue or disagree. Then go play what you want.

This is probably the best bit of advice on this thread.

Alright so, this kid at my school won't leave me alone about my technique (which he shouldn't have the right to do anyway since he doesn't even play bass). He keeps calling me the "p" word (not sure if you can say it on TB) because I play with a pick and not my fingers. I tell him that I play with both but I just get a clearer sound with a pick so it's what I play with and practice with normally. He then tells me that true bassists never pick up a pick in their life and use nothing but their fingers and that I should give up on bass. I ignore this and walk away.


I can't believe in this day and age there's still "musicians" with this one-dimensional and moronic attitude. I used to deal with the anti-pick stupidity back when I was in high school learning to play--30 years ago!
(I ended up learning to play both ways and am glad I did, but that's another story).
The funny thing was, I played in cover bands back then, and I was the youngest guy(a high schooler playing with the college guys) and they'd tell me the songs to learn and how I should sound and blah blah---and 50% of the time, it was a record with a guy playing with a pick on it, and they couldn't tell the friggin' difference. Or they'd invoke the name of JPJ or McCartney as who I should aspire to sound like and be in disbelief when I said "hey guys . . . .listen to the cool pick tone . . .;)"

I would take my pick, lick one side of it and then stick it to his forehead.

I gotta ask

Is that Boris Yeltsin with the mic?

:D

Actually, it's Pope John Paul II...henceforth, the going to hell for it part.:D

Pope John Paul rocked.
Remember world youth day?

Cathostock 2002!

He's probably just picking on you because he likes you and doesn't know how to express it. It's his way of paying attention to you without having to admit that he has a crush on you. Tell him that you're not interested in him romantically and that you'd prefer he leave you alone.

He's probably just picking on you because he likes you and doesn't know how to express it. It's his way of paying attention to you without having to admit that he has a crush on you. Tell him that you're not interested in him romantically and that you'd prefer he leave you alone.

HAHA. Perfect... that's the answer. Thread closed!
:p

ignore him, keep on playing the way you like and what you like.

Btw, why would you limit yourself? I use both, pick and fingers, and they each have their places, use whatever sounds best for what you're doing and remember to have fun. The bully obviously sucks at bass if he's wasting his time picking on you instead of jamming.

I say you hand him the bass and ask him to show you his skills. That only works if he doesn't know how to play. If he has skills don't do it.

He's probably just picking on you because he likes you and doesn't know how to express it. It's his way of paying attention to you without having to admit that he has a crush on you. Tell him that you're not interested in him romantically and that you'd prefer he leave you alone.

:bassist::bassist::bassist:

dear thread starter :cool:

ignorance is bliss....so is ignoring :smug:

He hasn't got any right to say that to you. The kid doesn't even play bass for starters. i bet he listens to Britney spears. no offence for any that does :D

dear thread starter :cool:

ignorance is bliss....so is ignoring :smug:

I love this one.

Is his name Chris Crocker by any chance?

Is his name Chris Crocker by any chance?

No. Why?

I'm not a fan of using a pick either but i do on some occasions but i dont think its for pussys or ****** bass players there are plenty of great and i mean GREAT bassists out there that use a pick...the way i see it his the kids a retard you have to get a try and get good at every technique you cant jsut play with you fingers or JUST play with a pick you need to experient a little and if he doesn't understand this kick his ass...

yep. garry tallent uses a pick and he seems to have a pretty good gig.

Garry Tallent is one of my favorite bassists, but to the best of my knowledge he plays fingerstyle.

Direct the moron to this thread.


"Hey look..a bunch of REAL bassists think you are a moron!"


http://www.talkbass.com/forum/newreply.php?do=newreply&noquote=1&p=4749870

It just depends how long you've been playing, I mean I've been playing for about 5 years and I DID play blink 182 at first.

Then I moved on to other things (progressive, Jazz, e.t.c)

Don't get stuck on one style forever.

Unless it's Jazz....

I don't agree with the bully at all. Play with what makes you comfortable, or gives you the sounds you're after. I play with a pick 75% of the time. Does he like Megadeth? Cause Dave Ellefson plays great bass lines...with a pick!

Tell to go f*** himself. He shouldn;t even be allowed to discuss technique with you. He's just jealous because he doesn;t have any talent to even bother trying to play, so he just picks on people to make himself feel better. He's the p****...

Look him right in the eye with a straight face and say "Gimme some Money".

This will throw him off for a moment.

Then, if he's the kind of dumb-ass I think he is, he'll say "Huh?" at least once.

Repeat the command until he asks "Why?".

Then say "Buy me a new Bass and I'll play it any way you want me to".

Let us know what his reaction is.

The bible says to repay evil with good.

Why doncha buy him a drink every time he comments on your playing? Maybe... You can add a little love to the drink as well to make sure he'll never come back to bother you again? ;)

Sounds like he has a man crush for you. Next time he bugs you, tell him " I'm all for your lifestyle, but I just dont feel that way about you, I hope someday that you find that special man of your dreams." After that hold up your hand and say "rainbow pride". Please dont take any offence by my post.:hiding:

Hybrids rule, tell him to shut up because he obviously does not know anything at all about music. Thats what I told one of the many people who have commented on me playing with a pick, and I'm in high school. He basically left me alone after that, plus, criticize music he likes. That is if you want to anger him, but thats not always the best decision.

Retort! +1 on garbage can

i wouldnt ever use a pick, but that doesnt mean crap! chris squire, tool, marillion, need i say more? ???

Ok, here's what I think about the kid... He's retarded. His past lover is a female cleaning product, and his way of dealing with it is you.

Honestly, when it comes to playing, I started with a pick when I first decided to even play and instrument. But then again, a pick easily fits the genre of rock/metal, and such.

I mean, would it honestly sound the same if Shavo Odadijian did slap?

Being critical over finger-picking is about as dumb as being critical of the inability to tap every single note of the fretboard.

If you like what you do, and how it sounds, who cares? Sometimes I like to play my electric like an upright. Do I give a shit? Hell no.

My advice.... Reach down... there should be a pair of balls.

Ok, here's what I think about the kid... He's retarded. His past lover is a female cleaning product, and his way of dealing with it is you.

Honestly, when it comes to playing, I started with a pick when I first decided to even play and instrument. But then again, a pick easily fits the genre of rock/metal, and such.

I mean, would it honestly sound the same if Shavo Odadijian did slap?

Being critical over finger-picking is about as dumb as being critical of the inability to tap every single note of the fretboard.

If you like what you do, and how it sounds, who cares? Sometimes I like to play my electric like an upright. Do I give a shit? Hell no.

My advice.... Reach down... there should be a pair of balls.

This has gotta be the most awesome line I've heard in my life!
+1,000,000