Hey Guys,

I have been playing drums for a very long time and I am decent. Decent meaning that I play bars and have a great time with my band. However, after all these years of being a second class citizen musically, I want to play bass. I am so tired of not knowing what key the song is in or what the hell a key is. I am so tired of being in practice and having one of the other musicians say “lets take is from the F” Where the hell is the “F” to me???? Don’t get me wrong I love playing drums, I just need to be able to learn the bass so I can first understand music and then I do so love the bass guitar sound and feel. So I purchased a cheep axe and I am staring at it right now, I think it is sexy!!

NOW!! For my question, where the hell do I start?? There is a glut of information on the web, so much information that I don’t know where to start. I have spent hours trying to figure out where to start and I am overwhelmed. Sure I am looking for the shortest path to simple rock bass playing but what method?? Who’s method should I trust to invest my blisters?? I don’t want to be a monster bass player I just want to be able to sit in on a jam session one day, drums will always be my instrument. Thanks guys!!

Keith
www.myspace.com/keithdaileybeats

studybass.com
and don't forget to play with a drummer or something

Always good to see another member of the rhythm section taking an interest in the bass. If I was you, I'd pick up a copy of "Bass Guitar for Dummies" by Patrick Pfeiffer. It'll walk you through the basics and get you started with a minimum of fuss. Then you can ask the board here any questions you have. You'll get lots of answers. A really good question will start a long argument... ;-)

Hey, if you've already got a bass player in your band, offer to trade lessons--it'd be good for both of you.

Have fun!
Chas

I wish I could drum. Maybe you could find a bassist who wants to drum and teach each other and switcheroo

studybass.com
and don't forget to play with a drummer or something

+1 - Studybass has everything you need to get started.

studybass.com
and don't forget to play with a drummer or something

He's already a drummer so he only needs to play with himself... ;)

Get a teacher. Best investment ever, since you're starting out and you seem like you want to become good. Two things most students don't have.

However, after all these years of being a second class citizen musically, I want to play bass. Wait, what?

Hate to say it but bass doesn't get any more respect musically than drums. Doesn't mean you won't learn about music or that bass (or drums for that matter) actually are second class, but if musical respect is what you're looking for pick a different instrument.